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      in Boxing

      Hugh Russell dead at 63: Double British boxing champion and Olympic medallist dies following illness as tributes pour in

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      FORMER British boxing champion Hugh Russell has passed away aged 63.Russell won bronze in the 1980 Olympic Games while representing the Republic of Ireland.
      Tributes have poured in for Hugh Russell, leftCredit: PA
      Russell was a double British champion
      The Northern Irishman then went on to become a double British champion in the flyweight and bantamweight division.
      His bronze medal in Moscow was Ireland’s first Olympic medal since the 1964 games.
      Known as “Little Red”, the former fighter finished his pro career in 1985.
      He later became a photographer, working for Irish News, whose sports editor Paul McConville has paid tribute to the 17-2 boxer following his death after an illness.
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      McConville said: “Absolutely devastated by the loss of colleague Hugh Russell.
      “Champion boxer and top class photographer but a friend and colleague who was always on hand to lend some sage advice or lighten the mood with a wise crack and that cheeky grin. RIP Champ.”
      Many in the boxing world have honoured McConville with kind words following his passing, including another Northern Irish boxing great Carl Frampton.
      He wrote: “I’ve just heard the sad news that Hugh Russell passed away. As a BBBoC member and an ex-boxer, he always had the fighters’ best interest at heart.
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      “One of the nicest men you could meet. RIP Hughie.”
      Promoter Frank Warren said: “My thoughts and everyone at Queensberry are with the family and friends of Hugh Russell.
      “A former Olympic medalist and British champion Hugh will be a greatly missed figure in our sport, and above all else was a thoroughly nice man and a great ambassador for boxing in Northern Ireland.”
      Fellow Irish News photographer Mal McCann paid tribute saying: “Absolutely devastated that my friend, colleague and champion Hugh Russell has passed away today. Things won’t be the same without you. Rest in peace Champ.”
      Another colleague Kevin Scott tweeted: “Devastated at the passing of the legend, Hugh Russell. I have never met a kinder person than Hugh. Always a smile, a laugh and a punchy opening line when you met.
      “My thoughts today are with his family and Irish News colleagues, who I know cherished him so dearly. RIP Hugh.” More

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      Maddy Cusack was identified by her devastated dad after Sheffield United star died at Horsley home, inquest hears

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      MADDY Cusack was formally identified by her devastated dad after she died at her home, an inquest has heard.The Sheffield United star, 27, died at her home address in Horsley, Derbyshire, on September 20.
      Maddy died at her home in Derbyshire, an inquest heard todayCredit: Rex
      Maddy in action during an FA Cup match against between Blackburn Rovers in December 2021Credit: Getty
      Floral tributes, shirts and written messages outside Bramall Lane following her deathCredit: Getty
      Tributes poured in from across the world following the announcement of her death, which came as she entered a sixth season with her club – having signed a new deal in July.
      An inquest was opened and and adjourned at Derby Coroner’s Court today as a coroner awaits further details about the cause of her death.
      Assistant Coroner Louise Pinder told the short hearing Ms Cusack’s death was reported to Chesterfield Coroner’s Court by police on September 21.
      She said Ms Cusack, who also worked in Sheffield United’s commercial department as a marketing executive, had been formally identified after her death by her dad David.
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      The hearing, which was only attended by members of the press, was also told her cause of death is yet to be ascertained.
      Ms Pinder added: “We are awaiting a police file and the medical cause of death, therefore I am adjourning the inquest for six weeks for further review then the inquest can be listed in due course.”
      Ms Cusack was the Blades’ longest-serving female player and the first to reach 100 appearances.
      In a tribute posted on the club’s official website last month, the club’s chief executive Stephen Bettis said: “This is heart-breaking news for everyone at Bramall Lane.
      Most read in Football
      “Maddy had a unique position of being part of a number of teams at Sheffield United and was popular with everyone that she came into contact with.
      “Her personality and professionalism made her a credit to her family – she will be sadly missed.
      “While taking in the news and moving forward, the club will offer as much support as possible to Maddy’s family, friends and colleagues.”
      A minute’s silence was held before kick-off and the club’s matchday programme featured on the cover a black and white picture of Cusack in a Sheffield United shirt.
      A number of Lionesses also took to social media to pay their respects.
      Aston Villa and England midfielder Jordan Nobbs wrote: “Sending all our love to Maddy’s family and friends.”
      Tottenham and Lioness forward Beth England posted: “This is devastating news.
      “My thoughts and love go out to her family, friends and everyone at Sheffield United. Rest in peace, Maddy.”
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      Manchester City and England forward Lauren Hemp penned: “Awful awful news, my love and thoughts are with her family, friends and everyone at Sheffield.”
      She previously played for Birmingham City and Aston Villa.
      Sophie Barker and family members paid tribute to Maddy prior to the Premier League match between Sheffield United and Newcastle UnitedCredit: Getty
      Fans held a minute’s silence in her memory ahead of the gameCredit: Getty More

