FOOTBALL POEM I take the snap from the

FOOTBALL POEM I take the snap from the center, fake to the right, fade back. . . I've got protection. I've got a receiver open downfield. . . What the hell is this? This isn't a football, it's a shoe, a man's brown leather oxford. A cousin to a football maybe, the same skin, but not the same, a thing made for the earth, not the air. I realize that this is a world where anything is possible and I understand, also, that one often has to make do with what one has. I have eaten pancakes, for instance, with that clear corn syrup on them because there was no maple syrup and they weren't very good. Well, anyway, this is different. (My man downfield is waving his arms. ) One has certain responsibilities, one has to make choices. This isn't right and I'm not going

NEWSPAPER Manchester United Football Club has been sold for £ 20 m in the biggest takeover deal in the history of British football. The new owner is Isle of Man-based property tycoon and former footballer, Michael Knighton. Manchester United chairman Martin Edwards is to receive more than £ 10 m for his majority share in the club and will stay on as chief executive. There had been rumours for some time that Mr Edwards was planning to sell his stake but the deal was shrouded in secrecy. The sale of his shares ends 25 years of Edwards family control of what has been dubbed "the world's most famous football team". At the press conference to announce the sale he defended what he called his "sad" decision. "I believe that under new direction and with new financial backing this club can go even further, " Mr Edwards said. I consider myself to be a football enthusiast first and a businessman second Michael Knighton Since taking over at Manchester United in 1980 after the death of his father, Louis, Mr Edwards' large annual salary and his sacking of a popular manager have alienated many fans. Manchester United gained its worldwide reputation after a golden era in the 50 s under Sir Matt Busby and his "Busby Babes". Players who followed them like Bobby Charlton, Dennis Law and George Best also helped enhance the club's reputation and its trophy cabinet. But in recent years Manchester United has been - by its standards - in the footballing doldrums and attendance at matches has dropped off. It is badly in need of a cash injection for both new players and facilities. The new owner has promised to spend £ 10 m refurbishing Manchester United's Old Trafford ground England's largest stadium apart from Wembley. "Manchester United is a legend. It is undoubtedly in my view the

FUTURE PLANS My future plans are to become a pilot or a lacrosse. Becoming a pilot seems like fun , exploring the world the would be awesome. I want to play lacrosse as a pro would be cool and get paid lots of money.