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Arsene Wenger has defended Louis van Gaal against Sam Allardyce's allegation that Manchester United turned into a long-ball team against West Ham.

Van Gaal felt compelled to defend his tactical approach, even producing a leaflet for the benefit of the media, following criticism from West Ham boss Allardyce, who suggested United "thumped it" in earning a 1-1 draw at Upton Park.

"There was no reason (for Van Gaal to defend himself)," said Wenger.

"A big club has a responsibility to win and try to win with style - but first try to win.

"I didn't understand really what the problem was. Man United went a bit longer in the last 10 minutes - I found it completely logical.

"If I am in a game in the last five minutes, we have a free-kick and we have three monsters up front, I do not say 'play a short ball'.

"A team goes naturally from its strong points and an intelligent team knows how to exploit its strong points."