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      Inside McTominay’s relationship with Sir Alex Ferguson as he reveals what intimidating Man Utd legend told him as a kid

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      SIR ALEX FERGUSON has always been a big fan of fellow Scotsman Scott McTominay – and will be even more delighted after Saturday’s win against Brentford.The pair go way back to when the midfielder joined Old Trafford at the age of FIVE, with McTominay revealing what the intimidating Manchester United legend said to him when he was a kid.
      Scott McTominay revealed what the intimidating Sir Alex Ferguson told him as a kidCredit: Getty
      McTominay has a close relationship with fellow Scotsman Sir Alex FergusonCredit: Sportsfile
      McTominay joined the Red Devils in 2002 when Fergie was in charge and has credited the Scottish Old Trafford legend throughout his career.
      Being known for his disciplinary style, Sir Alex was regarded as a guiding father figure by McTominay.
      But the midfielder was left speechless when in the presence of the great during his academy days at the Red Devils.
      While McTominay was born in Lancaster his dad was from Helensburgh – a coastal town on the north side of the Firth of Clyde in Scotland.
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      His Scottish heritage may have helped his close relationship with Sir Alex.
      COMPARED TO BECKHAM
      McTominay established himself as a key player under Ole Gunner Solskjaer in the 2018-2019 season.
      But Sir Alex had always been impressed with McTominay’s character and work ethic.
      Fergie told the Scottish FA in 2021: “Scott McTominay is now emerging as one of Man United’s big players.
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      “When you watch Man United pick their team for a big game, McTominay’s name is in it. He’s a good character, a great trainer.”
      The former United boss also revealed that McTominay reminded him of a young David Beckham.
      He said: “Scott was a wee bit like David Beckham. When he joined us, he was just a wee small lad and then, all of a sudden, whoosh, he just shot up.
      “David didn’t even get into our youth team the year we won the FA Youth Cup until the semi-final.
      “It’s a growing thing. Paul Scholes was just a small lad, but he sprouted up to 5ft 8in, the height he is now. Scott was a skelf of a boy, then he sprouted when he became an apprentice.”
      McTominay made seven appearances for Man Utd’s Under-18s between 2013 and 2015 but struggled due to his small size.
      However, after growing 14 inches in two years he began to shine like England superstar Beckham in the 2018 term by making 22 appearances for Solskjaer’s side.
      McTominay was compared to a young David Beckham by Sir Alex FergusonCredit: Getty
      PLAYING FOR SCOTLAND
      Early on in McTominay’s senior career, he was trapped in a tug-of-war between representing England or Scotland.
      Born in Lancaster, McTominay was destined to play for the Three Lions but he also qualified for Scotland through his father.
      In 2018 both national team bosses wanted the midfielder in the international arena after his impressive start to the campaign.
      That was when Fergie stepped in.
      McTominay revealed the words of advice Fergie gave him in 2018: “When I was in the development centres I was in and around The Cliff (the United training ground).
      “Alex Ferguson was there and he spoke to my dad. After the memorial service for the Munich Disaster earlier this year he pulled me aside and told me: ‘Make sure you do play for Scotland!’”
      He heeded that advice.
      At 21-years-old McTominay made his debut for Scotland in a 1-0 defeat in a friendly against Costa Rica.
      Ferguson revealed why he persuaded McTominay to play for Scotland to the Daily Record: “It was his father’s heritage.
      “It would be difficult for him to go back to Scotland and say to his own father, ‘I’m playing for England’. The sensible thing is to play for Scotland and Scott will get plenty of games for Scotland.”
      The Scottish international has now made 43 appearances for his country and has become a hero for the Tartan Army in the Euro 2024 qualifiers.
