Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has the full backing of his players at Old Trafford as he waits for a new contract, a source close to the club reveals.
Ferguson is currently at odds with leading United shareholders John Magnier and JP McManus over fees for their joint owned racehorse Rock of Gibralta.
The pair are also launching an investigation into the Premiership champions’ recent transfer dealings raising further question marks about the Old Trafford chief’s position at the club.
But an agent within the club who wishes to remain nameless told BBC Sport: “The players are very much behind Sir Alex. They want the contract signed.
“It is no secret that they support Sir Alex. Many have been with him for years and many others have been bought to the club by him.”
Top scorer Ruud van Nistelrooy was one player who made his feelings about Ferguson perfectly clear.
“He has been fantastic for this club and has won so many trophies with them,” said the Dutch hit man.
“I am very grateful to Manchester United for keeping their trust in me.
“It is fantastic to work with him and if we can all play at out top level we have some great years ahead of us.”
