I'm Not In Fergoson's Shadow, Says Moyes

*Moyes

Beleaguered Manchester United boss David Moyes insists Sir Alex Ferguson's shadow is not looming over vive the club's season.Moyes' predecessor sat alongside Sir Bobby Charlton and Bryan Robson in the stands at the Stadium of Light on Tuesday night as relegation-threatened Sunderland condemned his side to a third successive defeat, the latest coming in the first leg of their Capital One Cup semi-final, for the first time in almost 13 years.However, the Scot is adamant that the trio are a great help rather than a hindrance as he attempts to stamp his authority on the club.Asked if their presence was an added pressure, he said: "Not at all.

"Alex is a great sounding-board for me. He is there to help, so is Sir Bobby. He is terrific. Bryan Robson is at the training ground regularly, I speak to him regularly.

"I find the three of them terrific."

Moyes was putting on a brave face as he assessed a difficult game.  

Moyes is confident his players are responding to him, and that they can still ensure Manchester rather than Sunderland qualifies for the final in Wembley.

He said: "I have always been happy with how they players have been responding. I thought they were good tonight, apart from the opening 15 minutes.

"It's always going to be a tough game. It's only the first part of the game, so we have got a bit more to do in the second leg.

"This hasn't happened at Manchester United for a long time. I thought the support was great. They are sticking with the club, sticking with the manager and that's exactly what you need when you are not doing so well."