71.   United manager Alex Ferguson, who was criticised for releasing what were thought to be key players in the closed season, has proved his critics wrong.

72.   United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has said he believes the stories are connected with the fact that England play against Argentina in the World Cup in Japan next month.

73.   United manager Alex Ferguson stood by his goalkeeper however and his faith was repaid in the second half of the season as Barthez rediscovered his best form.

74.   United manager Alex Ferguson, who was collecting his CBE at Buckingham Palace while his French striker was appearing in court, refused to comment on the sentence.

75.   Republic boss Jack Charlton spoke to United manager Alex Ferguson and it was agreed Keane would be rested from the friendly because of a hamstring problem.