      He scored both goals in an historic 2-0 win over Spain, netted another double against Cyprus and also banged in goals against Georgia and again against Cyprus.
      Scott McTominay’s debut for Scotland against Costa Rica in 2018Credit: PA:Press Association
      TRIBUTE TO LADY CATHY
      Fast forward to today, Ferguson has been in mourning for his beloved wife Cathy who sadly passed away on Friday.
      Tributes have been pouring in from across the football world since.
      McTominay’s homage in particular showed just how close the Scottish pair are.
      In an Instagram post, the midfielder shared a rare pic of himself as a youngster with Sir Alex.
      He captioned the photo: “This picture I will cherish forever. Sending my condolences to Sir Alex Ferguson & family. The world is thinking of you 🌹🤍 Rest in peace, Cathy.”
      But no other tribute to Sir Alex’s loss was as fitting as McTominay’s performance in Saturday’s clash against Brentford.
      With the grieving Ferguson not present at the game McTominay made the most of Fergie Time.
      In stoppage time Manchester United found themselves one goal down to the Bees and heading for a third home league defeat on the bounce.
      But McTominay stepped off the bench with two save-the-day strikes, scoring in the 93rd and 97th minutes.
      He was only chucked on, in increasing desperation, with three of the regulation 90 minutes to go.
      His star-studded goals were like a modern-day Solskjaer who under Ferguson was infamous for his knack of coming off the bench to score last-minute belters.
      LEFT SPEECHLESS
      It’s been a long journey since McTominay first met Ferguson.
      Now the Manchester United player has the confidence to pay tribute to his former manager’s wife and the footballing ability to score vital goals.
      But when he was just five, McTominay was terrified of Fergie.
      In an interview on BBC’s Match of the Day, McTominay told of his earliest experiences: “Sir Alex. Yeah, whenever we saw him in the canteen, he would just say, ‘Are you behaving yourself?’
      Read More on The Sun
      “You’d just be quiet. You’d never know what to say.
      “Especially with him being from Scotland, I think it was special, and he invited us up whenever I signed my scholarship with all the players in the dressing room, it was a Fulham game in the Premier League.”
      McTominay shared a rare pic of Ferguson and himself as a kid on social mediaCredit: Instagram @scottmctominay More

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      in Boxing

      Ronald Malindi dies at 29: Undefeated South African boxing champion passes away weeks after being shot in head

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      RONALD MALINDI has passed away just weeks after being shot in the head.The South African fighter had been in hospital since the incident and died on Saturday.
      Ronald Malinidi has passed away
      Malindi competes in the batamweight division and did not lose any of his 19 fights.
      He was nicknamed “King”.
      The 29-year-old was reportedly shot twice in the head in Westbury, Johannesburg on September 5.
      Police at the time revealed they were investigating a case of “attempted murder after a man was shot by unknown suspects.”
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      Tributes flooded in following the announcement of his death, one read: “RIP champ.”
      Another added: “Terrible news.”
      Malindi’s trainer Sean Smith penned a touching tribute, saying: “Your presence will always be felt and missed in the gym.
      “You proved you can fight beyond odds and expectations time and time again.
      Most read in Boxing
      “Never have I met such a tenacious warrior with a spirit of sing and dance.”
      Boxing South Africa said in a statement: “It is with deep sadness that we mourn the loss of Ronald “King” Malindi, a true South African bantamweight champion with an unblemished record of 19 professional fights without a single loss.
      “He stood just one victory away from securing sole possession of the SA bantamweight belt.
      “Our hearts are heavy as we bid farewell to this remarkable boxer.” More

