Stone's Unturned in Shock Sacking

Michael Stone
By Chris O'Brien
June 4 2006

Manchester United FC have announced the shock departure of club doctor, Michael Stone. Speculation is rife that the sacking surrounds a difference in opinion over the fitness of Wayne Rooney ahead of the World Cup finals in Germany.

Manchester United have sacked club doctor Michael Stone in controversial circumstances.

Stone has been the man in charge of treating Wayne Rooney's broken foot ahead of the World Cup finals in Germany. Reports suggest that the club are furious with the doctor's "positive view" on the likelihood of the forward's making a full recovery in time for the tournament, with Sir Alex Ferguson anxious to protect his prize asset from a more serious injury.

A club statement has denied such accusations, claiming the sacking was motivated by a disagreement regarding an issue away from football. It read: "We can confirm that Dr Stone has left the club. There was a difference of opinion on a non-football and non-clinical issue, as a result of which Dr Stone felt it to be in his and the club’s best interests for him to leave. The difference was over a non-clinical issue and had nothing whatsoever to do with any medical treatment to any Manchester United player."

Stone is a well-respected figure amongst supporters, having been with MUFC for ten seasons.