Louis van Gaal calls reporter 'fat man' following Manchester United's draw with Newcastle

The exchange came after Tuesday night's 3-3 draw with Newcastle United

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal (Getty Images)

Louis van Gaal called a reporter “fat man” as he left his post-match press conference following Manchester United’s 3-3 draw with Newcastle United on Tuesday night.

The Dutchman was asked a question regarding Wayne Rooney, after the striker had scored twice on the night, his first goal coming from the penalty spot.

The club’s captain has struggled for form all season and Van Gaal has repeatedly had to field questions on whether Rooney deserves to retain a place in the side.

“You too, fat man.” This is unreal from Louis van Gaal. pic.twitter.com/4vYhj7QFTg

— Liam (@OffsideLiam) January 13, 2016

“We don’t speak about Wayne Rooney,” he said, after a reporter raised the subject. “You have criticised him. I don’t, you.”

As the former Ajax, Barcelona and Bayern Munich head coach proceeded to leave the room, Van Gaal turns around and says, “You too, fat man, there,” while pointing at an unidentified journalist on the opposite side of the room.

Rooney had performed well in the enthralling 3-3 draw at St James’ Park. His second goal, in particular, a rasping first-time shot from outside the box, was the game’s stand-out strike.

Van Gaal previously clashed with reporters last month when under increasing pressure to turn his side’s poor form around.

The 64-year-old told the gathered media to “enjoy the wine and a mince pie” at Christmas and then prematurely walked out of the press conference ahead of their 2-0 defeat at Stoke City.