Enzo Calzaghe just can't keep his mouth shut

I agree with you but at the same time I think he actually does want to enjoy some kind of retirement so maybe it's the right decision. There's still plenty of time for a u-turn anyway.

 

3 years is a long time in football, especially when you are 66 with a history of heart problems...heaven forbid

So, I'm not too worried about that. When it does happen, I'd look no further than Quieroz. I'm not often one that believe in promoting from within, it rarely works, but I'd make this an exception.

 

Do you think there's any chance it could affect the motivation of the players though? Thats my main concern.

 

I don't think so. There were some murmurings of discontent amongst the United faithful a few seasons ago regarding Quieroz and his increasing influence whilst we were struggling by our standards, but at the same time he has to take a great deal of credit now

He apparently does most of the training sessions, has a huge say on tactics, and the connections with Portuguese football are obviously serving us well with regards to transfers. You also have to consider he speaks nearly every language going, which is important in attracting players and keeping up morale in the modern day squads

I can't see any other candidate out there that would offer a smoother transition, I really can't. The only thing that worries me is motivation as you say, Fergie is a genius in that respect, that is probably his main role these days. Perhaps there would be the opportunity to bring in Keano as assistant to fulfil that sort of role, as I don't trust his judgement of transfers and tactics, but that I could see him doing. Whether he'd want to become an assistant is another matter...

 

I agree with you whole heartedly but what I meant in terms of motivation was between now & when Fergie actually calls it a day. Some felt that last time Fergie announced his "retirement" performances suffered a bit.

 

I'm happy to hear that & I think you're right. If Ferguson did retain the Champions League next year what better way to retire?

 

I don't really buy it

I'm not sure the players are remotely thinking about when Fergie is going to retire when they walk onto a pitch, it just doesn't wash with me. I'd hope this set of players is made of sterner stuff than that...

I reckon Fergie said it to force himself out, because he'll struggle to call it quits himself if he doesn't. Now he's put a timescale on it, after going back on his decision last time, he'll probably feel he has no choice. The guy deserves some retirement, to visit the worlds finest vineyards and sample the wine and all that...

 

Glad to hear that.

 

Yeah, it rarely seems to work

But for me this is an exception, I very much doubt if any of the examples there had quite the influence Quieroz seems to have

Whoever does it is on a hiding to nothing.