Louis van Gaal’s Manchester United face a crucial Boxing Day clash with Stoke City today. A loss could well result in the departure of the Dutch manager, after an awful run of games.

The Red Devils are winless in six league and cup games, their worst run since 1998. If they don’t beat Stoke, it will mean 3 straight defeats, and their longest winless run in all competitions since an eight-match streak between December 1989 and January 1990.

However, despite the recent results not going United’s way, the stats show that United should be able to cope with the Potters. Stoke have beaten United in the league just once in over 20 years, and The Red Devils have lost just one of the 21 Premier League games they have played on Boxing Day.

Despite being under severe pressure, Van Gaal had this to say before the game:

“We are not in a good position but four weeks ago we were first in the Premier League, and in four weeks’ time we can be back in that position again. I only say now I am focused on Stoke City. I help my players.”

United’s injury worries are slowly improving, with Darmian still sidelined. Bastian Schweinsteiger is another player Van Gaal will be without. The German is suspended, and will play no part.

It’s a must win for United, and here’s the team Van Gaal has picked – noticeably, there is no place for Wayne Rooney:

De Gea

Young – Jones – Smalling – Blind

Fellaini – Carrick

Mata – Herrera – Memphis

Martial

[Quotes and stats via BBC Sport]