For the second time in his life, Michael Knighton has seen a move to purchase Manchester United go up in smoke. While his motives for speaking publicly are not sinister, the 71-year-old could go down as a key cog in the wheel to liberate the Red Devils from the Glazer family.
Over 30 years ago, Knighton tried - and failed - in an attempt to buy United for £20million. A deal had been agreed upon but ultimately broke down due to insufficient funds - a move which saw the businessman become a director at the club.
Three years at Old Trafford would end when he purchased Carlisle United, a club sitting rock-bottom of the Football League. A disastrous spell up north saw Knighton - worth an estimated £5.8million - hounded out by supporters and fade into footballing obscurity.
