Solskjaer brushes off sacking rumors: 'You've got to stay strong'

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer refused to entertain suggestions he's in danger of being fired after the Red Devils' dispiriting Champions League defeat to Istanbul Basaksehir on Wednesday.

The humbling 2-1 loss in Turkey came on the back of a meek display in the Premier League that saw United shut down by Arsenal at Old Trafford.

Former United captain Roy Keane said after that league setback - which left Solskjaer and Co. languishing in 15th place - that the Norwegian was in danger of being sacked. Asked again about his job security Wednesday, Solskjaer moved to downplay that talk.

"I decline to comment on such a thing," the bench boss said during a news conference, according to Rob Dawson of ESPN.

"Of course it's early on. Opinions are out there all the time. You've got to stay strong. I'm employed by the club to do a job, and I do that to the best of my ability with our staff."

Manchester United have just three wins in their last seven matches across all competitions and have been plagued by inconsistency this season.

"The last two results have been a punch in our stomach, and the only way I know of - and I hope the players as well - the only way to respond is to get your act together for Everton," Solskjaer added.

"That's going to be tough and difficult. I'm glad we've got a game on Saturday."