Sir Alex Ferguson presents best groundsman trophy to Tony Sinclair on pitch at Old Trafford

Sir Alex Ferguson was on the pitch at Old Trafford ahead of Manchester United's match against Newcastle to present groundsman Tony Sinclair with an award for his fine work.

Sinclair won the best groundsman trophy and was presented the accolade by the club's legendary former manager.

The Red Devils have a 30-strong team to ensure their pitch is up to scratch as they look to become the Barclays Premier League force they once were.

Sinclair and Co take care of the Old Trafford turf and that at the club's Carrington training HQ, as well as two other training grounds they tend to on behalf of United's academy sides.

Sinclair told United's official website in June, 2013: 'It's the most vital tool to the team. If the pitch isn't right then the repercussions can be great. The players want a lush, wet, fast-moving surface so they can perform to the highest level.

Read more: Mail on Line