Why Man Utd would have missed out on Ronaldo, Rooney and Keane if they had rivals’ unique transfer and selection policy

IMAGINE if Manchester United could only field players born or raised in the Greater Manchester area.

United have always prided themselves on developing their own young stars, from Bobby Charlton and the Busby Babes to David Beckham and the Class of ’92.

GettyManchester United pride themselves on their record of promoting home-grown stars, such as the much-vaunted Class of 92, here with the 1999 European Cup[/caption] ReutersIf United had Athletic Bilbao’s strict selection policy...