MORE ON VERON

As a result of this transaction, Manchester United will
recognise, in the financial year ended 31 July 2003, a pre-
tax player trading loss on the sale (after deduction of the
unamortised cost of acquiring the player's registration and
ancillary costs of the transaction) of £5 million. However,
Manchester United will recognise the additional £2.5 million
as trading profits in the subsequent years if the conditions
are fulfilled.

Meanwhile, Chelsea boss Claudio Ranieri feels he has got a
bargain:

"Veron is the best midfielder in the world," Ranieri said.
"He is a top player and he will play better with us, but
there is a gamble for me. If I get it wrong I will be
sacked."

Veron admitted that he hadn’t played as well as he could
have done during his time with United, but was still
surprised to be sold:

"I just didn't get into my flow at United. I had poor games,
good games and exceptional games. I just didn't get into a
continuous flow. That was probably because Italian and
English football are so different. It was hard to adapt but
I think I can get better.

"But I feel I have nothing to prove to anyone. A couple of
months ago everything was fine and he (Fergie) told me he
wanted me to stay. But then the interest from Chelsea came
and that changed everything. He obviously felt he didn't
need another central midfielder for him team. I left my fate
in their hands. I was not misled.

"The decision had already been made and I left my fate in
their hands to do what they wanted. I don't have to prove my
abilities to anyone. I think Mr Ranieri is exaggerating
somewhat, but his words are a very big motivation to me."