Bruce: No one will ever top Ferguson
The Sunderland manager, who served as Ferguson’s captain at Old Trafford as he launched his dynasty, will head back to familiar territory tomorrow as the Black Cats provide the opposition for United, with the Scot celebrating 25 years at the helm.
Ferguson’s trophy-laden tenure has established his place among the greatest club managers in world football, and having witnessed his work at close hand, Bruce cannot see anyone improving on his achievements.
“To do 25 years? It will never be done again, never, especially at a club like Manchester United, where the huge demands on you are incredible.
“But he seems to thrive on it. I spoke to him this morning at 7.40am, which is typical of him.
“A game last night and he is in the office at 7.40am this morning, which is quite remarkable.”
Bruce, who attended a gala dinner at Old Trafford Cricket Club to mark Ferguson’s 25th anniversary, skippered the side which finally ended a 26-year wait for the league title in 1993.
His memories of his time at United are vivid, but one in particular stands out as a pivotal moment.
He said: “There was a time when we were beaten by Wimbledon in the cup, and I think he looked around and thought we were bullied that day and were second best to a really aggressive Wimbledon team. Maybe that was — I don’t know, you would have to ask him — a defining moment, and from then on, he assembled a team which epitomised him, really, with a fierce determination to succeed.
“I was fortunate enough to play in it with the Schmeichels and Keanes and Inces and Cantonas and Robsons, and Hughes and Kanchelskis and Giggs and big Pally. It was a quite remarkable team he put together.”
Meanwhile Ferguson himself has admitted his surprised at the ease with which Wayne Rooney became United’s midfield star in the Champions League this week — but he is not convinced he could ever make the role permanent.
Injuries forced Ferguson to pair Rooney alongside Anderson for the European encounter with Galati.
“Wayne showed good discipline to play the role,” said Ferguson.
“That was a surprising part. He didn’t belt off, running forward all the time. He held his position quite well.
“He mainly played as a natural central midfield player and provided a lot of forward passes to our game. That was good.”
* United striker Michael Owen looks set for a further spell on the sidelines after suffering a thigh injury.
CONNECT WITH US TODAY
Be the first to know the latest news and updates
