08 March, 2008
Q&A: Sir Alex Ferguson
 Sir Alex Ferguson's weekly press conference on Friday was dominated by talk of retirement. But what emerged from the probing questions about his future was a glimpse of a blueprint for the future and the legacy he hopes to leave behind. It was an interesting exchange, with the press gathered to extrapolate whether Sir Alex has a retirement date in mind. Instead, they found a manager intent not only on success in his final years at the club, but laying solid foundations for the future. So, according to reports, we've got you for the next three years? I’m not putting a time limit on it, it’s impossible to do. What I've said for a while is that if I feel fit and healthy and enjoying your job, then who knows? Two, three, maybe four years, it’s difficult to pigeonhole myself on that one. What are the factors in making your decision? The only thing that can change is your health and the success of the team. There are two factors related to my job, performance and health. At 66, you have to make it a consideration. We have made good decisions in the last few years for the future of the club and the team. The youth policy is strong, and I think the youth at the club will be here for a few years. There's a good balance and strong prospects for Manchester United. How hard will it be to leave if the team is really successful? Well, that’s the perfect time, because you know then that you’ve done your job. When I make the decision I'll be satisfied that the club is in good hands. You’ve almost served the club as long as Matt Busby, is that a target? No, not at all. It’s down to me and the way I feel myself. It’ll be my decision. Has anything changed in your daily schedule from, say, ten years ago? No. The only thing that has altered is that, during international breaks, I take more time off. That’s why I hope there are more internationals next season! I enjoy getting a few days’ break during those international breaks. What is there left to achieve? The thing to strive for is maintaining the standards and levels of success. You have to fill the ground, that’s important. I think that’s Manchester United, and it’s always going to have those expectations. It’s not a matter of adding anything more to what I've done, it’s maintaining the level we've been at. The past won’t matter at that point, it’s the future. |
posted by redarmy at 5:59 AM
