Ex-United stars wanted to wish their former boss a speedy recovery after his brain bleed

SIR Alex Ferguson received a nice surprise when he went for lunch in Manchester.

Ryan Giggs, Gary Neville, Nicky Butt and Paul Scholes were all waiting outside The Ivy for the 73-year-old Red Devils legend.

Sir Alex Ferguson was joined by Gary Neville, Paul Scholes, Nicky Butt and Ryan Giggs for Christmas lunch in ManchesterCredit: @alan__price

Sir Alex Ferguson arriving at The Ivy in Manchester city centreCredit: Eamonn and James Clarke

Gary Neville chatting on the phone while waiting for FergusonCredit: Eamonn and James Clarke

Paul Scholes also paid visit to the Man United legendCredit: Eamonn and James Clarke

All four players were recruited by Fergie as a part of United’s Class of ’92.

Former Red Devils’ stars surprised Ferguson, waiting outside The Ivy in Manchester for 10 minutes before the Scot arrived.

The newest branch of the popular amongst celebrities chain restaurant opened in Manchester on November 27 and can host up to 535 guests.

It includes a first floor private dining room as well as company’s first Ivy Asia site.

The 73-year-old thought he was attending a casual lunch before seeing his former pupils in front of the restaurant.

Nicky Butt was a part of the Class of ’92 who moved to Old Trafford under FergusonCredit: Eamonn and James Clarke

Ryan Giggs was in jolly mood joining Ferguson for a lunchCredit: Eamonn and James Clarke

Ferguson suffered to a brain haemorrhage earlier this year and his unexpected lunch guests were among those wishing his former gaffer a speedy recovery.

The meeting comes after Ferguson was banned from attending United’s match against Fulham as his doctors were concerned over Fergie’s health.

The Scot was seen watching Red Devils‘ three consecutive games in just nine days – including the dramatic 2-2 draw at Southampton.

The clash could surely provide Ferguson with an adrenaline boost as Jose Mourinho‘s men fell 2-0 down quickly in the first half.

Neville entering the restaurant for his lunch with FergieCredit: Eamonn and James Clarke

Ferguson was seemingly unaware his former players would join him for lunchCredit: Eamonn and James Clarke

Fergie got emotionally involved as the drama was unfolding at St Mary’s, chuckling shortly after Cedric gave Saints a two-goal lead having wonderfully converting a free-kick.

United managed to draw level before half-time, getting only a point and sparking the latest outburst amongst their fans.