Louis van Gaal: 'I played Angel di Maria to settle his mind'

Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal has revealed that he played Angel di Maria in their FA Cup win over Cambridge United to settle his mind.

The Argentine was the victim of a reported attempted break-in at his home in Cheshire on Saturday night, which forced him and his family into a hotel due to fears over their safety.

The 63-year-old admitted that he was prepared to leave the winger out of his team for the match at Old Trafford, but has revealed that Di Maria was desperate to play despite the incident.

Van Gaal told reporters: "I believe in the total human being principle, so his environment is also important. He was worried about his wife and child.

"I spoke with him and he wanted to play against Cambridge United and I played him. I have decided in the past that I will never play a player in those circumstances, because of the total human being principle.

"But with him I had the feeling that I had to give him a chance to play and I was happy that I let him play. He played very well. And, of course, I have to decide Sunday again, but when you have seen his performance against Cambridge, I don't think I have any doubt."

United play West Ham United in their Premier League clash on Sunday at Upton Park.