Rooney: Unfair to Van Gaal to talk about Mourinho

Wayne Rooney came out in defence of Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal as talk he is set to be replaced by Jose Mourinho intensified.

Within moments of winning the FA Cup, Van Gaal was forced to stand firm in the face of questions about former Chelsea manager Mourinho replacing him in the coming days.

Mourinho himself refused to comment when asked by Press Association Sport at ringside ahead of David Haye's bout in London, but captain Rooney fought his manager's corner.

"My knowledge about that is nothing at all. That's a question for Louis Van Gaal," he said.

"I don't want to speak about Louis van Gaal leaving. He's still our manager and I think it's a bit unfair after we've just won the FA Cup to speak about him as if he isn't here.

"I think he's a good manager I'm grateful he's helped us win this FA Cup."

Van Gaal has had to contend with similar speculation for much of the season and he remained defiant as the media put questions to him after his side beat Crystal Palace 2-1 at Wembley.

Van Gaal placed the trophy on the desk in front of him and highlighted his success before hitting out at the media for prematurely writing about his demise.

Van Gaal said: "I show you the cup and I don't discuss it (my future) with my friends of the media, who already sacked me for six months. Which manager can do what I have done?"

It was then put to Van Gaal that the club have not put a stop to such rumours.

Van Gaal responded by asking his inquisitor, "You have followed the board?" before attempts were made by his press officer to change the subject to the game.

Asked if the victory could be the perfect send-off, Van Gaal said: "I don't want to talk about leaving the club."

United have made no official comment on the matter.

When asked by a reporter for BT Sport if he had needed to win the cup, the Dutchman said: "That's not so important for me. I want to win things, titles. I have won everywhere I have worked so I don't have to prove myself.

"When they want to use my knowledge, my management, I shall continue. We have proved today that we have a title, and that (the last title) was a long time ago.

"Also, in a period of Sir Alex Ferguson, he does not win every title.''

Asked if he will be seen next season, Van Gaal added: "I hope to see you."