- Former Leeds manager David O’Leary disclosed on the Stick to Football podcast that he was among a select group considered by Sir Alex Ferguson as a potential successor for the Manchester United managerial position approximately 25 years ago.
- Sir Alex Ferguson had initially intended to retire at the end of the 2001/02 season and had recommended around three individuals, including O'Leary, for the top job at Old Trafford.
- O'Leary's solicitor, Michael Kennedy, confirmed the approach, indicating that Ferguson had put O'Leary's name forward as a candidate.
- Ferguson subsequently performed a dramatic U-turn on his retirement plans, remaining as Manchester United manager until 2013, while O’Leary was sacked by Leeds in 2002.
- O'Leary also offered a warning to Michael Carrick, who is currently in an interim role at United, regarding the immense pressure and significant step up involved in officially managing a club of Manchester United's magnitude.
IN FULL
David O’Leary reveals how close he came to replacing Sir Alex Ferguson at Man United
