Manchester United assistant boss Mike Phelan says manager Sir Alex Ferguson has always maintained calm during their sluggish start to the season.

"The one thing we have always maintained here - and that is a credit to the manager - is we have always kept our heads," observed Phelan.

"No panic buttons get pressed, even at times when everyone seems to be panicking.

"We make good, calculated decisions, which is important in a club this size. We do not get rid of someone because of one bad result.

"Manchester United's success has been based on continuity and at this stage of his career, it is very rare for the manager to make an unbelievably rash decision.

"He is very calculating in his decision-making and I am pleased he chose me. It would not have made sense to say no."