Monumental Fergie honoured

Ferguson’s wife Cathy unveiled a statue of the Manchester United manager in front of a host of football dignitaries and former players, including Eric Cantona, Ruud van Nistelrooy and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

In addition, Cristiano Ronaldo, David Beckham and former Prime Minister Tony Blair were among those who paid tribute by video. The nine-foot high statue, created by renowned sculptor Philip Jackson, depicts Ferguson by the touchline, arms folded, concentrating on the game.

Ferguson was suitably impressed by the creation, which has been positioned outside the stand that bears his name. “Normally people die before they have a statue,” Ferguson said. “I am outliving death.”