Van Gaal: I don't believe Manchester United have spoken to Mourinho

The BBC and the Manchester Evening News on Friday reported that discussions have taken place between the two parties.

Mourinho, who left Chelsea in December, told the Mail on Sunday he is not enjoying being out of work and that a return is on the horizon.

But Van Gaal, who has a year remaining on his contract after this season, does not believe the Portuguese is being lined up as the next United manager.

"There has been such nonsense created about me," Van Gaal was quoted as saying in several national newspapers.

"It has been very difficult for me, for my wife, for my kids, for my grandchildren and for my friends to cope with that. But it is the football world these days.

"I never had doubts but it is still remarkable that after the four defeats in a row we have started to win.

"I hope it has given the fans the stimulus to now believe in the manager."

The 64-year-old has overseen a United revival in recent weeks - with three wins and two draws from their last six league games - and the club could move to within four points of neighbours Manchester City with victory at Chelsea on Sunday afternoon.

"The aim here is still the same - to qualify for the Champions League and to finish one step higher than last year, so third place," said Van Gaal.

"Leicester have opened a big gap from us but it is still possible.

"We are in a very good mood. Winning puts you in a good mood. It is very important to be there in April, five points or less from the top.

"There is light at the end of the tunnel. Phil Jones is coming back, Marcos Rojo is coming back, Antonio Valencia is coming back.

"We have managed to survive and we are only five points behind the top four. That isn't bad."

Van Gaal cannot possibly be so naive to think that United would not tap up a prospective manager in the current climate, but he also can't admit publicly that he fears that is the scenario otherwise his legitimacy as United manager would be undermined among fans and the players. The shadow of Mourinho may loom large over his own job, but Van Gaal must remember he remains in the post and it is his to lose unless he is told otherwise.

If United can finish the season strongly in the Premier League, Europa League and FA Cup, Van Gaal may yet remain in his role. If not, then he at least restores some of the credibility that encouraged United to appoint him in the first place. There is nothing he can do about alleged talks going on between his board and Mourinho behind his back - or any other manager - so there is not much point concerning himself with matters he has no control over. Winning matches will soon placate the United fans who are suddenly salivating over the 'Special One'.