ALEX FERGUSON has cited Ruud van Nistelrooy’s reaction to being dropped for last season’s Carling Cup final as the major reason behind his Manchester United exit.

ALEX FERGUSON believes Bobby Robson is the key figure in the new Irish managerial team headed by Steve Staunton.

ALEX FERGUSON has hailed Manchester United’s behaviour in their powderkeg clashes with Arsenal as ‘almost perfect’.

ALEX FERGUSON insists his rebuilding work will continue at Manchester United despite the crushing disappointment of last night’s European exit in Lisbon.

ALEX FERGUSON may have ended the debate over Roy Keane’s non-appearance on Manchester United’s Far East tour – but the Red Devils boss admits he is still unsure how he will eventually replace his long-serving captain.

ALEX FERGUSON believes many top players are unlikely to pursue a career in coaching and management — because they can afford to retire.

ALEX FERGUSON has no doubt his long-standing belief that the title-winners will come out of the leading pack on New Year’s Day will prove to be correct once again.

ALEX FERGUSON has claimed Manchester United were forced to iron some serious flaws out of their game to become Champions League contenders again.

ALEX FERGUSON has been left to curse the international fixture list as he faced the prospect of embarking on a three-week Premiership salvation mission without £28.1 million midfielder Juan Veron.

ALEX FERGUSON is bracing himself for the toughest Champions League dogfight of all this season — and indicated that Ireland’s John O’Shea will play an important role in the assault on European glory.