I felt full force of Sir Alex Ferguson’s hairdryer treatment at Man Utd – he grabbed one of my old team-mates
ALAN TONGE saw Sir Alex Ferguson grab one of his old Manchester United team-mates during a half-time outburst.
The former full-back felt the full force of Fergie's infamous hairdryer treatment during his time at Old Trafford.
Tonge was the legendary United boss' first signing after joining the Red Devils as a schoolboy in January 1987.
He went on to become a regular in the youth and reserve sides as part of a group known as Fergie's Fledglings.
However, he was once met with an enraged manager whilst travelling with the first-team.
Tonge explained: "United were playing Newcastle in the FA Cup at St James’ Park.
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"It was 0-0 at half-time and he let rip at a number of players, grabbing one who he tried to hang on a peg!
"When Fergie lost his temper, he really lost it — I was just a young kid and had never witnessed anything like it."
Despite starring in the youth and reserve sides, Tonge left United in 1991 after not being offered a new contract.
After three years with Exeter, the defender was forced to retire due to a serious back issue.
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That setback saw Tonge turn to education as he completed a degree in sports science.
He has since added a masters in philosophy and a PhD focused on the critical times in footballers' careers.
Tonge now lectures at the University Campus of Football Business in Manchester.
The 52-year-old has also revealed details of his journey from football to education in his book titled From Red to Read.
