Macari shocked by Fergie decision

Macari believes Ferguson should not have left

Former Manchester United star Lou Macari has said he was stunned by Alex Ferguson's decision to quit Manchester United at the end of next season.

There was speculation the 59-year-old Scot, who is standing down as manager at Old Trafford next year, would stay at the club in some capacity.

But Ferguson revealed on Friday that will not be the case, and he will be severing all ties with the Premiership champions at the end of next season.

Former United striker Macari, now manager of Huddersfield, said: "I'm surprised because what he's done for Manchester United over the years has been truly remarkable.

I can't see him moving abroad and taking over another club

  Lou Macari
Former Man Utd player

"It's a shock - and the supporters will be devastated.

"We all knew he was going to leave the manager's job at the end of the season - but we all thought that they would have found him a role somewhere at the club.

"The way they've won trophies over the last 10 years, the person deserves an opportunity to stay on and help the club in years to come."

The news of Ferguson's decision to quit Old Trafford for good is likely to alert a number of clubs keen on taking him.

But fellow Scot Macari revealed on skysports.com that he does not expect Ferguson to take a job overseas.

He added: "I think when your time's up you'd either like to stay in another capacity or forget about management altogether.

"I can't see him moving abroad and taking over another club. He certainly doesn't need it for the financial side of things."