Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has refused to deny claims that Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho could replace him at Old Trafford when he retires.
Mourinho, who won six trophies while in charge of Chelsea between 2004 and 2007, is expected to depart the Bernabeu at the end of the season.
He has made no secret of his desire to return to England and Ferguson now appears to have given his blessing to such a return.
When asked whether the Portuguese might succeed him at United, Ferguson replied: "He could manage anywhere.
"I would never think a guy who hasn't played a game could be a top coach but then you've got to look at his personality.
"He's got a marvellous, strong personality and that bridges that gap. When he comes into my office he can take a joke against himself, that is what I like about him. I give him a lot of stick and he laughs it off."
Mourinho has taken charge of 141 games as Real boss, guiding the La Liga giants to victory on 105 occasions.
Robert Summerscales
