Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has revealed his delight with Wayne Rooney after the captain helped them to a 3-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday.

Rooney netted the third goal of the afternoon and was a constant menace to a beleaguered Spurs side up front, leading Van Gaal to praise his skipper after the game.

The Dutchman told Sky Sports News: "The players knew this game was of massive importance.

"So I think a captain has to do something to help the players, help the manager and help the club. I was very pleased with that."

The victory tightens United's grip on fourth in the Premier League, ahead of a trip to fifth-placed Liverpool next week.