The retiring Alex Ferguson at the League Managers' Association awards said that the day Manchester United signed a 23 million pound deal with Robin Van Persie on August 17th was the day he thought the crown was bound for Old Trafford.
Ferguson at the awards ceremony collected his trophies and said that he was glad the hard work was over.
Referring to the last match under his guidance against West Brom as one to be remembered and overwhelming, Ferguson suggested that Steve Clarke be given an award for scoring 5 against Manchester United in the match, which closed to a draw.
Ferguson was honoured as United's youth team beat Spurs 3-2 to win the Premier League under-21 title.
The Mirror quoted Ferguson as saying "We have always put a great emphasis on youth, from long before I came. Sir Matt Busby started it and he took United into Europe. It's been a matter of trying to maintain it.
