Louis van Gaal: Man Utd boss 'sympathises' with Dick Advocaat

Louis van Gaal and his compatriot Dick Advocaat are in their first managerial jobs in England, although Advocaat spent three years in Scotland with Rangers

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal feels sorry for the plight of his "friend" Dick Advocaat at Sunderland.

The Dutch pair will be in opposing dug-outs at Old Trafford on Saturday, kick-off 15:00 BST.

United are second in the Premier League while Sunderland are bottom of the table with two points from six games.

"Dick Advocaat is a friend," said Van Gaal. "I sympathise with the person. I hope Sunderland win every game except the ones against Manchester United."

He added: "We have seen each other many times. We are calling each other."

Van Gaal, 64, spent two seasons as a team-mate of 67-year-old Advocaat at Sparta Rotterdam between 1980 and 1982.

Advocaat had a better record in managerial meetings when he was at PSV and Van Gaal at Ajax, winning three and drawing five of their nine encounters.

Meanwhile, striker James Wilson has signed a new four-year contract at United, with an option of a further year.

The 19-year-old academy graduate scored two goals on his debut in a 3-1 victory against Hull City in May 2014, but has featured in just two league games under Van Gaal.

Van Gaal said: "James is one of the brightest young English prospects and we are delighted he has signed a new contract."

The Dutchman said on Friday he would wait until December before deciding whether he will send the Wilson out on loan to get further experience.

James Wilson (left) being congratulated on his new contract by Reds boss Louis van Gaal