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Sir Alex leads tributes as United reporter retires after 40 years

The holder of one of the most prized jobs in English regional sports journalism has retired after more than 40 years of reporting.

Stuart Mathieson has covered his last Manchester United game for the Manchester Evening News, having followed the fortunes of one of the world’s most famous football clubs since 1995.

During his time reporting on United for the MEN, he has reported on four European Cup finals, two of which were won by the club, as well as 10 domestic title wins, three FA Cup wins and three League Cup wins.

Stuart also reported on United’s two appearances in the FIFA Club World Cup in Brazil and Japan.

Stuart Mathieson, right. with Sir Alex Ferguson

Stuart Mathieson, right. with Sir Alex Ferguson

A special presentation was held at the club’s Old Trafford stadium ahead of the 4-0 league win over Crystal Palace, with legendary former manager Sir Alex Ferguson leading the tributes.

According to the MEN, Sir Alex burst into the United press room at the conclusion of a lengthy speech from Sun journalist Neil Custis, shouting: “You talk longer than my f****** wife!”

Addressing Stuart, he said: “Twenty years as a journalist in this business is fantastic. And you’ve always been a fair journalist. Thank you and well done.”

Sir Alex, famed for his ‘hairdryer treatment’ of people he disagreed with, “crossed swords” a number of times with Stuart during his time with the MEN.

Stuart said: “That’s the first time he’s not given me the hairdryer. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed it. It’s been a privilege, that’s the best word I can use for this. Thanks everyone.”

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  • October 9, 2017 at 11:56 am
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    Well done Stuart. Here’s to a very long and happy retirement.

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