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      in Soccer

      How Sir Alex Ferguson’s wife Cathy gave Man Utd fans 11 more years of success after waking him up from a nap

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      MANCHESTER UNITED’s trophy haul this millennium may have been drastically smaller had it not been for Sir Alex Ferguson’s late wife Cathy.The Ferguson family are currently mourning the death of the much-beloved Cathy, who passed away in Cheshire yesterday aged 84.
      Sir Alex Ferguson is mourning the death of his wife CathyCredit: ALAMY
      Cathy passed away in Cheshire on Thursday aged 84Credit: REX
      Sir Alex and Cathy were married for an incredible 60 yearsCredit: REX
      Cathy and Sir Alex were married for an incredible 60 years and had three sons together, Darren, Jason and Mark.
      She stood by Fergie’s side for every step of his trophy-laden managerial career and was the Scot’s trusted confidant.
      And such was her love for her husband that she convinced him to snub retirement when he first contemplated it 21 years ago.
      Cathy told Fergie – who had already guided United to seven Premier League titles and five FA Cup triumphs – to continue managing after he woke up from a nap.
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      It was more of a telling that he wasn’t going to retire than a convincing.
      And that stern conversation would have huge implications for Manchester United in the coming years.
      Sir Alex went on to guide the Red Devils to FIVE more Premier League titles in the 11 years he spent at Old Trafford after that conversation.
      He also hoisted the League Cup aloft a further three times and added an additional FA Cup to his trophy haul.
      Most read in Football
      Sir Alex Ferguson won a further five Premier League titles after that conversation with CathyCredit: Getty
      He also lifted the Champions League trophy for a second time thanks to the love of his lifeCredit: PA
      But the biggest haul of that time proved to be the most-coveted trophy in European club football: the Champions League.
      Fergie won his second Champions League as United boss in May 2008 as his troops beat Chelsea on penalties in an all-English final on a cold and rainy night in Moscow.
      So to say that the history of the club would be very different were it not for the late Cathy would be an understatement.
      Understating is something Fergie never did when it came to his late wife, whom he held in the highest of regards for raising their sons while he worked his incredibly demanding job.
      He said of her in his autobiography: “Cathy is the mainstay of our family.
      “It is she who has carried the main burden of bringing up our three sons.
      “They have turned out to be fantastic sons and fantastic people.
      “We have all got to thank her for being such a great wife and mother.
      “Without her unstinting support, none of it would have been possible.” More

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      Sir Alex Ferguson’s touching letter to Cathy during health fight after Man Utd hero retired to spend more time with her

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      SIR ALEX Ferguson finally decided to retire from his glittering football career so he could spend more time with his beloved wife Cathy.The legendary Man Utd and Aberdeen boss paid a glowing tribute to his live-long love – who has died at the age of 84 – when he stepped away from the Old Trafford hotseat in December 2012.
      Lady Cathy Ferguson and Sir Alex FergusonCredit: Getty
      The then 71-year-old wanted to be by his wife’s side as she struggled to come to terms with the death of her sister Bridget earlier that year.
      Explaining his decision at the time he said: “Things changed when Cathy’s sister died. She’s isolated a lot now and I think I owe her a lot of my own time.
      “For 47 years she’s been the leader of the family, looked after three sons and sacrificed for me.
      “I think she’s lost her best friend, her sister Bridget, so I think I owe her time, that was important.”

