Glazers back United signings, says Ferguson

Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson said yesterday that he had found the new owners of the club to be supportive of his efforts to strengthen his squad.

Supporters groups vehemently opposed the takeover of the club by the family of US tycoon Malcolm Glazer in May and June last year, believing the high level of debts accrued in the sealing of the deal would leave no cash left to buy new players.

Speaking after introducing newly-signed French defender Patrice Evra to the media yesterday, Ferguson said he found the club's owners to be "excellent".

"They have never failed in their promises," the Scot said. "They have been very supportive in everything we have done, demonstrated by their commitment to the purchase of both players."

Evra's signing follows the arrival of Serbia and Montenegro defender Nemanja Vidic at United in the January transfer window.

United have not revealed the fees paid, but media reports suggest that they have spent around 12.0 million pounds on the pair.

Ferguson also suggested that further funds will be available for future signings, although they would more likely be made at the end of the season.

"We are searching certain parts of the market, in Europe and all over the place, for one or two players," he said.