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Fergie sympathises with disgruntled fans

03/11/2005

Sir Alex Ferguson has backed the angry Manchester United fans who booed their team off following last night's 1-0 Champions League defeat by Lille.

Supporters vented their frustration at the final whistle in Paris, with much of their anger directed at the under-fire United manager.

However, despite this, Ferguson refused to condemn their actions, stating that he understood their reaction to his side's second defeat in five days.

"These fans want to see us win. They follow us through thick and thin, which is what real fans do," he said.

"I came here almost 20 years ago when they were the best supported team. That's still the case and we know how they feel."

The fiery Scot also called on his players to react positively to the current turmoil at Old Trafford.

" No-one will help us, we must help ourselves, we don't want to feel sorry for ourselves," he added.

"At times like this, the players need to reveal their character and show determination."

The United camp has been rocked this week by comments made by club skipper Roy Keane singling out a number of players, including England internationals Rio Ferdinand and Alan Smith, for criticism.

United face champions-elect Chelsea at Old Trafford on Sunday, knowing that anything less than a win will all but end their championship aspirations.

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