Posh have lost four of five competitive matches leading up to today's televised League One clash with Bristol Rovers at London Road.

The chairman is in a hurry to reach the Championship, but he today confirmed to The Evening Telegraph that Ferguson retains his full backing.

MacAnthony said: "The gaffer has my 100 per cent support and there is absolutely no need to panic over the start we have had. I have seen most of the games this season and to be honest we could have and should have won the majority of them.

"The manager and the squad are strong and I have no doubts they will all click into gear soon. This is not a sprint we are competing in, but a marathon and Posh will be there or thereabouts come May.

"I told the gaffer the other day not to even start doubting himself or our relationship. He just has to keep positive and the good results will soon flow."

Ferguson (below) accepts he will ultimately be judged on the results Posh achieve. He led the club to promotion from League Two in his first full season in charge, but so far the club have failed to justify their pre-season tag as third favourites for the League One title.

Ferguson said: "I am fully aware that if we win games I will be fine and if we don't I might not be. But I speak to the chairman regularly and he is very supportive.

"I am staying positive and it's part of my job to lift the players and keep them confident. I am sure we will turn things round."

Posh should have two new players in their squad for the local derby at Northampton next Saturday. Centre-back Gaby Zakuani and midfielder Darron Gibson are expected to arrive at London Road on loan next week.

Tickets for the match at Sixfields (3pm kick-off) are now on general sale to Posh fans.

There are limited spaces in the South Stand priced at £22 for adults, £18 for senior citizens over 60 and £15 for juniors under 16 – there are also special rates for accompanied juniors and juniors under seven.

Tickets for the family stand are priced at £21 for adults, £16 for senior citizens over 60 and £13 for juniors under 13. The London Road ticket office is open from Monday-Thursday from 9am-5pm and from 10am to 5pm on Fridays.

It is an all-ticket match with none being sold on the day of the game. There are only about 120 tickets remaining for Posh fans.

The Posh home match with Leeds on Saturday, October 4 (noon kick-off) is all-ticket for home and away fans. Tickets can be purchased from www.theposhtickets.com or by calling 01733 563947.