Sir Alex Ferguson has questioned
Gareth Southgate's decision to leave two key men out of
Middlesbrough's clash with Manchester City.
The Boro boss rested Mark Viduka and Jonathan Woodgate ahead of
Monday's FA Cup quarter-final replay with Manchester United at Old
Trafford.
Southgate's decision proved costly as Boro suffered a 2-0 home
defeat to struggling City.
And Ferguson said Southgate's decision will have angered sides at
the wrong end of the Premiership table.
"It doesn't worry me if they rest players," said Ferguson.
"I have the players who can handle playing on Saturday and
Monday.
"The people who might be concerned are Charlton and West Ham. If
Middlesbrough win, there is no problem. But if they lose, it is a
different issue altogether. I don't think Charlton will be too
pleased about that."
Earlier this season, Ferguson branded Southgate `naive' after the
Middlesbrough manager labelled Cristiano Ronaldo `a cheat'.
United secured a replay after a 2-2 draw at the Riverside and
Ferguson is hoping his side can finish the job off against Boro and
secure a semi-final meeting with Watford.
"Obviously it is not ideal to have this replay," added
Ferguson.
"No-one is saying anyone wanted it but we have got it and we have
to get on with it.
"I always say, if you get a home draw in the FA Cup you are
delighted. We have earned that opportunity and hopefully we can
take advantage of the home draw."
