Van Gaal says beaten United getting closer

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal feels his side is getting closer to the Premier League's leading teams despite having made its worst start to a season since 1986.

After drawing 1-1 with league leader Chelsea the previous weekend, United lost 1-0 at derby rival Manchester City on Sunday, with Sergio Aguero scoring the winning goal after United defender Chris Smalling was sent off.

United also lost Argentine centerback Marcos Rojo to a dislocated shoulder, but although the result left the 20-time champion 13 points adrift of Chelsea, van Gaal believes it is making progress.