United need to thank me for Portuguese stars

An extraordinarily gifted winger, the 59-year-old was instrumental in Atletico Madrid knocking the Reds out of the European Cup-Winners' Cup in 1992, scoring twice in the home leg in Spain, and also represented the biggest three clubs in his homeland - Sporting, Porto and Benfica.

What is more, Futre also had a short, but memorable, stint in the Premier League with West Ham United in 1996/97.

But it was his first move abroad, to Atletico in 1987, that he explained was a critical one because it paved the way for others to follow him.

At the time, after starring for Porto, and sparkling in their European Cup final win over Bayern Munich, the skilful wide man wanted to embark on a fresh challenge.

However, the authorities would not allow this so he had to fight for the right to ply his trade abroad.

"They had to invent a new law," he told us. "In 1987, I was the only player abroad and refused the obligatory national service. So the government had to create a new rule.

"Luis Figo and Rui Costa came after me and played abroad, because of me. Now there are over 300 Portuguese players playing abroad, and there are players in teams like Real Madrid and Juventus, thanks to me.

"Manchester United fans can be very grateful to me! If this law hadn't changed, Ronaldo would never have played here! United fans are among the best in the world and they should thank me!"

Of course, Ronaldo was our first Portuguese player but others have followed - including Nani, plus Bebe and Joel Pereira, before current stars Diogo Dalot and Bruno Fernandes.

Futre feels Sporting should be recognised for their remarkable production line of talent with Aurelio Pereira the scout who discovered him, before going on to unearth more gems such as Figo, Ronaldo and Nani.

"Often, in Spain, they say Barcelona has the best academy and I say calm down," he insisted. "The best development for wingers in the world is definitely in Sporting, who have developed two Ballon d’or winners in Figo and Cristiano and a silver ball winner in myself.

"Nani and [Ricardo] Quaresma too!"