Jose Mourinho demands public backing from Manchester United board

Jose Mourinho is believed to have demanded Ed Woodward's public support as speculation regarding his future increases.

It was reported on Friday evening that Mourinho is set to be sacked this weekend regardless of Saturday's result against Newcastle, with Gary Neville launching a staunch defence of the Manchester United boss. Reporters were informed by club officials on Saturday morning that Mourinho's position is safe for now, but the manager is thought to have insisted on a public response. According to ESPN, Mourinho's request "amounts to a back-me-or-sack-me plea" as he waits for United's executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward to make a statement. The Portuguese boss wants Woodward to announce the board's continued support before Saturday's 5.30pm kick-off against Newcastle, as United go in search of their first win at Old Trafford since the opening weekend of the season. Mourinho finds himself under mounting pressure after overseeing a run of four winless matches, which included a demoralising League Cup exit at home to Derby County. United's last victory at Old Trafford came against Leicester on August 10, after failing to beat Tottenham, Wolves, Derby and Valencia.