Sir Alex Ferguson bid an emotional farewell to Old Trafford as Manchester United manager and called upon the fans to get behind new boss David Moyes.
Ferguson’s side beat Swansea City as Rio Ferdinand lashed home a late winner after Michu’s equaliser for the visitors in the second half, following Javier Hernandez’s opener before the break.
Ferguson, who steered the Red Devils to two Champions League triumphs and an incredible 13 Premier League wins, hailed his experience at the club.
“My retirement doesn’t mean the end of my life with the club, I’ll be able to enjoy watching them, rather than suffer with them,” he joked.
“Those last minute goals, the comebacks, even the defeats, are all part of this great club, and it has been an unbelievable experience.
“I would like to remind that when we had bad times here the club stood by me, all my staff stood by me, my players stood by me, and your job now is to stand by our new manager – that is important.”
Ferguson showed his delight at winning the league and praised Paul Scholes, also retiring, for his contribution to the club.
“I have been very fortunate,” he added. “I have been able to manage some of the greatest players in the country, let alone Manchester United.
“All these players here have represented our club the proper way and won the championship in fantastic fashion.
“I want to pay tribute to Paul Scholes who retires today, one of the greatest players this club has ever had and ever will have.”
Hernandez pounced in the first half as Ashley Williams failed to clear Robin van Persie’s deep free kick, firing low past Gerhard Tremmel, having earlier rattled the bar.
The Swans top scorer Michu levelled with a clever finish after the interval, but Ferdinand’s first goal in more than five years sealed victory for United.
And Ferguson sent out his thanks to all his staff who witnessed the Scot become the greatest British manager ever over more than a quarter of a decaded.
“Thank you to Manchester united, not just the directors, the coaching staff, the medical staff and the supporters, it’s all of you,” he said.
“You have been the most fantastic experience of my life, thank you.
“I wish the players every success in the future, you know how good you are, you know the jersey you are wearing and don’t ever let yourself down, it’s always there.”
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