Ferguson brands City 'arrogant'

by Paul Gorst. Published Mon 27 Jul 2009 16:29

Sir Alex Ferguson has branded Manchester City as 'arrogant' atfer they launched a controversial poster campaign.

The poster - that sees Carlos Tevez celebrating against a blue backdrop with the headline 'Welcome to MANCHESTER' - has infuriated the United boss;

"Arrogance comes in lots of different ways. I think it is daft." said Ferguson.

"It is like one of those war adverts - 'Your Country Needs You'" continued the Scot.

City fans have long claimed to be 'Manchester's only club' and the poster points to the fact that Manchester United are based in Trafford - a borough outside Manchester.

The wind-up continued with a spoof email in circulation of Michael Owen, on crutches with the headline; "Welcome to Stretford." referring to the England striker's persistent injury problems.

Blues boss Marky Hughes has dismissed it as light-hearted banter between local rivals;

"The poster campaign in Manchester is a bit of fun between fans in a similar vein as the banner at Old Trafford which counts the timespan since City's last trophy win.

"We're glad it's got so many people talking." said Hughes.

City have spent big this summer, with a new £68m strike-force, with latest recruit, Emmanuel Adebayor following, Roque Santa Cruz and Tevez to Eastlands, as well £12m midfielder Gareth Barry.