Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick has lauded the patience shown by the club in the early months of Louis van Gaal's managerial reign.

The Red Devils are in the top half of the Premier League, but have struggled to find their rhythm during 11 games in which the Dutchman has selected 31 players.

However, Carrick has suggested that he is happy with the measured approach.

He is quoted by the Daily Mail as saying: "The philosophy is different in that he is happy for us to keep the ball for long spells to get in the game, and get rhythm in our game.

"Whereas before, especially at home with the crowd as well, it's always been a case of trying to attack as quickly as possible with speed and penetration, and even if you give the ball away a few times, keep trying it.

"It's just a different way of approaching the game really, there is no right or wrong, just different beliefs I suppose. It's fine for the players, we adapt, we see it every day and are learning all the time. It is more for the fans as well, to appreciate it and to be fair, they have been great."

United face a stern test of their Champions League credentials next Saturday when they travel to Arsenal.