Sir Alex Ferguson last night paid tribute to the Lisbon Lions – while also voicing his belief that the city of Manchester will rally in the aftermath of Monday night’s tragic events.

The former Manchester City manager was at the Hydro last night as Celtic staged their 50th anniversary celebrations for the Lions.

“For Celtic to do with 11 players all born within 25 miles of each other was astonishing,” he said.

“It’s right that their achievement is recognised. It was unique. It will never be done again.”

Ferguson is still shocked by the events of Monday evening when 22 people lost their lives at an Ariana Grande concert in Manchester.

Jose Mourinho’s side won the Europa League with a win over Ajax on Wednesday night and Ferguson hopes it gives the city some unity.

“Manchester, like Glasgow, is a working class city with fantastic people,” he said.

“They will get together.

“They have been through some difficult times in the past like the bombing of the Arndale Centre.

“They recovered from that and there is a great unity in the city.

“United winning the Europa League gave the city a lift.

“We are all proud of them. It was a great achievement.”