Fergie feeling the pressure at United

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 £14m (€20m) loss in media revenues, chief executive David Gill confirmed Ferguson was “sackable”, a comment hastily retracted even though it was merely common sense.

But even though a second-successive third-place finish will leave another cash black hole in lost Champions League revenue, director Bobby Charlton has signalled a change in attitude on the United board by claiming the only way Ferguson will leave Old Trafford is if he walks.

“The only way we would ever be separated from Alex Ferguson is if he decides,” Charlton told Sky Sports News.

Bookmakers reckon it is no more than a 9-4 chance that Ferguson will not be manager at the start of next season.