United fans in Gambia celebrate

Manchester United fans across The Gambia and other African countries took to the streets to celebrate Manchester United winning the English league on Sunday.

The English Premier League is keenly followed in The Gambia, as in many countries around the world.

Hundreds of fans in the country watched Sunday's exciting league finale at their homes and the various video centres.

Soon after the final whistle, which saw United pipped rivals Chelsea to clinch their 17th title triumph with victory at Wigan (10th Premier League title for Sir Alex Ferguson), the Reds faithfuls stormed the streets to celebrate, blowing whistles and honking horns.

Even the Daily Observer’s deputy managing director, Andrew DaCcosta, a die-hard fan of the Reds, was not left behind, as he reported to work the following day dressed in United outfits.

“United are the greatest, and we prove this by retaining the coveted league title,” he was quoted as saying.

The mood in other African countries, as expected, made no difference. A former Sierra Leone international footballer composed a special song to celebrate the resounding victory.

"Come join us in our dance to celebrate Manchester United's victory," sings Umaru Rahman, alias Gallon Pan.

Pan, a prolific striker for the national team, as well as lower league clubs in Germany and Sweden, says he has always been a United fan.
 
"I was born into it," he said. "Manchester are the champions," he sings in the local Krio language.

"Manchester United fans please do not be bothered. You are simply with the best team. We are urging fans of other clubs to come join in our celebration. Manchester United are for all football lovers."

"Sir Alex Ferguson, you are our father and have brought us to a height we will never slip from."

All told, Manchester United fans will now turn attention to the Champions League final against Chelsea in Moscow on May 21.