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LONDON. – Louis van Gaal has revealed the secret to Manchester United’s remarkable resurgence. The Dutchman claims that “triangles” have been behind an upturn in form that has put his side on course for a return to the Champions League. Impressive victories against Tottenham and Liverpool have enabled United to open up a five-point gap in the race for the top four.

They have also been the clearest indication yet that Van Gaal’s much-fabled philosophy is finally getting through to his players.

After experimenting with a three-man defence and a diamond in midfield since taking over at Old Trafford, the former Ajax, Barcelona and Bayern Munich manager has recently settled on his favoured system of 4-3-3.

Juan Mata has particularly impressed in what Van Gaal describes as a “false winger” role – while Marouane Fellaini has had a impact playing further forward.

But Van Gaal says the creation of triangles over the pitch are key to his plans.

“It’s always dependent on the players involved, but everybody knows the system I prefer is 1-4-3-3 with a No. 10 or No. 6,” he said. “A holding midfielder or a No. 10 player behind the strikers.

“It’s dependable of the quality of the players, but also of the opponent.

“But I prefer it because that’s the easiest system to dominate the game because it is over the whole pitch triangles and that gives the players always two options at least.

“But I have played with several other systems because of the quality of the players who were available in that moment.”

Van Gaal has come in for criticism over the performances of his side since being appointed David Moyes’ successor last summer.

FA Cup defeat to Arsenal earlier this month ended United’s most realistic chance of a trophy this season – but their response has been emphatic with back-to-back wins against Champions League rivals Spurs and Liverpool. – The Mirror.