Sir Alex Ferguson writes heartfelt eulogy after deaths of Man Utd legend Sir Bobby Charlton and beloved wife Cathy

SIR ALEX FERGUSON has paid tribute to his late wife Cathy and long-time friend Sir Bobby Charlton.

The Scot’s wife, who he was married to for over six decades, passed away earlier this month aged 84.

ReutersSir Alex Ferguson has paid tribute to his late wife Cathy[/caption]

EPAThe Scot also paid tribute to Manchester United great Sir Bobby Charlton[/caption]

Fergie laid his beloved Cathy to rest in Glasgow last week, with several Manchester United legends attending to pay their respects.

And he paid a heartfelt tribute to the love of his life in the matchday programme ahead of the Red Devils’ derby clash with neighbours Manchester City, which also included a eulogy to the late Charlton.

Ferguson, 81, wrote: “Unfortunately, I have also suffered the painful loss of my beloved wife, Cathy, this month, and I want to thank the club, the fans, and everyone who has sent me their condolences.

“The black armbands worn by the team against Brentford, and the flags at half-mast around Old Trafford were a wonderful tribute.

“Cathy supported me every step of the way through my career, and she was the backbone of our family.

“At such a sad time, there is tremendous comfort to be found in being part of the Manchester United community and we’ve all felt that spirit this week.

“We’re continuing to mourn for Bobby’s loss, but as we look forward to the derby this afternoon.

“Let’s also celebrate the many wonderful memories he has blessed us with and be inspired by the example he set.”

GETTYSir Alex Ferguson attributes all his success to the love and support of his late wife Cathy[/caption]

Ferguson is the most successful manager in Manchester United’s history.

And he attributes his success, and indeed that of the club, to the love and support Cathy gave him down the years.

In his first autobiography, he said: “My wife Cathy is the mainstay of our family.

“It is she who has carried the main burden of bringing up our three sons, Mark, Jason and Darren.

“This is more than I could have asked for and they have turned out to be fantastic sons and fantastic people.

“We have all got to thank her for being such a great wife and mother.

“It has always been Cathy’s way to stay in the background, but now it is time for her to accept some limelight.

“I gratefully acknowledge her role in any success I have had.

“Without her down-to-earth attitude to life and her unstinting support none of it would have been possible.”