Sir Alex Ferguson insists he will not make retirement U-turn amid affection shown at Manchester United parade

The Scot is confident now is the right time to go

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson insists the huge numbers that attended last night's Premier League trophy parade have not prompted him to ponder another retirement U-turn.

Ferguson claimed the scale of the parade even eclipsed that which followed the historic 1999 treble.

Many players felt the turn-out was largely due to Ferguson's decision to end his 26-year reign.

But the Scot is sticking to his guns, with David Moyes already installed as his replacement.

"You always think about it (whether you are doing the right thing). But I think it is the right time. I really do," Ferguson said.

"We have a young squad, with a lot of good young players, who are going to get better.

"The big test is to win it three times in a row.

"I hope the boys can do it."

But there was no word on whether Wayne Rooney will still be around for the start of their title defence.

Ferguson confirmed on Sunday that the England striker had submitted a transfer request, although added that it had been turned down.

Rooney received a mixed reception when he boarded the open-top bus at Old Trafford for the start of the parade, although he did play an active part in the celebrations as it made its slow way along the route into the centre of Manchester, where huge numbers of United fans turned out to acclaim their team.

But, speaking to MUTV, Rooney did not answer directly a question about what the retiring Ferguson had done for him, and was not asked whether he would be staying or not.

"He has been brilliant for us all," Rooney said.

"He is a great manager. He is a winner and to do it for so long is incredible.

"He is a fantastic manager and a fantastic person."

With 20,000 fans packed into Sir Matt Busby Way, roads had to be closed prior to the Red Devils' departure.

And whilst there was space along the main route into the city centre, once the bus headed down the main shopping area, Deansgate, supporters found a variety of vantage points to see the team drive past.

Rio Ferdinand and Ashley Young, who at times ditched the crutches he is supposed to be using to nurse an ankle injury that has ended his season, led the singing, with Ferguson also joining in, and even forced Paul Scholes onto centre stage for a rare interview.

There was a moment of humour, as defender Jonny Evans was asked by MUTV interviewer Helen McConnell, who also happens to be his fiancee, whether he was going to have a good summer.

"Yes," Evans replied. "I am getting married, to you Helen."

PA

Video: Manchester United celebrate Premier League victory