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United fans made it quite clear that they backed Sir Alex Ferguson through their demonstrations of support for the embattled manager at the game against Southampton on 31 January. However, the club's chief executive, David Gill, made it clear that the continuing dispute with the Irish racing tycoons who are United's main shareholders was having a damaging effect. Gill told MUTV, 'The matter is affecting Manchester United and Sir Alex recognises that. If the case [over horse Rock of Gibraltar] came to a speedy resolution it would be in the best interests of all concerned, but that is something for Sir Alex and Mr Magnier.' The club agreed a new twelve-month rolling contract with Sir Alex during the week which effectively gives him a two-and-a-half year notice period, something that the racing tycoons were keen to avoid.
Sir Alex made it clear that he had been upset by the whole affair, particularly by letters querying potential conflicts of interest in player transfer deals. He said that it was 'distressing' and 'incomprehensible that I would abuse my position at the club. All of a sudden, because of a private matter about a racehorse, it is all coming out.' He added, 'My son has had a terrible time. People have been stealing his mail, going through his bin bags and hiding in bushes. In the end he had to call the police in.' The club announced during the week that it would disclose details of all payments to agents involved in future transfer deals in a bid to head off further criticism. This plan to shed light on the murky world in which agents operate received a mixed reaction from other Premiership clubs.
Reports have been circulating of a possible deal between Sir Alex and the racing tycoons. He would receive the proceeds of one nomination a year by the stallion every year for the duration of his career. This is estimated to be worth £45,000 a year, but could rise in value if the Rock is as successful as a stud as he was as a racehorse. However, a similar offer was on the table a few months ago and it is by no means certain that Sir Alex would accept. In any case, the racing tycoons intend to pursue what they see as a corporate governance crusade and press for answers to 99 questions it has tabled with particular reference to transfers of star players.
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