Sir Alex Fears Munich Tribute Will Be Targeted By 'idiots' and Be Remembered for the Wrong Reasons

Sir Alex Ferguson fears the worst when a minute's silence is held to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Munich air disaster before England's international against Switzerland tomorrow.

A similar tribute will be held before Manchester United take on Manchester City at Old Trafford on Sunday and Ferguson is acutely aware that "one or two idiots" could make sure it is remembered for the wrong reasons.

His primary concern is the game at Wembley. "There could be a mixed reaction," the United manager acknowledged. "You never know because England fans are a mixture of supporters from all different clubs. I just hope that it goes well because, if it weren't to, it could give encouragement to City fans to misbehave themselves at the derby."

The Football Association had initially decided against holding a minute's silence because they believed there was a strong possibility it could be disrupted. After liaising with officials from Old Trafford, however, it changed its mind, a decision that has met with Ferguson's approval. "The FA haven't given in to mob rule," he said, "and that is quite correct."

Sir Matt Busby's son, Sandy, has concerns about whether the silence will be observed properly, although he believes the FA has made the right decision. "It's just a shame that there is a minority of idiots who could ruin it for everyone else because, quite frankly, they need certifying if they think it's a good idea interrupting a minute's silence," he said.

"The Munich air disaster was not just something that affected the people of Manchester, it had a devastating effect on people throughout England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland, and further beyond into Europe. Three of the players who died were England internationals and I know there are people in the game who believe we would have won the 1958 World Cup if they had still been alive."

The two Manchester clubs have been making strenuous efforts behind the scenes to promote a message of unity, but United have received a letter from City's official supporters' club advising them it would be a mistake to hold a minute's silence because of the possibility "some supporters will show a complete lack of respect". The organization wanted a minute's applause to be held instead but United felt silence was appropriate.

Manchester United have incurred an automatic £25,000 fine from the Football Association after seven of their players were booked during the 1-1 draw at Tottenham on Saturday. The fine is imposed any time a team picks up six or more yellow cards in a match. Should six or more of their players be booked again in a single match this season then the club would face a £50,000 fine.