Tim Burgess: Keane For Manager, Repeat Double and 1977 Cup Final

The Charlatans, fronted by Salford lad Tim Burgess, performed at V Festival at the weekend, receiving rave reviews. Their most recent album was given away free online for fans, ranking 2nd in the indie chart.

This was a band fully involved in the Madchester scene that was knocking about in the 80s, becoming popular after supporting The Stone Roses.

But why am I talking about them? Well, Burgess is a massive red and he’s given a few moments of his time to have a word with RoM.

“Other sides have lost a game, a chance, a bonus, Liverpool have lost their place in history. One day some side may do this impossible treble, maybe even a side from Liverpool. But not these men.”

This was the Daily Mail’s report on the 1977 FA Cup final, Burgess’ earliest United memory. This 10-year-old Salfordian saw United go against the odds and lift the Cup against Liverpool, who were in the running for, then, the unprecedented treble.

Since then, Burgess has launched himself as a Worldwide star, moving far away from Manchester. When asked how often he gets to Old Trafford, he admits it’s not as often as he would like. “A couple of games per season,” Tim said. “I live in LA so its hard, few and far between I would say.”

Whilst Burgess’ first United team included the likes of Lou Macari, Alex Stepney and Steve Coppell, it is Eric Cantona who takes the place of his all-time favourite player. Although, it’s Roy Keane he fancies as replacing Sir Alex Ferguson when the time comes.

Players aren’t made like they used to be though and our very own Cristiano Ronaldo is a stark reminder of this. “Historically the Portugese and the Spanish don’t get on,” Burgess said. “So why he wanted to go to Spain so badly is bizarre. United are best club in the World, he should stay put. But he could be gone at the end of the season, it’s not over!”

Whilst several United players are setting their targets high for the coming season, aiming to become the first team to retain the Champions League trophy, Burgess has the same aspirations. When asked what he hoped United to achieve this season, he replied, “exactly the same as last year.” However, it’s Wayne Rooney who will lead us to this success, Tim believes, with Rooney being our most important player.

Last season, we applauded our players around the pitch following the final game at home, with no trophies yet to celebrate. An away trip to Wigan and a European Cup final in Moscow were to decide our fate, leaving that penultimate match feeling rather odd.

“The last home game of the season against West Ham was my favourite,” Burgess said. “And it was the only game I got to last year.”

Cheers, Tim!

Enjoy.