Manchester United coach Michael Carrick has spoken of Sir Alex Ferguson breaking his retirement decision to the players.

The Scot left his post as Red Devils boss after winning the 2013 Premier League title, but had revealed his intentions to the Manchester United team earlier in the season.

The fact that he was leaving was leaked, meaning Ferguson was forced to address the rumours in a meeting with the United squad, and inform them that the speculation was indeed true.

Carrick, in his new autobiography, Between the Lines, writes: "I took in every detail. The Boss began speaking and became quite emotional. 'Look, boys, I didn't want to do it this way.

"I wanted you to be the first to know. I'm really disappointed how it's come out. I really did want to be telling you first, but I've been forced to tell you now because it's come out last night. Someone's leaked it.'

"He was fuming about that. There couldn't have been many people who knew.

"Sir Alex went on, 'Look, boys, this is not something I've taken lightly.' He mentioned Lady Cathy's sister passing away.

"'I feel that I owe it to my wife to be with her and look after her. It's been unbelievable and thanks for everything, I've loved every minute. I don't really want to go, but I've got to take this decision.'

"You could see it was hard for him to finally say, 'This is it, boys.'"