Soccer: Cantona to coach United kids

Eric Cantona has been handed the chance to coach Manchester United's youngsters at the start of next season.

Cantona, voted player of the century by Manchester United supporters last season, is keen for a return to the game.

And Sir Alex Ferguson confirmed the arrangement to give the Frenchman valuable coaching experience.

"Eric wants to get back into the game so we've given him the opportunity to help coach the young players at the start of next season," Ferguson told the club's official website.

"It's not an appointment but a casual arrangement to allow Eric to gain some experience of coaching."

Since his retirement, Cantona has acted in several films and toured the world playing beach soccer.