’Amid the turmoil enveloping Sir Alex Ferguson and his agent
son at Old Trafford it is hardly surprising that accusations
of nepotism are being thrown around.

’But when the Fergusons eventually calm down over the points
that Magnier has raised, they should study the list of
runners for next month's Cheltenham Festival - which United
supporters are threatening to disrupt in protest at
Magnier's meddling in Old Trafford - because it makes
interesting reading. In fact it's here the accusation of
nepotism comes in - but directed not at Ferguson but at
Magnier himself.

’The Irishman's son, John Patrick Magnier, is due to ride
the much-fancied Rhinestone Cowboy in the Smurfit Champion
Hurdle, the big race on the opening day. In other
circumstances it might be seen as a dream ride for the 20-
year-old amateur. But, in the heated atmosphere generated by
the row over Rock Of Gibraltar, it seems an unusual move,
with the youngster branded a potential liability in one of
racing's most demanding contests.

’'Pure nepotism' is the way that Channel 4's John McCririck
sums it up. 'They are entitled to do it, yes, but whether
they should do it is another matter.'

’Magnier's decision to favour his son over a string of top
professional jockeys provides an interesting contrast with
the way Ferguson dealt with another of his sons, Darren, who
he sold to Wolves in 1993 after deciding that he wasn't good
enough to make the grade at Old Trafford. Ferguson Jnr
subsequently moved to Wrexham and has carved out a career in
the lower leagues.

’The pressure of riding a leading Cheltenham fancy weighed
all too heavily on Magnier's older brother Tom four years
ago. Pale and gaunt after wasting hard to ride Ned Kelly in
the Festival Bumper, he put up six-pound overweight and
found the powerful chestnut a real handful before he faded
tamely once the race began in earnest.

’Four frenetic minutes on 16 March will decide whether the
nice guy can deliver on Rhinestone Cowboy. If he doesn't,
Magnier Snr may have even more explaining to do.’