Sir Alex: Owners Don't Interfere

Sir Alex Ferguson insists he can ask no more of Manchester United's owners and reiterated his health will dictate the time for retirement.

The Glazer family's ownership of United drew a fierce protest from supporters last season due to the mammoth debts the Premier League club have been saddled with.

The 'Green and Gold' protest increased in support throughout the season and a Red Knights consortium had also considered a takeover bid for the club.

However, while Ferguson understands why the fans want to protest against the owners, the United boss believes the Glazers have always supported him.

"There's nothing wrong with protest," Ferguson told Riviera Radio. "The supporters have shown their unhappiness about who owns the club. That's always been there since I've come to the club, first with the Edwards family, then when we went plc, now the Glazers.

"There's always an element of supporters who feel they own the club; that's understandable because they have fantastic loyalty to the club. I can understand where they are coming from.

"My take is that the Glazers have supported the team very, very well. They don't interfere, they let us get one with the job and when we've asked for a player, we've got it. What more can we ask?"

Ferguson, who has been in charge at Old Trafford since 1986, also confirmed that he currently has no plans to step down and will allow his health to tell him when it is the right time to leave.
The 68-year-old added: "It's a marvellous club to be involved in.

"The motivation is easy because I've had great players for 25 years and great support. Every morning I go into training and watch these players perform. They do it with great commitment and concentration. It's a joy to see that.

"Age is always a thing you have to be guarded against because with age there are penalties. Health is definitely one. Health determines how long you go on in the club. Touch wood, I'm okay."