THE MAFIA KEEP IT COOL

Last updated : 21 May 2003 By Editor

Celtic's majority shareholder Dermot Desmond insists he has no interest in a takeover bid for Manchester United.

Two of Desmond's business associates, JP McManus and John Magnier, recently became the largest individual shareholders in United, increasing their holding from 6.77 per cent to 10.37 per cent through their Cubic Expression Company Limited.

But Dublin-based millionaire Desmond, who also owns shares in United, maintains he has too much at stake at Parkhead to think about a takeover elsewhere.

Desmond said: 'I have no interest in taking over Manchester United.

'My commitment is to Celtic Football Club. I'm emotionally committed to Celtic Football Club.

'Any interest that my family I have is purely financial in United.

'Our hearts and our minds rest with Celtic Football Club.'