Lawrenson played in Bob Paisley's Liverpool side of the late 1970s and early 1980s which dominated domestically and in Europe.

But the BBC football pundit now thinks Ferguson's achievements with Manchester United exceed even those of his old manager.

"What sets him apart from Paisley is: How on earth do you motivate millionaires?" said Lawrenson.

"Roy Keane, David Beckham and Jaap Stam have all been there, seen it and are already so rich they will never have to work again after they hang up their boots.

"So for Fergie to drive them to success after success, trophy after trophy, season after season, makes it a truly remarkable achievement.

"I'm not in any way belittling Paisley's achievements, but Fergie deserves the highest praise possible for putting United on a different planet."

And he cannot see any team ending United's domination next season, particularly as it will be Ferguson's last at the Old Trafford helm.

"Worryingly for the likes of Arsenal, Leeds and Liverpool, while I can see them getting closer to United I can't see anyone toppling them," said Lawrenson.