'He does not understand English football' - Kanchelskis SLAMS Van Gaal

Andrei Kanchelskis has slammed Louis van Gaal amid growing discontent over the Manchester United manager's playing style.

Kanchelskis, who won two Premier League titles at Old Trafford under Sir Alex Ferguson, criticised the Dutchman in November for turning the United squad into "robots" and has now suggested that Van Gaal does not understand the club's heritage.

United are on their worst run of form in 17 years after going six games without a win and speculation persists over the 64-year-old's future, with Jose Mourinho reportedly in line to take over should Van Gaal be sacked.

"I am disappointed with the way United are playing," Kanchelskis told Reuters.

"Under Alex Ferguson, we played in a more attacking style of football and played in a 4-4-2. Van Gaal sees things differently. This is not a head coach for Manchester United.

"I just don't think that Van Gaal understands English football.

"A team needs to have leaders, like Bryan Robson, Roy Keane, Peter Schmeichel, who can give the right things at the necessary moment and can show their leadership qualities.

"The coach does not want this and this is the reason for such disastrous results."

United face Stoke City on Boxing Day, with many reports suggesting that a defeat will see Van Gaal sacked.