Fergie was tempted to go abroad

Sir Alex Ferguson admits that in the past he has contemplated the possibility of managing abroad, but the draw of Manchester United has always proved to be too strong.

The Red Devils boss has ruled over Old Trafford for 21 years, steadfastly refusing to enter into negotiations with any other club during that period.


However, as he prepares to face Roy Hodgson's Fulham on Saturday, he admits that he sometimes envies the globe-trekking exploits of his opposite number.

Education

"Roy Hodgson has done what a lot of us would love to have done, go abroad and work abroad," Ferguson told the League Managers' Association.


"I always remember Bobby Robson saying that the best thing he ever did was go to PSV, Sporting Lisbon, Porto and Barcelona.


"He was out of the country for maybe 10 or 12 years. Working in different climates with different cultures definitely broadens your education.


"I remember meeting Roy Hodgson in Malmo in 1987 when I had just joined Manchester United. Malmo were playing Ajax in the European Cup and Roy was at the game.

Incredible

"Over the years he has gone to Inter Milan, Switzerland, Finland, Udinese, Blackburn etc... it's incredible all the teams he has managed.


"You can see when he's interviewed that he knows what he is talking about.


"Sometimes I used to say to myself 'I'd love to have tried managing abroad sometime' but then it was difficult for me.


"My choices were cut off simply because I was the manager of Manchester United which is amazing and you don't leave Manchester United."

Relaxed

United go to Craven Cottage at the weekend in fine form and will be looking to close the three-point gap to current leaders Arsenal at the top of the Premier League.


After a comprehensive 5-1 hammering of Newcastle last time out and with the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney and Carlos Tevez currently firing on all cylinders, it is little wonder that Ferguson believes he has the quality in his squad to catch the Gunners.


"The players have that joy of being at a club with a lot of ambition," he said.


"We work hard at making sure that they are relaxed in that respect with a responsibility to use their talents all the time to express themselves.


"We are fortunate in that it is easier for them than a lot of other players because they are exceptional talents."