Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has been given just two matches to save his job, according to reports.
The Red Devils have suffered a torrid December so far, being knocked out of the Champions League at the group stages before losing back-to-back matches against newly-promoted duo Bournemouth and Norwich City.
Van Gaal has also been heavily criticised for his style of play this season, and various news outlets report that the Dutchman could be sacked if he fails to beat either Stoke City on Boxing Day or Chelsea at Old Trafford two days later.
The Times claims that defeat in either could be enough to convince the board to end Van Gaal's 19-month spell as the club's manager, with Jose Mourinho now available following his departure from Chelsea.
United dropped out of the top four with their home defeat to Norwich on Saturday, while nine points now separate them from league leaders Leicester City.
Barney Corkhill
