Cup could be LVG's parting gift

The Dutchman has won domestic cup competitions in Holland, Spain, Germany and now England.

But Jose Mourinho is being hotly tipped to take over at Old Trafford after the club failed to qualify for next season’s Champions League.

Jesse Lingard struck a stunning extra-time winner as 10-man United came from behind to win the cup for a record-equalling 12th time.

Palace were on course for a shock victory after local hero and substitute Jason Puncheon fired them ahead with just 12 minutes remaining.

But man of the match Wayne Rooney started the move which led to an almost-immediate Juan Mata equaliser.

United lost defender Chris Smalling in extra time after he hauled back Yannick Bolasie to incur a second booking.

But United snatched victory with a fine volley from substitute Lingard after 110 minutes.

Van Gaal said: “This is fantastic to win the title for the club and for the fans – and for me because now I have won the cup in four countries and not many managers can say that, so I am very happy.

“We played Tuesday evening also and we have deserved it I think.”

United skipper Rooney, who impressed in midfield, led his side up the Wembley stairs and collected a first FA Cup winners’ medal to complete his set of domestic trophies.

He said: “It was a great advert, credit to Crystal Palace they have had a fantastic season but I thought we worked very hard and our determination has got us through this and I am delighted.

“It’s a special moment, it’s a competition I have loved watching growing up, I have got to two finals and I’ll enjoy tonight, that’s for sure.

“It has been a while coming, it’s always great, look at the fans, it’s fantastic.

“Winning trophies lifts the club and the supporters. The fans have had a tough few years and I hope they have enjoyed it.”

Matchwinner Lingard added: “I saw it come across and it landed nicely for me, all I had to do was it hit sweet and luckily I did that.”