Who will replace him

       

   More than a decade has passed since then and Moyes has proven himself an incredible success, albeit on limited resources. The Glaswegian has, however, always harboured higher ambitions than those he has been able to aspire to at Goodison.On Wednesday afternoon, Everton boss David Moyes was the bookmakers' favourite to succeed one of the greatest managers ever. There are other concerns too, not least his outspoken approach, familiarity with controversy and confrontational approach. And that is to say nothing of his habit for fleeting spells at clubs. In an interview to commemorate the 25th anniversary of Ferguson's appointment, David Gill, the United chief executive, was asked what qualities he would look for in potential candidates when the time comes to replace Ferguson.His contract expires next month, he is at a crossroads in his career and although it is understood his credentials have been discussed at Chelsea, it has been expected he would be prominent in the thoughts of leading figures at Old Trafford were Ferguson suddenly to head into retirement.Throw into the mix that this is a manager whose turbulent spell at Real Madrid looks certain to come to an end in the weeks ahead and you have all the ingredients. But with talks over a possible return to Chelsea continuing, it remains to be seen whether a return to Old Trafford is even possible. Gill was talking about a tradition started by Sir Matt Busby, resurrected by Ferguson, of encouraging young, and even home-grown, players. Mourinho has always won with proven talent and ready-made stars and his approach would appear at odds with much of what United stands for.Moyes has many of the qualities that his fellow Scot Ferguson values - dignity, substance, leadership, drive and a willingness to give youth a chance. The only question marks relate to his ability to deliver a trophy and European experience, but at United he would be blessed with resources he could only dream of at Goodison.