Is Alex Ferguson Lying to Manchester United Fans about Carlos Tevez?

A few days ago, Carlos Tevez came out publicly to address his pending contract situation with Manchester United in a live interview with Argentinian radio station Radio del Plata.

Essentially, it seems he just wanted to let fans know that he has received no offers from United so far, and that the reason the situation has not been resolved yet is not because of his "crazy demands," as had been reported.

The most interesting part, though, was when he talked about United's response to the situation:

“I don’t like that they [United] are playing with our fans, who show their love to me in each match," said Tevez. "I didn’t like him [Sir Alex Ferguson] saying I didn’t like the offer I was made because neither my agent nor me were given one. I don’t know anything on my future."

Now, we should take into account that these quotes were translated from a live interview (which I haven't been able to locate online), and that there have already been statements that he's been misquoted. So, right now, we can't be absolutely sure that the quotes are as they seem.

But if it was true, I wouldn't be surprised.

In the past I've been suspicious of Ferguson using the press to twist fans' opinions of players that he wants to get rid of. Jaap Stam, David Beckham, Roy Keane, Dwight Yorke, and most recently Ruud van Nistelrooy were all fan-favourites who were known for giving their all to the club. Yet as soon as the manager wanted them out they faced public accusations and were painted as villains.

On the other hand, if Ferguson wants a player to stay he will do everything he can to defend that player's actions, no matter how obvious it is that the player wants to leave and disrupting it is for the team.

Considering Ferguson's status at the club, most fans will believe almost everything he says. And that's always been the case.

But if Tevez does end up leaving the club and the pattern repeats itself yet again, then surely the integrity of Ferguson's words should be placed under doubt.

Who do you believe? Tevez or Sir Alex?