Ferguson and Hodgson to back Murray

Andy Murray was set to be supported by fellow Scot Sir Alex Ferguson and England football manager Roy Hodgson today as he challenged for a place in the Wimbledon semi-finals.

Former Manchester United boss Ferguson, who was in New York last September to congratulate Murray on his maiden grand slam at the US Open, is a keen admirer of the 26-year-old.

He and Hodgson were among the sporting celebrities invited to the Royal Box, with England rugby union head coach Stuart Lancaster and Manchester United defender Nemanja Vidic also due to be present.

From tennis, former Wimbledon champions Jan Kodes, Richard Krajicek, Rod Laver and Manuel Santana were also set to watch the match between Juan Martin del Potro and David Ferrer, followed by Murray against Fernando Verdasco.