Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal has acknowledged that his side are currently going through a "very difficult" spell, having suffered three league defeats on the spin for the first time since 2001.

The Red Devils followed up losses against Chelsea and Everton by slipping up at home to West Bromwich Albion this evening.

A deflected free kick off Jonas Olsson proved to be the difference as a number of wasted openings saw United lose 1-0 at Old Trafford.

Speaking to Sky Sports News following his team's latest setback, Van Gaal said: "We knew in advance that they'd park the bus, we have to deal with that.

"In the second half we had enough chances - you have to finish. It's now the third match [we have lost in a row]. We have to take care of that. It's very difficult."

United remain fourth in the Premier League table, although they are now just four points ahead of closest challengers Liverpool.