Fans await word from Irish duo

Manchester United fans’ chief Andy Walsh has called on Irish millionaires JP McManus and John Magnier to come clean and state their intentions regarding the Old Trafford club.

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

The move will strengthen speculation that they are preparing for a full takeover over of United – some rumours have even suggested they would then install Ferguson as chairman.

However, Manchester United’s Independent Supporters’ Association representative Walsh told BBC Radio Five Live: “Magnier and McManus have moved in and said they want a big stake in the football club yet have made no statement as to what their intentions are.

“From a football fan’s point of view I am concerned but as (Rupert) Murdoch will tell anybody, if they try to take over Manchester United Football Club without consulting the supporters, the supporters will make damn sure their views are known.”

McManus and Magnier bought the shares through their Cubic Expression Company Limited, which is registered in the British Virgin Islands.

A statement from Manchester United plc last night confirmed: “Manchester United plc have been informed that the Cubic Expression Company Limited have increased their holding in the company and now hold 26,949,868 ordinary shares, representing approximately 10.37% of the issued share capital of the company.”

The closeness between Ferguson and the pair is well-known and was highlighted by them giving the United manager a half share in the racehorse Rock of Gibraltar – the other half being owned by Magnier’s wife Sue.

It has been estimated that Ferguson stands to make around £25million from the stud value of the horse.

McManus is a legendary turf gambler and owner of National Hunt stars such as three-time Champion Hurdle winner Istabraq, while Magnier owns Coolmore, the leading stud in Europe.

This is the second time the wealthy Irish duo have caught the club and the football world by surprise – they did so 18 months ago when upping their stake to 6.77%.

The move will be welcomed by Shareholders United, the powerful group of independent United shareholders who were instrumental in preventing the club being taken over by BSkyB in 1999.

The next move could see McManus and Magnier demanding a seat on the board of the club’s plc.