Sir Alex Ferguson couldn't help but chuckle after being playfully teased about during an interview at Aintree. The iconic ex-United manager, a devoted fan of , was on Merseyside on Saturday to attend the . Earlier that afternoon, notable gelding, Regent's Stroll - acquired in 2024 - secured a runner-up spot in the Mersey Novices' Hurdle.

However, when Matt Chapman from ITV Racing caught up with him for a chat, the subject swiftly veered from racing to - particularly United's current struggles. "Look at the positives, Sir Alex. Manchester United would love to be second right now, wouldn't they?" Chapman joked. Ferguson, smiling wryly, replied: "You're a bad man!"

Chapman wasn't done there. He pressed on with another jibe: "Manchester United and Manchester City play tomorrow... They say this is the worst shape both sides have ever been in going into a derby."

Still laughing, Ferguson responded, "Well, thank you. You're having a field day!" But the Scotsman wasn't going to let that slide. Once Chapman admitted he was a fan, Ferguson pounced. "We always beat Tottenham," he grinned.

Although Regent's Stroll narrowly missed out on victory, Ferguson still had plenty to celebrate. Kalif Du Berlais, co-owned by the 83-year-old and his longtime associates, triumphed in the Grade 1 Maghull Novices' Chase.

The win earned Ferguson £67,524, and he pocketed an extra £12,732 thanks to L'Eau Du Sud placing third in the same event. Additionally, his horse Protektorat brought in just over £57,000 after coming third in Friday's Melling Chase.

The Grand National itself didn't go quite so well. His sole entry, Hitman, was among the 13 horses who pulled up before the race concluded. The crown eventually , who narrowly edged out defending champion I Am Maximus.

This comes after Ferguson picked up a major win at last month's with Caldwell Potter. The speedy grey clinched first place in the Jack Richards Novices' Handicap Chase, and Ferguson was visibly thrilled when speaking to the BBC afterward.

"I think the jumping won it," he said. "What can I say? Great horse, it was a bonus. Winning here last year with two was fantastic and doing it again this year is fantastic. Thank you very much."

Despite retiring from football over a decade ago, Ferguson's twin loves - racing and football - continue to keep him busy. He remains a regular at Old Trafford and is expected to attend Sunday's Manchester derby, which kicks off at 4:30pm.

United, stuck in 13th position, are hoping to grab a win to keep their slim chances of European qualification alive. Meanwhile, City began the day sitting fifth and will be pushing to re-enter the top four in pursuit of another Champions League spot.