Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has admitted he has been in regular contact with former legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson since arriving at Old Trafford.
Ferguson retired in 2013 after winning his 13th Premier League title, ending a history-changing reign that began in 1986, although notoriously got off to a rocky start.
The Scot, now 83, remains a regular presence at Old Trafford as a director even after his ambassadorial salary has been cut as part of cost-cutting measures.
Amorim is the sixth permanent boss appointed in almost 12 years since Ferguson stepped down, with none of the other five able to meet the standards previously set.
The Portuguese, soon to turn 40 and still early in his managerial career, has revealed a willingness to tap into the knowledge and experience Ferguson has to offer.
“I speak to Sir Alex a few times. I try to call him to keep being positive,” Amorim said BBC Radio 5 Live during the course of another challenging weekend for the team.
“It's really good because I feel the history of the club, but it's really difficult, after they did such a good job, to be the guy leading the team at the moment. It's really difficult, but we have to believe.”
Amorim was upfront and honest about United's shortcomings when he faced the press after the 3-1 defeat, even suggesting his team it could be the worst in the club's 147-year history. He is also determined to stick to his system and tactical principles, even admitting it has been almost impossible for players to adapt mid-season and with minimal chances to train.