Louis van Gaal set for pre-match press conference as pressure intensifies

Louis van Gaal will conduct his pre-match press conference as normal on Wednesday as pressure on his position intensifies.

The Manchester United manager has overseen a run of six winless games and scrutiny intensified after the home defeat to Norwich on Saturday, which came just two days after José Mourinho left Chelsea.

Van Gaal will face the media before United’s Stephens’ Day trip to Stoke, which suggests the Old Trafford hierarchy are not considering the axe just yet.

United have dropped out of the top four in the Premier League, have already been eliminated from the Champions League and have not won since the victory at Watford on November 21st.

Mourinho’s departure from Chelsea has led to speculation he could succeed Van Gaal if there is not a swift upturn in results.

Mourinho’s name was chanted by United fans at Old Trafford during the defeat to Norwich and he has already confirmed he has no desire to take a break.

It is business as usual for the time being for Van Gaal, who closes out the year with a home game against Chelsea on Monday.

Speaking after the defeat to Norwich, Van Gaal insisted he had the backing of the vice-chairman Ed Woodward and the players. "Ed was very fast out of the dressing room but I feel that support, yes," the 64-year-old said. "The most important support is from the players because the players have to do it on the pitch and the chemistry between the players and the manager and his staff is very important."

Mourinho is due to fly to Portugal this week to spend time with his family over the festive period but he has made it known he would be interested in taking charge at Old Trafford if the position became available.

Pep Guardiola, in charge of Van Gaal’s old club Bayern Munich, will also become available in the summer after announcing he is leaving the German club.