Match winner Marouane Fellaini believes that Manchester United are well-worthy of a top-four finish.
The Reds edged closer to Champions League qualification on Saturday thanks to a 2-1 victory over Crystal Palace, with Belgian powerhouse Fellaini heading home the winner late on.
And the former Everton man, who has justified his £27million price-tag this campaign following a poor debut season at Old Trafford, insisted that United deserve their lofty position.
“It was a massive win,” said Fellaini, whose crucial goal means United are now six points clear of fifth-placed Liverpool, who could only draw at newly-crowned champions Chelsea.
“All the players, the manager and the staff are very happy. I think we do deserve a place in the top four.
“The group is experienced and the spirit is unbelievable, so we have to keep going, we showed that the spirit is there, so it is good for the future.”
Louis van Gaal’s side took an early lead at Selhurst Park with Juan Mata converting from the penalty spot after Scott Dann had handled Ashley Young’s cross.
However, the hosts levelled early in the second half through Jason Puncheon’s deflected free-kick and looked to have extended United’s winless streak to four Premier League matches.
But Fellaini spared the visitor’s blushes with just over ten minutes remaining, nodding in from Young’s inch-perfect cross.
“It was very important, massively important,” van Gaal added.
“It is a difficult ground to beat Crystal Palace on, a lot of teams lose here and especially the top teams.
“I am very happy. The pitch was not so good, the ball was not rolling well and we had to fight for every metre.
“The players did that and it was very good to see how we have played like a team and fought to the end for each other.
“We will need more displays like that, better performances because the last few have been not so good, but we are clear of Liverpool for now so we are nearly there.”
Image courtesy to MUTV via YouTube, with thanks.
