But my mum was already there, which was strange. And she had an anxious look on her face. I wandered over. "I've got some bad news" she said.
Oh god, someone had died, I thought. Or very ill. My mind suddenly went into overdrive, thinking of different family members. I knew it couldn't have been one of my friends, because I'd just been with them. Who was it?
"Cantona's quit."
What?
"What?"
"He's quit, retired, finished. He's not going to play for United anymore."
For a 10 year old, this was almost too much to take. Cantona was my god, my king of kings, my footballing idol. United couldn't go on without him, surely? A few months later, we signed a player from Tottenham, Edward Sheringham, and United did go on. But I spent the rest of that day in a daze, not quite comprehending what had happened.
Looking for Eric seems to be the perfect film for all United fans who remember the great man in his prime, and still mourn that day. I can't say I know a great deal about Ken Loach, but I do know he did 'Kes', one of my favourite (and most quoted) films. If this film is 1/3 as good as that, I'll love it. Judging by the fact that Justin Moorhouse and Max Beesley are in it (both United fans) it could just be one great big United love-in, so it may not be warmly acknowledged by everyone. Oh well, I don't care. I can't wait to see it.
In my Champions League Final preview, I put on record that The Ginger Prince's goal against Barcelona was my 2nd favourite of all time. Now seems like the perfect time to put on record my all-time favourite. Hell, any excuse to watch this again:
As for King Eric, I would love to see him as United manager. Tactically, he wouldn't have a clue. We would lose every game 6-3, and get relegated straight away. But, my God, it would be fun. Long live The King.
I recall that day with a heavy heart too. I was in dismay however shortly (two years later) we won the Treble without le King. Would we have done so with him charismatic presence?
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