JOHANNESBURG, July 26: David Gill, Manchester United’s chief executive, has admitted the club will seek the opinion of Sir Alex Ferguson before naming his successor when the Old Trafford manager finally retires.

Ferguson, 66, continues to leave observers guessing as to his likely departure date from Old Trafford.

Having been at the helm since November 1986, when he succeeded Ron Atkinson, Ferguson recently confessed that he did not anticipate being in the job beyond his 70th birthday.

Several high-profile managers, including Portugal coach Carlos Queiroz and Manchester City boss Mark Hughes – both with strong United connections – have been touted as possible candidates to succeed Ferguson at Old Trafford.

But Gill admits that, when the time comes to name a new boss, reigning English and European champions United will ensure that Ferguson, currently with his squad on a pre-season tour of South Africa, has an input into selecting his replacement in the hot seat.

“We will address that [Ferguson’s successor] when it comes around, but the club’s owners [the Glazer family], myself and the people involved will obviously get Sir Alex’s views on the subject,” Gill said.

“Somebody who has managed the club for so many years, who knows the club inside out and knows what is required would be invaluable.”—AFP