      But years later Sir Alex feared he would be the one to pass away next when he was struck down by a near-fatal brain haemorrhage.
      He later told of writing heartbreaking “goodbye letters” for Cathy, their 11 grandchildren and grown-up kids Jason, Darren and Mark.
      He wrote the messages in the early stages of his health battle following a life-threatening brain bleed in 2018.
      He said: “The speech therapist came in every day and was phenomenal. She had me writing down all the names of my family and my players.
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      “Then she started on animals, fish and birds to see if I could remember the names. And gradually my voice came back.
      “But the more important thing was that my memory was okay. She got me writing letters. I wrote a letter to Cathy which, at that point, was a scribble.”
      In the film ‘Never Give In’ about his health battle that left with a 20 percent chance of survival he told how at the age of 76 he came round from an operation and felt the fear and despair that life may be nearing its end.
      He said: “I wondered how many sunny days I would see again. I found that difficult.
      “I was crying, felt helpless.
      “I would have hated to lose my memory. I would have been a terrible burden on my family.”
      He reads one of many letters he wrote including one to Cathy which summed up the deep admiration he had for his one true love.
      He wrote: “I am proud of you Cathy and your determination, all your years you have shown great strength but my heart should pray for life, you do not give up.
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      “I was weak and lonely, I miss your light.”
      Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page More

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      Cathy Ferguson death updates — Tributes pour in as beloved wife of Man Utd legend Sir Alex Ferguson dies

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      TRIBUTES are pouring in following the death of Sir Alex Ferguson’s beloved wife Cathy.Cathy, 84, married Manchester United great Alex in 1966 and the pair had been together ever since.
      A statement on behalf of the Ferguson family said: “We are deeply saddened to confirm the passing yesterday of Lady Cathy Ferguson, survived by her husband, three sons, two sisters, 12 grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
      “The family asks for privacy at this time.”
      Read our live blog below for the latest news and updates…
      All about Sir Alex and Lady Cathy’s son Jason
      Darren’s twin brother Jason runs an events management company.
      He also directed the 2021 documentary Sir Alex Ferguson: Never Give in.
      The film looks at how a boy from Glasgow became one of the greatest football managers of all time.
      Who is Cathy and Alex’s eldest son Mark?
      Sir Alex and Lady Cathy’s eldest son Mark, 50, is an investment banker.
      Mark Tagliaferri, Chairman Active Asset Investment Management, told the Guardian that Mark likes to look after his father’s finances.
      He said: “His son gets involved in all of his financial affairs.”
      All you need to know about Sir Alex’s son Darren Ferguson
      Darren Ferguson is one of Sir Alex’s three sons as he as followed his father into the world of football management.
      He is one of Fergie and Cathy‘s three sons – the other two being Mark and Darren’s twin Jason.
      Ferguson was born on February 9, 1972, in Glasgow, and by 1990 he was playing for Manchester United when it was under his father’s management.
      His mum Cathy passed away on Thursday, October 6, 2023.

      How old was Cathy Ferguson?
      Cathy Ferguson was 84 when she passed away.
      Cathy first met former Manchester United manager Sir Alex, 81, in 1964 when he was just 23 years old and they married shortly after in 1966.
      The pair have three sons together – Mark, born in 1968, and twin boys football manager Darren and Jason, born in 1972 – and 12 grandchildren.
      Manchester United fans pay tribute
      Manchester United fans have taken to social media to pay tribute to the late Cathy Ferguson.
      One X user said: “Lady Cathy Ferguson, wife of Sir Alex Ferguson has passed away.
      “My thoughts and prayers go out to Sir Alex and all of their family.”
      While another added: “The backbone of the Greatest manager in sports history. RIP Cathy Ferguson.”
      Manchester United honours Cathy Ferguson
      Manchester United have shared a heartfelt tribute to the late Cathy Ferguson.
      Taking to X, the club said: “Everyone at Manchester United sends our heartfelt condolences to Sir Alex Ferguson and his family on the passing of Lady Cathy.
      “Lady Cathy was a beloved wife, mother, sister, grandmother and great-grandmother, and a tower of strength for Sir Alex throughout his career.”
      Everyone at Manchester United sends our heartfelt condolences to Sir Alex Ferguson and his family on the passing of Lady Cathy.Lady Cathy was a beloved wife, mother, sister, grandmother and great-grandmother, and a tower of strength for Sir Alex throughout his career.— Manchester United (@ManUtd) October 6, 2023

