Ferguson vows: ‘I will be back’
Iconic British football manager Sir Alex Ferguson has thanked medical staff in his first public comments since emergency brain surgery in May.
Ferguson, who has been recovering at home, released a video message through his former club, Manchester United, yesterday.
The 76-year-old, who looks well in the video, says: ‘‘Believe me, without those people, who gave me such great care, I would not be sitting here today.’’
There was an outpouring of concern and well wishes from across the game over the health of the most successful manager in British football history after it was announced Ferguson underwent surgery for a brain haemorrhage.
He says he feels ‘‘humble’’, and thanked everyone for their support.
Ferguson adds: ‘‘I will be back later in the season to watch the team. In the meantime, all the best to Jose [Mourinho] and the players. Thank you very much.’’
The video prompted an outpouring of good wishes online from football clubs and legends of the game, including former England captain Wayne Rooney, David Beckham, Eric Cantona and Robbie Fowler.
Ferguson has been recovering at home in Wilmslow, Cheshire, in recent weeks and watched the World Cup on television. He had suffered the brain haemorrhage less than a week after he was on the pitch at Old Trafford.
Ferguson retired in 2013. He led United to 38 titles in almost 27 years in charge of the team, including 13 Premier Leagues and two Champions Leagues. Before that, he won 11 trophies with Aberdeen.