Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has saluted his squad for their performances and results during the hectic Christmas and New Year period.

The Dutchman witnessed his team close the gap to Chelsea and Manchester City at the top of the Premier League table over the holidays, and progress to the FA Cup fourth round courtesy of a 2-0 win at Yeovil yesterday.

“We have regained ground to Chelsea – one point – after the festive period, and we are in the fourth round of the FA Cup,” said Van Gaal. “What can a manager wish more.”

The United boss also hailed the “class” of Ander Herrera after the Spaniard’s goalscoring return at Yeovil.

The Red Devils came through their FA Cup third-round trip to Huish Park, but it was only really secured via a 90th-minute Angel di Maria strike.