Happy Birthday Sir Alex Ferguson: A look at his 5 unknown facts

Sir Alex Ferguson is the longest-serving manager in the history of Manchester United. He is a legendary figure in all English football, having led United to record English titles. He retired from his post following the 2012-13 season, after United won its 20th title.

First Published Dec 31, 2020, 1:18 PM IST

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In case you have to consider the most outstanding football manager of all-time, Sir Alex Ferguson is the name that comes to one's mind. The Scotsman has made a name for himself following his legendary reign at Manchester United.

Ferguson managed United for 27 years and went on to win record 37 titles at the club. He also holds the record of winning the most Premier League (EPL) titles, of 13.

Following his retirement in 2013, United is yet to win an EPL title, as the side duly misses his presence and services. Meanwhile, he is celebrating his 79th birthday, as we take a look at some of his unique facts.

Least games missed on charge: Believe it or not, in his 27-year-long managerial career, Ferguson managed to miss only three games in charge. The reasons for the same was his son's wedding for the first, followed by his brother's funeral and lastly, he was scouting David de Gea in Spain, while the latter eventually paid off.

17 touchline bans: It seems intriguing to know that a relaxed and calm-minded personal like Ferguson could ever lose his cool. Well, he too had his breaking point and was a hot head inside the dressing room. He was also involved in numerous altercations with the match officials, leading to him being served with 17 touchline bans.

Not the longest-serving manager: Well, he might be the longest-serving one for Manchester United, he is certainly not the one of all-time. Incidentally, it happens to be Guy Roux, who had managed Auxerre for 44 years. Also, Willie Maley happens to be the longest-serving manager from Scotland, having worked with Celtic for 43 years.

Seven years to glory: Many often believe that Ferguson was an instant success at Old Trafford. However, that wasn't the case. While he was appointed the club manager in 1986, it took him seven years to win his first title, during the 1992-93 season. Wonder if any club would wait that long in today's date.

Fined £4,600: In another shocking fact, Ferguson was once fined heavily by the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA). In 2003, following the UEFA Champions League (UCL) draw, the Scotsman claimed that the entire draw procedure was rigged and arranged to assist the Spanish and Italian sides. UEFA, later, fined him £4,600 for his allegations.