Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has admitted that he is still working out the best tactical system for his squad, Mirror reports.

Van Gaal has used several formations this season such as playing three at the back, the classical 4-4-2, and now the lone striker system that he deployed in their 1-0 win over Crystal Palace on Saturday.

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The former Barcelona boss has also used ten different combinations in defence, but many of that were due to a high number of injuries.

And Van Gaal confessed he is uncertain of the best way to field his players after sacrificing attacking guile for defensive solidity in their latest fixture.

“It’s too much, I agree,” he said when asked about his latest formation.

“But I’m looking for the balance and, when you see the last four matches, we have had more balance because we haven’t conceded many goals.

“Nevertheless, we don’t score so much. With the other system we scored a lot of goals.”

Last season ex-manager David Moyes went against Man United’s usual attacking philosophy and after not achieving the desired results, was sacked after just 10 months at the helm.

Van Gaal has therefore played down any instant success, and that it will take time for United to be playing attractive football as well as getting the results.

“We have to ensure we are in a position where we can be in contention for the first four positions,” said Van Gaal. “Of course, we need to raise our level. It’s a matter of time, but also of getting over a lot of ­injuries.

“When you have nine injuries and also a suspended player, then it is always more difficult, because I cannot select a lot of players.

“I’ve never had so many injuries in my career. It’s crazy, but it’s what I have to deal with.

“It’s a big challenge but I knew that in advance. Otherwise I could have chosen another club.”

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