Scott McTominay's response to Sir Alex Ferguson comments say it all

Former Manchester United star Scott McTominay once humbly expressed his gratitude afterbeing lauded by Sir Alex Ferguson, describing it as a "huge honour". The midfielder, who now plays for Napoli, scored a remarkable opening goal in Scotland's 4-2 win over Denmark on Tuesday, helping Scotland qualify for the World Cup for the first time since 1998.

The 28-year-old's spectacular overhead kick was the perfect end to an extraordinary year for him. After moving from United to Italy in 2024, McTominay clinched the Serie A title and earned a nomination for the Ballon d'Or. Despite being deemed surplus to requirements at United, the Scottish ace's performances might be causing the Red Devils to rue their decision to let him go.

McTominay, who joined United at five years old, was highly regarded by Sir Alex, who predicted that the Scottish star would achieve great things at Old Trafford.

"Scott McTominay is now emerging as one of Man United's big players," Ferguson told the Scottish FA in 2021. "When you watch Man United pick their team for a big game, McTominay's name is in it. He's a good character, a great trainer. I know a little bit about the boy and I think that's the background."

He further added: "McTominay is of a similar type to Darren [Fletcher] - long, lanky, good winner of the ball and a good turn of pace going forward, a great attitude to the game. All these attitudes that Darren Fletcher had, he's got them.

"Even if you go back to my time with Darren, I very seldom left him out of big games. McTominay is going forward on those guidelines that Darren pursued for a long time at United."

Upon receiving such glowing praise from Ferguson, McTominay demonstrated his humble character, saying: "My dad was telling me. It's obviously such a huge honour to be spoken about by someone like Sir Alex, never mind the nice things he was saying about us and Scotland.

"For me, it's a chance to keep pushing and a chance to not stop pushing forwards, hopefully making everyone proud of me." Following Sir Alex's hospitalisation in November 2018, McTominay also expressed his admiration for the legendary former United chief.

After Scotland's triumph over Israel secured their Euro 2020 qualification, he said: "That was one of Scotland's most important victories and it's dedicated to Sir Alex. Whenever I see him at the United games, I speak to him. He's always up for a chat with me."

McTominay left United in August 2024 for £25.7million. The United boss at the time, Erik ten Hag, indicated he would have preferred keeping the Scottish midfielder at the club.

"It is a little bit mixed," said Ten Hag when questioned about McTominay's departure. "I am very happy for him, but it is mixed because I wouldn't prefer to lose him. He is Manchester United in everything. He was so important for Manchester United."