Shocking results, financial uncertainty and massive fans’ discontent — no wonder Manchester United’s current woes under the Glazers remind Michael Knighton of the club’s darkest days in 1989.
Knighton was an ambitious young property developer when he tried to buy United three decades ago, juggling the ball on the Old Trafford pitch to general astonishment.
He ended up on the board for three years where he helped United to capitalise on their brand and give Sir Alex Ferguson the resources he required to turn the ship around.
Now 70 and successful as a painter, Knighton cannot believe that his beloved club has turned into a car crash once again with the Glazers hanging on in desperation as interested buyers queue up.