The Telegraph reports that Mark Hughes consulted with Fergie before taking the job at Blackburn, and that he was offered a position at Old Trafford towards the end of the 2003 title winning season.
‘Hughes, who had been manager of Wales for five years, said: "There was speculation last week and I spoke to him [Ferguson]. It was a private conversation but he was very supportive in saying that maybe it was time to make a move.
"Obviously there was no indication at that stage I was likely to get the job. It was just a general chat and I appreciated it. I had an opportunity about 18 months ago [at United] but it wasn't the No 2 job so I didn't think it was right for me at the time. Blackburn is a great opportunity, I'm looking forward to it.’