David Beckham hailed Alex Ferguson for helping get his career back on track after his infamous 1998 World Cup sending-off made him a hate figure in England. ‘Sir Alex was fantastic,’ Beckham said. ‘He gave me huge strength with his support after the sending-off. Fans were huge, too. ‘In some ways, I am glad I went through it. It made me stronger. When people criticise you, it is not a reason to give up, but to work harder and believe in yourself.’ Describing the extent of his vilification: Nothing could have prepared me for what happened.