Louis van Gaal walks out of Manchester United press conference

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has walked out of a pre-match press conference after growing annoyed about speculation regarding his future at Old Trafford.

Reports have spread this week that the Dutchman is about to be fired and replaced by Jose Mourinho, who was dismissed by Chelsea last week after overseeing a disastrous start to the Blues' title defence.

The 64-year-old Dutchman, whose side have not won any of their last four games, told reporters: "I think I was already sacked [fired]. I read I have been sacked."

After taking questions from the press for less than five minutes, Van Gaal refused to respond to any more queries about of his position and walked out earlier this afternoon.

Van Gaal had said: "Do you think I want to talk with the media now? I'm here only because of the Premier League rules I have to talk with you."

United slipped to fifth place in the Premier League table after losing to newly promoted Norwich City last weekend.

The Red Devils travel to the Britannia Stadium to face Stoke City on Boxing Day before they face champions Chelsea at Old Trafford two days later.

Van Gaal has been accused of employing a negative brand of football which is at odds with the exhilarating style of play that defined Sir Alex Ferguson's trophy-laden era in charge.