Barthez respects Ferguson’s decision to drop him

FABIEN BARTHEZ claims there is no tension between him and Manchester United boss Alex Ferguson and insists he respects the decision to sideline him.

Currently in Clairefontaine with France, who play a Euro 2004 qualifier against Cyprus tomorrow, Barthez maintains he is not concerned by his lack of first-team action at Old Trafford and insists there is no rift between him and his manager.

“For me, there are no problems with my club,” Barthez said. “I have had no explanation from Ferguson, we haven’t spoken about anything and I don’t feel I need to speak with him.