London: Much fuss has been made about Sir Alex Ferguson knowing some of the Red Knights. So what?
A man with a broad range of interests, Manchester United's manager knows thousands and thousands of people from all walks of life, including the financial community, so the claim that he is in cahoots with some anti-Glazer cabal of businessmen is surreal.
Ferguson has handled the delicate issue of terrace versus board well, making complimentary comments about the Glazers while also acknowledging fans' right to voice disapproval.
As a former shop steward, the Scot could hardly protest about protest. The only side he can take is United's first XI, getting them ready for action, a skill he is paid well for and which the fans revere him for.
The champions are valued at £1.2-billion-plus (over Dh6.6 billion) because the manager has shaped team after successful team, brought in trophy after glittering trophy, the latest coming in the Carling Cup. United are also promisingly placed in the Premier League and Champions League.
Two campaigns are being waged at Old Trafford: off the pitch and on it. Ferguson can concentrate only on the leagues. He cannot afford to take his eye off the ball, becoming distracted by politics, however much the fans crave a sign.
With uncertainty now the backdrop to Old Trafford life, United need Ferguson as much as ever. David Beckham's emotional return with AC Milan will stir memories of great United sides of the past, of the reality that stars can leave yet few achieve as much when detached from Ferguson's winning blend of encouraging word and raging hair-drier.
He remains the force driving United forward, coaxing the best out of players. So those who "Love United, Hate Glazer'' should steer clear of seeking to involve Ferguson in their campaign, however justified it may be.
And it is justified. Some observers have questioned the resources, even the intentions of the Red Knights, yet what is the alternative?
Just allowing the club they love to sink deeper into debt under the Glazers? Just accepting the presence of owners who patently feel no emotion for the club beyond avarice? Red Knights and terrace foot soldiers deserve praise, not sniffy criticism. Just leave Ferguson out of the battle.
