Club chiefs confident of keeping Jose

MANCHESTER UNITED are sure Jose Mourinho will not walk away from Old Trafford despite the uncertainty over his long-term future at the club. Mourinho has evaded questions about extending his contract at United beyond June 2019 after flirting publicly with Paris Saint-Germain last month. That was followed by two defeats in three Premier League games, by Huddersfield and Chelsea, and criticism in some quarters of United’s lack of enterprise under the Portuguese coach. Mourinho has clearly been stung by the change in mood after guiding United to second place in the table and the brink of qualification from the Champions League group stage. However, it’s understood United have no concerns that he could be tempted to quit before the end of his contract if an offer comes in from a European heavyweight like PSG. They are satisfied that the 54-year-old still has the hunger and desire to succeed, having delivered the Europa League and League Cup in his first season at the club. United are also comfortable with the fact that he continues to live at the Lowry Hotel after 16 months in the job. The Old Trafford hierarchy believe United’s form has been viewed harshly because of Manchester City’s spectacular start under Pep Guardiola. That has helped to fuel criticism of United’s performances and, in particular, the negative approach in the goalless draw away to Liverpool. However, Mourinho (right) could do with a win over old rival Rafa Benitez when Newcastle visit Old

Trafford tomorrow. There have also been reports of friction between him and the board over United’s transfer plans, leading to questions about how much he will have to spend in January. United have already backed their manager to the tune of £285million and were prepared to spend another £45m on Inter Milan winger Ivan Perisic. It’s believed that funds will be available again in January, although the club would prefer to do business in the summer.