Fergie’s lips sealed on apology to Becks

ALEX FERGUSON employed three decades of experience as a top-flight boss yesterday to deflect criticism but still strode away from a testy press conference without revealing whether he had apologised to David Beckham.

Dressed smartly in collar and tie, the fiery Scot kept his infamous temper in check as he faced his inquisitors at a pre-arranged briefing to preview tonight's Champions League clash with Juventus.

Ferguson admitted he had kicked a boot across the United dressing room after the FA Cup defeat by Arsenal, inadvertently hitting Beckham and cutting his head. Hopes of a full explanation of the incident were raised when it was revealed Ferguson would address the Beckham issue once the formal business of the meeting had been conducted.