Man United Knock Back Toon Bid!

Sam Allardyce sees him as the man to save his job as the Toon's shaky defence continues to look like a rabbit's hind leg.

But Sir Alex Ferguson turned down big Sam's bid for the player on Friday, and says the matter is now in Brown's hands.

Ferguson: "There was an enquiry from Newcastle about Wes and we turned it down.

"The matter rests with Wes and his agent. We'll just wait and see what happens. Our offer is still there - it's now up to Wes."

Allardyce: "I would have to speak to the chairman over that. From my point of view, I would like Wes Brown very, very much indeed.

"But I would have to speak to Chris on that and see whether we can move it forward or whether we cannot."