DARREN Fletcher insists boss Sir Alex Ferguson's touchline ban will not affect the United players.

The Reds chief will watch today's game against Portsmouth and Tuesday night's Carling Cup clash with Tottenham from the stands following his outburst against referee Alan Wiley.

But Fletcher says Ferguson's lieutenants on the sidelines are more than capable of guiding the side.

"Obviously the manager is a massive presence on the sidelines but we have plenty of experience in (coaches) Mick Phelan and Rene Meulensteen," said the Scottish midfielder.

"I am sure he (Ferguson) will be in constant contact with them.

"In an ideal world we would have him there but unfortunately that is not the case.

"We cannot let that affect us. We just have to focus on getting the result."

Ferguson says his only concern is being heard at the notoriously noisy Fratton Park.

“All the lines of communication are in place but the problem you have got is that Fratton Park is such a noisy place,” Ferguson said.

“The directors' box is towards the home end where all the noise comes from. It is a good racket for sure. It is a terrific football stadium.”