QUOTES OF THE WEEK

I always planned to retire at the top and at Manchester United I have reached the pinnacle of my career. Eric Cantona announces his retirement.

There are absolutely no recriminations on my part. At pounds 1m we've had unbelievable value out of him. We've got six trophies for that money. Alex Ferguson, Manchester United manager.

Eric was one of us - he loved the game. He was always the last to leave the training ground, he was so busy signing autographs. If you met him on a night out he would always speak to you. He always had time for people who loved the game. Andy Walsh, United supporters' spokesman.

I'm not sure that he is quitting. Big stars bid farewell more than once. It's one of his first goodbyes. I'm sure there will be encores. Guy Roux, Auxerre coach and Cantona's mentor.

When I walked out on the pitch before the [Uefa Cup] final I looked round the San Siro and thought, `Do I really want to give this up?' Paul Ince, of Internazionale, agonises over whether to return to England.

People have this image that England are a scruffy, surly and sour lot. They are nothing of the sort. They are nice, smart lads and this dress code has been issued simply to help. David Lloyd, England cricket coach, on the new sartorial regime.