Manchester United head coach, Louis Van Gaal said the embattled striker had a good game in the match he played as he returned to active football in a crucial time of the season.

The coach declared good job done as Manchester United enhanced their Premier League top four hopes with victory over Norwich, especially as Manchester city and Arsenal played a 2-2 draw.

Juan Mata punished Sebastien Bassong’s error as a 1-0 win at Carrow Road saw United move within one point of neighbours Manchester City. The Dutchman could yet guide United into the Champions League and FA Cup glory despite the fact that his job was threatened not too long ago.

LVG said:

“We did our job today. Fantastic, I think. When you see the second half, we deserved to win. We’re still in the race [for the top four].”

Van Gaal remains aggrieved at the failure to award United two penalties in the draw with champions Leicester a week ago, believing it cost United points to leave his side relying on the Gunners.

“Now we are dependent on Arsenal,” he said. This was before Arsenal did them the huge favour with the draw.

United were without Anthony Martial at Carrow Road after the striker felt a twinge in his knee in the warm up and Van Gaal was not prepared to risk the Frenchman.

Martial, who joined the rested Daley Blind and Marcus Rashford on the sidelines, was replaced by Ander Herrera, pushing Wayne Rooney up front.

Rooney, who has been playing in midfield of late, laid on the decisive goal for Mata.

LVG said: “I don’t think he was very happy with me that I decided to put him in the striker’s position, but he could imagine also (why he had to play there).

“He gave a fantastic assist to Juan Mata,” he added.