Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has claimed that his side's away form could be the key to a potential title challenge.

A busy summer has seen United bring in the likes of Bastian Schweinsteiger, Morgan Schneiderlin and Memphis Depay, while the club are rumoured to be considering strengthening the squad again with the signing of Pedro as they look to close the gap on their rivals.

Van Gaal watched his side win just six Premier League games away from Old Trafford in his first season and he has challenged his players to improve on that record ahead of Friday's trip to Aston Villa.

"The key for success season is improving away matches," the Dutchman told reporters. "We were one of the best last season at home, third I think.

"I want to create a fortress at Old Trafford, we did that but away we have to improve and we can improve because last year we were not good."

The United boss confirmed that David de Gea would be left out once again as he continues to be linked with Real Madrid.