Since I last wrote my column the nation has lost a great icon. Sure, he wasn't everyone's cup of tea, dividing opinion like Marmite, depending on whose side you were on, blue or red.

Even his passing caused controversy, with the amount of attention it drew. Nonetheless, his greatness is unquestioned, though by the same token burdening his successor. Sir Alex will be sorely missed by all Manchester United supporters, including myself.