PAKO AYESTERAN is a shock candidate to become
Alex Ferguson’s new No2. Current Manchester United assistant Carlos
Queiroz is poised to replace Chelsea manager Phil Scolari as
Portugal boss. And former Liverpool No2 Ayesteran has leapfrogged
United coaches Brian McClair and Michael Phelan for the Old
Trafford role.
Bordeaux boss and former United defender Laurent Blanc
is also in the frame. Benfica No2 Ayesteran has a reputation as a
world-class fitness trainer and coach and Fergie would delight in
his in-depth knowledge of United’s rivals.
Ayesteran arrived in England with Kop boss Rafa Benitez
in 2004. The Spaniard quit Liverpool in September last year after a
bust-up but, under the terms of his Anfield contract, he could not
join a new club until the end of June when his deal expired.
He was linked to a number of high-profile jobs before
eventually joining Benfica.
Queiroz says he would be “thrilled” to lead his country
again but his imminent appointment is causing a stink at the
Portuguese FA. He said: “Coming back to Portugal is more than a
dream. I was born to do it.” Queiroz is waiting for United and the
FPF to agree an £800,000 compensation deal.