© EuroFootball.com
More than 2500 people gathered near "Old Trafford" stadium, where yesterday a statue of Sir Alex Ferguson, who dedicated 26 years to the "Man Utd" club, was solemnly unveiled.
Among the gathered were many club legends: Sir Bobby Charlton, Peter Schmeichel, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Andy Cole, Denis Irwin, Ruud van Nistelrooy, Edwin van der Sar, and Eric Cantona.
The statue was unveiled on the Sir Alex Ferguson Stand, which received this name last year in honor of the Scottish quarter of a century at the helm of the "Red Devils". The honor of unveiling the legendary coach's sculpture was entrusted to his wife, Lady Cathy.
"Usually people die before statues are erected in their honor. I've survived death," joked Ferguson. "I've coached so many great players, some of them are still around today. They all deserve their statues because they were fantastic footballers and brought us pleasure. It was a great privilege for me to work with them all since 1986."
"I, all the coaches and medical staff, did our part. Today is a big day for me. I want to thank all the directors, owners, and everyone involved in making this decision at Manchester United."
The statue's author, Philip Jackson, said: "I wanted to portray him as a determined and thoughtful man, but also with a touch of humor, which is why a small smile is visible in the corner of his mouth."
