London, Mar 7 : Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has said that he is playing in the penalty shootout of his career and doesn’t know when it will end.

Ferguson, who is well into his 68th year, knows that time is not on his side and he can’t stay in charge at Old Trafford forever.

In an emotional interview to L’Equipe sports magazine, the United boss said: “When I reached 60, I asked myself the question. I almost left. But I quickly realised, with my family, that it was a mistake. Today, I fear the idea of retiring. I have been on the train for so long that when I get off I fear my system will collapse. I have decided not to ask myself the question any more.”

“Three things can make me stop. 1. My health. 2. If I don’t take pleasure any more. 3. If I don’t have the strength for new challenges any more. Each summer, I have a look at those three things. I go to my doctor first. I had a pacemaker set up four or five years ago,” The Sun quoted him, as saying.

“Today, I am playing the penalty shoot-out of my managerial career. I know that. The rest is decided between me and me. I see my doctor every summer. He says ‘boss, you are 67. You will have more and more back pains. Getting up in the morning sometimes won’t be easy.’ This is the penalty shootout.”

He digs deep into the psyche of players. Ferguson explained: “I like to remind them of their roots, so they remember where their parents and grandparents come from. I want them to think of the history of their family. To carry the values of their class.”

“The players can afford everything but I make sure they keep an ethos. And that starts by working hard. I try to touch the players in their heart. I tell them that nobody will knock on their door to offer them a trophy,” he said. (ANI)