Festive chance

AMID the speculation and disenchantment at Old Trafford, it has almost been forgotten that Manchester United are still in the Barclays Premier League title race.

The future of manager Louis van Gaal continues to occupy the thoughts of pundits and fans alike, but even though sacked Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho is waiting in the wings, United have so far resisted the temptation to pull the trigger at the current incumbent

The Christmas programme offers Van Gaal the chance to re-establish his position and to breathe new life into United’s title challenge.

The Reds are nine points behind leaders Leicester - whose manager Claudio Ranieri has admitted probably won’t finish there.

United, neighbours City and Tottenham will be keeping tabs on second-placed Arsenal, who beat City 2-1 on Monday.

United are seven points behind the Gunners and will hope to narrow that gap over Christmas. Boxing Day sees them play Stoke City, while Monday brings Chelsea to Manchester.