Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has claimed that Anthony Martial needs time to develop as a striker, but believes that it is the youngster's best position.

The 19-year-old Frenchman has been shifted to the left in his last few games, while captain Wayne Rooney has been handed the main role up front.

Rooney has faced criticism for only scoring two Premier League goals so far this season, but Van Gaal has defended his team selections.

In this afternoon's press conference, Van Gaal told reporters: "I'm always thinking in the team's benefit and not in the benefit of one player and I have said I have to make all the decisions around the game plan and the opponent, so it's not I have said left wing is his best position, but he can play in three positions in his eyes - left, striker and number 10.

"I think his best position may be the striker's position. He is very young but I think it is better he develops in the striker's position."

United are preparing to take on CSKA Moscow at Old Trafford in the Champions League on Tuesday.