Louis van Gaal admits Juan Mata ‘damaged’ Manchester United’s chances of victory in Sunday’s defeat to West Brom.

The Spaniard was sent off after just 26 minutes at The Hawthorns for two yellow cards – one for preventing a quick free-kick, and the second for a challenge on Darren Fletcher.

“The first yellow card I think was stupid because you know in advance it’s a yellow card, but the second, you know you already have one yellow card, you have to take into account with the second, it’s difficult. You damage the benefit of the team,” Van Gaal told Sky Sports.

“But the referee also has to know the person who makes the tackle. And Juan Mata has never hurt an opponent.

“I ask him also, how many red cards have you had? None, it’s the first.

When asked if taking Mata’s personality into account is relevant, Van Gaal replied: “No, it’s not relevant, but you have to know the characters of the players, I think.

“And that’s why an experienced referee is always better. And I always think you take that not account.”