Jose Mourinho: Ryan Giggs urges Manchester United not to sack boss

Ryan Giggs (left) was Manchester United's assistant manager when they faced Jose Mourinho's Chelsea in 2014

Wales boss Ryan Giggs has urged his former side Manchester United to stick with their manager Jose Mourinho.

Mourinho has faced scrutiny following a run of four games without a win and off-field controversies including a row with midfielder Paul Pogba.

Giggs, an Old Trafford legend after 25 years at the club as a player and coach, has been tipped as a future United manager.

"I believe he [Mourinho] should keep his job," said Giggs.

"They're going through a tough time at the moment, but change now then you're in the same position in a year, two years, quite possibly.

Giggs, speaking at the squad announcement for Wales' games against Spain and the Republic of Ireland, added: "I think the problem of late has been forward planning. Just take stock, they're going through a tough time but, no, my stance hasn't changed."

'I hate the thought of him being sacked'

Former Old Trafford midfielder Paul Ince - who won the Premier League title twice under Sir Alex Ferguson - believes Mourinho's position will be untenable if United are beaten by Newcastle on Saturday.

"Mourinho's time is running out," he said. "United are no better off than they were before him. If they don't get a result against Newcastle this weekend, Jose Mourinho is in real danger.

"He won't walk because that's not in his character. I hate the thought of Jose being sacked, but if you are not picking up results and there is this black cloud hanging around Old Trafford, your time as manager is running out.

"If they lose on Saturday evening, particularly if it's a bad loss, there will be a decision made on his future very quickly.

"The signs are not looking good for him."