Man U crisis talk is nonsense: Robson
Newcastle United's visit to Manchester United on Saturday will be as difficult as ever and talk of a crisis at Old Trafford is nonsense, Bobby Robson said on Thursday.
"Going to Manchester United will be, as it always has been, a difficult encounter," the Newcastle United manager told a media conference.
"They find it difficult coming here to St James' Park and they give clubs visiting Old Trafford enormous difficulties.
"Talk of them being a club in crisis is absolute nonsense. They have the best manager in the league because he's proved that, his players have proved they're the best, they have the biggest stadium and the most supporters.
"So if they're in crisis, the rest of us may as well pack in now."
After a poor start to the premier league campaign, Robson has guided his side to sixth spot in the league, just a point and a place behind Alex Ferguson's injury-hit team.
"The club is in the hands of a great manager," Robson said. "I understand they have a few injuries and a suspension and Ferguson is like me, he has had players away on international duty this week, including (Juan Sebastian) Veron who has been in Japan.
"When you are challenging for the title and in the Champions League next week as well, this is a week when friendlies are not to our liking but we just have to accept the international programme."
Robson said Saturday's game would be a good yardstick by which to measure his side's progress.
"We intend to be where they are," he said. "I still think we have got a bit of distance to go but we have caught up with them to some degree, not completely but we have caught up.
"Saturday will again give us an indication of where the difference is.
"We beat Southampton 2-1 here a week ago and Manchester United beat them 2-1 at Old Trafford. It will be a close game."
CONTROVERSIAL WITHDRAWAL
Striker Craig Bellamy, who was controversially withdrawn from the Wales squad that travelled to Azerbaijan for Wales Euro 2004 qualifier due to a knee problem, could figure at Old Trafford.
"Craig Bellamy is making progress and is training on alternate days," Robson said. "We will see what he is like on Friday to decide if we play him or not."
French winger Laurent Robert will remain out of action for another two weeks with a fractured cheekbone.
Portugal international Hugo Viana is not expected to play due to a knee problem but should be available for selection for the Champions League match against Inter Milan on Wednesday.
Central defender Andy O'Brien withdrew from the Ireland squad for Wednesday's match with Greece due to a shin problem but should recover in time to play at Old Trafford, while Scottish centre-half Steve Caldwell is suspended.
