Angel di Maria has admitted that wearing Manchester United's famous number seven shirt has given him extra motivation early in his time at Old Trafford.

The Argentine has impressed in the Premier League since moving to United for a British-record fee in the summer, and he claims that following in the footsteps of some of the club's greats has inspired him.

"It is a source of motivation," Di Maria told MUTV. "When you wear a shirt that's been worn by the likes of [David] Beckham and [Cristiano] Ronaldo, it's something you're always going to be pleased about.

"The fact that the club have chosen to give me that shirt number also gives me a huge confidence boost, so that's why I'm very happy to have this number."

United return to action against West Bromwich Albion on October 20.