Fergie defends Pulis as Wenger goes on attack

SIR ALEX Ferguson has slammed Arsene Wenger's criticism of Stoke ahead of Manchester United's clash with the Potters tonight.

Red Devils chief Ferguson praised Stoke counterpart Tony Pulis for the way he prepares his side and also for the way he copes with the occasional question marks rival bosses raise against it.

Wenger, with whom Ferguson has enjoyed some memorable years of sparring, was named by the Scot as one such manager.

"People have criticised their physical style of play but they stick to what they do best," said Ferguson.

"I suppose Arsene Wenger has been one of their main critics, but then he does go off on a tangent at times. For instance, he criticised our pitch after they lost here before Christmas and I was at a loss to understand why.

"I have a great admiration for Tony and the way he rides the criticism levelled at his team. If anything the criticism galvanises the players."

Wenger, who was incensed by the Ryan Shawcross challenge which led to Aaron Ramsey's broken leg last year, has previously accused Pulis's side of employing "rugby style" tactics and suggested some were "cowards" after a bruising encounter in 2008.

Meanwhile, Nemanja Vidic cannot wait for the chance to try to combat Stoke's unique aerial threat.

Pulis' men become the latest to stand in the way of United's impressive unbeaten record when they travel to Old Trafford.

A meeting regarded with some trepidation by most of the Premier League has not proved that daunting for Ferguson's men since the Potteries outfit returned to the top flight.

Five straight wins and just a single goal conceded does not suggest United have a problem dealing with Stoke