By Chris O'Brien
September 22 2006

Sir Alex Ferguson has caused controversy by saying the formation of rebel club FC United of Manchester was a "sad time". The United boss has raised questions regarding the loyalty of the thousands of supporters involved, and feels fans should be willing to accept the Glazer takeover.

Sir Alex Ferguson has, once again, criticised supporters who broke away from the Old Trafford terraces to form rebel club FC United of Manchester.

Thousands of disillusioned Reds have turned their back on United following last summer's controversial Malcolm Glazer takeover. It was a deal which plunged the club into some £250million of debt and threatened to further commercialise a football club which many feel has had its soul torn away by wealthy businessman in recent years.

FC United was formed within weeks and the club subsequently strolled to the North West Counties Division Two title, attracting an average gate of 3,500. They pride them selves on bringing passion back to the beautiful game, with their colourful and boisterous following taking non-league football by storm over the past twelve months.

Fergie, who has praised the Glazer's since their completed transatlantic takeover, has said he is "sad" to see fans forming the new club and has raised questions over the loyalty of the supporters involved.

"I wonder how big a United supporter those fans are." said the Scotsman in words printed in a new club publication.

"They seem to me to be promoting or projecting themselves a wee bit rather than saying `at the end of the day the club have made a decision, we'll stick by them.' It's more about them than us."

Sir Alex's words have caused major controversy amongst FC's fanbase, many of whom still attend United games on a regular basis. A club spokesman told the press that Ferguson's comments were "hard to swallow".

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