Steve Clarke Interprets Fergie's Final Words

• Telegraph, Monday, May 20, 2013 1:29 PM

Following his last game in charge of Manchester United, which finished by the astonishing score line of 5-5, and after 27 years at the helm and 13 English Premier League titles, among many other trophies, Alex Ferguson spoke just three little words to the media: “emotional, very emotional,” was all he would say, as the Great Scot had refused to give interviews after the game.

Instead it was left to his West Brom counterpart Steve Clarke, whose team finished the season a very respectable eighth, to reveal Ferguson’s post-game, post-career feelings, as Clarke had enjoyed a customary glass of wine with the Manchester United coach shortly afterward. “I think he’s just ready for his retirement to be honest,” Clarke said. “He said it was a great game, he complimented us on the way we played. For Sir Alex, it’s a great occasion, it’s a great finale.”

He added: “He’ll remember that game. I think anybody who was here in the stadium will remember that game for years to come. I think that’s a good tribute. I’m not sure Sir Alex would say that it was a fitting way to end. He told me it’s the first time that any team he’s been involved with has given away a three-goal lead – and they did it twice in one game. That’s something for us to savor.”

Perhaps United striker Robin van Persie, who scored his season-high 26th goal of the campaign during the 5-5 draw at the Hawthorns, summed up the memorable occasion best: “I was waiting for some Fergie time, you know, at the end. But it didn’t happen. It was good fun for everyone, to score 10 goals, so I think the fans are pleased.”

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