Ferguson not ready for quiet life

Sir Alex Ferguson has no intention of putting his feet up even though he has called time on his amazing Manchester United career.

After Sunday's trip to West Brom, the Scot will find himself in the strange position of not having a club to manage for the first time in almost 40 years. Once his summer hip operation is out of the way, he will be back at Old Trafford, watching the club he is so wedded to from the stands as David Moyes takes his first steps in the job.

There will be plenty to keep Ferguson occupied, but the 71-year-old acknowledges life will never be the same again, and he said: "It can't be a substitute. It is a different life. I am driven to take on challenges in some other things right away."

He added: "I have got the League Managers' meeting on Monday. I am going to Newmarket for two days on Tuesday and Wednesday. I have The Derby on June 1 and I am going on holiday on June 4 for a month.

"Then I have the operation, the season starts, we are off and we are all right."

After spending so long in the highest profile job in English football, Ferguson will not be stepping away completely.

His opinions on all matters will still be eagerly sought after and the legendary drive and determination are unlikely to disappear overnight.

And that includes a jokey threat to Sir Michael Stoute, who trains Derby contender Telescope, which Ferguson part owns.

"It has had an infection but it is okay now," said Ferguson. "It had better be fit or Stoute is in trouble."