The Team Behind the Legends
Paul Scholes, a Manchester United legend, has shared a revealing story about the lengths Sir Alex Ferguson went to in managing player fitness during their time at the club. According to Scholes, Ferguson’s determination and frustration sometimes led him to take significant risks with players’ health, particularly when it came to the midfield star, Owen Hargreaves.
The manager’s Frustration and the Risk
In November 2010, Hargreaves, who had been plagued by persistent injuries since his move from Bayern Munich in 2007, was finally deemed fit to play. However, during the warm-up before a crucial match against Wolves at Old Trafford, Hargreaves felt something in his hamstring. Sensing this, he approached Ferguson, but the manager, known for his unwavering resolve and commitment to the team, simply told him, "You’re playing." Scholes recounted the moment, emphasizing the visible anger and frustration on Ferguson’s face, a reaction born from the manager’s desperation to get Hargreaves back on the pitch.
The Unfortunate Outcome
Hargreaves’ brief appearance against Wolves was his first start for Manchester United since September 2008, a testament to the severity of his injuries. Despite the team’s victory, the match ended in disaster for the midfielder, who had to be substituted after just five minutes. Ferguson, in a post-match interview, acknowledged the significant risk he had taken, citing the player’s excellent training performances in the days leading up to the match. However, the tension of the actual game may have been too much for Hargreaves, leading to another setback that would keep him out for an extended period.
The Importance of the Manager-Physio Relationship
This incident highlights the critical relationship between a manager and the club’s physiotherapists. While Ferguson’s decision was driven by the team’s needs and the pressure to get Hargreaves back, it underscores the delicate balance between a manager’s ambitions and the well-being of the players. Scholes emphasized the importance of this relationship, noting that the physio’s expertise and judgment are crucial in making informed decisions about a player’s fitness and readiness to return to the field.
The Final Act and Beyond
Despite Hargreaves’ injury, Manchester United managed to secure a narrow 2-1 win against Wolves, thanks to a late goal from Park Ji-Sung. However, Hargreaves’ return to action was short-lived, and he did not play another Premier League match for the club. His struggles continued, and he eventually moved to local rivals Manchester City in the summer of 2011. Unfortunately, his time at City was equally fraught with injuries, and he made only four appearances, with just one in the Premier League. This meant that, despite being part of the Manchester City team that won the Premier League in the 2011-12 season, Hargreaves did not qualify for a winners’ medal.
A Legacy of Struggle and Dedication
Owen Hargreaves’ career at Manchester United and Manchester City serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges that even the most talented players can face. His story is one of resilience and dedication, marred by a series of unfortunate injuries. While his time at both clubs was shorter than many had hoped, his contributions and the respect he gained from teammates and fans alike are a testament to his character and skill. Ferguson’s decision to play Hargreaves, despite the risks, reflects the high stakes and intense pressure that football managers often face in their quest to lead their teams to success.
