The Times today has come out with a reasonable guestimate as to the names bouncing around inside the Lord of the Ferg’s head for the assistant manager position at Old Trafford. And being lazy good for nothing guttersnipe blogsters, adept and cutting and pasting and garnishing articles with snide remarks, we have this list right here.
The Times‘ Oliver Holt runs the rule over the people jostling for the number two spot:
Rene Meulensteen United’s technical skills coach, who has spent the past week overseeing pre-season training with Sir Alex Ferguson. Genuine contender.
Brian McClair Intelligent, highly regarded and loyal servant to Ferguson, but would not bring the same breadth to the role as Carlos Queiroz has.
Paulo Bento A José Mourinho clone, but unlikely to leave first management role at Sporting Lisbon. Likewise Laurent Blanc, the coach at Bordeaux.
Michael Laudrup A talented young coach, who is available after leaving Getafe, the Spanish club, in the summer. He could be tempted by United. What are you waiting for, Sir Alex?
Roberto Mancini Another respected coach looking for work, having left Inter Milan. He is unlikely to accept an offer from United, but you never know.
Pako Ayesterán Former Liverpool assistant manager, but he is primarily a fitness coach.
We know who’d we’d like to fill the position; the idea of Rafa B’s former bessie mate Pako Ayesterán leaping into the arms of Fergie Ferg would certainly make things much more incestuous inside the Big 4.