Derby owner Mel Morris insists Phillip Cocu will keep his job as manager even if his team lose to Watford on Friday.
The Dutchman is under pressure after the Rams lost three of their opening four Championship fixtures, though Wayne Rooney's late winner at Norwich before the international break bought him breathing space.
A report on Thursday indicated Cocu would be dismissed if Watford win at Pride Park, with player-coach Rooney - who is 10 months into an 18-month deal at the club - taking the reins. But Morris claims Cocu is safe for the moment.