How to spark Fergie fury

Sir Alex Ferguson and Margaret Thatcher. One a symbol for bloody single-mindedness, inspiring an almost religious-like following and the other is...the late Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.

Boom! Yep, I know, pretty lame. Besides, the Manchester United boss would go an even sharper shade of crimson than normal if anyone compared him to the recently-deceased politician.

To say they are poles apart in ideologies would be an insult to understatement, as one journalist wit tweeted this week: So who’s drawn the short straw at Friday’s presser to ask Fergie about Mrs Thatcher?

I’d pay to see that explosion — but then judging by Sir Alex’s philosophical reaction to the derby defeat to City last week, he’s in a more reflective mood at the moment.

Those reddened, ruddy cheeks seem to be more a result of the biting Manchester cold and the post-match red wine than repeat performances of the famous hair-dryer treatment.

That’s probably because the title is all but wrapped up, with United likely to move a step closer when they take on Stoke — who, as Adelle might say, are rolling in the deep stuff at the moment —  on Sunday.

For Fergie the FA Cup has gone, as has the Champions League, which an excellent Sports Illustrated  article* recently explored.

Just minutes after the painful defeat to his old chum Jose Mourinho’s Real Madrid, Ferguson was outside the changing room bellowing at Real staff “the wine’s ready, tell Jose to hurry up”.

Now I’m not suggesting the ultra-competitive Scot gave Roberto Mancini the same courtesy last week but it’s a worthy reminder of the classy driving force behind the champions elect.

*To read the full article go to www.sportsillustrated.cnn.com/soccer/news/20130410/real-madrid-fan-jose-mourinho

Premier League

Saturday
11am unless stated

Arsenal v Norwich
My money’s on Arsenal pipping Spurs to a top-four place and, while they remain an enigma — many Gunners fans will feel that’s being kind — Arsene Wenger’s mob should brush aside an organized but limited Norwich.
Prediction: 3-1

Aston Villa v Fulham 
The feeling is that if Villa escape from trouble this season, they will only get stronger next term as the team continues to develop. Signs are that at present they have a little more about them than some relegation rivals.
Prediction: 2-1

Everton v QPR
Rangers’ claims they still have a chance of survival is surely lip service — especially after Bobby Zamora’s kung-fu kick last weekend. The Toffees are finishing the season strongly. 
Prediction: 3-1

Reading v Liverpool
One can only imagine what Brendan Rodgers thought of Rafa Benitez’s claim this week that his return to Liverpool is only a matter of time. 
Rafa doesn’t want to upset those at Anfield too much — it’s the only club in England where he’s revered.
Prediction: 0-2

Southampton v West Ham 
A contrast in styles but both have proven effective in easing away from immediate relegation trouble.
Saints’ ability to move the ball at pace should see them break through the Hammers’ resistance.
Prediction: 2-0

Sunday

Newcastle v Sunderland
8am
A plea from Newcastle to their fans to refrain from making fun of Paolo Di Canio’s past support for fascism is likely to have the opposite effect.
Expect a super-charged atmosphere.
Prediction: 1-1

Stoke v Man Utd
10:05am
Just what Stoke need. Confidence is low and the visit of the table-toppers will do them no favours.
Prediction: 0-2


FA Cup (semi-finals)

Saturday

Millwall v Wigan
1.15pm
The Latics can’t sell their ticket allocation with some fans saying they’re saving their cash for the final. A little presumptious but ultimately, I reckon, that’s good thinking.
Prediction: 0-2

Chelsea v Man City
12pm
Many will feel this is the FA Cup final, given the opponent awaiting them. City’s win over United was a timely reminder of their abilities. 
Prediction: 1-2