CSKA Moscow vs. Manchester United: Key Takeaways from Louis Van Gaal's Presser

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal gave a fairly low-key press conference ahead of Wednesday's Champions League clash with CSKA Moscow, in which he admitted his side would settle for a draw.

United's official Twitter feed shared the Dutchman's comments as he remains hopeful of three points but believes a point away from home will be sufficient:

Van Gaal refuted suggestions United's attention is occupied by Sunday's Manchester derby, however, per the Mirror's James Whaling: "For me, as a manager, the next match is the most important match. I don’t think about Man City. I only think about CSKA Moscow and I have to focus on this match."    

The Red Devils are currently second in Group D with all four teams level on three points apiece, so two points from their remaining away matches with CSKA and Wolfsburg would likely see them through to the knockout stage—provided they continue to pick up wins at Old Trafford.

Jon Super/Associated Press

Van Gaal then discussed Marcos Rojo's future with the club, following recent reports linking the Argentinian with a move away from Old Trafford:

According to Whaling, he added: "I analysed him at Sporting Lisbon. What I like is that he is physically a very strong guy, he is a good header and his pass is fast."

United captain Wayne Rooney also praised his team-mate. According to Whaling, he said:

"

For me, he is a fantastic player and a fantastic team-mate. He is a player who is very tough to get around. For him to be from Argentina and play in the Premier League is not easy but he has done a great job.

He will be a very important player for us for the rest of the season.

"

Whaling noted there have been suggestions the pitch in Moscow could be a problem, but the skipper refuted those claims, per United's Twitter feed:

The pitch being in good condition will be helpful to United, who will look to control possession of the ball from the outset and keep it in midfield as they probe for an opening in CSKA's defence.

Jon Super/Associated Press

Lastly, the England international reaffirmed his desire to help the side in any way he can and targeted wins both on Wednesday and in the derby:

A positive result for the Red Devils in the Champions League will provide an important confidence boost ahead of facing their archrivals.

Equally though, a loss could have a damaging effect on their preparation for the derby, so it's imperative United put in a performance against CSKA.

Moscow goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev hasn't kept a clean sheet in the Champions League in a 33-match spell stretching back to 2006, so United will have no excuses not to put in a strong showing.