'I will continue playing for the rest of my life' - Quinton Fortune

Known as Mr Versatile during his stay at Manchester United, Quinton Fortune, remains the only South African to have made over 100 appearances for the club. Initially signed as a left winger by Sir Alex after the 99 treble winning season, Fortune had played in central midfield and in a left back role.

Former Captain, Roy Keane, once said that Quinton Fortune was always his first pick in training for five-a-side matches. Six years after leaving the club, Fortune was back on the road with United legend Denis Irwin for the club’s 19th title trophy tour. Speaking exclusively to Sportskeeda.com at the Airtel Soccer nights in Delhi last month, Fortune talks about his experience at the most successful club in English football.

Excerpts:

How much has it effected your game as a winger playing as Ryan Giggs understudy?

I was not effected at all. Because I wasn’t Ryan Giggs understudy, but thank you for thinking of me in that way. In fact I played left back- midfield and left wing, but I have to say that it was a great honour playing along side Ryan Giggs.??

Have you ever felt bad for not winning a European medal during your United years?

No I didn’t feel bad at all, because I have a Premier League medal 2003 and I was very fortunate to have been part of 3 Premier League winning teams. I also have a World club champions medal. On top of that I played with some of the greatest players in United’s history and played under the Greatest manager ever. The only feeling I have is gratitude.

Why take a step down from the league after being released from United…rather than retiring since you haven’t played many games afterwards at other clubs?

I left United, because of a knee injury. Yes the other clubs I played for wasn’t United. No club can ever compare to United. I carried on playing football, because I love football. I’ve been playing ever since I was 4 and I will continue playing for the rest of my life. I love football.??

How similar do you think South African football is to Indian football?

I haven’t seen Indian football yet so I’m not able to judge on how they play football.

Do you think India has it in them to play in a World Cup like the bafana bafana?

Off course India can play in the World Cup one day like Bafana, but its going to take hard work and patience to get there.

Will you be back for the 20th title trophy tour in India next year?

God willing that the team can win the Premier League this year for the 20th time and It would be my pleasure and honour to come back to India for the 20th Title tour.?? ??

Those who have missed the interview with Denis Irwin’s can click here