Manchester United Football Club News

• Nickname:Red Devils
• Founded:1878
• Manager:Sir Alex Ferguson

• Ground:Old Trafford
• Capacity:68,174

Fergie backs former bosses

19 Sep 2008 - 08:03:33

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Sir Alex Ferguson has backed Kevin Keegan and Alan Curbishley's decisions to walk away from Premier League jobs due to a lack of control over player transfers.

Speaking at a League Managers' Association dinner, the veteran Manchester United boss endorsed the stance both managers had taken in leaving Newcastle United and West Ham this month due to perceived board interference.

Keegan left the Magpies immediately after the last transfer window closed, while Curbishley resigned following the loss of several first-team players to other top-flight clubs.

"I admire Kevin Keegan and I admire Alan Curbishley because they went on a matter of principle, and the principle being I am not in control of my team any longer," he said.

"Players were being sold over their heads without even acknowledging them. That is not acceptable.

"Yes, there are financial constraints we are all aware of that but when you change (them) halfway through from the start of the season and the manager is subjected to these problems, it's no longer the same job.

"And so therefore they walk because it's a matter of principle and I totally agree with it."