DEREK Fazackerley says he has been in constant contact with Oxford United’s board, but is unaware if a firm decision on the manager situation is imminent.

Saturday’s loss to Plymouth Argyle saw the U’s slip to a fifth defeat in six games and marked a third straight home defeat.

While United have been searching for Pep Clotet’s successor, the miserable run has seen them drop down the Sky Bet League One table and they are now only five points above the relegation zone.

Chairman Darryl Eales said a fortnight ago the club would take their time to appoint a new manager and the team had to come first ahead of a busy period of three games in eight days – which culminated in the 1-0 loss to Argyle.

He did not attend any of those matches, all of which ended in defeat, because he was away on business in America, but has been in constant contact with Fazackerley.

When asked to confirm if he had been able to speak with the chairman, United’s caretaker manager said: “Yes that’s right.”

Fazackerley added: “I’m in the same situation as I was last week.

“Until an announcement is made or another decision is made, I remain in charge and that will be the case.

“I’m sure there is work going on behind the scenes to make sure they make the right decision for the club, and whatever that will be will be.”

Rumours will continue to circulate in the meantime, with Craig Bellamy the red-hot favourite with bookmakers.

But Fazackerley is focused on making sure United end their dismal run sooner rather than later.

And the 66-year-old has turned his attentions to Saturday’s trip to Northampton Town, where they will be backed by another sell-out away end.

He said: “A win is obviously the most vital thing.

“We’re still in a position in the middle of the table where you do look above you, but we just want a result and then we’ll see where that takes us.

“We have belief and good players, we’ve suffered one or two injuries which have disrupted us, but we’ve just got to make sure we’re focused and approach every game like we did against Plymouth.

“If we do that then I’m sure there is enough ability, character, fight and determination, to turn these run of results around and obviously gain us the points we need to finish off the season on a good note.”