Looking For Eric? Try the Unibond!

June 05, 2009

ERIC Cantona is prepared to pull on a red shirt again.

The king of Old Trafford isn't about to rejoin United - but admitted his fondness for breakaway club FC United when in Manchester this week.

The French legend was attending the premiere of `Looking For Eric', the Ken Loach film in which he plays himself.

The film touches upon the story of FC United and club bosses were involved in the project from the beginning, discussing ideas with writer Paul Laverty and director Loach. FC supporters even acted as extras.

Cantona has been willing to show his support for FC, recently saying: "They have a great idea. I hope they will become a great club and win the European Cup in 50 years."

Asked whether he would be prepared to play for the Unibond side Premier League side, 43-year-old Cantona gave his famous Gallic shrug and said: "Yes, why not?"

Andy Walsh, general manager of FC United, was thrilled at the prospect.

He said: "To have two people of such status as Eric Cantona and Ken Loach understand the issues of ordinary football fans and support the club, is to be cherished.

"Eric Cantona was one of the best footballers ever to put on a football shirt, let alone a Man United one.

"It's tremendous that he knows what FC United is all about and what we're trying to do.

"If he ever wanted to play for us, that would be great!"

It may be 12 years since Cantona brought the curtain down on his five-year spell but it seems his love for Manchester remains undiminished.

He said: "It's always nice to be back in Manchester.

"I love the people here. That never fades. I come sometimes to watch the games. The fans are great."