Liverpool game even bigger because of Champions League – Van Gaal

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal believes their last-16 UEFA Europa League clash against Liverpool is even bigger now because of both side’s league struggles.

The two teams are struggling in the Premier League and, with the winner of the competition securing automatic qualification for the UEFA Champions League, this looks like their best chance to make Europe’s premier competition.

Van Gaal can become the first United boss to win five straight competitive games against Liverpool and the Dutchman insists he understands how important success against their rivals is to the fans.

The English media are often critical of the Europa League but the 64-year-old doesn’t share that viewpoint, claiming it’s an important match for both teams.

Meanwhile, defender Chris Smalling believes the game represents an opportunity to recover from Sunday’s disappointing 1-0 Premier League defeat at West Brom.