• Premier League

Hodgson: Fergie will support his successor

England manager Roy Hodgson believes Sir Alex Ferguson "will be a godsend" rather than a hindrance to the next Manchester United manager.

The confirmation that Ferguson would become a director and ambassador for the Old Trafford club when he retires as manager at the end of this season led to suggestions that he could cast an imposing shadow over his successor, who is expected to be Everton boss David Moyes.

Yet Hodgson believes the experience Ferguson has will be invaluable to the man who will fill his shoes next season.

"Sir Alex will be a godsend for the new man," Hodgson told talkSPORT. "There is nothing he doesn't know about football and Manchester United and that can only be a help to the next manager.

"You only have to look at the help Sir Alex gives young managers in the game and the support he has given to the LMA (League Managers' Association) down the years. You don't expect that from someone at the very, very top of his profession, but he is always there for young managers to give advice.

"That is a part of the man that is overlooked. His footballing record is there for all to see, but his human qualities often get passed over amid all of his professional achievements. People need to relate and warm to you if you are to be successful and I think Alex has all of those qualities in abundance."

Hodgson's admiration for Ferguson's achievements are tinged sadness at his imminent retirement, but he does not believe the Scot will be disenchanted the prospect of life away from the United dug-out.

"I've been in contact with him and personally I'm a little bit sad that he is not continuing, but I more than respect his decision to retire and totally respect that," he added.

"I don't think he will get bored. He will keep himself busy and I'm sure he will have plenty to do in his new role at Manchester United."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.