Ferguson has been traditionally reluctant to release players for international friendly duties, with the likes of Roy Keane, Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs frequently asbsent from matches outside the confines of qualification rounds and tournaments proper.
In recent times, the Scot has been vexed by the injuries picked up by his charges when they are away with their countries and the disruptive impact that the Fifa fixture calendar has on his matchday preparations.
Speaking at the League Manager’s Association dinner on Thursday night, Ferguson declared his dissatisfaction with the inconsequential games but pledged his support for his national team players in the competitive arena.
He believes that it is a high honour to represent one’s country, but would like to see friendlies done away with.
He said: “It’s really important that all my players play for their country. Absolutely, there’s no question about that. My only contention is with friendly internationals. I’m dead against friendly internationals.
“Competitive internationals, I always support the national manager - I always have.”
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