Van Gaal's 'philosophy' comes to fruition against Southampton with 45-pass goal

New signing Anthony Martial bagged a brace in Manchester United's 3-2 win at Southampton on Sunday, but manager Louis van Gaal was most pleased with his side's final goal.

United scored with a 45-pass move that began with centre-back Chris Smalling, travelled throughout its midfield, and ended with Juan Mata placing the ball beyond a helpless Maarten Stekelenburg. It delighted the boss.

(Courtesy: @OptaJoe)

"Fantastic," Van Gaal exclaimed to the Guardian. "And then you can finish it - unbelievable!"

United gained a reputation under Alex Ferguson for being dangerous on the break, springing surprises with lightning quick attacks. Under its Dutch manager, the approach now seems more patient and methodical as the team looks to dominate possession and capitalise on errors from the opposition.

"With that amount of passes you control the game. I always say to the players that the gaps in the defensive organisation shall exist when you play a kind of positional game."

Since the early days of his reign, the 64-year-old has often used the term "philosophy." His insistence on a certain approach has forced quality players, like Victor Valdes and Angel Di Maria, out of first team contention, but Van Gaal believes the 45-pass move is evidence of his plans working.

"We did it (on Sunday) and I was very pleased, of course it is confirmation of our philosophy."

The headlines, however, belonged to 19-year-old Martial. The £36-million signing has shown great composure since his big move from Monaco at the end of the summer transfer window.

"He has great talent and he showed it under pressure, and that may be his greatest talent," Van Gaal said.

Things seem to be clicking at the right time, as the Red Devils approach a tough month of October. Away games at Arsenal and Everton in the league and the long trip to CSKA Moscow in the Champions League are followed by the visit of local rival Manchester City to Old Trafford.