Stam twists knife in Fergie row

Jaap Stam last night added to Sir Alex Ferguson's troubles by claiming he felt betrayed and humiliated by his sudden sale to Lazio in August.

In a revised version of his autobiography, the Holland defender recalls his last conversation with Manchester United manager Ferguson when he learned he was to be replaced by France veteran Laurent Blanc.

He writes: 'The humiliation could not have been bigger. At 29, an automatic choice for United and Holland, I was being pushed aside for a 35-year-old. I could not believe my ears.'

David Beckham yesterday hit back at detractors who have questioned his commitment to United.

The midfielder's loss of form has mirrored the club's run of poor results but Beckham insisted: 'People love to criticise us, but we're disappointed with ourselves. We are a strong team and strong players and we'll get through it.'