Читать книгу 250 Days. Cantona’s Kung Fu and the Making of Man U онлайн

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I have supported Eric solidly through thick and thin, but I felt that this time the good name of Manchester United demanded strong action. The club is bigger than any individual. I related that to the board and they agreed.

Ferguson had the support of his wife Cathy, forever the manager’s rock, who assisted Ferguson’s decision-making far more than supporters might realise. She agreed with her husband that Cantona might have to leave or risk Ferguson being seen to prioritise on-pitch success above moral decency.

Ferguson’s worries were twofold. He believed that sticking by Cantona through this incident would arm United’s critics with the valid argument that a sporting institution had ceded to the temper of one majestically talented player. But he also foresaw the incident being repeated, given the media storm that had raged in the hours since the assault on Simmons. Provocation would only get worse. This was Ferguson admitting defeat in his attempt to control Cantona.

Ferguson would later recall a phone conversation with Sir Richard Greenbury – a friend and Manchester United supporter who was the chief executive and chairman of Marks & Spencer – in which Greenbury insisted that Cantona should stay. But it was Watkins who effectively guaranteed Cantona’s United future. He detailed the legal difficulties in sacking the player, and pointed out Cantona’s financial and sporting assets. On these points, neither Ferguson nor Smith needed convincing.