Sir Alex Ferguson could play a key role in deciding Louis van Gaal’s fate

Since the home defeat at the hands of Norwich, the pressure has been significantly cranked up on Manchester United boss, Louis van Gaal.

Rumours have been rife that the Dutchman's days at Old Trafford are numbered and that he could be replaced by the recently-unemployed Jose Mourinho. A report in The Mirror claims that United's board are faced with a huge decision, after learning that Mourinho is also in the frame for a return to Real Madrid. Interestingly, it's also reported that Sir Alex Ferguson took part in emergency talks with United's executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward and former chief executive David Gilll at Old Trafford on Monday and will be a key figure in any decision. Although the record-breaking manager is described as a 'good friend' of Van Gaal and is against the idea of United becoming a sacking club, he's also a known admirer of Mourinho. Having previously decided that David Moyes would be a better fit for the club than the Portuguese manager, Fergie seems to be facing another significant decision. United face a Boxing Day trip to Stoke and host Chelsea two days later. Failure to win in those games will almost certainly bring an end to Van Gaal's spell in charge.