Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson can't believe the criticism Bolton counterpart Gary Megson has received.

Although a close friend of Sam Allardyce, who left such an imprint on Bolton, Ferguson knows what a big job Megson took on when he succeeded Sammy Lee - and he just cannot understand why the Bolton faithful keep giving him so much stick.

"Gary Megson has had criticism, which beggars belief," said Ferguson.

"Bolton are a better team than people give them credit for.

"They have always been a determined side. But when Sam was there he elevated them to a higher level. When he left, he was a big man to replace.

"But Megson has kept them up. They are physical and determined - and they never give in."