Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has expressed his disappointment at falling to a 1-0 defeat to league leaders Chelsea, ending a six-game winning streak.
The Red Devils headed to Stamford Bridge optimistic of upsetting the West London outfit, but were hindered shortly before the match with a number of injuries.
During his pre-match press conference, van Gaal confirmed Daley Blind, Michael Carrick, Phil Jones and Marcos Rojo were all unavailable due to hasty challenges of Manchester City during the recent derby success.
However, the resilience of Chelsea saw a first-half strike from Eden Hazard – the known dangerman of a Chelsea team lacking European-worthy firepower – settle the tie and take all three points.
An early chance from Wayne Rooney left United hopeful, while Radamel Falcao later hit the post, by van Gaal became frustrated by his side’s inability to break down the Blues.
“I am very disappointed with the result, but I am pleased with the performance,” the Dutchman said. “We were not effective today, because we created a lot of chances in spite of the defensive organisation of Chelsea – three in the first half to their zero. In the second half, we created eight chances and Chelsea three, so that’s unbelievably good.
“We were the dominant team on the pitch but lost and, in football, the result is everything. I’ve told the boys in the dressing room that every week we are making an improvement. That’s the most important thing.
“The main goal is we’re progressing as a team and playing attractive football. We have done that today, but we need results. It’s not always the better team that wins.”
The defeat was summarised by a late booking to Ander Herrera, who despite after contact from Gary Cahill in the box, was booked for simulation after going to ground too quickly.
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