Steve Bruce turned to Sir Alex Ferguson for advice in the midst of his Newcastle struggles, according to reports.
The Sun claims Bruce confided in his former Man United boss for guidance on his future at the Magpies.
The report adds that Sir Alex advised Bruce to stick it out as Toon boss despite their dismal start to the Premier League campaign.
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The Magpies were without a win in all competitions before Bruce stepped down as Newcastle boss last Thursday by mutual consent.
Bruce was Ferguson's captain at the Red Devils and the pair have remained close throughout their careers.
Now, the focus at Newcastle has switched to finding Bruce's replacement with Paulo Fonseca, Eddie Howe and Frank Lampard among those linked with the vacant role.
A managerial decision could be dependant on the appointment of a sporting director, with Marc Overmars the latest to be linked with a move to St. James' Park.
Newcastle would have to fork out some compensation for the current Ajax technical director, and it's reported that he'd like to bring his own manager with him.
Erik Ten Hag is at the top of Overmars' hit list but the current Ajax boss is being touted as a replacement for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
