10 Shocking Man Utd Departures That Nobody Expected
8. Teddy Sheringham
If Teddy Sheringhams move to Manchester United caught everyone off guard, his return to Spurs at the age of 35 proved to be even more surprising. While the Red Devils had signed Ruud van Nistelrooy from PSV Eindhoven, it looked like competition for places would be rife within the forward line, but an exit for a player who had scored 21 goals in all competitions the previous campaign still hadnt looked likely. However, with Sheringhams contract having expired, he sensationally snubbed their offer of a 12-month contract, and returned to White Hart Lane, becoming one of the first signings for new manager Glenn Hoddle.
''It was a very big decision, especially as Sir Alex wanted me to stay. But Daniel Levy convinced me it was the right move. There was a lot to take into consideration but it is good to be back. The aim is to win something. - Teddy Sheringham, May 2001.
Having won nothing in his first spell at the club, Sheringham almost had the desired impact in his second, with the club reaching the League Cup final but ultimately losing out 2-1 to Blackburn Rovers, with nemesis Andy Cole sinking the winner.
''I see a lot of great players here and that was a big factor in my decision. I wouldnt have left Manchester United to go just anywhere. I spoke to Steve Bruce about leaving because he went to Birmingham and he said: Stay at Man United for as long as you can. But I knew there were quality players here, that the manager was bringing new ones in and would be wanting to play the sort of football I wanted. Im enjoying myself. - Teddy Sheringham, February, 2002.
Recent Journalism & New Media graduate. Insatiable thirst for all things football, and hopes to break into the field of sports journalism in the near future.
Have made a significantly insignificant playing career out of receiving several slaps around the head for not passing the ball.
