Former Tottenham and Barcelona coach Terry Venables has paid tribute to Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

El Tel wrote in The Sun: "Management is a tough business and this was a tough category to judge.

"But they are all looking up at one man in the league table and that's why I've gone for Alex Ferguson as Manager of the Season so far.

"Whatever Fergie may have said to ref Mike Dean during the 4-3 win over Newcastle, his team are seven points clear.

"Some may have thought his powers were on the wane after his Manchester United threw away a lead to hand City the title last season.

"But the United boss has shown there is still plenty of life left in the old dog yet.

"His Red Devils may not be as convincing as in recent seasons but their position at the top of the table is."