Manchester United legend Sir Bobby Charlton believes that someone
from outside the clubs history should take over from Alex Ferguson
when he retires.
Ferguson is reaching the twilight of his career, although theres
nothing to suggest that the 65-year-old is ready to hang up the
chewing gum just yet.
Nevertheless there has been rhetoric amongst fans over who should
replace the great man, with the likes of Roy Keane and Mark Hughes
being the most favoured, due to their successful playing careers
with the club.
But club director Charlton thinks that it would be better to bring
in someone not previously connected to United.
"I think their have been a lot of mistakes made by a lot of clubs
in getting managers who have already been some part of the club in
their career," Charlton told The Daily Star.
"I don't buy that. If he's a good manager it doesn't matter who he
is, where he comes from or even what nationality he is.
"In fact, in lots of cases, I'd say it was a hardship now to have a
club background.
"People say only an old player could do it but maybe it's better to
have a clean bill of health. Maybe give it to somebody who will
really clear the decks."
Charlton went on by saying he doesnt expect Ferguson, who intended
to call it a day in 2002, quitting in the near future.
"You can't plan for somebody like Sir Alex retiring," said
Charlton.
"I don't think Alex is even considering retirement at the moment.
He has a smile on his face and he's enjoying it.
"The last time he said he was retiring I didn't believe it. I was
right then. Some people think it would be the perfect time for him
to go if he won another Champions League final. Maybe.
"But he's not a sentimentalist like that. He's hard as nails,
Alex.
"He's a born manager. I can't see him thinking of doing anything
else for the next few years."
