KUALA LUMPUR, May 12: Malaysian Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi on Saturday gave his backing to Manchester United's planned tour of the country, despite strong opposition from the Asian Football Confederation (AFC).

“This is what the government wants. All Malaysians will enjoy the (Manchester United) game. I don't think we should reject this (tour). I hope they (AFC) understand this,” Abdullah said.

AFC president Mohamed Bin Hammam on Monday launched a stinging attack on United, calling them “disrespectful” and demanding they cancel their Asian tour.

Bin Hammam fears the presence of Manchester United will divert attention away from the Asian Cup.

“We expect Manchester United to look for something more than money. Asia is giving them so much money during the on-season. One month every four years and they cannot spare it to not play in Asia?,” the AFC president said.

But Abdullah said the Red Devils' pre-season commercial tour in July would not have a negative effect.

Last year Malaysian football bosses signed an agreement with the AFC, which is based in Kuala Lumpur, not to promote other matches during the July 7-29 Asian Cup, co-hosted by Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam and Thailand.

United announced in April that they would warm up for the 2007-2008 season with a tour that takes them to Japan, South Korea, Macau and Malaysia in July this year.

They plan to kick off against J-League champions Urawa Red Diamonds on July 17 in Saitama.—AFP