'I am a very flexible man' insists Van Gaal

Van Gaal is known for his combative style following stints in charge of Ajax, Barcelona and Bayern Munich, with countryman and Southampton boss Ronald Koeman accusing the Dutchman of striking fear into his players.

Former Netherlands international Willem van Hanegem was also scathing of Van Gaal, after slamming the United manager for mistreating assistant coach Ryan Giggs, loanee Radamel Falcao and winger Angel Di Maria.

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