A former England star has suggested that Manchester United's current crop of players should offer to pay Sir Alex Ferguson's salary following the club's decision to axe his lucrative ambassadorial contract.
Ferguson became a global club ambassador and club director after stepping down as manager in 2013 after a 27-year reign. He reportedly received £2.16million-a-year to serve as a global ambassador for the club in an agreement which has continued for over a decade.
But United's legendary manager, 82, has lost his contract following a face-to-face meeting between Ferguson and minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
The move comes as part of a cost-cutting drive by Ratcliffe since Ineos took over football operations at the Premier League giants.
And ex-England and Manchester City defender Stuart Pearce believes this is an opportunity for United squad to show what the Old Trafford legend means to them.
An England legend has said that Man United's players should pay Sir Alex Ferguson's
Pearce told talkSPORT: 'Wouldn't it be good if the United squad said we'll fund that money per-season to keep Alex in post because he's too important to this club?
'I got a little bit mischievous and thought, what if Manchester City players said, wouldn't it be good if we chipped in and paid Alex Ferguson's wages each year to keep him in place for what he's done for that club across the road, that is going to inspire us on a weekly basis.
'It would be classy. You've sacked your best ever but we'll fund him, it's no problem.'
The decision to dismiss Sir Alex from his role has received criticism from many, including former United striker Eric Cantona.
Cantona said: 'Sir Alex Ferguson should be able to do anything he wants at the club until the day he dies.
'Such a lack of respect. It's totally scandalous. Sir Alex Ferguson will be my boss forever! And I throw them all in a big bag of s***!'