Neville backs Van Gaal to succeed at United

Former Manchester United defender Phil Neville is confident under-fire manager Louis van Gaal can turn the club's fortunes around.

United are fifth in the Premier League following a run of six matches in all competitions without a win, while their Champions League and League Cup hopes are already over for this term.

"United are having a tough spell at the moment and they're finding it difficult," he told BreatheSport.

"But there's a long way to go, it's such a big club.

"I have total faith that Louis Van Gaal can, and will, bring success to Old Trafford."

Neville has been working as a coach at La Liga side Valencia since the start of this season and is now the number two to his brother Gary at the Mestalla, following the ex-Manchester United captain's appointment as head coach earlier this month, succeeding Nuno Espirito Santo.

"Me and Gary have a very clinical relationship. We both know what we want, we trust each other and we work really well together," said Phil, who retains ambitions of his own to be a number one in the future.

"At some stage I'd like to manage, that is the long-term aim," he added.

"However, I know that I've got a lot of time, so I see no need to rush. When I feel I've got the right experience and there is a job that I think suits me, I'll think about it.

"For now, I want to focus on doing a great job as a coach and an assistant here at Valencia."