Fergie feels Ben is just the business

Date published: 04 December 2009

When it comes to being an achieving youngster Middleton lad Ben McLean fits the bill. So much so, that he has just been saluted by national charity Rathbone and Sir Alex Ferguson.

The 19-year-old was selected as one of six young people to meet the legendary Manchester United manager after he netted qualifications and scored a place on a Business Administration Apprenticeship.

If things had turned out a little differently, Ben could’ve been winging-it as a United player! A former youth professional with Rochdale who was also watched by Manchester City, Ben once had a trial with the Red Devils. But he doesn’t think they made an error by not signing him on - and he’s over the moon with the booming progress he’s made in business administration.

He said: “I didn’t really enjoy school because I wanted to do something practical instead of studying. I managed to get a BTEC at Siddal Moor Sports College but found myself unemployed shortly after. Things have really turned round since I went to Rathbone though and it was great meeting Sir Alex.”

Ben spent an agonising six months on the dole before hooking up with the Connexions service – who recommended Rathbone. The Yorkshire Street charity helped him plan his future, gain qualifications and brush up his CV and job interview technique.

This gave Ben a real confidence boost and he soon found himself on work placement at Rathbone’s HQ in Manchester. He made such an impression there as the charity’s friendly welcoming face on reception, that he was soon put forward for an apprenticeship. He also starred in a Government film encouraging local councils to back Rathbone’s work.

The life-long United fan certainly gained the support of Sir Alex, who said of him: “It is so pleasing to meet youngsters who have overcome hardship to succeed. People such as Ben are true champions and it was an honour to meet him. I wish Ben and Rathbone every success for the future.”

Ben continued: “Sir Alex was really interested in what I’d be doing and wanted to know all about my football career. It was fantastic to hear your hero encourage you and the advice he gave me about the value of apprenticeships will stay with me forever. What a motivator! You can see why he’s won the Champions League!”

Rathbone Rochdale runs a raft of courses for unemployed young people aimed at helping them gain the skills they need to find work. Those aged between 16 and 18 can also access Level 2 Apprenticeships in professions such as retail, motor vehicle, childcare and warehousing.