Give Foster time says McClair

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Manchester United's youth academy director Brian McClair has come to the defence of England goalkeeper Ben Foster.

The Manchester United stopper has come in for some criticism for his performances so far this season, but McClair is concerned there is too much pressure being put on the 26-year-old.

"Ben is expected by the media and fans alike to perform brilliantly from day one because the England goalkeeping position is uncertain and if Ben immediately excels then a problem is quickly solved with South Africa looming on the horizon."

In the absence of the injured David James, Foster had hoped to stake his claim for the England no 1 jersey, but injuries and form have seen him slip behind West Ham's Robert Green. But McClair believes that all Foster needs is time to prove himself.

"Some critics have suggested he could have done better with Arshavin's goal (in United's 2-1 win over Arsenal). But later in the game he made a great save from van Persie. Not only did the save stop a goal it lifted the rest of the team at a crucial time in the match. Ben needs ten or twelve games to settle in."

Brian McClair was speaking in his role as a part of the Championship Manager Football Council. To read more from McClair visit www.championshipmanager.co.uk. Championship Manager 2010 is out this Friday.