Darren Ferguson says health played no part in Sir Alex Ferguson retirement

Darren Ferguson has denied that his father Sir Alex Ferguson has retired from football due to ill health.

The 71-year-old announced he was stepping down from his role as Manchester United manager this week.

Ferguson is due to have a hip replacement this summer, but his son Darren - who manages Peterborough United, insisted this was not a huge issue - he says it was just down to 'timing'.

"There's no problem with his health, contrary to what some people are saying," Ferguson jnr said.

"He's got a small hip operation but there's no difference to most 71-year-olds. It's not a health decision.

"Basically he feels he's gone out at the right time, he's left the club in a fantastic position and they've hired a very good manager to replace him."