Ferguson comments were load of rubbish, says apologetic Irwin

DENIS IRWIN has apologised to Alex Ferguson over his reported comments linking the Manchester United boss with the Republic of Ireland coaching role.

Irwin confirmed he had no sources within the FAI and had not told anyone Ferguson had been contacted about the possibility of succeeding Brian Kerr.

The former United full-back accepted full responsibility for the article appearing in his name and the embarrassment it caused Ferguson ahead of last night's Champions League encounter with Lille.

"I have apologised to Sir Alex," Irwin said.

"I was disappointed to read the comments because it was a lot of nonsense.

"If anybody knows me, I have the least interest in the political side of football.

"Someone got carried away.

"The piece didn't go out the way I wanted it to.

"But it is my fault and I have to live with it."

Irwin said he actually hoped Kerr would be allowed to stay on as Republic boss for the Euro 2008 qualification campaign.

"I have no problem with Brian," added Irwin.

"All I was saying is that if he does go - and I hope he doesn't - we need someone with the experience of a Martin O'Neill or an Alex Ferguson.

"Ireland will be among the fourth seeds for the next qualifiers and it is going to be hard for us."

Ferguson responded to the reports by stating firmly his current job would be his last as a manager, a statement which Irwin can totally understand.

"Alex has been at Manchester United for so long, it would be hard for him to take another job," said Irwin.

"I did say in my article that he was under contract. Someone put two and two together and got five."