Premiership: Family talked me into staying, says Fergie

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed that his wife Cathy and three sons helped him change his mind about retiring at the end of this season.

Ferguson is in negotiations to stay as Old Trafford boss for up to three years following a u-turn that shocked the football world.

In an interview in a Scottish newspaper, the 60-year-old admitted his wife Cathy and sons, Mark, Darren and Jason helped him change his mind.

It was over Christmas that the Ferguson family suggested he should reconsider his decision to go in May.

Ferguson told The Scotsman: "It was really Cathy's idea. If she hadn't come up with it and the boys hadn't given full support, I wouldn't have considered a change of mind.

"But I do have to confess that maybe it was an idea I was hoping deep down she would come up with."

And the Scot with the hardman reputation claimed he will modify the job in the coming years.

"I'll tailor it a little differently, reduce the workload a bit," he said.

Ferguson should be confirmed as United's 'new' manager later this week and negotiations on his new contract are at an advanced stage.

In a brief statement to the Stock Exchange yesterday the club said: "As a result of today's press speculation, the board of Manchester United plc confirms that it was recently approached by Sir Alex Ferguson on Sir Alex remaining as manager of the club beyond this season.

"The board has entered into discussions with Sir Alex and his advisors on a new contract.

"These discussions are continuing and a further announcement will be made in due course."