Moyes Rejects Fergie Fear Factor

David Moyes has rubbished claims Manchester United are struggling because of the absence of Sir Alex Ferguson.

United stuttered to a 1-1 home draw against Southampton on Saturday to leave the reigning champions eight points adrift of Premier League leaders Arsenal and only four above the relegation zone.

Moyes was handpicked by Ferguson as his successor in the summer as the veteran manager called time on a 26-and-half-year reign at Old Trafford and his team have begun the new campaign in lacklustre fashion with one win in four home league games.

Some critics have suggested visiting players now head to Old Trafford confident of upsetting the hosts, but Moyes said: "I think the fear factor is from the team on the pitch, that's always the case.

"The players are the thing because of their quality. Obviously Sir Alex has a great history and there is all his experience but the players will always be what matters on the pitch."