United still has faint heartbeat

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal said on Thursday the backing of the club's supporters has been a vital element in his effort to improve the team's dismal form.

Van Gaal was thought to be close to losing his job in the run-up to Christmas after United was eliminated from the Champions League and slipped out of the Premier League top four.

A poor performance in a 2-0 loss at Stoke City on Boxing Day did little to help his cause, but his side played much better in a 0-0 draw at home against Chelsea on Monday.