Manchester United's players reportedly pleaded with the board to keep faith with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
Solskjaer found himself under pressure after a disappointing start to the season and it emerged he feared the sack, if his side were beaten by Tottenham and Manchester City this week.
United turned in an excellent display to see off Spurs, and former boss Jose Mourinho, in midweek and now head into the Manchester derby full of confidence.
But the Times reports several senior figures within the United dressing room told Ed Woodward and the board to keep faith with boss Solskjaer.
It is claimed the plea was made before the victory over Spurs, which saw United climb to sixth in the Premier League.
United's players have remained behind Solskjaer, who sparked a revival when he replaced Mourinho last term.
This season has not yet kicked into gear but it is hoped the win over Tottenham could be the turning point.
Speaking after the Old Trafford victory, Solskjaer said: "I feel no fear whatsoever here.
"I feel at home, I enjoy myself and I’m going to enjoy myself for as long as I can.
"We've just got to go and get as many points on the board as possible. I said before this game that it's a great chance for us to show what we can do.”
