FRASER Digby has paid tribute to Sir Alex Ferguson, following the news that the Manchester United manager will retire at the end of the 2012/13 season.
The Town goalkeeping coach said: “I am surprised by the news but 26 years is a long time.
“There was no sign of him slowing down but I am a little shocked.
“He is 71-years old and has just won the Premier League title again, so now is probably as good a time as any for him to retire.
“People say well he would want another go at the Champion’s League crown, but he has won that twice. The club is in good shape and there’s a good mix of players there, so he obviously thinks now is the time for him to hang up his hairdryer as they say!”
Digby originally joined the Robins on loan from Manchester United in the 1985/1986 season, before a permanent move to The County Ground the following season.
The stopper returned to Old Trafford on loan during the 1992/93 season where he developed a further insight into Ferguson’s management style.
“I joined Manchester United under Ron Atkinson and was probably the first player to be let go by Ferguson.
“When I went back to United on loan Sir Alex really looked after me. You could see the way he looked after his players, but he had a lot of discipline too. He has the respect of so many people.
“Sir Alex was always able to offer an arm round the shoulder for the players when required and he has been a fantastic manager.”
