Burnley X-Files: Phelan No 2 at Man U

Carlos Queiroz, the former Number 2 at Manchester United left Old Trafford to become Portugal coach in July.

It has now been announced that his replacement will be former Clarets full back, Mike Phelan.



Phelan who was born in Nelson, began his career with the Clarets signing as an associated schoolboy in July 1979. he became an apprentice two years later before signing professional in July 1980.

He made his league debut in January 1981 against Chesterfield and went on to win England Youth caps and a Third Division champions medal in 1982.

He played in 168 league games for the Clarets scoring nine goals.

Burnley however were relegated in 1985 to the Fourth Division, and Phelan moved to Norwich City becoming their captain.

He signed for Manchester United for £750,000 in July 1989 winning his first international cap (against Italy) during his time at Old Trafford as a player.

Phelan signed for West Bromwich Albion in 1994 before moving into his first managerial role as Assistant Manager at Carrow Road in December 1995 where he helped manager Gary Megson and managed the Norwich Reserves.

He then followed Megson around first to Blackpool and then a year later to Stockport County.

In the Summer of 1999 following the sacking of Megson at Stockport, Phelan took on a role at Manchester United's Centre of Excellence.

Phelan was promoted to United's first team coach in the Summer of 2001 replacing Steve McClaren, who had left for Middlesbrough.

He has remained in this position until now with the announcement of his promotion to Sir Alex Ferguson's Number 2

Sir Alex had this to say about his new Number 2:

"Mick knows Manchester United inside out, having been associated with the club for the best part of 20 years.

"He is a very talented and professional coach, whose ability and contribution to the club`s success has often been understated."

Well done Mike!

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