MPs call for Ferguson Lordship

MPs have called for Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson to be ennobled and elevated to the House of Lords.

The 71-year-old announced yesterday he is to retire as Red Devils boss at the end of the season following a silverware-laden 26 years at Old Trafford.

Greater Manchester area MPs Graham Stringer (Blackley and Broughton) and Paul Goggins (Wythenshawe and Sale East) have hailed Sir Alex's "unparalleled success" at United and Aberdeen.

In an early day motion (EDM), the pair said they believe he should be "immediately ennobled and elevated to the House of Lords".

John Leech (Manchester Withington) has also put forward an EDM asking the House of Commons to note Sir Alex's "outstanding contribution" to football.

He asked the Commons to further note "the joy he has brought to fans of Manchester United, and despair to fans of other teams" during his 26-year tenure.