Mac was back

It was a huge pleasure and privilege to welcome ex-United manager and playing legend Roy McFarland to the Abbey yesterday. The Derby County and England centre half took part in an entertaining and informative 100 Years of Coconuts Q&A session after the game against Carlisle, and was able to swap reminiscences with another former U's manager, Bill Leivers, who was also on a visit to the Cambridge area.

Roy's time at United – following a playing career during which he won 28 England caps and played almost 500 times for Derby – is best remembered for the free-scoring side he guided to promotion to the old League One in 1998/99. He recalled with affection the likes of John Taylor, Martin Butler, Trevor Benjamin, Ian Ashbee and Alex Russell, and gave a fascinating insight into the state of the club's finances, which dictated frequent player sales..

​Who was Roy's favourite player when he was a lad in Liverpool, asked young fan Ellie. 'Billy Liddell,' came the response. Roy also delighted his audience with his tales of the dressing room antics of Lionel Perez.

Thanks to Roy and Bill, to all who attended and to the club for providing the Dressing Room venue and pre-Q&A preparation.