Paddy McNair has revealed how Louis van Gaal pushed him into the centre-back position at Manchester United – despite him having never been a defender.

The 21-year-old signed for Sunderland in the summer and scored twice in their 2-1 win over Queens Park Rangers in the EFL Cup on Wednesday night.

McNair was brought up as a midfielder and has spoken about how fans mistakenly think he is a defender just because Van Gaal used him as one.

Paddy McNair scored twice from midfield as Sunderland came from behind to beat QPR

McNair's brace saw Sunderland progress through to the next round of the EFL Cup

‘Until I was 18, I played in midfield,’ McNair said.

‘Van Gaal played me at centre-back. So a lot of people think I’m a defender but I’ve not really ever been a defender.

‘In midfield, a No 10, I’ll play wherever – so long as I score two!

‘When I was younger I scored a few goals so I’ve always chipped in. But I’ve waited a while for my first senior goal.

‘I think my best position is left or right of a three in midfield.’

The Northern Irishman believes he is best situated playing in a midfield three

McNair was often played in central defence by Van Gaal at United, a position he wasn't used to

David Moyes recognised this and used him in midfield against QPR. The Sunderland boss said: ‘There is a wee bit of a misconception with Paddy.

‘He’s an attacking midfielder. He was a No 10 as a boy but as he grew he dropped back. He strikes the ball cleanly, is a good finisher and connects well.