Sir Alex Ferguson has hailed the natural ability of Gary Neville when it comes to a future career of being a manager. Fergie admits that he gets nervous when GNev comes to his office to fight a youngster’s corner.

“He has definitely got coaching qualities,” said Ferguson. “He’s a leader and already looks after the young players at the club. I don’t know why they’ve got Gary. The ones he’s looked after owe him a large debt. When I see him about to come into my office on their behalf I think ‘crikey here we go’. But really I’d rather deal with him because I know he’s looking after the player’s interests.”