YOUTH COACHES GIVEN THE BOOT

Last updated : 26 July 2002 By Editor

The independent reports that Fergie has sacked two of United’s youth team coaches

Dave Williams and Neil Bailey. The former Norwich City stalwart Williams was responsible for United's under-19 Academy side while Bailey was in charge of the under-17s.

United have slipped well behind the leading youth set-ups. Arsenal have invested heavily and can now see a handful coming into first-team contention. Aston Villa, the current FA Youth Cup holders, also have an excellent array of young players.

The United manager will take this opportunity to reshuffle his coaching staff with Brian McClair, who took the reserves to the title in his first season, named as manager of the under-19 side, a move deemed a promotion by Ferguson.