‘Best ever Manchester United side’

What do you think of the current Manchester United side?
It’s one of the best we have ever had. They are playing remarkable football and deserve all their success. They won the double last year and are likely to do so again this year. So it’s amazing. I am really, really proud of this team.

How would you rate this squad against the treble-winning United side of 1999?
I think this is the best of all time. If they win the double again this year — the Champions League and the Premier League — there would be no doubting that. They are absolutely fabulous in attack. Defence and midfield is strong. They are a very well-rounded squad.

You have worked under Sir Alex. How do you rate him as manager?
It’s remarkable what Sir Alex Ferguson has done and achieved. He has been with United since 1986, that’s 23 years. It’s such a long time and under him United have always been one of the top teams in the league. He is the best in the business.

Your predictions on the Champions League final?
Most people consider Barcelona as the favourites because of the talent they have at their disposal. But they have their frailties. Their defence is weak and United have the wherewithal to exploit that. I think United will defend their Champions League title.

Have the two best sides in Europe made it to the title round?
Yes, I think so. Chelsea have a case though after the controversial semifinal at Stamford Bridge. I think they were a bit unlucky. But yes, Manchester United and Barcelona are two very, very good sides.

Cristiano Ronaldo wears the No.7 that you made your own during your days as a Red Devil. No.7 was also worn by Eric Cantona and then David Beckham. Has Ronaldo lived up to the legacy?
I think so. He is a fabulous player and a fantastic talent. He scored so many goals last season! If he can continue with the same form over the next couple of years, he will be brilliant.

Ronaldo often made his desires to leave the club known, as has Carlos Tevez. Your view?
I don’t understand why would you want to do that. United are winning trophies. They are the best team in England. They are the best team in Europe, winning the Champions League last year and in with a chance of retaining the title this year. And they are the best team in the world, having won the Club World Cup last year. As an ex-player, I can’t understand why a player would want to leave a top club like that.

After Sheffield United, you haven’t taken up a managerial assignment. Don’t you want to take up that role?
Not at the moment. I am enjoying my role as ambassador for Manchester United and I am also involved with the Barclays Premier League as the official spokesperson for the Fan of India contest. It’s a wonderful way of meeting and connecting with the fans. Maybe, I might consider getting back into managing a club some time in the future.

You were once tipped to be the England manager. Are you still interested in that?
No, not anymore. I think that is unlikely to happen ever. That phase is over. England are doing really well under Fabio Capello. I am hopeful of seeing them do well in the World Cup too.

Sir Alex has talked of retirement. Since you are already at the club, does taking over the role tempt you?
Anybody who takes over from Sir Alex will have a massive job at hand and mighty shoes to fill. He has been tremendous. The teams he has built, the success he has had, it’s amazing and unmatched. I haven’t thought of it. I think Sir Alex will be around for another two-three years.

Who’s the best player in the world right now?
It has to be between Cristiano and Lionel Messi. Both are fantastic talents and have the potential to be right up there with the best players in the history of the game.

(This interview was conducted before Saturday’s Manchester United-Arsenal match)