Ferguson to thank for his successful career so far.

Fergie was impressed by Goater when the powerful Bermudian played against United in a friendly on the Island, Goater told the mass circulation tabloid The Sun.

Goater, 29, admitted: "United was a fantasy really and I wasn't ready for it.

I found United intimidating. I didn't have the mental side to cope with it all and by the time I realised what everything was all about, I was leaving the club.

"But I am indebted to Alex Ferguson for bringing me to England and giving me the chance to make a career here.'' Goater left United for Rotherham, then joined Bristol City and is now back in Manchester at Maine Road after a deadline-day move last season.

He told The Sun: "I've learned a lot, so maybe 10 years down the line from first coming to Manchester I'm back here really starting my career again. I watched the European Cup final but honestly wasn't bothered who won.''