Sir Alex Ferguson is backing Labour in Thursday’s Glasgow North East by-election.
Govan’s most famous son has endorsed Labour candidate Willie Bain to win the seat, vacated by former Commons speaker Michael Martin in the wake of the MPs expenses row.
The Manchester United boss, a former union shop steward and staunch Labour supporter, said Mr Bain understands what "needs to be done" in the constituency.
"Willie's action plan for Glasgow focuses on people's real concerns and priorities,” said Sir Alex.
"His determination to crack down on crime and fight to improve chances for local people is spot on, and has my whole-hearted support."
Voters go the polls on Thursday when 13 candidates will battle it out to replace Mr Martin.
The by-election has a ‘celebrity’ element to it with local hero John ‘Smeato’ Smeaton and Big Brother housemates Mikey Hughes and former MSP Tommy Sheridan all entering the race.
Sir Alex believes Mr Bain will help Glasgow get its “fair share” in Westminster. He added: "I know the value of having someone able to stop the city being ripped off.
"I always tell young players that being a footballer is the best job in the world. Yes, it's hard work to reach the top but nothing to bringing up a family or running a household on a tight budget."
Mr Bain said: "Sir Alex knows a thing or two about running a good campaign so I am delighted that he is backing us in the election."
The full list of candidates is:
Charlie Baillie, British National Party
Willie Bain, Scottish Labour Party
Eileen Baxendale, Scottish Liberal Democrats
Mev Brown, Independent
Colin Campbell, The Individuals Labour and Tory (TILT)
Ruth Davidson, Scottish Conservative and Unionist
David Doherty, Scottish Green Party
Mikey Hughes, Independent
David Kerr, Scottish National Party (SNP)
Louise McDaid, Socialist Labour Party
Kevin McVey, Scottish Socialist Party – Make Greed History
Tommy Sheridan, Solidarity – Scotland’s Socialist Movement
John David Smeaton, Jury Team
