Ryan Giggs backed as future Man Utd boss by Mark Hughes

Stoke City boss Mark Hughes has backed Ryan Giggs as a future manager of Manchester United, amid reports  that he could replace Louis van Gaal.

United, who have lost their last three games, are away to Hughes' Stoke on Boxing Day.

Former Wales boss Hughes spent 13 years as a player at Old Trafford and played alongside Giggs for club and country.

"Given his playing career, you would say he's got an outstanding chance," Hughes said.

Giggs, 42, made a club record 963 appearances for United and played 64 times for Wales. He was United's caretaker manager for four games in 2014 and has been Van Gaal's assistant since then.

"His ability as a manager is not clear yet - we don't know because he's not had the opportunity yet," Hughes added.

"He's getting an education now. He had it obviously being around Sir Alex Ferguson for so many years, and now he's assistant manager."

Former United defender Phil Neville says the club are facing a "reality check" under Van Gaal this season, but believes the club should stick with the Dutchman.

Hughes, who had two spells as a player at Old Trafford, highlighted former Ajax, Barcelona and Bayern Munich coach Van Gaal's experience.

"Louis van Gaal has got a fantastic CV," Hughes added. "He's managed top clubs right around Europe.

"He knows what he needs to do but he's in that period of transition that needs navigating and getting through to the other side."

United lie fifth in the Premier League and have gone six games in all competitions without victory for the first time since 1998.