Ferdinand’s co-host Stephen Howson says ‘Woodward worse than Munich for Man Utd’

Rio Ferdinand's podcast co-host Stephen Howson has apologised after saying Ed Woodward was worse for Manchester United than the Munich air disaster.

Mr Howson, who works with United legend Ferdinand on Vibe with Five, compared the impact which Woodward had in his near 10-year reign as executive vice-chairman to the fallout from the darkest day in the club's history, which saw eight players and three officials killed on February 6, 1958.

Speaking on the Paddock Podcast, in a short clip which was widely shared on social media, he said: "I think where United are at the moment, f*** it I’m gonna say it on camera. I think Woodward was worse for us than Munich.

"Obviously I’m not comparing people passing away, but I’m saying 10 years post-Munich we was European champions. Ten years of Woodward, we’re in the s***."

He then added: "I’m absolutely not taking anything away from the people who have lost their lives in Munich, but in terms of something that’s f***ing happened, Woodward has been f***ing worse for the football club and where we’ve progressed in that time."

After a clip of the comments was shared to social media, one person replied: "There is no possible context where these words are acceptable." Another wrote: "The worst take I’ve seen with someone who has a huge following. I HATE Ed Woodward but saying that is massively disrespectful and should be apologised for really….."

A third Twitter user added: "I understand the point he’s making but I don’t give him any sympathy. It’s a disgusting and insensitive way of looking at things. How does that even cross your mind because your football team’s been having a few bad results?"

Responding to the backlash, Mr Howson replied: "I can apologise on the delivery, for sure – but this wasn’t a scripted point – never is. It’s a podcast. It was 40 odd mins in to a chat. I clarified at the time what I meant. Most people have understood. But Twitter will look for outrage like it always does."

In a later tweet, he wrote: "I definitely should have worded this better & apologise for any offence I’ve caused. Please watch the full context below, I hope people can see what I was trying to say. I’m a fan who loves our football club, not a trained presenter so I may f*** up sometimes. I’ve done some docs on Munich in past – I know the importance of this to our football club."

Rio Ferdinand has been contacted for comment.

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