Ferguson backs Giggs for United job

Pep Guardiola has emerged as a potential replacement
for Louis van Gaal, but Alex Ferguson has thrown his
support behind Ryan Giggs.

Manchester United assistant Ryan Giggs is the right man to
succeed manager Louis van Gaal, according to former boss
Alex Ferguson.

Giggs, 41, was appointed Van Gaal's right-hand man last
season and the United icon is seemingly being prepared for the
top job once the Dutchman departs in 2017.

However, reports have emerged recently that Bayern Munich
coach Pep Guardiola is United's first choice to replace Van
Gaal.

Ferguson, though, is under no illusions who should take the
reins.

"I think Ryan has all the qualities to be a fantastic manager," the
73-year-old and 13-time Premier League winner said via the
Mirror.

"I have heard it said that he will have to go to another club first
because he doesn't have enough experience.

"But he is gaining experience working with Louis van Gaal and
he also had experience working with David Moyes and working
under me as a player.

"I don't think that Ryan needs to go anywhere."

Van Gaal's contract is due to expire in two years and the 64-
year-old Dutchman has given no indication whether he will
renew his contract.

However, Ferguson doubts Van Gaal will walk away from the
hot seat so soon.

"Louis has said he will retire in 2017, but I'm not so sure,"
Ferguson added.

"Once you get bitten by the bug at United it is very difficult to
walk away."