Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal said he had no concerns over the recent form of Angel di Maria and went on to say the Argentina international has the capability to be “the best player in the world” in his next match, speaking ahead of his side’s midweek trip to Newcastle.

Di Maria was replaced at half-time against Sunderland this weekend after a disappointing effort in the opening 45 minutes of the contest. He was replaced by Belgium international Adnan Januzaj, who breathed life into United’s attack and played a part in the team’s second goal.

Questions have been raised about Di Maria in recent weeks due to the winger’s sporadic performances. Fans and pundits have questioned the player’s state of mind at the club, especially after burglars attempted to break into the Argentine’s home while Di Maria and his family were eating dinner in early February.

The Argentina international recently told FIFA.com that Manchester United would be the last club he would play for in Europe. But those words have continued to fall on deaf ears.

Speaking to MUTV, Van Gaal praised Di Maria’s work ethic and said it is normal for players to have an off day now and again.

“Every player can have that kind of match – Di Maria is not the only player who has suffered a bad day,” the United manager said.

“He can be the best player in the world in the next match so I think everything is going well. He has trained very well and I don’t think there is any problem.”

When Van Gaal was asked whether Di Maria was having difficulties adapting to life in England, he reiterated his thoughts from previous press conferences.

“I have already explained that the higher rhythm of the Premier League is one of the most important aspects,” he added. “But he also has to adapt to a new culture, new environment and that is not always easy.”

Van Gaal went on to say that it is not only Di Maria who has had to settle into a new environment – most players experience difficulties in their first season at Manchester United.

“It count for all players we have bought, the first season is always difficult,” Van Gaal concluded. “I explained that after the match. You can see it with every player we bought: Shaw, Blind, Herrera, Falcao and also Di Maria.”

“For me it is not a big surprise; it is more a big surprise if he had adapted quickly.”

“In the Netherlands, Spain and Germany I had the same experience with players. We have to give him time as I’ve already said, not just for him but all the other players.”

Van Gaal went on to confirm that Robin van Persie will miss Wednesday’s trip to Newcastle, while Luke Shaw, Phil Jones and Victor Valdes will be in contention for a place in his 18-man squad.

Also, midfielder Michael Carrick will likely be named to the team, although the manager thinks it is still too soon for the player to make the starting eleven.

Programming note: Newcastle United vs. Manchester United will be shown LIVE on Wednesday starting at 2:45pm EST on NBC Sports Live Extra.