Although the Manchester United manager's abrasive nature will ensure many of the tributes paid to him when his illustrious career comes to an end will be qualified, inside Old Trafford there is nothing but affection for the 69-year-old. Having steered United to the 12th title of his reign, and a record 19th overall, in the Premier League this term, now he has the chance to equal Bob Paisley's three European Cups. Ferguson has already stated Wembley's meeting with Barcelona will not mark the end of the line. With Atletico Madrid's David de Gea virtually signed up as Edwin van der Sar's replacement and others, including Ashley Young and Wesley Sneijder also on his wish-list, Ferguson is starting to build yet another team. There will come a day when he is no longer the manager of Manchester United. And when it arrives, O'Shea realises there is no point looking for a clone. "There are so many adjectives that have been used to describe the manager," said the Irishman. "Quite simply, he is the best. "His record of creating new teams and new squads is going to be unmatched. I doubt it will ever be seen again." An unused substitute in Moscow three years ago, O'Shea started the 2009 final against Barcelona in the Stadio Olimpico. His sheer versatility means Ferguson is almost certain to find a place for the 30-year-old somewhere in his matchday squad. However, whether he gets a starting berth or not depends upon Ferguson trusting the defensive capabilities of Fabio or Rafael to subdue David Villa. O'Shea is prepared for the disappointment. He accepts it is part of life at Old Trafford. "It has always been the case at Manchester United," he said. "The manager has a fantastic squad to pick from. He has always said that. "That has been the case throughout this season, when there have been times when he has had some incredibly tough choices. "You have to trust his judgement and we will see what his selection is on the day."
