Sir Alex Ferguson has risked the wrath of the Glazers by defending the right of rebel Manchester United fans to protest against their ownership of the club.
The anti-Glazer green and gold campaign, launched by United fans determined to rid the club of its American owers for saddling it with so much debt, has gathered pace in recent weeks.
Thousands of fans are now wearing scarves and replica shirts in the old colours of Newton Heath, the club which evolved into United, in a visually stunning protest at the Glazers.
And far from criticising those fans who support the campaign for their perceived disloyalty, Fergie - an ardent defender of the Glazers - revealed sympathy for their plight.
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It's not a concern," said Fergie. "It just shows you we have fans who care for the club.
"Every fan has a right to complain about what they think is right. We also have to run the club the way we think is right, and I think we're doing the right thing with the club.
"The foundation of the club is just the same as it has been for the last few years.
"We have a good youth set-up, the first-team are doing well and that's what concerns me more than anything at all.
"Obviously there are fans protesting, and we understand where it's coming from, but we carry on with the football side of it.
"I've made my point to the supporters that as long as it doesn't interrupt or interfere with the progress of the team it's fine, and I think they realise that too.
When asked if he would prefer to see fans wearing United's traditional colours of red and white, Fergie added: "It doesn't matter, they're still supporting the one team."
United take on Everton today and Fergie assured Fabio Capello and England fans there was no danger of Wayne Rooney suffering burn-out ahead of the World Cup.
Despite saying he would rest Rooney at some stage between now and the end of the season, Fergie admitted his striker's superb form meant that was not an option.
"Wayne's a fit lad who wants to play all the time, so it's not a question of what I'd like to do, it's a question of his desire to keep playing," said Fergie.
"I don't see any sign of that abating in any way. He's just very focused on playing. He always gets a rough ride form Everton fans there, but he's probably used to that now.
"It's going to be a very difficult game for us. Everton have beaten Chelsea and that shows the potential of their team.
"We recognise it's a massive game for us and hopefully we can navigate it safely."
