Sir Alex Ferguson had excessive hopes for Manchester United‘s first signing after David Beckham‘s departure – believing he might turn out to be the ‘subsequent Thierry Henry’.
In 2003, when Arsenal’s iconic goalscorer was arguably the Premier League’s high participant, Ferguson went and signed David Bellion from Sunderland for a fraction of the value Real Madrid paid for Beckham. Despite his pace and ending energy, Bellion’s three seasons at Man Utd have been underwhelming, and he is barely remembered by followers at the moment.
Bellion kicked off his membership profession with a objective in a pre-season recreation towards Celtic, and even bagged some silverware within the Community Shield win over Arsenal. However, his efficiency within the following season did not fairly stay as much as expectations, scoring solely two Premier League objectives.
READ MORE: Leaked Man Utd switch listing confirmed 4 key targets and 5 gamers labelled ‘extra’
READ MORE: Man Utd star had ‘simple’ reply when requested to choose worst participant within the dressing room
Despite his early promise, Bellion was not noted of the squad for the FA Cup ultimate towards Millwall. His subsequent season was lower brief because of a fractured fibula, and he by no means performed for United once more after scoring simply eight objectives in 40 appearances.
After leaving United, Bellion frolicked on mortgage at West Ham after which in France with Nice, the place he managed to revive his profession.
Is Thierry Henry one of the best participant the Premier League has ever seen? Let us know within the feedback part.
(Image: Getty Images)
(Image: CategoricalStar)
Join the Daily Star’s WhatsApp for the sexiest headlines, showbiz gossip and much extra
The Daily Star is now on WhatsApp and we would like you to affix us!
Through the app, we’ll ship you the sassiest showbiz tales, some naught headline and a seismic smattering of aliens…together with the most recent breaking information after all.
To be a part of our neighborhood, all it’s important to do to affix is click on on this hyperlink, choose ‘Join Chat’ and also you’re in!
No one will be capable to see who has join and nobody can ship messages apart from the Daily Star staff. We additionally deal with our neighborhood members to competitions, particular provides, promotions, and adverts from us and our companions.
If you don’t like our neighborhood, you’ll be able to take a look at any time you want. To depart our neighborhood click on on the title on the high of your display and select Exit group. If you’re curious, you’ll be able to learn our Privacy Notice.
Bellion bounced again from his United nightmare, transferring to Bordeaux after a yr at Nice and serving to them win a league and cup double in 2008/09. He ended his profession at French third-tier aspect Red Star, scoring objectives that led them to the title and promotion.
Despite the challenges, Bellion insists he does not remorse his transfer to Old Trafford. But it is clear that his signing is seen as a uncommon misstep in Ferguson’s in any other case profitable tenure at United.
* This article was crafted with the assistance of an AI software, which hastens Daily Star’s editorial analysis. An editor reviewed this content material earlier than it was revealed. You can report any errors to starletters@dailystar.co.uk