Ferguson: Assault claim 'untrue'

Sir Alex has given his version of events

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has vehemently denied claims he indecently assaulted a woman in Cape Town.

Ferguson issued a statement on Saturday night rejecting the complaint filed with South African police on Friday.

And Manchester United have also said they intend to stand by their manager.

Having earlier dismissed the complaint as "ridiculous", Ferguson said: "Any allegations of improper conduct, let alone sexual assault, on my part are untrue and entirely without foundation."

Read Ferguson's statement in full

The 21-year-old woman claims Sir Alex touched her leg as they travelled in a car from a jazz club in the city.

Ferguson, 60, has been in South Africa to explore the possibility of Manchester United linking up with the Cape Town Football Academy.

But he is preparing to fly back to the United Kingdom on Sunday.

His lawyer Taswell Papier, told BBC News 24: "We have made a representation to the Director of Public Prosecution requesting them to consider the matter as one of extreme urgency."

We are confident his conduct has been professional as always

Manchester United statement

A spokesman for the National Director of Public Prosecution said the department was waiting for statements to be received but stressed the case had been "prioritised".

Manchester United have meanwhile vowed to back their manager.

"Alex was in South Africa on official club business," said a statement issued on behalf of the club.

"He has always been a fantastic ambassador for the club.

"In countries like South Africa, Sir Alex Ferguson like Manchester United is a household name, which makes him instantly recognisable to members of the public.

"We are confident his conduct has been professional as always."

Profile: Sir Alex Ferguson