Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has played down talk that he will retire in three years' time.

In a French radio interview - and speaking partly in French - Ferguson said: "Maybe three more years and I will finish."

Last night he insisted: "I'm not saying I will definitely do three years. It's a possibility. It's difficult to pigeon-hole myself in that one because it could be four years. Who knows? It could be tomorrow.

"Nothing's changed in my mind. One thing that can change is your health and also the success of the team. But I think we've made a good decision over the last couple of years in terms of the future of the club and team.

"The youth policy is strong. There's a good balance and a good prospect ahead for the club."