Football world united in show of support for ailing Sir Alex

CHELSEA manager Antonio Conte has called Sir Alex Ferguson “a special person” after expressing his sadness at the Scot’s plight.

The former Manchester United boss remains in intensive care after surgery for a brain haemorrhage on Saturday, prompting a tide of support from the football world.

Speaking after his side’s 1-0 Premier League win over Liverpool on Sunday, Conte said: “My reaction when this type of situation happens, I’m very sad.

“I have had the possibility to know him and his wife and to understand this is a special person. He’s not a normal person, a manager who won many titles in his career.”

Ferguson’s former captain at Old Trafford, Bryan Robson, also spoke of his shock at the news. Robson said: “It did come as a big surprise – and a shock.

“But from what I’ve heard, the operation went well, so, hopefully, the boss will have a full recovery – and I think that’s what everybody would really wish for.”

Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers hailed Ferguson as a role model for younger managers. He said: “It was a big shock to us all yesterday when we found out, because he’s a man in great health.

“He is a colossal manager who is a real inspiration to all of us young managers in his achievements and how he has always conducted himself.

“We are really hoping and praying he makes a good recovery and gets back to doing what he’s done all his life, which is inspire managers like myself.”

Such is Ferguson’s stature that Brazilian superstar Pele was moved to send his own message of support.

He wrote on Twitter: “I woke up to hear that Sir Alex Ferguson is in hospital. A @ManUtd man through and through. Get well soon, Sir Alex.”’

Premier League executive chairman Richard Scudamore also pointed to the 76-year-old’s international reputation, saying: “At the end of the day, we know how revered he is in football, beyond football, in UK culture and the world.

“I’m not surprised everyone has come out with these best wishes and we are all hoping for the best possible outcome for him.”

There were best wishes too from outside the sport with boxer Tony Bellew adding his thoughts following his heavyweight rematch victory over David Haye on Saturday night.

He tweeted: “Thoughts are with the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson right now. Hearing he’s in hospital so hope he’s ok. The greatest manager I’ve ever seen. #GetWellSirAlex.”