Legendary ex-United manager to be given freedom of Trafford borough.
Former Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is to be handed freedom of the Trafford borough, while a road near United’s Old Trafford stadium will be renamed Sir Alex Ferguson Way.
The Scot will be formally honoured at a meeting of councillors on 14 October, the Trafford Council confirmed.
The road currently named Walters Reach will be renamed in the 71-year-old’s honour.
“I am delighted to accept this honour from Trafford Council,” Ferguson told the Manchester Evening News.
“When I arrived at Old Trafford in 1986 I had little idea of the journey that awaited me. Over quarter of a century later, to receive the Freedom of the Borough of Trafford and to have a part of Trafford carrying my name is truly humbling.”
Council leader Matt Colledge said: “Sir Alex has contributed significantly to Trafford over a sustained period of time through his strong leadership of the Manchester United team and it was felt that the Honorary Freeman title and the renaming of the street was a fitting tribute to him.
“Football contributes significantly to the borough through the large number of visitors it attracts and jobs it creates. It has been through the success of the team that the club has grown in strength over the years, becoming one of the world’s most successful and renowned clubs.”
Ferguson is the longest serving manager in United’s history. During his 26 years at the club, he won 38 trophies, including 13 Premier League and two UEFA Champions League titles.
United named a stand after the former Aberdeen boss in November 2011 to mark 25 years since his appointment.
Ferguson retired this summer and was replaced by fellow Scot David Moyes.
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