Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal concedes Angel di Maria is struggling to snap his form slump. Di Maria was hooked at halftime of their battling win over Sunderland yesterday.

"I am the manager," said the United boss. "I cannot deny what I see and we have to give Angel a little bit more time to adapt to the Premier League.

"I have explained already that the rhythm of the game is so high here, much higher than in other countries. He has to adapt to the culture and we have to give him time to adapt and also to lift his confidence again.

"He is a human being like me and you. You can make mistakes but he is a top sportsman so he will overcome this period I hope."