For sale: Sir Alex’s first Man U team sheet

Sir Alex Ferguson's first Manchester United team sheet is to go on sale. Picture: PA

• Sir Alex’s first Manchester United team sheet to go on sale

• Team selected lost 2-0 to Oxford United in 1986

• Hand-written document expected to fetch up to £3,000

Hand-written ahead of a disappointing 2-0 loss to Oxford United on November 8 1986, the historic item is being sold in Devizes, Wiltshire, and is expected to reach between £2,000 and £3,000.

The list, which is signed by the manager, reveals that the squad Ferguson inherited was not as strong as the collection of global superstars he has handed over to successor David Moyes.

Celebrated stars like Paul McGrath and stalwarts such as Arthur Albiston and Mike Duxbury feature, alongside less-remembered players like goalkeeper Chris Turner and Graeme Hogg.

The starting XI was:

1. Chris Turner

2. Mike Duxbury

3. Arthur Albiston

4. Kevin Moran

5. Paul McGrath

6. Graeme Hogg

7. Clayton Blackmore

8. Remi Moses

9. Frank Stapleton

10. Peter Davenport

11. Peter Barnes

Substitute: Jesper Olsen

The team sheet is being sold by Henry Aldridge & Son on behalf of an Oxford United fan who was given it by former player Peter Rhoades-Brown.

Auctioneer Andrew Aldridge said: “The team in November 1986 was a little different to the star-studded affair for Sir Alex’s last game in charge that included global stars such as Robin Van Persie.

“The first match included names such as Chris Turner in goal, Paul McGrath at centre back and Peter Davenport up front.

“The present owner is a life-long Oxford fan and it was given to him by Peter Rhoades-Brown, an Oxford player, as a souvenir.”

The item will go under the hammer on June 22.