---
title: "Post-Match Comments – Man Utd vs Sunderland"
canonical: "https://readmanutd.com/2015/09/27/post-match-comments-man-utd-vs-sunderland/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
section: "Man Utd Match Reports"
published: "2015-09-27T12:34:39Z"
modified: "2015-09-27T12:34:39Z"
---

# Post-Match Comments – Man Utd vs Sunderland

“United, United, top of the league” was the chant ringing out at Old Trafford after Manchester United’s comfortable 3-0 victory over Sunderland today, putting the Reds top of the Premier League table after Manchester City’s defeat against Tottenham earlier.

The Reds went top of the table for the first time in Louis van Gaal’s reign after today’s result, and the Dutchman was a very happy man. Speaking after the game, he said: “It’s a nice feeling to be top of the table. It’s the first time in my period so I’m happy. It’s always difficult when you play against a team who is only defending and counting on the counter attack. You have to be aware and my defence was very good.”

“Last season at this stage I think we were in 13th position in the league table, so I’m a happy coach.”

van Gaal also said that the scoreline reflected United’s dominance in the game. “Yes, I think so. I was also very happy for the fans. In the second half we controlled the game more than we attacked. And I hope that the fans have understanding for that. But I was very pleased with the third goal because it was a reflection of the game.”

The manager also went on to praise Anthony Martial’s performance. Although the Frenchman missed out on the opportunity to become the first United player to score in his first three Premier League games, he put in a splendid all-round performance, assisting Wayne Rooney’s goal.

“I am very pleased with the performance of Anthony because he is not only a goalscorer, he is also an attacking point and he also prepares goals. So for us he is more important than I thought before he came,” van Gaal said.

The Dutchman was also quizzed about United’s tough run of fixtures in the next few weeks, beginning with a Champions League tie against Wolfsburg on Wednesday. “Yes, not only for the Champions League but to maintain our top position in the league because we have to play Arsenal away, it’s the most difficult game but last year we won there so we have hope,” he said.