Wigan Athletic boss Roberto Martinez admits the controversy over comments made about Manchester United counterpart Sir Alex Ferguson has left him stunned.

Martinez backtracked furiously over his comments that Ferguson's supporters - including Sam Allardyce and Steve Bruce - were ganging up against his arch-rival Rafa Benitez.

He has even asked the League Managers' Association for advice on how to handle the mess.

Martinez added: "I'm 36, and I'm only 10 games into Premier League career. I've never been in this situation before.

"They've got the advice and expertise, and we'll try to get to the bottom of it and see the best way to deal with it. I have the utmost respect for Steve Bruce, Alex Ferguson and Sam Allardyce.

"I feel you need to win the League before you can talk about other managers."