Fergie backs young duo
26 Sep 2006 - 09:44:43
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has backed Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney to help his side enjoy a successful Champions League campaign.
United opened their European season with a 3-2 win against Celtic two weeks ago and face Benfica in Lisbon on Tuesday.
United crashed out of the competition at the group stage after losing to Benfica last term but Ferguson isn't expecting a repeat this year.
Ronaldo made a one-fingered gesture to the Benfica fans as he left the pitch that resulted in him being handed a one-match UEFA ban But Ferguson said: "I've not spoken to Ronaldo about it. I don't need to. He is an intelligent lad. He understands.
"He's growing up terrifically. He's been fantastic for us this season. I think he's been our best player of the season. Once again on Saturday at Reading, Ronaldo was our best attacker. At 21 he has a fantastic future.
"Wayne did well at Reading. He did very well. How many times do we have to say that six games in six months is not a lot of action? I think it's just a matter of games.
"There was a big improvement on Saturday, far more sharpness and movement from him that will continue. The progress will continue.
"I'm not concerned about Wayne's form at all. All he needs is games. I've made the point a number of times about how little football the lad has played over the past six months."