Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal admits that he is well aware of Alex Ferguson's presence at the club.

As the United boss prepares his side for their Premier League clash with Newcastle at home on St Stephen's Day, Ferguson has tipped the Dutchman's side to challenge for the title during the second half of the season.

United's home form has been a vital part of their return to winning ways under Van Gaal – they have seven successive victories at Old Trafford - having won just nine for the whole of last season under David Moyes.

But the new United manager believes that Ferguson's blessing can also be a double-edged sword.