McManus and Magnier increase United share

Alex Ferguson’s position of power at Manchester United became even more firmly entrenched tonight after the Irish millionaires JP McManus and John Magnier became the biggest single stakeholders in the club.

The racehorse owners, close friends of Ferguson, have increased their holding in the club from 6.77% to 10.37%, overtaking BSkyB – who have 9.9% – as the major shareholders.