Ferguson hits back at Rovers fans

Sir Alex Ferguson believes Blackburn fans must regret their campaign earlier in the season to remove manager Steve Kean.

Rovers’ fans routinely protested before and during games, and there was even a plane trailing a banner calling for the 44-year-old to be sacked flying over Ewood Park during the clash with Chelsea in November.

However, owners Venky’s refused to bow to pressure and Kean has since guided Blackburn out of the relegation zone to 16th place in the table, with the Manchester United manager praising his fellow Scotsman’s efforts.

“You know how things can change if you dig in and don’t let them get to you,” the United boss said.

“Now no-one talks about those fans having protests, marches and all the rest of it.

“He’s held his dignity very, very well. He deserves absolute 100 per cent praise from everyone, including his own supporters, who I’m sure a lot of them will be saying to themselves, ‘I wish I hadn’t done that’.

“He’s certainly shown his mettle in those times when it was difficult for him.”

United travel to Ewood Park to face Rovers on Monday.

The 70-year-old expects a tough task at a ground where United have struggled in recent seasons, while Blackburn secured a shock 3-2 win at Old Trafford earlier in the campaign.

“They’ve made it difficult for us in recent games,” Ferguson said.

“When they score first, they make it hard for you and we’ve had a couple of draws there.”