Ferguson insists tour is about give and take

TOKYO (Reuters) - Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson defended his club's Asian tour, insisting the Premier League champions were not simply about filling their own pockets.

"It's not just about us taking. We also give," Ferguson said after United conceded a late goal for a 2-2 draw against J-League champions Urawa Reds in Saitama on Tuesday.

United have faced fierce criticism from Asian Football Confederation (AFC) President Mohamed Bin Hammam for scheduling their tour during the Asian Cup, a view supported by FIFA boss Sepp Blatter.

None of United's games coincide with match days during the AFC's showpiece tournament, which ends on July 29, but United had to cancel a game in Kuala Lumpur after the AFC refused to sanction it.

"It's unfortunate that the Asian Cup is on when we were free to come to the Far East," Ferguson said.

"Of course, every second year you have the European Championship or World Cup, so we have to take the opportunity when it's there, which is this year. Unfortunately, the Asian Cup was at the same time."

"This is an opportunity for fans to see their favourite players play in the flesh," Ferguson said.

MONEY-SPINNING

Ferguson said players did more than turn out for money-spinning friendlies, committing great time to charitable causes.