Former Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has backed club legend Ryan Giggs to take the reins at Old Trafford at some point in the future.

Red Devils manager Louis van Gaal is reportedly grooming his Welsh assistant to succeed him when he steps down from his duties in 2017.

Speculation has mounted that United had sounded out Bayern Munich coach Pep Guardiola over the role, but the legendary Scot agrees with Van Gaal, insisting that the 41-year-old is well equipped for such a role.

"I think Ryan has all the qualities to be a fantastic manager," the 73-year-old and 13-time Premier League winner is quoted as saying by The Mirror.

"I have heard it said that he will have to go to another club first because he doesn't have enough experience.

"But he is gaining experience working with Louis van Gaal and he also had experience working with David Moyes and working under me as a player. I don't think that Ryan needs to go anywhere."

Giggs helped United to 22 major honours during his trophy-laden 24-year stint in the senior setup.