Manchester United first team coach Rene Meulensteen has revealed that Sir Alex Ferguson only informed his coaching staff of his decision to retire at the training ground on Wednesday morning. Sky Sports News spoke to the Dutch coach outside Carrington and asked him when he heard the news.

"Just this morning, he called us into his office and said what decision he took," he revealed.

"It has always been on the cards, there is speculation every season and the manager kept his cards close to his chest - I think he felt the time is right now and he has made the decision."

"He obviously is a man that thinks things through very well," he added.

"I am sure he has taken a lot of thought about making the decision and I wish him well, he has been absolutely fantastic for this club, for Manchester United, and I hope all the fans will give whoever comes in all the support he has got."