Last weekend saw the Dutchman publicly admit, for the first time, that he had failed United's supporters, his comments coming after boos had accompanied him off the field at the end of the 1-0 loss at Old Trafford.

Fans and critics have blasted the Dutchman's "boring" style of play and the pressure significantly mounted after Saturday's 1-0 loss to Southampton at home.

Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal has arrived back in England.

After suffering a sixth league defeat of the season, Van Gaal must also lift his players for Friday's FA Cup fourth round trip to Derby County.

So who could step into the Manchester United hot seat if in fact Van Gaal is relieved of his duties?

He said United fans were "right to boo" and that he was disappointed he could not fulfil their expectations.

Former United chief executive David Gill, now a non-executive director, admitted on Sunday "it's been a season of under-achievement", while it has been reported Woodward has been in touch with a number of players and senior figures at the club since the Southampton game about the situation.

Manchester United fans in the Transfer Tavern had to be stopped from sparking an all-out bar brawl this morning, as they were furious with the latest news concerning their underperforming boss.

He wants the job - he hoped to get the nod full time when Van Gaal was appointed - and few know the club as well as he does.

"Van Gaal will still think he can achieve things this season, despite all the struggles, and sacking the manager now would be effectively writing the season off".

They have won just three of their last 13 matches in all competitions and haven't scored in the first half of a match at Old Trafford since September.

Van Gaal came back to Manchester from a mini holiday back home in Holland with all thoughts of quitting now on the back burner.