Sir Alex Ferguson, the legendary former Manchester United manager, has spoken about his terrifying experience with a brain haemorrhage in 2018. In an interview with BBC Breakfast, Ferguson revealed that he was unsure of the reception he would receive from supporters when he returned to Old Trafford for the first time after his emergency surgery. However, he and his wife Cathy received a standing ovation from the fans, which brought tears to her eyes. Ferguson's health has been a concern since his surgery, but he says he is feeling quite good despite small injuries as he approaches his 85th birthday.
Ferguson's new book, 'Games of My Life', tells the stories of 21 defining matches in his playing and managerial career. The book provides fresh insights into his journey from working-class Glasgow to dominating the English game with Manchester United. One of the earliest memories he shares is winning his first cup final playing for Govan High School in Glasgow at the age of 13. This experience was his starting point, and he can look back on it with great satisfaction. Ferguson's upbringing in Govan had a significant impact on his life, shaping his inner confidence and drive to succeed.
Ferguson's parents played a crucial role in his development as a footballer. His mother, Elizabeth, instilled in him inner confidence, while his father, Alexander, a hard taskmaster, drove him to succeed. Alexander worked in the Govan shipyards on the River Clyde and was proud of Ferguson and his brother. However, he was also a tough critic, offering constructive criticism even when Ferguson scored goals. Ferguson's father once told him that he would have been a good engineer, but football was his true calling.
Ferguson's playing career was not without its challenges. At St Johnstone, he endured a frustrating spell and nearly quit football for a new life in Canada. He filled out the necessary forms and phoned his aunt, but never told his parents. However, a life-changing performance in 1963, where he scored a hat-trick against Rangers, revived his playing career and set him on the path to becoming one of football's greatest managers. Ferguson advises young people not to miss the biggest opportunity in their lives and to recognize it when it comes.
Ferguson's managerial career was marked by numerous successes, including 13 Premier League titles, two Champions League titles, and five FA Cup triumphs. He masterminded several victories, transforming Manchester United into a winning machine. In his book, Ferguson shares stories of standout games, including his decision to sell Paul Ince to Inter Milan in 1995. The move was met with criticism from fans, but Ferguson believed it was the right decision at the time. He also recalls his relationship with David Beckham, who thought Ferguson was trying to get rid of him.
Ferguson's decision to sell Ince was influenced by the player's desire to join Inter Milan and the club's offer of £7.5 million. Ferguson had to weigh up the pros and cons of the deal, considering the impact on the team and the fans. He also shares a notebook with a list of words he used to address his players, including the names of Bernard Montgomery and Winston Churchill. Ferguson has since reconciled with Ince, who is now a good friend and occasionally plays snooker with him.
As Ferguson approaches his 85th birthday, he is grateful for the opportunity to share his life experiences and insights from his new book. He reflects on his journey, from his early days in Glasgow to his success with Manchester United. Ferguson's story serves as an inspiration to young people, highlighting the importance of recognizing opportunities and persevering through challenges. His legacy in football continues to be celebrated, and his book provides a unique perspective on his life and career.
Key points
- Sir Alex Ferguson had a terrifying experience with a brain haemorrhage in 2018 but has since recovered and written a new book, 'Games of My Life'.
- Ferguson's book shares stories of 21 defining matches in his playing and managerial career, providing insights into his journey to success.
- Ferguson's upbringing in Glasgow and his relationships with his parents and players, including Paul Ince and David Beckham, have had a lasting impact on his life and career.
