Manchester United legend and director Sir Bobby Charlton believes Louis van Gaal has been taken aback by the size of the club. The Dutchman has led United back inside the top four this season, but the Red Devils' performances have come in for criticism by some.

Sir Bobby wrote in his match programme notes for victory over Sunderland: "A new manager comes in and has lots of things on his mind, a lot to think about at once, and Louis van Gaal was perhaps a little surprised by the enormity of the club.

"It's been just the way I thought it would be this season. I am not worried about the season or the future. I think we can look forward to some fantastic times here.

"There has been misfortune along the way - look at the injuries we've had, or the deflected goal at Swansea last weekend - but sometimes you get that."