Sunderland are sticking by manager David Moyes despite their winless start to the Premier League season.
Sportsmail understands the former Manchester United boss retains the support of owner Ellis Short and chief executive Martin Bain.
There is an acceptance that many of the problems at the Stadium of Light pre-date his summer arrival and they believe he remains the right man to turn the club around.
Results, however, could yet dictate otherwise and those on the inside are desperately hoping the team pick up some much-needed points in the coming weeks to ease the scrutiny of Moyes.