“I hope I have a long time left,” he said.

“As long as my health stays up, I would hope to have another three years at the club.

“I am still enjoying it.

“We have defeats, but compared to what we have achieved, they are minuscule.”

Ferguson had declined the opportunity to talk about his birthday in his pre-match press conference yesterday ahead of the Premier League encounter with Blackburn.

However, even in his programme notes, he has given little indication of having his legendary hunger for success sated by all his achievements.

“This time it is a milestone birthday and I suppose inevitably, Manchester United supporters are going to ask if a man of 70 is up to managing this great club,” he told United Review.

“As someone who loves his job I am not about to let my years alone dictate my future.

“At my age health becomes the key issue for a man’s work and I am happy to say I have been blessed with stamina and energy that sees me coping with what I admit is a very demanding job.”

And, whilst he has regrets, including the three more Champions League final appearances he feels United should have had during his time in charge, the chance to land a third European Cup will drive him on, as will the opportunity to bring through another group of talented youngsters.

“We have players like Phil Jones, Chris Smalling and Danny Welbeck who have not won any league medals,” he said.

“And, without question, winning the European Cup is important for this club.”