David O'Leary has disclosed that he was among the candidates recommended by Sir Alex Ferguson to succeed him as Manchester United manager in 2001. Ferguson had announced his intention to step down at the end of the 2001/02 season, prompting the club to begin searching for a replacement.
O'Leary, then manager of Leeds United, had impressed by leading the club to third place in the Premier League and the Champions League semi-finals. He revealed on The Overlap's Stick to Football programme that Ferguson put forward three names, including himself, but the move never materialised after Ferguson reversed his decision to retire.
Ferguson later acknowledged that announcing his retirement early was a mistake, as it affected player performances. He changed his mind in January 2002 and remained in charge for another 11 years, ultimately winning more Premier League titles and the Champions League in 2008.
O'Leary was sacked by Leeds in 2002 amid financial turmoil and rumours of a rift over Rio Ferdinand's transfer to United. He has not been involved in any subsequent United managerial discussions, but the club's interim manager Michael Carrick is believed to have Ferguson's support.
