Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has claimed that finishing fourth in the Premier League table is the minimum requirement this season.

The Red Devils moved into the final Champions League spot last weekend following a 2-1 victory over Arsenal at the Emirates.

However, the North-West outfit, who are in no European competitions this season, reside 13 points behind leaders Chelsea.

"We have to improve our playing style and beat opponents more easily," Van Gaal told reporters. "We are still fourth so I am happy, but we have to be at least fourth at the end of the season, not now."

Van Gaal has also told Robin van Persie that he needs to fight for his place as Radamel Falcao closes in on a return to fitness.