Sir Alex Ferguson in his own words

One of the greatest managerial spells in world football will come to an end on 19 May when Sir Alex Ferguson steps down as manager of Manchester United FC.

Taking up the reins in 1986, Sir Alex led Manchester United to a protracted period of unprecedented success in the English game. After the club announced this morning that he would retire as manager at the end of this season, UEFA.com revisits interviews with an undeniable great of the modern game, covering his coaching philosophy, favourite memories and wealth of achievements.

Watch the full set of interviews in the video box above, while a selection of his quotes can be read below.

Sir Alex on ... his philosophy
Every coach should have his own philosophy ... but I always think the best coaches are the ones with imagination. You have to have a good imagination to be a top coach; you must have that; good intensity and work ethic in the training sessions. These three things marry together in terms of good coaches.

Sir Alex on ... his longevity
People keep saying I have reinvented teams and all that, but the length of time helps me to do that, you're forced to do it, almost. The last few years, we have concentrated on our own coaching within the structure of the club, at youth level. And we've also leaned towards bringing younger players in, who are going to spend maybe 8, 6 to 8, or 10 years at the club.

Sir Alex on ... United's success
I think we've got our own challenges and our own pride, and ... to be part of the history of Manchester United is important, and I think the club over the last 20-odd years have done that very well.

Sir Alex was speaking to UEFA.com in a series of interviews in 2011.