Sponsors back under-pressure United

Manchester United have received the backing of two of their partners after major sponsors Nike expressed concern over the club's on-field performance.

Sportswear giant Nike has a 13-year agreement with the club worth up to £303m (€441m) but it was reported there could be a "problem" if United continue to under-achieve.

United have finished third in the Barclays Premiership for the past two seasons and ended their latest campaign trophyless. The club's takeover by American billionaire Malcolm Glazer has also spread apprehension about the future.

But Anheuser-Busch, the US group behind Budweiser beer, and betting firm Ladbrokes, two of United's sponsorship partners, have claimed they remain fully committed.

A spokesman for Ladbrokes told The Times: "Although we are the official bookmakers for Manchester United, that is where our relationship starts and ends. We are refusing to enter into this debate. We hope this matter eventually settles down."

A spokeswoman for Anheuser-Busch said: "We have been a sponsor of Manchester United since 2002 and we remain committed to the club (and) its fans."

Nike's deal began three years ago but it contains a break clause that can be invoked after six years. Shirt sponsors Vodafone, the mobile phone group, also said recently they would discuss the terms of their deal with Glazer.