Fergie savages 'quit' critics

Sir Alex Ferguson celebrates 20 years as Manchester United manager on Monday declaring he will be the one who decides when he should eventually call it a day.

After abandoning initial plans to step down in 2002, Ferguson shows no sign of tiring from the battle of running one of the most famous clubs on the planet. Even with eight Premiership titles, five FA Cups and a Champions League triumph among his record trophy haul, Ferguson remains hungry for more.

"It is scandalous some people think I should retire," he argued. "It is none of their business. Some people in this country don't want to work, so I don't think you should decry anyone who wants to. It disgusts me that people think that way. It should not be allowed."

Current Red Devils skipper Gary Neville has suggested the Scot may continue for another 10 years yet. But, while Ferguson refuses to put a timescale on his job prospects, he bridles at those, particularly in the media, who argue he should step down while he is still near the top of his profession.

He added: "Legislation on retirement is changing in this country, which is right. There are no retirement age laws in the USA."

Ferguson's extensive knowledge of Government policy on lifting restrictions on over 65s is understandable given his political background and the fact he will reach pension age on New Year's Eve.

But his theorising does not just end with his own situation.

"You have to look at each individual separately," he said. "If they are fit enough to continue what they do, they should be allowed to.

"For instance, referees in this country have to retire at 48 when some of them are as fit as fiddles."