Fergie hints at Giggs future

United boss applauds forward-thinking midfielder

Last updated: 22nd February 2008

Alex Ferguson and Ryan Giggs

Ferguson and Giggs: Looking forward

Related links

Teams

Players

Also see

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson believes Ryan Giggs could have a future role at Old Trafford following the midfielder's enrolment in a Uefa coaching course.

Giggs marked his 100th UEFA Champions League appearance for United by helping the Red Devils to a 1-1 away draw against Lyon in the first-leg of their last 16 clash with the French champions, but the 34-year-old is also looking to the future.

And Ferguson expects Giggs, who is due to study his Uefa 'A' licence under the control of the Football Association of Wales in the summer, and fellow United veterans Gary Neville and Paul Scholes to follow former Old Trafford star Ole Gunnar Solskjaer by progressing into coaching.

"Ryan is 34 now and with all players who have had long careers, they start thinking about what they are going to do when they finish," said Ferguson.

Future role

"Players like Ryan, Gary Neville, Paul Scholes will follow the pattern of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, I am sure of that."

Ferguson has also hinted that Giggs could be handed a future role with the Red Devils when the former Wales international decides to hang up his boots.

"It is something we will be looking at in terms of a future with us in relation to a position at the club in some shape or form because they have been fantastic examples," Ferguson added.

"There is no doubt when it comes to personality, experience and lifestyle, they are absolutely perfect for a club."

And Ferguson is looking forward to renewing his rivalry with Newcastle boss Kevin Keegan, who also managed the Magpies in the mid-nineties followed by a stint at United's derby rivals Manchester City, on Saturday.

"I haven't spoken to Kevin for ages. He was out of the game for three years of course. I am looking forward to seeing him," Ferguson concluded.