Man. United Agree To Release Carlos

Manchester United have reached an agreement in principle with the Portuguese FA for the release of Carlos Queiroz from his Old Trafford contract.

Sir Alex Ferguson's assistant has been appointed to the post of Portugal manager. Reacting to the news, Sir Alex and David Gill were united in their praise for Carlos.

“Carlos is one of the best coaches in world football," Ferguson said.

"His attention to detail, ability to innovate and will to win have been a key factor to the team’s recent successes. He has played an important role in building and blending the exceptional squad of players at the club."

United chief executive Gill added: "Carlos has played a major part in the club's recent success. I have thoroughly enjoyed working with him over the last few years.

"His experience and professionalism have undoubtedly been a key factor in his securing his new role and everyone at Old Trafford wishes him the best of luck in guiding Portugal to the 2010 World Cup."

Queiroz's appointment as Portugal boss brings to an end his second spell at United. This four-year stint saw the Reds win two Barclays Premier League titles, the UEFA Champions League, the Carling Cup and the Community Shield.

His first stay at United (2002-03) also yielded a title. He then became Real Madrid boss, only to rejoin the Reds after one season in July 2004.

Carlos Queiroz issued this statement after United agreed in principle to release him from his contract:

"It is with a very heavy heart that today I leave the greatest football club in the world after five fantastic years. This has been a special period in my life both personally and professionally. I have been so lucky to have had the opportunity to work in first class facilities with a staff team who are at the top of their profession.

"Our players on and off the pitch make the difference and to them also I owe a great deal of gratitude for their hard work, professionalism and most of all their performances. I feel we have in place the basis for the next generation to follow in the tradition of such world class players as Sir Bobby Charlton and George Best.

"Of course our success as a family is based on strong leadership and in The Glazer Family, The Board, David Gill and not least of all Sir Alex Ferguson we have the support and skills to stay at the top. To Sir Alex, I thank him for his faith in me and his knowledge, spirit and desire from which I will take strength and have confidence in my new role.

"I will forever be a fan and admirer of the club and also thankful that I had the opportunity to be part of such a great institution, a vast organisation but with a unique feeling of family and community. This leads me finally to our fans - local, national and international. I thank them for their fantastic support and encouragement in my time at the club, always there when we need them to support us both home and away in huge numbers.

"In conclusion I wish everyone at our club, continued success in the years to come and to continue to enjoy a brand of exciting, attractive and winning football, admired and respected the world over."