Sir Alex Ferguson not fazed by Cristiano Ronaldo and Carlos Tevez
United's Cristiano Ronaldo leaves the Old Trafford pitch after being substituted by Sir Alex Ferguson. Photograph: Michael Regan/Action Images
Sir Alex Ferguson insisted he had "no problem" with Cristiano Ronaldo's show of dissent and, for entirely different reasons, Carlos Tevez's own protests during the course of a comfortable derby win that has left Manchester United on the brink of their 18th league title.
Ronaldo had a fit of pique after being substituted an hour into the 2-0 defeat of Manchester City, whereas Tevez went into the match on the back of an interview with the News of the World in which he reiterated his feelings that he had no future at the club. Tevez pointedly celebrated scoring the second goal by running in front of the dugout and cupping his ears, looking up towards the club's directors.
Ronaldo was even more animated, repeatedly shaking his head and throwing his arms around as he took his seat in the dugout, and left the ground within 15 minutes of the game ending. "You know what he's like," Ferguson said afterwards. "He wanted to stay on. It's a simple reason. He's such a great athlete but don't forget he's run his socks off on Tuesday [against Arsenal]. I've got Wednesday's game against Wigan and Saturday against Arsenal to think about. I've got to look at how we can get through these games and keep the players as fresh as I can. He's in great form but I've got to look at the bigger picture."
Tevez's own frustration stems from a growing sense of resignation that United have no plans to pay the £22m necessary to turn his two-year loan arrangement into a permanent deal. The Argentinian's adviser, Kia Joorabchian, intends to accelerate the search for a new club this week, with City among the early candidates. Mark Hughes, the City manager, described Tevez's performance as "exceptional".
As well as a host of top European clubs, including Real Madrid and Internazionale, Liverpool are also said to be monitoring Tevez's position, although the striker has decided not to entertain the idea of a switch to Anfield out of respect to the Old Trafford supporters who again implored Ferguson to "sign him up".
The chances of that happening appear to be receding, however, with Ferguson conceding that "nothing has changed" as well as making a pointed remark about the crowd's affections for Tevez. "The fans love a trier," he said. "That's the great thing about football. A lad who tries a lot can be forgiven for a lot of things."
Ferguson insisted he had no issue with Tevez going public with his grievances. "Not at all. If he keeps scoring I've got absolutely no problem."
United need four points from their remaining three games to sew up the championship.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2009/may/10/sir-alex-ferguson-carlos-tevez-manchester-united
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