Ferguson defends his decision to rest key players for Rome
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Sir Alex Ferguson believes his key players would never forgive him if he gambled with their fitness 72 hours before one of the biggest games of their lives and will rest a number of star performers at Hull tomorrow.
With a Champions League trophy to defend in Rome against Barcelona on Wednesday, Ferguson is taking no risks even if Hull's relegation rivals – Newcastle, Sunderland and Middlesbrough – believe his actions are unfair.
But instead of Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney and Carlos Tevez turning out on Humberside, a sell-out KC Stadium crowd is likely to be treated to an ageing Gary Neville, a young Danny Welbeck and Darren Fletcher, who is suspended against Barcelona.
"My players wouldn't forgive me if I played the strongest team tomorrow," said Ferguson. "They would say 'what?'. It would be the best thing that could happen to Hull really.
"They would relish that. The rest of the league may think that's good because United are playing their strongest team, but it could be the worst thing that could happen to us.
"I was contemplating ringing the three managers involved. They know what it is like to play against Manchester United so I dismissed that idea. They will know we will be doing our best."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments