Soccer: McClaren may be key to Ferguson quit decision Webb

Former Manchester United midfielder Neil Webb believes Sir Alex Ferguson may have decided to quit Old Trafford because he did not think his number two Steve McClaren was going to get the job.

Ferguson admitted last night that he would sever all links with United at the end of next season when his contract runs out.

United had already offered him a new role as youth development manager, while he had also been touted as a possible worldwide ambassador for the Reds.

Ferguson’s son Jason had been handling negotiations with United chief executive Peter Kenyon and the club were hopeful of keeping him at Old Trafford.

But with 14 trophies including three domestic Doubles and an unprecedented Treble in 1999 behind him, Ferguson has decided to turn his back on the club.

Webb, bought by Ferguson from Nottingham Forest for £1.5million in 1989, said: ‘‘I think if Steve McClaren was going to get the job Alex would have stayed on as an advisor.

‘‘If they are going to bring in a name manager and I think the only man is Martin O’Neill Celtic manager he would not want that sort of personality behind the scenes hanging over him.’’

Webb, who made 110 appearances for United before going back to Forest in 1992, said: ‘‘Ferguson has done the right thing.

‘‘The sudden thought of retirement may not have appealed. The Barcelona job has been mentioned before and he might like to give it a go.’’

Barcelona president Joan Gaspart could see Ferguson as the man to rekindle the fortunes of the ailing Catalan giants.

Ferguson said: ‘‘I do not know if I will manage another club. I will be leaving Manchester United at the end of the season and that is it.

‘‘Then I will have to decide what I want to do. There are some offers and options, so I will make a decisions over the next few months.’’

Ferguson admitted he will be sad to leave Old Trafford and so far the club have refused to elaborate on the reasons behind the Scot’s shock decision.

‘‘Managing Manchester United has been the pinnacle of my career. There is a fantastic support here and great players, with great character who should be proud of what they have achieved.

‘‘I am in a healthy position because my own health is good and while you never know what you are going to do, the most important thing is to remain active.’’

United are remaining tight-lipped and director of communications Paddy Harverson said: ‘‘We have no comment.’’