Louis van Gaal: Manchester United boss has 'no doubts' over position

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Media caption,

'Can't compare Man Utd with 10 years ago'

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal says he has "no doubts" about his position and that his side must now try to win the Europa League.

United's 3-2 defeat by Wolfsburg on Tuesday saw them drop out of the Champions League.

They are fourth in the Premier League, three points behind leaders Leicester, but have been criticised for their lack of flair and goals this season.

"I am working very hard to do what we can do," said Van Gaal, 64.

When asked by if he felt any uncertainty about his role, he said: "No doubts. I don't have any. You can lose and win in sport, you have to accept it.

"The problem is that we have to meet with the expectation. At a club like Manchester United, they are very high."

'Just the Europa League?'

United's defeat in Germany meant Wolfsburg finished top of Group B, while PSV Eindhoven reached the last 16 as runners-up by beating CSKA Moscow.

Rio Ferdinand described the club's drop into the Europa League as "embarrassing", while his former United team-mates Michael Owen and Paul Scholes were also critical of Van Gaal.

Speaking before Saturday's Premier League game with Bournemouth, the Dutchman was asked if he would be happy if he just won the Europa League this season.

He replied: "Just? You think it's just? I'm not thinking like that.

"I have already won the Europa League with Ajax in my first season, and I was very proud of that. For me, it is a big competition."

Will Giggs be lured to Swansea?

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Image caption,

Ryan Giggs became Louis van Gaal's assistant in 2014 after four games in caretaker charge

Van Gaal's assistant Ryan Giggs has been linked with the vacant manager's job at Swansea, following the departure of Garry Monk on Wednesday.

Former Wales international Giggs has spent his entire professional career at Old Trafford, playing 963 games before taking over as caretaker manager after the sacking of David Moyes in 2014.

Van Gaal says the 42-year-old has not spoken about the opening at Swansea.

"I have to speak with Ryan when it is true. Then he is coming to me. I never read papers and think it is the truth," said Van Gaal.

"I cannot speak about the 'if' situations."

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