FERGIE TO QUIT?

Last updated : 23 October 2005 By Ed

The Sun:

Manchester United's coaching staff fear Alex Ferguson will quit next year.

They are worried that boss Fergie may bring his retirement date forward because of growing problems at the club.

A senior backroom figure said: "A few of us are keeping an ear open for other posts. We are all starting to wonder if this is going to be his last season."

Reserve team coach Ricky Sbragia has already left for Bolton.

But his own staff now fear a new boss could be appointed next summer and he will bring his own men in.

That new manager will not be No 2 Carlos Queiroz because the board want a completely new man.

* Supporters deserting the club — as Tuesday night’s 60,626 crowd against Lille proved.

* Supposed promises of a £20m transfer fund not materialising.

* Staff from tea ladies to administrators who he knew personally being made redundant.

* Some fans turning against on him.

* Captain Roy Keane getting ready to leave.