      How many children did Cathy have with Sir Alex Ferguson?
      During their marriage, Cathy and Alex welcomed three children together, and 12 grandchildren.
      Their son Mark was born in 1968, followed by twin boys, Darren and Jason, born 1972.
      Darren followed his father into football and is the manager of League One team, Peterborough United.
      He also played at Manchester United under his dad, before moving to Wolverhampton Wanderers in 1994.
      Cathy convinced Sir Alex to stay at Manchester United
      When Sir Alex initially wanted to retire in 2002, Cathy famously convinced him to remain in charge of the Red Devils.
      “One, your health is good,” Sir Alex claimed Cathy said.
      “Two, I’m not having you in the house. And three, you’re too young anyway.”
      But she was unable to persuade her husband to recommit to Old Trafford in 2011.
      Ferguson family statement following Cathy’s passing
      Cathy Ferguson’s family shared a statement confirming her death today.
      The statement said: “We are deeply saddened to confirm the death yesterday of Lady Cathy Ferguson, who leaves behind her husband, three sons, two sisters, 12 grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
      “The family requests that we respect their privacy during this period.”
      What has Sir Alex Ferguson said about his wife?
      Sir Alex always had great praise for his wife and the matriarch of the Ferguson family.
      Speaking in his 2013 autobiography he said: “Cathy is fantastic with the kids. It’s a military operation with her. 
      “If any of them misbehave, they’re in the doghouse.”
      In his 2021 documentary, Sir Alex talked about how he was encouraged to ask Cathy out by a friend.
      He revealed: “I was 22. I had this friend and she said to me ‘There’s a really nice girl that’s just started’.
      “I had suffered an injury at football and I had a plaster on my face. She thought I was either a gangster or a boxer.
      “We got really close and I really loved her.”
      Meanwhile, when Sir Alex wanted to retire his family convinced him to remain in charge of Manchester United, with Cathy listing her reasoning as, “One, your health is good. Two, I’m not having you in the house. And three, you’re too young anyway.”
      Ferguson went on to retire a few years later, at the time saying his wife “needed him” after her sister died.
      When did Cathy Ferguson die?
      Cathy sadly passed away on the morning of October 5, 2023.
      A statement on behalf of the Ferguson family said: “We are deeply saddened to confirm the passing yesterday of Lady Cathy Ferguson, survived by her husband, three sons, two sisters, 12 grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
      “The family asks for privacy at this time.”
      Who are Cathy and Sir Alex’s children?
      Cathy is survived by her three children.
      Alex and Cathy have three sons, Mark, born in 1968, and twin boys Darren and Jason, born 1972.
      Darren followed his father into football and is currently the manager of League One outfit Doncaster Rovers.
      He played at Manchester United under his father, before moving to Wolverhampton Wanderers in 1994.
      He also played for Sparta Rotterdam, Wrexham and Peterborough United, who he also managed.
      Who is Alex Ferguson’s wife Cathy?
      Cathy is the wife of former Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson.
      The pair tied the knot in 1966, and her former name was Cathy Holding.
      The pair first met in 1964, and she has been there throughout his playing career and journey to management.
      They have three sons together and have been married for over 50 years.
      In total, the couple have three children and 11 grandchildren, with Alex saying that his wife is the real force to be reckoned with.
      When did Sir Alex meet Cathy?
      Cathy first met the former Manchester United manager, 81, in 1964 when he was just 23 years old and they married shortly after in 1966.
      The pair have three sons together – Mark, born in 1968, and twin boys football manager Darren and Jason, born in 1972 – and 12 grandchildren.
      Wife of Man Utd legend Alex Ferguson passes away aged 84
      Sir Alex Ferguson’s wife Cathy has passed away aged 84.
      Cathy is believed to have died yesterday morning in Cheshire.
      A statement on behalf of the Ferguson family said: “We are deeply saddened to confirm the passing yesterday of Lady Cathy Ferguson, survived by her husband, three sons, two sisters, 12 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. The family asks for privacy at this time.” More

