​Speculation over Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal's future has continued to intensify after the Dutchman was absent from the club's training session on Sunday morning.

Sky Sports report that training at the club's Carrington training complex ahead of Monday's game with Chelsea was taken by assistant coach Ryan Giggs, and that Louis van Gaal was conspicuous by his absence.

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It is a uncharacteristic move from van Gaal, who usually insists on taking every single training session with the first-team, unlike Sir Alex Ferguson, who would often delegate responsibilities to coaches Mike Phelan and Rene Meulensteen.

Ryan Giggs arriving at Carrington this morning for training, no sign of LvG. #MUFC pic.twitter.com/v9lOL4xkM6 — MUnitedHome™ (@MUnitedHome) December 27, 2015

Although there is no official confirmation yet, van Gaal's time as United boss certainly seems to be hanging by a thread. The assumption is that Giggs will succeed the Dutchman in a temporary capacity, like he did when David Moyes was dismissed in April 2014.

Van Gaal said following the defeat to Stoke City that he felt the support of everyone but refused to confirm whether he would be in charge of the club for Monday's clash with Chelsea.

As Man United boss, David Moyes had more points after 18 games (30) than Louis van Gaal does this season (29). pic.twitter.com/OJEQeiS0Ft — Squawka Football (@Squawka) December 27, 2015





Asked how long he had left at United Van Gaal said: “That’s the question. That’s always the question. It’s another situation because we have lost the fourth job in a row. I feel the support of everyone.”

Asked if he would quit, he said: “It is not always like that, that the club has to fire or sack me. Sometimes I do it by myself. I am the one who wants to speak first with the board of Manchester United and my staff and players and not with you.”





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