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February 8, 2016

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal hits back, telling journalist: ‘You are getting the sack tomorrow’

By William Turvill

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal hit back at a journalist who questioned his job security yesterday, telling him: "You are getting sacked tomorrow."

Van Gaal (pictured above, Reuters) was speaking to journalists at a press conference after a late Diego Costa equaliser (pictured below, Reuters) saw his team draw 1-1 with Chelsea.

Here is an excerpt from his post-match media conference:

Journalist: "Although you dropped points, the performances are improving. Do you think that's important as the club is trying to replace you, the fact you're trying to put in the performances which show you might have a value to the club?"

LvG: "You've spoken with Ed Woodward?"

Journalist: "Well, the club aren't denying it…"

LvG: "Why they have to deny (it)? I don't interfere neither (sic). So why the club has to deny that, when you are creating stories?"

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Journalist: "I don't know if you know what I write…"

LvG: "Okay. So you didn't speak to Ed Woodward, not with the Glazers and you are inventing a story. And then I have to answer this question. I don't answer this question. And I shall repeat myself every week. Now I have to say that you are getting the sack tomorrow. What is your name? Then I can announce your name also. Look at your wife, maybe you have children or a nephew or something."

The journalist concerned appears to be Associated Press's Rob Harris, who has been assured his job is safe.

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