Mark Hughes is enjoying speculation linking him with Manchester United

Stoke boss Mark Hughes says he is enjoying speculation that he could be the next Manchester United boss.

United are without a win in eight in all competitions and have fallen to sixth in the Premier League table having sat top a few weeks ago, increasing speculation on the future of Louis van Gaal.

Hughes' name is reportedly in the frame if United decide to dispense with the services of the Dutchman who has also attracted criticism for the style of play at Old Trafford.

In contrast former Blackburn, Fulham, Man City, QPR and Wales boss Hughes has transformed the Potters into an attractive, free-flowing attacking outfit who currently sit just two points adrift of the Premier League's top five.

"There's a lot of speculation. That goes with the territory," said Hughes.

"It's probably better to be talked up than talked down. I've had both, and I know which I prefer.

"It is what it is. It's speculation. Nothing more, nothing less."

Hughes and Tony Pulis (R), manager of Saturday's opponents West Brom

Hughes had two hugely successful spells as a player at Old Trafford in the 1980s and 1990s but insists the talk that he could be the man the United hierarchy turn to simply proves he is doing a good job at Stoke.

The Potters face West Brom on Saturday following back-to-back victories over Man Utd and Everton and Hughes insists there is no danger of complacency at the Britannia.

"It's something you have to guard against, but it's less of a worry for this group, to be perfectly honest," he said.

Hughes is targeting a place in Europe for his in form Stoke team Hughes is targeting a place in Europe for his in form Stoke team

"I think everybody senses that they're really enjoying what they're doing at the moment. They're enjoying being part of it. They want more."