Manchester United's 4-1 thumping of Portsmouth proves Alex Ferguson's touchline ban is a waste of time
By David McDonnell
Published 10:36 30/11/09
Manchester United's 4-1 thumping of Portsmouth at the weekend showed the futility of Sir Alex Ferguson's two-game touchline ban.
On the eve of the game, Fergie paid lip service to Pompey's admittedly vociferous home support, saying he feared his coaching staff may not be able to hear him for the din.
What utter rubbish. Fergie sould sit in the stands permanently and United would still emerge victrious from most of their games, such is the formidable strength of their squad.
Fergie hardly ventures into the technical area these days anyway, preferring to let assistant boss Mike Phelan deliver his instructions while he remains seated.
The only time Fergie generally leaves the comfort of the dug-out during games these days is to berate officials which, admittedly, has been often this season.
But the more serious point about Fergie's FA touchline ban for his attack on referee Alan Wiley is that it is not a sufficient punishment for the crime.
Not having their boss by the side of the pitch had no affect on United's players on Saturday, nor will it when they take on Tottenham in the Carling Cup at Old tomorrow.
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