• Premier League

Demanding Van Gaal backed to be United success

Louis van Gaal has been backed to be a huge success at Manchester United in the job "he would never turn down".

Former Netherlands international Bryan Roy claims the 62-year-old is the deserving favourite to take charge at Old Trafford after sources told ESPN that the club are in the process of making contact with the manager following David Moyes' departure on Tuesday.

Roy, who played under Van Gaal at Ajax told The Mirror: "He has definitely still got the hunger. I think he will die on the pitch, because he will never retire. He loves the job too much.

Louis van Gaal will be a free agent after the World Cup © Getty Images

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"He will never turn down Manchester United, believe me. It's the job he really wants. And he will be a revelation at Manchester United.

"He is, without question, the best manager I have ever played for. For me, he has proved himself to be one of the best managers and coaches in the world.

"He is very disciplined, very strict and is very attacking in his philosophy. I know English football well, and his style is suited to that.

"He believes in wingers, he is very strong and very tactical. The best word I can think of is demanding. On the pitch, every player will be told their job, they will know exactly what is expected of them, their position and role in the team.

"The way he prepares his teams is outstanding. In terms of organisation and tactics - the way he sets teams up will suit English football - is superb."

Carlo Ancelotti has gained momentum in United's thinking, according to reports, and would apparently have the backing of Sir Alex Ferguson, who came to recognise his mistake in pushing the appointment of Moyes.

Ryan Giggs, who has been appointed interim manager until the end of the season, would be a popular choice in the dressing room but United are looking for greater experience and Roy is sure that Van Gaal would get the best out of the current United squad, in particular Netherlands striker Robin van Persie, with whom he has a close relationship.

"I look at Manchester United and they have a lot of young players. They will respond to him as well as the older ones who will have respect for him," Roy said.

"I know Van Persie will work well with him. Louis can handle the big clubs because of where he's been before and the big players.

"He can be difficult and he is strong and strict. I can't deny that I had some problems with him but I was a young player and you learn. We go back to the word demanding and he always demands his players to know their job, to work hard and do their best."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd