Man United boss reveals fitness concerns over two stars following Swansea win

FC's Steve Nicol assesses a more attacking performance from Man United in their 2-1 win over Swansea.

Swansea, who remain just one place above the relegation zone, did not include England midfielder Jonjo Shelvey in their squad, but caretaker manager Alan Curtis said that the 23-year-old was still part of his plans.

Swansea nearly had the last laugh when goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski came close to a stunning headed equaliser, but van Gaal said: "Ashley Young has played a lot of matches in a row". For me, it is more important he scores now and he scores today (Saturday).

"I hope this is a fantastic starting point for us", he added.

"I am always demanding he makes runs to the first post". "But that is also dependent on whether or not we score goals".

His 238th goal for United came at a good time for his manager, whose position has come under scrutiny of late, and the player himself.

FIRST HALF v SECOND HALF: "I think the first half was a better half than the second half; the difference is that we scored the goals and everyone is saying the second half is better". But you can not change that any more. That's what we've got to do every week.

"It was an unbelievable goal from Wayne. I just think that battering from centre-backs and the pressure that is on him, mentally as well, to play from that age of 16".

The second-half was changed by the early goal but you have to wonder if United would have gone back into their shells had Martial not nodded the Reds in front. Wayne's goal, with his left foot behind his other foot, was fantastic. It was a striker's instinct to get there and put it away.

Van Gaal has parted with a few of his strikers this season which includes the likes of Radamel Falcao, Robin van Persie and Javier Hernandez but the Dutchman says he has no regrets about letting them go.

However, Wayne Rooney's first Premier League goal since October - a sublime flicked finish - settled matters, easing some of the pressure that has been building on Van Gaal in recent weeks.

"The first half was a better half than the second", he insisted.