Fergie Interview

Last updated : 31 August 2007 By editor

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Extracts from Des Lynam's interview with SAF printed in the Times:

DL How do you assess your start to the season?

AF The first three games were absolutely magnificent performances. I've spoken to a couple of managers who have told me that we are better than last year. Our performance level has been excellent but the missing ingredient has been sticking the ball in the net. I think we can still catch up the teams ahead of us but it's not going to be easy.

DL One of the ways to solve the goals-coring problem would be to go out to the marketplace again?

AF Yes, we've looked at the market but it's pretty difficult when you get to August. You have to be aware of not diving in and making mistakes. I think we've got enough quality here and if we don't get someone in then we'll carry on with the players we have got.

DL Now you face one of your old players this weekend. What's your relationship like with Roy Keane?

AF Good, I get plenty of texts off him. He's got the basic ingredients to make it to the top. He's got a good knowledge of the game, he's intelligent, he's strong-minded, he can make a decision and that's a great start. What he doesn't have at the moment is experience. He did a fantastic job last year to get Sunderland promoted but you are in the big pool now - you are in amongst the sharks.

DL Was he the best player you have ever signed?

AF He wasn't the best player in terms of ability but he was the best in terms of influence. Certain people do well because they have a fire in their stomach. I see a bit of myself in him. I think that most managers want to see themselves on the pitch and with Keane I certainly saw that.

DL If you won the European Cup again, would that satisfy you, would you retire?

AF That's a difficult one. I think the time for me to go would be when it was affecting my energy levels and health. We are controlled by our health and age catches us all but at the moment I'm feeling good.