Boss Louis van Gaal has admitted Everton were “more aggressive and motivated” than his Manchester United side during Sunday’s 3-0 defeat at Goodison Park.

A win for the Red Devils would have all but guaranteed them a top-four finish this season, but fifth-placed Liverpool have now been given encouragement as they look to overhaul the seven-point gap to United and they also have the benefit of a game in hand.

Everton were quickly out of the traps and took the lead through James McCarthy inside the opening 10 minutes and found themselves 2-0 up at half-time thanks to a header from defender John Stones.

Kevin Mirallas added a third for the Blues on 74 minutes and afterwards Van Gaal conceded Everton had taken all three points on merit.

The Dutchman said: “That was the first time that I found the opponent more aggressive and motivated than us.

“We started too late. After four minutes the goal was conceded – we lost three duels in a row and you cannot start again. I think we have played too well so our opponents defend more against us now.

“We have to recognise this as players, as a manager and as a club,” he added. “Everton deserved to win – when you lose and it is fair you can live with it.”

Manchester United are back in Premier League action on Saturday evening when they entertain West Brom at Old Trafford.

United are 1.36 to beat the Baggies (9.00) with the draw at 4.50.