Ferguson hits back at United critics

Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson accused the national press on Tuesday of hating his club.

Stung by the criticism that followed his team's Champions League exit and Sunday's disappointing 1-1 home draw with Everton, Ferguson also called on United supporters to get behind their team.

"They (the press) have a hatred of Manchester United," Ferguson said in a news conference with radio and agency reporters.

"It's always been there. That goes with the territory, I suppose, of us being such a high profile club.

"I can understand that a little, but they go over the top. What they try and do is fragment the club, the players from the supporters and supporters from the players.

"I think our fans are aware of that and I don't think they will fall into that trap.

"When we are at our best the fans are right behind us, and that's the only thing that should matter," added Ferguson.

Ferguson then attended another news conference with representatives of national papers, which ended after little more than a minute.

United supporters will fill Old Trafford on Wednesday for a Premier League game against Wigan Athletic as Ferguson's side try to close a 12-point deficit on league leaders Chelsea.

"A few weeks ago when we played Chelsea the fans were up for it and when they are up for it we get up for it with them," Ferguson said.

"It has always been that way at this club. The supporters have always been a fundamental part of our success."

United's first ever game against Wigan, who are playing in the top-flight of English football for the first time in their history, is their match in hand on Chelsea.

The 1-1 draw against Everton ended a run of four successive league wins and Ferguson said his side's position would be a strong one were it not for Chelsea's ability to keep on winning.

"We have all got a problem because Chelsea's consistent form makes it difficult to win the league," he said.

"If you look at our present points total, it's better than four of the last six seasons at this time of year.

"Most of the teams below Chelsea will be thinking that in a normal season they are doing quite well.

"But obviously the Chelsea consistency is a problem for all of us, not just for Manchester United."

Striker Ruud Van Nistelrooy returns from suspension to face Wigan, who are seventh in the table but have lost their last four games following a superb start to the season.