One of Sir Alex Ferguson's first signings at Manchester United was Viv Anderson 25 years ago.

It was only later that right-back Anderson found out why he had been singled out by the new Manchester United boss.

Anderson, now 55, told The Sun: "He told me he saw me play in a match between Arsenal and United in his first season as manager.

"It turned into a real kicking match between myself and Norman Whiteside. Alex said I was the only player he had seen who had stood up to Norman and anyone who could do that he wanted in his team.

"Norman reminds me of that every time I see him and says it is down to him that I got a move to United, so I have to buy him a pint every time we meet. It's cost me a fortune over the years!"