Heartbreak as Alex Ferguson's wife Cathy dies aged 84 after 57 years of marriage
Cathy Ferguson, wife of Manchester United's former Scottish manager Alex Ferguson has died aged 84
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Lady Cathy Ferguson, the wife of Manchester United's former Scottish manager Alex Ferguson, has died aged 84.
Tributes have poured in for the Manchester United icon's wife who has been hailed as a "leader" by her family.
In a statement issued by the family, they said: "We are deeply saddened to confirm the passing yesterday [Thursday] 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."
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LADY CATHY FERGUSON MOVING STILL FLOAT VOV
Lady Cathy married Alex in 1966 having met just two years prior.
The pair had their first son in 1968, followed by twins in 1972.
According to ‘Still Dreaming: Another Year in the Life of a Premier League Club’, an analysis of Tottenham Hotspur, Lady Cathy is credited as the reason why the Manchester United manager turned down an offer to work for the north London club.
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Lady Cathy Ferguson is credited as the reason why her husband did not join Tottenham Hotspur
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"The directors, to a man, were enthusiastic endorsers of the choice (Ferguson).
"All aspects of the contract agreed.
"Unfortunately, Mrs Ferguson was not keen on a move to London and that was that."
Paying tribute to his wife after his farewell speech to United, Alex Ferguson said: "I think a lot of the time, for 47 years, she’s been the leader of the family, looked after our three sons and sacrificed herself for me."
British politician George Galloway paid tribute saying: 'So very sorry to hear that. Sincere condolences'
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Michael Carrick, who played under Ferguson’s management told of the exact moment United players were informed of his retirement in the dressing room.
According to Carrick, Ferguson told his team: "I feel that I owe it to my wife to be with her and look after her."
Tributes for Lady Cathy have poured in on social media, with one fan saying: "Our thoughts and prayers with the Ferguson family."
Another wrote: "This is so sad. Thoughts and prayers with the Ferguson family!"
British politician George Galloway added: "So very sorry to hear that. Sincere condolences."