Sir Alex Ferguson Denies Igor Akinfeev Interest

Fergie draws a line under admiration of "a great goalkeeper"

27-Nov-2009 1:36:41 AM

More On :  Igor Akinfeev
EPL: Sir Alex Ferguson, Manchester United v Manchester City (PA)


Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson was full of praise for CSKA Moscow goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev, but has denied he is interested in signing the Russian international.
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Ferguson is a long-standing admirer of the highly rated goalkeeper and with doubts over Edwin Van der Sar's long-term future, recent reports have claimed that the Russian is viewed as the veteran goalkeeper's successor at Old Trafford.

The United boss once again prompted plenty of speculation by openly praising the Russian in his programme notes ahead of United's 1-0 defeat against Besiktas.

Ferguson told the United Review: "I told you to watch out for him (Akinfeev) and he was fantastic as I expected. He is athletic, powerful and distributed well."

However the United manager was quick to scotch rumours that a bid was imminent. He added: "Having said that, don't go rushing to conclusions. I know there have been rumours that we are interested in trying to sign him but that is not true.

"He is a great goalkeeper but I am very happy with our goalkeeping strength - from the senior ranks down to some bright lads coming through the ranks.''

Alex Stamp

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