Sunderland vs Manchester United: Sir Alex Ferguson looms over Louis van Gaal at the Stadium of Light

Former manager digests another difficult performance

Sir Alex Ferguson at the Stadium of Light (GETTY IMAGES)

Former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson was in the stands at the Stadium of Light to cast his eye over his latest successor.

The serial trophy winner, who retired in May last year, saw his former team grind out a 1-1 draw against Sunderland as concerns over the state of the current Manchester United side continued.

Despite taking the lead through Juan Mata, Sunderland quickly equalised through Jack Rodwell.

Chances were hard to come by for either side with a draw a fair reflection of the game. On the back of last weekend's defeat to Swansea, a draw against a team who last term were battling relegation will do little to lift the mood at Old Trafford.

Ferguson, who is now a director at the club, was a regular in the stands last season. As David Moyes and Manchester United struggled, it was suggested that Ferguson's presence was something of a distraction.

Louis van Gaal needs something to invigorate his struggling squad (GETTY IMAGES)

Should Louis van Gaal's teething problems persist, it won't be long before questions are asked again regarding whether Ferguson's appearances are appropriate.