D-Day for Louis van Gaal: Manchester United boss desperate for Stoke win to avoid sack
LOUIS VAN GAAL goes into today’s crucial clash at Stoke insisting he can still transform Manchester United’s fortunes.
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| Louis van Gaal is under huge pressure to end Manchester United's winless streak |
United
boss Van Gaal is determined to halt a six-game winless run at the
Britannia Stadium at lunchtime to ease mounting pressure from fans who
want Jose Mourinho or Ryan Giggs installed as manager.
The
experienced Dutchman, 64, came out fighting by saying he is still the
right man for the job while refusing to write off United’s title hopes,
despite surprise leaders Leicester holding a nine-point advantage over
them.
“We are
not in a good position but four weeks ago we were first in the Premier
League and in four weeks’ time we can be back in that position,” he
said.
Van
Gaal believes he retains the support of his under-performing players as
well as United’s board of directors – if not most of the supporters or a
host of ex-Old Trafford stars who have constantly criticised his
tactics.
He
believes part of the problem is that the recent dismal run and
speculation over his future have drained the confidence out of his
players.
He added: “I have tried to lift the confidence of my players. I have done everything this week
“I
have held evaluation meetings with the players and with my members of
staff. I held a Christmas lunch, I made a speech and I feel the warmth
and support of everybody.
“I am focused only on Stoke City and helping my players.”
United’s
executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward, former boss Sir Alex Ferguson and
former chief executive David Gill have all called the beleaguered
manager to offer their support.
But
Van Gaal knows if United lose to Stoke today and then to rejuvenated
Chelsea at Old Trafford on Monday, the clamour for change will reach a
crescendo.
