Man United's Midas touch puts them top of the financial league

MANCHESTER UNITED consolidated their position as the financial kingpins of world soccer yesterday, announcing a 48% increase in profits to stg£32.3 million. (€51.3million)

Irish investors JP McManus and John Magner, who own 6.77% of the club, will be among the main beneficiaries of an 55% increase in dividends to shareholders.

Profits would have been even higher but for United signing new contracts with club captain, Roy Keane, manager, Alex Ferguson and midfield star, David Beckham. The club paid its players 48% of every penny earned.