Almost Joining Man Utd Under Fergie: How I Unintentionally Hindered Their Title Chase
Mick Harford, Luton’s chief recruitment officer, has shared his fond memories of Manchester United at Kenilworth Road. Harford scored a header in the last league meeting between the two sides in April 1992, which ended in a 1-1 draw. Interestingly, this was not long after Sir Alex Ferguson tried to sign him for the Red Devils. Fergie later regretted not bringing Harford to Old Trafford as Leeds went on to win the First Division title that year.
Ferguson believed that Harford could have made a difference in United’s bid to end their long wait for a league crown. Harford, who also scored the last time Luton beat United in 1987, looks back with pride as United prepare to face Luton in their upcoming Premier League clash.
Reflecting on his 1992 goal, Harford said, “David Preece was a fantastic player and had pinpoint accuracy. It was me and Denis Irwin at the far post. I got over and above him, it hit the angle of the bar, came back and I was the first to react. Peter Schmeichel was still on the floor, so great memories against United.”
Throughout his 40-year association with Luton, Harford has had many memorable moments. One of his favorite positions to score goals was at the back post. In March 1987, Harford scored a trademark strike against United, contributing to Luton’s famous 2-1 victory. This win resulted in Luton finishing seventh in the First Division, their highest-ever finish.
Scoring against Manchester United is something that Harford will always remember. He acknowledged the presence of world-class players like Bryan Robson and Norman Whiteside in the United team but emphasized the importance of his teammates in achieving success.
During Harford’s second spell at Kenilworth Road, Ferguson attempted to sign him. However, Harford was unaware of this interest until he read it in Sir Alex’s book. Luton’s draw with United in 1992 helped their hopes of staying in the top flight, but a final-day defeat at Notts County resulted in their relegation. The timing of this defeat was particularly cruel as the Premier League began the following season.
Luton’s journey since then has been eventful, with promotion, Football League Trophy success, a 30-point deduction, relegation to the National League, and finally, a fairytale comeback that led to promotion to the Premier League. Harford, who has held various roles at Luton since 2001, including caretaker boss, is now their chief recruitment officer.
Expressing his pride in the club’s achievements, Harford said, “Everyone has made a magnificent contribution, from the cleaning ladies to the manager to the board and chief executive. It’s been a fantastic journey. It’s a challenge that we’ve been thrown and that we are really cherishing.”
Luton’s incredible story has garnered support from neutrals, and their recent captain Tom Lockyer’s cardiac arrest during a Premier League game against Bournemouth on December 16 further increased sympathy for the club. However, Harford believes that Luton is a good club with the determination to succeed.
In addition to the challenges faced by the club, Harford also had personal struggles. He was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2021 and underwent radiotherapy treatment. Thankfully, his condition is being monitored, and he is currently off medication.
Despite his reputation as a hard-as-nails player, Harford insists that he has mellowed over the years and is much more emotional. He expressed his gratitude for the support he has received from Luton during his cancer diagnosis.
For Harford and everyone at Luton, remaining in the Premier League would mean everything. They are determined to give it their all and prove that they belong in the top flight. With their incredible journey and the resilience they have shown, Luton is ready to face the challenges ahead.