Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has admitted his disdain for ex-players in the media.

Ferguson revealed the depth of his hatred for journalists and in particular the sofa darlings such as Alan Shearer, Alan Hansen, Mark Lawrenson, Andy Gray and the other ex-stars who turned to commentary instead of following him into management.

Asked if he would turn his hand to punditry when he finally retires, Ferguson told the New Statesman: "Not a chance, some of the ex-player, ex-manager pundits are the worst.

"It's a disgrace the way they sit there criticising guys they used to play with, just to make a bit of an impact. I couldn't do that."