Sir Alex Ferguson’s 11-word message to Keely Hodgkinson revealed in Olympic champ’s ‘crazy’ meeting with Man Utd icon

KEELY HODGKINSON has revealed what Sir Alex Ferguson said to her when the pair met at a Manchester United game in September.

The 800m Olympic gold medallist was a special VIP guest as the Red Devils took on Tottenham.

Ahead of the game, United fan Hodgkinson was given a hero's reception by Old Trafford as she was introduced to the crowd with her gold medal.

Despite the Red Devils' 3-0 defeat, the rising star was able to meet a cheerful Sir Alex Ferguson after the match.

The pair beamed as they posed for a picture together.

Two months on, Hodgkinson has lifted the lid on their conversation.

Speaking to the , the Atherton-born star said: "It was really nice to be recognised by the team that I've supported my entire life.

"We met Sir Alex Ferguson, which was crazy. He was very nice, very chatty."

On what he said in particular, she added: "I showed him my gold medal.

"He said 'You'll only appreciate this in 20 years' time when you're done.'

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"He said he watched my race, but who knows. People say that to me and I'm like 'Did you?!'"

Hodgkinson is expected to be among the front-runners to win this year's Sports Personality of the Year award.

Since her Paris triumph she has been able to enjoy herself, presenting a prize at September's National Television Awards and attending London Fashion Week.

The hard work hasn't stopped though, with Hodgkinson having recently been on a gruelling altitude training camp in South Africa.