Making last 16 would vindicate van Gaal

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal hopes to thumb his nose at critics when his team hosts PSV Eindhoven on Wednesday, needing a victory to progress in the Champions League.

Despite ongoing criticism over the quality of its soccer, United climbed to second place in the Premier League after edging Watford 2-1 on Saturday and will have an opportunity to take over top spot this weekend when it visits surprise leader Leicester City.

A place in the Champions League last 16 will be assured if it prevails at Old Trafford on Wednesday, and for all the brickbats being flung at him by pundits and former United players such as Paul Scholes, van Gaal knows he is fulfilling his objectives.