Chris Smalling reveals Louis van Gaal's tactical plan as Man United put pressure on rivals

CHRIS SMALLING has offered an insight into the tactical mind of Louis van Gaal.

Chris SmallingGETTY

Chris Smalling reveals Louis Van Gaal's tactics

The England centre-back has revealed what he's been asked to do by the Dutchman in a bid to build out from defence.

United - who beat Sunderland at the weekend to maintain their impressive home form - are now just four points off Manchester City in second place.

And Smalling, who has started 11 of Van Gaal's 27 league games in charge, says it's all about picking moments where the opposition is committed to burst through them.

“We have to just keep moving the ball and, at times, you are keeping it and going side to side," he said.

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We have to just keep moving the ball and, at times, you are keeping it and going side to side

Chris Smalling

"Then you’re waiting for that moment to draw one of your opponents out of position and then you take your chance. 

"But it’s crucial for the two centre-backs that we’re not switching off. 

"We have to be on our toes and the manager stresses that before the games.”

Smalling also admits a win Wednesday night away at Newcastle would be huge and can help them push on to secure a place in next season's Champions League.

He added: “We need to make sure on Wednesday we get that win because six points is crucial in these three or four days.

"We need some real confidence to go into what is going to be a crucial next couple of months.”

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