Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal believes that his side can finish second in the Premier League this season.

The Red Devils lost out on their last realistic chance to win silverware in the campaign when they were defeated by Arsenal in the quarter-finals of the FA Cup.

However, Van Gaal has insisted that his side have to end the season strongly and has targeted a second-place finish in the top flight in his first year in charge of United.

The 63-year-old told reporters: "The coming matches are very decisive. We are so close to a lot of clubs. We can be second or third. It is not a big difference, I believe.

"Manchester United have to be one of the teams who have to play in the Champions League."

United are currently five points behind Manchester City, who sit in second place in the Premier League.