Returned exile Robson takes on his biggest fan Ferguson

ALEX FERGUSON admits he was mystified why Bryan Robson spent so long out of top flight management.

Robson sends his West Brom side into battle against Manchester United at the Hawthorns today three weeks after ending a Premiership exile dating back to his departure from Middlesbrough in May 2001.

The former England skipper was praised and criticised in equal measure during his time at the Riverside, with his supporters pointing to three cup final appearances and an established place in the Premiership as evidence of his good work.