Ferguson eyes clean break

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The 66-year-old said he still has his passion for the game and it burns as strongly as ever despite fulfilling the long-term ambition of winning the European Cup for a second time.

In a Sky Sports interview with Sir David Frost, Ferguson said: "I'll carry on for no more than three years, maybe two more. I have to respect my wife because she is a not football fan you know, she's an Alex Ferguson fan. At that point I wouldn't have an interest in how it was run. No, it would be the manager's domain."

He added: "People say that if you are about the place, you are in the road, and I don't want that - the field will be left clear.

"I'll keep the enthusiasm up long past 70 - whether I'll still be doing the football, I'm not so sure about that.

"Anyway, I deserve a rest. After you've done 21 years, or 23 after a couple more seasons, you need one.

He continued: "Success gives you control. That's what you're after as a manager. Because it's very difficult to control if you're not successful.

"It means, usually, the end of your job. The most difficult job and the most important man at Manchester United is the manager. Without question, the minute that ever changed it would mean a massive free-fall in the club.

"You can never allow the players to run the football club and you can never allow the supporters to run the football club. They've all a part to play. Without our supporters, we'd be nothing; without the players, we'd be nothing.

"They are the most important components of a football club; but somebody has to run it. Somebody has to be in charge. The manager is the best man, and has always got to be supported."