Title pressure is getting to Fergie again

The pressure of leading the Premiership appeared to be getting to Sir Alex Ferguson today.

The fiery Scot, who is renowned for his uncompromising treatment of critics, banned the Evening Standard and four other newspapers from his regular press briefing ahead of tomorrow's game against Charlton.

Ferguson is furious that a row he had last week with a local radio reporter over the David Beckham transfer saga was widely reported, although not by this paper.

Ferguson launched a four-letter tirade against his inquisitor when he was asked before Sunday's game at Spurs if it had been difficult to concentrate with constant speculation about the England captain and Real Madrid.

Ferguson, whose side lead Arsenal by five points as the championship race draws to a dramatic conclusion, is well known for his bust-ups with the press.

The Evening Standard's request to attend the midday gathering with Ferguson at Manchester United's Carrington training ground was also rejected. "There would be zero chance of the manager letting you attend," said a club spokesman.