Alex Ferguson has revealed that Manchester United want him to oversee the club's overseas development programme when he retires as manager.

"The club are engaged in a programme of development which will see us operate academies in places like South Africa, China and other parts of the Far East," Ferguson said.

"I will visit these places and make a contribution, but it will probably only take up about 30 days a year. That suits me because it will leave me free to do other things."

England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson yesterday fell victim to a radio hoaxer pretending to be former boss Kevin Keegan.

Mike Maguire, who co-hosts a north-west radio station breakfast show, called Eriksson to wish him all the best in his new job. Eriksson replied: "Kevin, I thank you very, very much."

When Maguire asked: "David Beckham, is he going to be your captain?" Eriksson answered: "Yes, I would think so."

Manchester United are confident they can satisfy Beckham's wage demands and agree a new contract.

United have ridiculed reports that Beckham wants £160,000 sterling a week to stay at Old Trafford, insisting talks have not started.

The development of a "Belfast United" team aiming at a place in the English premier league is one of a series of initiatives being considered in order to revive the sport in Northern Ireland.

"It is very much a live issue," said Michael McGimpsey, a minister in the Northern Ireland Assembly, who has formed a task force of players, supporters and administrators to draw up a 20year strategy for the future of soccer in Northern Ireland.

The first leg of the Eircom-sponsored League Cup final was postponed yesterday after the pitch at Richmond Park failed a pitch inspection. This evening's premier division match between Derry City and Kilkenny City has also been postponed due to frost.