Manchester United vice-chairman Ed Woodward has confirmed that the North West club have already begun preparations for manager Sir Alex Ferguson's retirement.

The Scotsman, who has been in charge of the Red Devils for almost 26 years, has insisted that he will remain as boss for the next few seasons. However, Woodward has revealed that potential candidates are being considered.

"We have a view as to what type of manager we want and how and when we'll go about it," said Woodward. "But it's in the drawer and long may it stay in the drawer."

Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho has been tipped as a potential successor to the prolific Scotsman, while former Barcelona manager Pep Guardiola has also been linked to the position.