Ferguson (right) says he "relies" on his assistant Queiroz

Queiroz is seen by many as responsible for United's change in formation from 4-4-2 to a more pragmatic 4-3-3.

There are also claims that Ferguson has taken a back seat in team affairs, but he insisted: "He has no more authority than any of our previous coaches.

"We work closely together. He knows the team and gets on without interference. I have every confidence in our set-up."

He added: "I rely on Carlos a lot. He is a very capable man and brings his experience to bear in order to widen our horizons.

"If I was a young player starting out with United and found myself under a coach who works as hard and puts as much thought into helping me develop as Carlos does, then I would count myself very fortunate indeed."

Queiroz left Old Trafford in the summer 2003 of take over as Real Madrid boss but it proved to be an ill-fated move and he returned as Ferguson's assistant after one season in Spain.