FERGIE TO GET A NEW CONTRACT OFFER SOON

"We are very pleased to have Alex as manager and we want it to continue. It is early days regarding the manager's contract. All I will say, as Peter had said and he was speaking on behalf of the board, we are positive about it and we won't get into a situation like last time. That will move ahead soon."

The new Chief-Executive has also wished Kenyon luck at Chelsea, but feels that as a club they lack some of United's qualities:

"Peter is an able businessman and I am sure he will have ideas to take Chelsea forward but we have 54 million fans around the globe. We have 11 million in the UK and these fans are with us from cradle to grave.

"With all due respect to Chelsea they won't change. Some are fickle and some
youngsters might choose Chelsea if they are much, much more successful but
the majority are here for life. I am sure Peter will do a very good job at Chelsea. I am sure they will be competitive on and off the field but we have so many strengths they can't replicate.

"Peter is precluded from his contract against deliberate or blatant poaching. But knowing the man as I do I don't think there will be a lot of that."

When will people learn that the 50 million figure is based upon brand recognition, not actual support?