Manchester United full-back Matteo Darmian has claimed that his career at Old Trafford has started in the "best possible way".

The 25-year-old has been handed 15 starts by manager Louis van Gaal since his summer move to the Premier League from Torino.

The Italian was substituted at half time in United's games against Southampton and Arsenal, but the player insists that he is happy with his progress.

"This new experience started in the best possible way and I hope it can continue like this," the Manchester Evening News quotes Darmian as saying.

"Challenging yourself in another League with a different culture helps you to grow in every way, both as a person and a player. The Premier League is a more physical and less tactical competition compared to Serie A."

United are currently fourth in the league table, two points behind leaders Manchester City.