Source: Daily_Mail
Sir Alex unplugs his hair dryer: United boss forced to change
Sir Alex Ferguson rarely feels the need to share the secrets of his success at Manchester United.[LNB] But, as he prepares to lead his club in an unprecedented fourth different decade, Britain's most celebrated manager is in contemplative mood, admitting he has had to change from the 'hairdrying' force of nature that burst through the Old Trafford doors in 1986. [LNB] Respected: Jose Mourinho greets Sir Alex Ferguson[LNB]Ferguson hopes to celebrate his 68th birthday on New Year's Eve having taken maximum points against Hull today and Wigan on Wednesday as he chases a 12th Premier League title in 18 seasons.[LNB] How United must be glad they stuck with him despite taking seven years to win his first title. In contrast, their 'noisy neighbours' at Manchester City sacked Mark Hughes after 18 months and made Roberto Mancini their 20th manager in 30 years.[LNB] Ferguson puts his longevity down to developing management skills as much in common with running large companies as with work on the football pitch. He is no longer the one-man band who did everything.[LNB] With a hundred players and staff under his control, he has become a master of overseeing a giant operation at a club valued at £1billion.[LNB] 'It would be impossible to work in the same way I did in 1986,' said Ferguson. 'It is a completely different job and I've had to manage that change and change myself.[LNB] 'It's too big a beast now to be hands-on with everything. Delegating is essential.[LNB] 'I've learned at this level you need good people around you. I trust them and rely on them. If I didn't trust them, you know what happens? They leave and you are left behind to clear up the mess.[LNB] 'There must be about 40 people who report to me now, quite apart from the players.[LNB] 'I've got five physios, a doctor, an optometrist, a paediatrician, a weight trainer, three fitness coaches, two video analysts, two reserve team coaches, a youth coach, Mike Phelan, Rene Meulensteen, Jim Ryan and the academy staff.[LNB] 'I used to be in control of all the schools of excellence, knew everything. Nobody could deal with that now.'[LNB] Ferguson is sure that whoever follows him will not be treated like Hughes.[LNB] 'We are a bit unusual at our club, the manager is given time,' he said. [LNB] McLeish: 'Fergie stopped me moving south - 25 years later, I'm glad he did'Pep Guardiola's contract delay at Barcelona will alert Arsenal and Manchester UnitedWest Brom 2 Peterborough 0: Baggies cut loose after Di Matteo turns on the hair dryer[LNB] [LNB]
