Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has received the public backing of the club's football director.

There have been complaints from some sections of the Red Devils fanbase that the team have underperformed in the early stages of the season.

Man United are currently fourth in the Premier League table - two points behind leaders Chelsea - and have been knocked out of the EFL Cup by West Ham United.

However, according to the Manchester Evening News, the club's football director John Murtough told a recent fans' forum meeting: "We have a long-term strategy and confidence in the direction that we're going.

"The Premier League is one of most competitive leagues in the world - players in from abroad and other leagues tell us how different it is - but we are 100% up for that challenge.

"We believe that we've got the talent and the character within the squad to succeed. Need to keep control, don't get carried away, don't deviate from our plan. Ole and the staff are very focused on that.

"Don't get distracted by what's said on social media, which can sometimes create fervour and hysteria. It's part of the modern game, but we stay focused."

Man United headed into the international break with three defeats from their last six matches, including away to Young Boys in the Champions League.

Solskjaer has been in charge at Old Trafford since December 2018 but is yet to win a trophy at the club.