Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has reportedly been given a huge say in who will eventually replace him at the helm of Old Trafford.
The Scotsman, who is in his 26th year in charge of the North West club, has refused to set a date for his retirement but it is understood that the 70-year-old has been outlining plans for his successor when the time comes for the prolific manager to step down.
"The succession plan is a delicate situation because of the club's need to continue delivering success on the pitch, and how any such change would impact their share price and wider perception as a club geared up for future success," Goal.com quotes a source as saying.
"[Chief executive] David Gill doesn't feel it is pertinent to bring up the issue because he has been assured he will one day get the 'phone call' from Sir Alex.
"He will go when he wants, and probably with zero warning. Sir Alex will also have the biggest say in his successor - the casting vote, if you like."
It is believed that Ferguson considers Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho and former Barcelona boss Pep Guardiola as the only two serious candidates for the position.
