Manchester United: Sir Alex Ferguson Fills Void from Within

Manchester United have today announced that Mike Phelan will step up to fulfil the role of Sir Alex Ferguson’s assistant manager. The position was vacated by Carlos Queiroz, who left earlier this summer to take the Portuguese national team job.

Phelan has been associated with United since signing for the club in 1989. It is a move which must be seen as a positive one, as Phelan is a respected figure within the Old Trafford club.

It is hoped this natural progression will oversee a seamless continuation of success.

In 2001, Phelan replaced Steve McClaren as a first team coach, and there is a feeling he has really earned this promotion to become Sir Alex’s No. 2.

Whilst it is clear that former assistant Carlos Queiroz will be difficult to replace—his tactical nous was identified as a significant factor behind Manchester United’s successful rejuvenation—Phelan has the background to ensure there is minimal upheaval on the training ground.

Phelan leaves behind him a first team coach vacancy that is expected to be filled by Dutchman Rene Meulensteen. The Dutchman is in his second coaching spell in a technical development role.

His experience, along with that of people like Brian McClair, will be invaluable for Manchester United as they attempt to defend their Premier League and European crowns from a re-designed Chelsea backroom staff, fronted by Big Phil Scolari.

Many fans will be happy that the issue has been resolved quickly, as the form of the team has suffered notably when Ferguson has attempted to continue without a permanent assistant.

For example, in the 2003-04 season when Queiroz left for Real Madrid, Sir Alex and Manchester United ambled to a disappointing third place finish in the Premier League, behind both Chelsea and Arsenal.

Comments as usual below. What do you make of the appointment? Are you happy or would you have preferred a new face come in?