Louis van Gaal has admitted that he was "very proud" of his players after watching Manchester United earn a 2-1 victory over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.

Marouane Fellaini headed home the winner to move United seven points clear of Liverpool in the race for Champions League football, and Van Gaal was quick to praise the attitude shown by the Red Devils.

"You never know, we still have to win one point I believe. We have made a very important step," the Dutchman, whose side still need three points to guarantee a return to the Champions League, told BBC Sport.

"We have worked so hard, the players showed the team spirit so good. I am very proud. When you are fighting like this every week, we are difficult to beat."

Liverpool can close the gap when they take on champions Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.