Ferguson in sex assault claim

The Manchester United manager, Sir Alex Ferguson, is being investigated by South African police over allegations of indecent assault.

The alleged offence is said to have taken place outside a jazz club in Cape Town's fashionable Waterfront area early yesterday. Sir Alex, 60, denies the allegation. Superintendent Nina Kirsten of the South African police said: "I can confirm that a complaint of indecent assault has been made against a high- profile British man. The case is currently being investigated and will hopefully be passed to the Director of Public Prosecutions on Monday."

Police have not named Sir Alex officially, but sources have confirmed he is the subject of the investigation.

Sir Alex's lawyer, Alex Abercrombie, said yesterday: "He hasn't committed any offence. The allegations are blatantly false."

The football manager is in South Africa to discuss links with the Cape Town Football Academy and is due to return to England tomorrow.