When he is grilling politicians on the BBC, Nick Robinson is expected to remain strictly impartial.
But when it comes to his next interviewee, the veteran journalist has already nailed his colours firmly to the mast.
The BBC’s political editor, a lifelong Manchester United fan, is to quiz the club’s former boss, Sir Alex Ferguson, in a TV documentary.
Robinson has already spoken fulsomely of the legendary manager.
Two years ago, he caused a stir on the Today programme when he interrupted his analysis of the Queen’s speech to describe Ferguson as the “greatest living Briton”.
In the new one-off programme – to be broadcast on BBC1 later this year – he will talk to Ferguson about the secrets of his success.
The BBC said the pair will get “up close and personal” as the retired manager discusses his leadership strategies and reveals the secrets of his trophy-laden managerial career.
Robinson will also interview leaders from public life, business and the military and ask them for their thoughts on Ferguson’s time in charge of the club.
The 51-year-old is preparing to join Today on Radio 4 in the autumn, following the departure of James Naughtie.
Robinson was born in Macclesfield and became a committed United fan when he became a paperboy for former Red Devils star Stan Pearson.
He said: “I’ve spent my career watching and analysing leaders for a living but I never saw one to match Sir Alex.
“Like a general leading troops into battle or the chief executive of a mighty corporation, he succeeded so much and survived for so long because he understood people – how to motivate them, how to discipline them and how to inspire them.
“I’m look forward to exploring the secrets of Sir Alex’s success not just by talking to him, but about him, with other leaders in public life, the military and business. My aim is as much to see what he can teach us about leadership off, as well as on, the pitch.”
Sir Alex, 73, retired in 2013 after winning a record 13 Premier League titles.
Ferguson said: “Figuring out what it takes to win trophies with a round ball differs from the challenges facing the leaders of companies like BP, Marks and Spencer, Vodafone or Apple or the people who run large hospitals, universities or global charities.
“Yet there are traits that apply to all winners and to organisations whose leaders aspire to win. I look forward to sitting down with Nick and I am confident that this programme will appeal to people in all walks of life.”
The documentary, provisionally titled Sir Alex Ferguson: Secrets of Success, will air later this year.
