Leave De Gea alone, you idiots
Ferguson hits back at critics of United’s under-fire goalkeeper
LONDON: Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson has rounded on critics of his underfire goalkeeper David de Gea, who include former United rightback Gary Neville, by branding them “idiots”.
De Gea came in for criticism after his weak punch led to Tottenham Hotspur’s injury-time equaliser in United’s 1-1 draw at White Hart Lane last weekend.
Neville, now an analyst for Sky Sports, said De Gea’s team-mates would have been “furious” with him, while former Liverpool defender Alan Hansen was also critical of the Spaniard.
Ferguson, however, believes the criticism is unfair.
“It has been over the top. It is always over the top when it comes to criticism here,” he said.
“You have to listen to some idiots in the game. I am not interested in discussing the criticism because we know it is unfounded.
“Outfield players maybe make 20 mistakes in a game. But they (goalkeepers) are in a crucial position. It is unfortunate for the lad, but he has to deal with it and we will help him.”
Ferguson strongly criticised assistant referee Simon Beck after the game for failing to award United a penalty following an apparent foul on Wayne Rooney by Spurs centreback Steven Caulker.
He has been asked to explain his comments by the Football Association and will find out whether or not any charges will be brought against him on Tuesday.
Meanwhile, Ferguson believes the English FA are picking on him.
The Manchester United boss is facing a charge over his blast at a linesman after the 1-1 draw at Spurs last Sunday.
He said: “I just think it is more about me than what I’ve said. Whether I think it is unfair or not doesn’t matter to them, really, at this point.”
Ferguson was this week asked by the FA for his comments regarding his criticism of assistant Simon Beck.
He had questioned Beck’s performance rather than suggest there was any bias against United.
And Fergie insisted: “That is what I have put in my letter exactly. “But you know the FA. “You never know. It is one of these things. We are high profile.” When it was put to Ferguson he may not be charged he replied: “I wouldn’t bet on it.”
He was furious at Beck, believing the official denied United a clear penalty when Wayne Rooney was fouled by Steven Caulker.
He said: “The linesman on that side of the pitch didn’t give us a thing all day. For me, it was a poor performance by him.” Roberto Mancini and Harry Redknapp have been let off with warnings from the FA for comments about officials instead of being slapped with a charge.
And Fergie believes football chiefs panic when the media suggests a manager could be charged for comments or actions.
He added: “I think that is what you will find. That is why they have sent me a letter.” — Agencies