Fergy: Abramovich wanted me

In an hour-long interview on American television in the early hours of Wednesday morning, former Manchester United manager said:

“They used an agent to approach me when Abramovich first took over the club and I said: 'No chance.'”

 Furthermore, Ferguson has given his beleaguered successor David Moyes his seal of approval and is confident the team will thrive under his management, despite their worst start to a league campaign since 1989.

Despite bookmakers shortening the odds for Ferguson to re-take the helm, the Scot ruled out a return to the dug out at Old Trafford.

“I’m not interested in managing again or getting myself worked up about Manchester United’s results,” Ferguson told Charlie Rose on PSB. “United are in good hands with David Moyes. He will be fine. He’s a good manager.

“You would be throwing your money down the drain if you put any money on me coming back as a manager.

“I made my decision. The timing was perfect. There is no way back for me now. I’ve got a new life. I want to go the Kentucky Derby and the US Masters, the Melbourne Cup. I want to visit vineyards in Tuscany and France.”

In addition, Ferguson re-affirmed suspicions that Wayne Rooney asked to leave the club the day after United won the Premier League title last May.

But the 71-year-old said he was impressed with the way the striker had turned his form around and was playing with his old verve and energy.