Moyes emerges favourite for United job

The other leading contender, Jose Mourinho, is not a candidate for the position, senior sources have confirmed. Ferguson announced on Wednesday that he is retiring as manager after nearly 27 years in charge at Old Trafford.

Sources have told Press Association Sport that Ferguson's successor will be cut from the same cloth as him - with a similar passion for playing attractive football, bringing in top-class players and a strong record in youth development.

United will be looking to the long term with the appointment, rather than a quick fix.

Moyes, 50, may not have won any trophies in his 11 years at Everton but fellow Scot Ferguson himself is a fan of his achievements - and Moyes is out of contract at the end of the season.

Former Manchester United striker Michael Owen said he would choose the Everton boss.

Owen, the former Liverpool striker who played under Ferguson for two seasons, said on Twitter: "What an act to follow. I guess only Mourinho would have the confidence to strut through the door. If it were me, I'd go for Moyes."

Mourinho has made it clear he will leave Real Madrid at the end of the season and he expected to be appointed by his former club Chelsea.

Source: PA

Source: PA