Even the Defeats by John Silk

Even the Defeats by John Silk looks at how setbacks during Sir Alex Ferguson’s time at Manchester United helped shape what followed. It returns to difficult periods from Ferguson’s early years in charge and considers how these moments became turning points that influenced the club’s direction.

The narrative revisits a 5–1 loss to Manchester City that raised doubts about Ferguson’s position, before the season concluded with his first trophy at the club, the FA Cup. It also covers the end-of-season collapse that allowed Leeds United to take the league title in 1992, followed by United winning their first championship in 26 years the next year. Further episodes range from struggles in Europe to winning the treble, and from losing the title on goal difference to city rivals to securing the Premier League in Ferguson’s final season. Perspectives from players, coaches and other staff are included to shed light on what drove Ferguson throughout his reign.

Key details

• Author: John Silk
• Centres on Sir Alex Ferguson’s tenure at Manchester United
• Discusses the FA Cup, the 1992 league title race and the following season’s championship
• Spans European struggles, the treble and Ferguson’s final season in charge
• Includes viewpoints from players, coaches and other members of staff

Synopsis

Even the Defeats explores how Manchester United responded to painful results and missed opportunities under Sir Alex Ferguson. It highlights key reversals and recoveries, showing how disappointment could be used to drive later success, drawing on the perspectives of those who worked closely with him.