The 60-year-old was due to retire at the end of the current season, but is now in negotiations to remain at Old Trafford for a further three campaigns.

It was over Christmas that Ferguson reconsidered his plan to retire.

And he has revealed that his wife Cathy and sons Mark, Darren and Jason were instrumental in his decision.

"It was really Cathy's idea," Ferguson told the Scotsman newspaper. "If she hadn't come up with it and the boys hadn't give full support, I wouldn't have considered a change of mind.

"But I do have to confess that maybe it was an idea I was hoping deep down she would come up with."

The Scot has a fearsome reputation as a hands-on disciplinarian who is incredibly committed to his job.

But he is clearly aware of the health risks attached to football management.

And Ferguson has hinted that he will modify his approach to the job to keep his stress levels under control.

"I'll tailor it a little differently - reduce the workload a bit," said the Scot.

Ferguson's new contract is expected to be confirmed within the next few days.

The manager's advisors are currently discussing the terms of a new deal with the United board.