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ALEX FERGUSON has wished former South African president Nelson Mandela a Happy 94th Birthday. And the Manchester United manager even broke into song for his old friend, who he first met in 1993 � three years after the anti-apartheid activist's historic release from prison. Ferguson, currently on a pre-season tour of South Africa, said: "I have met him a few times now, and I think every time you meet him you're sort of in awe of him � his presence, his personality exudes all around you." United defender Rio Ferdinand added: "Mandela was selfless. He gave up the majority of his life for everybody else. "In today's society you see so much selfishness and me, me, me. But he gave up himself for a whole nation to make huge strides forward. "He is someone any young kid now should be learning and writing about within the national curriculum. "In today's world, there could be no better inspiration from one human being." South African cricket captain Graeme Smith, whose side take on England in the First Test at The Oval tomorrow, wrote on Twitter: "Happy Birthday Madiba. Have a great day with family and friends. "Time for us to take responsibilty to make our community and country a better place!" All-rounder Jacques Kallis added: "Happy Birthday Madiba. 94 not out."