Under fire Fergie handed backing of United board

ALEX FERGUSON has been handed the complete backing of Manchester United's board as he looks to steer his way through the choppiest waters he has encountered at Old Trafford in 15 years.

Not since Ferguson grappled with the problems that afflicted him during his early days with the Red Devils has he faced such a bleak situation on the pitch.

Last month, as he announced a £14million loss in media revenues, chief executive David Gill confirmed Ferguson was "sackable", a comment hastily retracted even though it was merely common sense.