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      Cathy Ferguson dead – Wife of Man Utd legend Alex Ferguson passes away aged 84

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      SIR Alex Ferguson’s beloved wife Cathy has passed away aged 84.The wife of the former Manchester United manager died yesterday morning in Cheshire.
      Sir Alex Ferguson’s wife has passed away aged 84Credit: Getty
      Cathy and the former Man United manager have been married since 1966Credit: Times Newspapers Ltd
      Cathy stood by Sir Alex throughout his playing career and journey to managementCredit: Rex
      Lady Cathy is believed to have died yesterday morning in CheshireCredit: Getty
      A statement on behalf of the Ferguson family said: “We are deeply saddened to confirm the passing yesterday of Lady Cathy Ferguson, survived by her husband, three sons, two sisters, 12 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. The family asks for privacy at this time.”
      The pair were married for nearly 60 years before she sadly passed away.
      Flags have been lowered to half-mast at Old Trafford in tribute to Lady Cathy.
      United will wear black armbands against Brentford tomorrow, with the women’s team expected to have them on tonight against Arsenal.
      Read more Sports News
      A statement from Manchester United read: “Everyone at Manchester United sends our heartfelt condolences to Sir Alex Ferguson and his family on the passing of Lady Cathy, a beloved wife, mother, sister, grandmother and great-grandmother, and a tower of strength for Sir Alex throughout his career.”
      Cathy first met Sir Alex, 81, in 1964 when he was just 23 years old and they married shortly after in 1966.
      In his autobiography, Sir Alex wrote: “I had the good fortune to meet a wonderful girl who has been my rock for almost 50 years.”
      The pair have three sons together – Mark, born in 1968, and twin boys football manager Darren and Jason, born in 1972 – and 12 grandchildren.
      Most read in Football
      Commenting on their home life, Alex once said: “Cathy is fantastic with the kids.
      “It’s a military operation with her. If any of them misbehave, they’re in the doghouse.”
      Cathy stood by Sir Alex throughout his playing career and journey to management.
      There were claims that Ferguson suffered discrimination at Rangers between 1967 to 1969 due to his wife’s Catholicism.
      However he made it clear in his autobiography that the club knew of her religion.
      She was by Sir Alex’s side as he rose to become one of the world’s best managers, starting at St Mirren in the 1970s, then to Aberdeen in the 1980s, where he won the Cup Winners’ Cup, and then to his legendary reign as manager of Manchester united from 1986 to 2013.
      When Sir Alex initially wanted to retire in 2002, Cathy famously convinced him to remain in charge of the Red Devils.
      “One, your health is good,” Sir Alex claimed Cathy said.
      “Two, I’m not having you in the house. And three, you’re too young anyway.”
      But she was unable persuade her husband to recommit to Old Trafford in 2011, before he finally retired in 2013.
      “I won’t be managing here any more than three years at the very, very most. Without question. I can assure you of that,” Ferguson said at the time.
      “You have to think about time for yourself. I think my wife deserves a bit of my time, too. The older you get, the more you feel guilty about it.
      “My wife, Cathy, was the one who talked me out of retiring last time but she wouldn’t do that now.”
      Read More on The Sun
      Ferguson went on to retire two years later saying his wife needed his support after her sister died.
      During his tenure, he won 38 major trophies, including 13 league titles and the Champions League twice.
      Sir Alex and Cathy pictured in 1968 with their first son MarkCredit: Rex
      Cathy famously convinced him to remain in charge of the Red Devils in 2002Credit: AFP
      Sir Alex and Cathy pictured with their twin sons Jason and DarrenCredit: Getty
      Sir Alex poses with Cathy after receiving a CBE at Buckingham PalaceCredit: Rex More