The Manchester United manager notes that a switch to three at the back, which he introduced at Old Trafford earlier this season, has worked wonders for the Reds' form
Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal says that Sunday's opponents, Liverpool, have found success by adopting his 3-5-2 system.
The Red Devils boss has struggled to find the right formation to suit his players during his first season at Old Trafford but a move to a back three prompted a turnaround for Brendan Rodgers' side.
As the two teams prepare to face off at Anfield on Sunday, Van Gaal noted that he is not surprised to see the Reds on an upward curve since taking on his tactical approach.
"At that time [we beat them 3-0 in December], they were under their level in the league," he told reporters. "That was the surprise, with the players they have, but now you can see they have a very good team, even if they were not so good in the first half against Swansea.
"We played very well in our last game, but we need another victory to confirm the improvement we showed against Tottenham. This time Liverpool are playing at home and Manchester United have a bad record at Anfield, so it will be difficult, but I like Liverpool's players and they more or less play my system, which I started here with United."
Indeed, Van Gaal could have been in charge of Liverpool as he was one of those approached about the managerial post there before Rodgers was hired in 2012, though he harbours no regrets over missing out.
The Dutchman declared: "I am the manager of Manchester United, the No.1 club in England.
"It was flattering. It is always pleasing to be contacted by a leading club and Liverpool have a very good record in history but I am the coach of United now; I can only speak about Liverpool as an opponent.
"It is not so interesting any more, it is in the past. It was the same with Tottenham last week. I have spoken to a lot of clubs but it is not good for Liverpool, Tottenham or for me to reopen things that are in the past."
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