Gates was enthusiastic about the co-operation. "As famous Manchester players like Bobby Charlton, Jim Best and Eric Can-tana have set the standards, so has Microsoft with its new XP software and X-Box system. Just like Manchester has overcome the Liverpool and London soccer franchises, Microsoft has overcome opponents like Apple and the OS Operating system. Not only that, in the future with new online enterprises we're ready to take on the challenges set by Linux and Sony".

When questioned about wether he would change the name of the club to "Microsoft United" Gates laughed. "No, no, no....the name is a vitally important part of global branding, marketing as well as the sporting legend of England and Soccer in general. Under this deal the team only has to spend 4 months touring America per year, so those at the legendary Trafford stadium will still see their stars most of the time."

The smiling Microsoft chief then shook hands with United boss Sir Alex Ferguson. "Sir Alex and I are very alike" beamed Gates, "In 1980 I created DOS, a standard disk operating system but I still was'nt happy, I wanted to improve it with the GUI friendly Windows software - likewise Sir Alex is always looking to improve his team with new players".

Manchester United chief executive Peter Kenyon said: "It's yet another example of Manchester United, whether it be on the field or off the field, breaking new ground,"

Kenyon added "Microsoft are an icon of America" Kenyon said. "Their executive staff know the North American markets better than anyone. Soccer has developed dramatically in the U.S. over the last 10 years and we believe there is a market for Manchester United content among football fans of all ages. This new deal will give us the money to buy Zidane and Rivaldo, I hope."

Bill Gates then continued to outline his vision: "We see Europe as the centre of this business, gamers in Europe will love the X-box and its top quality content. Now with the Man U's backing we are on to a winner."

There then followed a 20 minute film demonstrating the new X-box's gaming and online abilities. Added the computer billionaire, "I'm talking about an extended PC - a PC that talks to the TV set-top box, talks to the music player devices, co-ordinates with other PCs, its the future of technology in the 21st Century"

Manchester United's stock price increased 13 percent to £1.65 during mid-day trading on the London Stock Exchange before closing at £1.62, an increase of 15.4 percent. "Everybody loves the Man United and everybody loves Microsoft, its a win-win situation" concluded Gates.

Taken From www.teamtalk.com