Fergie expects Tevez stay

United boss unconcerned by delay in permanent deal

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson doesn't expect Carlos Tevez to walk away from Old Trafford because of a lack of first-team football.

Argentina international Tevez has struggled for opportunities over recent weeks as the partnership of Wayne Rooney and Dimitar Berbatov begins to flourish.

But Ferguson recently revealed that he's held talks with the 24-year-old, who will see his two-year loan expire in the summer, and is eager to secure his permanent stay.

The United boss has now reiterated his confidence that Tevez - who's understood to be a target of Real Madrid - will put pen-to-paper on a contract.

"I don't think it will make a difference at all," said Ferguson when asked if a bit-part role could influence Tevez, who started United's last match against West Ham.

"It shouldn't. He has happy here. The club want him. The players and fans love him.

"Just because I have left him out for a couple of games does not mean it should be a negative part of negotiations to get him h