Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has spoken of his desire to maintain his side's impressive home form this season.

The Red Devils were beaten by Swansea City at Old Trafford on the opening day of the season but have not tasted defeat in front of their own fans since, winning seven and drawing one of their subsequent eight home matches.

That form is in stark contrast to the David Moyes era, when United won just nine home games all season, and Van Gaal revealed that one of his main priorities was to make Old Trafford a "fortress" again.

"I said when we came back from the [pre-season tour of] the United States we wanted to build a fortress at Old Trafford so it was a pity we lost against Swansea," Van Gaal told reporters.

"We want to build a fortress at Old Trafford, but we have made it that already because we have won a lot, and also with great results like 3-0 [against Hull] and 4-0 [versus QPR].

"I'm happy with that, but then we have to continue."

United are back at Old Trafford on Boxing Day as they host Newcastle United.