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Sir Alex relishes ‘fairy tale’ stay at Old Trafford

Comment: 0 November 4th, 2011 by: admin

A fairy tale.

That was how Sir Alex Ferguson labelled his 25 years in charge as manager of Manchester United.

Reflecting on the landmark occasion which he will mark when the Red Devils face Sunderland in the Premier League on Saturday, Ferguson promised to remain as boss for as long as he feels healthy enough.

Ferguson, who will turn 70 this December, is considered as one of the best managers ever with an enviable achievement boasting of 12 league titles, two European Cups, five FA Cups and Four League Cups, all for United.

Clearing things as to speculations of his retirement, Ferguson revealed during a press conference on Thursday that he has no plans to retire anytime soon

“I’ll continue for as long as I feel healthy enough to do the job,’’ said Ferguson, who lauded the “fantastic players’’ he handled over the years for the success he has obtained.

Appointed on November 6, 1986, Ferguson added he was fortunate to have handled some of the game’s best players like Bryan Robson, Norman Whiteside, Brian McNair, Mark Hughes, Paul Ince, Roy Keane, and Eric Cantona, among others.

“When I look back at these players, I say to myself `how fortunate I am.’ It’s quite incredible. God, what a collection of players,’’ he said. “It’s hard to think I was in control of all those players for so long.’’

Comparing them to today’s crop, Ferguson said the present era of players have different personalities and cultures, making his stint a “really fantastic spell for me because it’s something you don’t think is going to happen.’’

Looking forward to their next game, Ferguson hopes to get the three points at the expense of Sunderland who are now coached by Steve Bruce, a former United captain.

Ferguson’s former pupil is currently under pressure since the Black Cats have managed only one win in five league games but the former believes Bruce “will be okay.’’

The Red Devils are coming off a 2-0 win over Otelul Galati in the Champions League on Wednesday with Ferguson experimenting on giving Wayne Rooney a surprise role in central midfield, a ploy which did them wonders.

But Ferguson said he is not planning to keep Rooney in that unfamiliar position because “it really depends on what is available elsewhere.’’

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