FERGIE TRIBUTE TO ‘WISE’ WATKINS

SIR ALEX FERGUSON has led the tributes to former Manchester United director and stalwart Maurice Watkins who has died aged 79.

Watkins (left) became United’s solicitor in 1976 before joining the board eight years later and Fergie says he played a key role when he changed his mind about retiring in 2002. “Maurice was really supportive during my time as manager and great company,” said Sir Alex.

“In my 26 years, there were some rocky moments, and he was always there with wise advice. He had great energy as well, involved in so many organisations.

“His legal experience was invaluable. When I called him to say I wanted to stay at United, he said they had already sorted a new manager but, not to worry, he would dig us out. And he did. He was a true gentleman.”

Watkins’ most high-profile moment came when he represented Eric Cantona following his infamous kung fu attack at Selhurst Park in 1995. He was quizzed by the

Frenchman before Cantona gave his famous ‘Seagull quote’ when handed a community service order.

“Eric wrote it out and he checked the meaning of certain words,” recalled Watkins. “What’s the big boat that catches fish? A trawler I replied. What’s the big bird that flies over the sea? A seagull.”