Queiroz shrugs off criticism for United’s stuttering start

CARLOS QUEIROZ has shrugged off the personal criticism he has attracted for Manchester United’s below-par start to the season and insisted it is the day people stop talking about the club he will start to worry.

So intense have the attacks on the Red Devils’ assistant boss been in recent weeks that Alex Ferguson used his programme notes prior to Saturday’s draw with Tottenham specifically to defend the former Real Madrid coach.

Ferguson reckons the blame for everything, from United’s switch in formation to some controversial team selections, are being laid at Queiroz’s door, mainly because the Scot himself has become immune to such attacks.

But ahead of tonight’s Carling Cup encounter with Barnet, Queiroz has insisted he can deal with the abuse and remains focused on delivering trophies to Old Trafford.

“Some say it doesn’t matter whether it is for good or bad reasons, the most important thing is people are talking about us,” he said.

“I don’t really care about the criticism. After so many years in the game, I know the important thing is to deliver for the club and reach the goals our fans expect.

“We can all learn from opinions but in the end we should do the things we believe to be right.”

With Louis Saha out, Wes Brown, making his first appearance for over two months after a knee injury, is likely to be the most experienced player in a Manchester United starting line-up that could offer senior starting debuts to four players, including Lee Martin, an 18-year-old midfielder recruited from Wimbledon last summer.

Gerard Pique and Giuseppe Rossi are two of the more recognised young players set to start, while Kieran Richardson is also expected to be included after his recent groin injury.