Sir Alex Ferguson - manipulating English Football even after retirement?

26 October 2013 18:06

Since the release of Fergusons 'tell-all' book, it has been even harder than usual to escape his characteristically strong opinions. Sir Alex Fergusons career is full of astounding achievements; his managerial dominance in the English Premier League cannot be denied- with endless titles and cups won with him at the helm of United. Ferguson is undoubtedly not only a Manchester United legend but a marvel in Premier League history – but I can’t help but question if his latest release is a rather unprofessional venture.

Like many football fans I was intrigued to learn more about the inner workings of the famously fiery Ferguson. However, as details emerge it appears the book has a vast majority of its pages taken up by damning opinions of past and present players. Although of course Ferguson is entitled to his freedom of speech, it is one thing to cast an opinion and another to publish a lasting pejorative report on an individual.

Gerrard, one of England’s finest and most prolific footballers is deemed lacking an element of class that would make him a ‘top player’. With the England captain still being an integral part of the England squad it is questionable whether the opinion will cause a lack of faith in the captain by fans, players or even Gerrard himself. It seems harsh that after Gerrard’s tireless efforts for both Liverpool and England that he is condemned by one of the most influential individuals within the footballing world.

Even Alex Fergusons own players were not safe in his tirade – Carrick, one of the players signed by Ferguson himself hasn’t dodged the criticism bullets either. Carrick is said to be ‘overshadowed’ by Lampard and Terry in the England squad – hardly a rave review. For one of the teams long standing players to be criticised in the book brings me to question Ferguson’s loyalty; Carrick is still a first team regular at United and Fergusons review hardly instils confidence in him. It almost seems like a betrayal by Ferguson to his former squad and employee. Of course, as expected, Beckham received the brunt of the criticism with his personal life being blamed for him never reaching his full potential – it appears nothing is off bounds in Fergusons bold and reproachful book.

Although these reports do not fill the entirety of the book, if you are looking for some school-ground gossip or bitchy comments it’s worth a read. Sir Alex Ferguson has always been a manager who I didn’t necessarily like but had plenty of respect for, however after these revelations I cannot help but feel that respect dwindle a little. Ferguson is still involved in Premier League football to an extent, and to almost ‘name and shame’ professional players past and current just doesn’t sit well with me as being professional at all.

 

Source: DSG