Louis van Gaal reveals that 'a virus' has affected 'a lot' of the Manchester United dressing room ahead of Crystal Palace

Van Gaal admits he too has 'a little pain in the throat

Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal (Getty Images)

Louis van Gaal has revealed that 'a lot' of his Manchester United squad have been affected by 'a virus' in the dressing room - including himself.

Manchester United travel to Crystal Palace on Sunday with their place still in the top four up four grabs after losing three matches in a row.

It is hardly the best preparation for a side that now has Liverpool breathing down their necks for the final Champions League spot; the Reds are four points off with three games to go.

"We have a virus in our dressing room," Van Gaal said at his press conference.

"I have a little bit of pain in the throat. (James) Wilson also has had that for one week but is recovering now. Maybe he can be on the bench (at Palace).

"A lot of players are suffering (from it)."

The good news for Van Gaal is that defenders Jonny Evans (sciatica) and Marcos Rojo (adductor) are in contention for a place in the squad for the trip to London after overcoming their respective injury problems.

"Rojo is coming back but (I may) put him on the bench or something like that," Van Gaal added.

"Evans is a candidate for the bench but he needs match rhythm."