Fergie mulling over staying away from Man U ' out of respect' for Moyes

Former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has reportedly contemplated staying away from the club during new boss David Moyes' first run of matches.

Ferguson's stance has come following concerns that his presence may undermine and potentially increase the pressure on his successor, the Guardian reports.

Although the Scot wishes to see the start of a new era in Old Trafford in which Ryan Giggs takes on a player-coach role, he has reportedly confided to his friends that he is unsure whether he should take a visible role out of respect for his fellow Scot.

According to the report, the football icon is exploring the possibilities of whether it would be better to keep away from fixtures like Chelsea's visit to Old Trafford on August 24, Moyes's first home game in charge, or whether there is an executive box at Old Trafford where he will be able to watch in privacy.

Ferguson is aware that that there will be television cameras on him throughout every game, looking for a reaction as to how United are doing under the new regime, and the former Old Trafford boss said that pictures of him looking displeased if the opposition scores will make Moyes's job even more difficult.

Meanwhile, Moyes has brought Phil Neville back to Old Trafford, the pair having been together at Everton for the past eight years, and have reportedly great respect for each other.

Stating that United is in his heart despite his giving his all to Everton, Neville said that he could not resist the opportunity which Moyes gave him, adding that together with Moyes, Ryan Giggs and himself, they can make a real contribution to the club.