The club, who came within a whisker of winning the Eredivisie title last term, have had an appalling season this time around - so much so that Van Gaal three weeks ago announced his intention to leave.

The announcement disappointed many, with a host of players expressing their desire for the former Holland coach to stay.

And, ahead of Sunday's clash with Sparta Rotterdam, Van Gaal revealed they had got their wish.

He said: "After talks with the board and the directors of the club it seems everybody wants me to stay at AZ.

"A lot of players came to the club because I am the coach. Leaving now would not be fair on all of them."

With the only carrot left this term a place in the Intertoto Cup via the Eredivisie play-offs, Van Gaal is turning his attention to the next campaign.

"We have learned a lot this season," he said. "We really have to be sure that players are getting better and, if not, look for better players.

"We also have to be strict about transfers. If there is uncertainty about getting a player, we should focus on getting someone else."

He identified a lack of leadership as a major handicap this season, adding he would be seeking an experienced campaigner in the transfer window.

"That kind of player we really missed this season, although the last of couple of weeks it looked better," he said.

"That is also because Stijn Schaars and Maarten Martens are back in training after long injuries, but we will definitely need an extra leader on the field.

"It is a shame that we probably won't play European football next season, but we know what we want. We took one step back this season, but I am confident that we will make two steps forward next season."

Schaars (ankle) and Martens (knee) are unlikely to feature, while Gijs Luirink, Marko Matic (both knee), Simon Cziommer (thigh) and Julian Jenner (shoulder) are also nursing injuries.

Sparta coach Foeke Booy has just one absentee in the shape of Olaf Lindenbergh, who has a muscular injury.

His absence will become permanent in the summer - both he and Darryl Roberts were told this week they have no future at the club.

Following last week's win over Heerenveen, Sparta are safe and coach Foeke Booy is happy to be breathing a little easier.

"The last game and there is no pressure anymore," he said. "We feel free.

"Hopefully this Sunday we will win our last match."