MARK Hughes has said he is 'flattered' by ideas that he could succeed Sir Alex Ferguson as Manchester United's manager.

Ferguson, who has two years remaining at Old Trafford and is the most successful manager in English domestic football of recent years, pointed to former United star Hughes as having the right credentials to replace him.

Ferguson forecast that the Welsh boss would make a great manager.

Hughes said of the interest in him: "To hear Sir Alex say that about me is very flattering indeed."

The 39-year-old had two spells under Ferguson during an illustrious career at Old Trafford.

Hughes, who replaced Bobby Gould as Welsh manager in November 1999, has agreed a contract which will keep him with the country until the 2006 World Cup.

But it's understood that he still hasn't actually signed the deal yet.

Hughes, who won the first of his 72 caps for Wales while at United in 1984, added: "I'm just trying to do my job to the best of my ability."

Ferguson has praised Hughes' ability to turn around Wales' fortunes.

"To hear someone of the stature of Sir Alex say that is really complimentary."

Hughes is set to fly out to Azerbaijan on Monday as Wales bid to add to their glorious 2-1 2004 European Championships qualifying success of last month over Italy with another win that would put them bang on target to reach Portugal.

"I'll meet up with players at the weekend, then fly out to Azerbaijan. Fingers crossed we will get the job done," added the national boss.

"We have a few injury worries with Danny Gabbidon (Cardiff City), who has a back spasm, Craig Bellamy (Newcastle) and Nathan Blake (Wolves).

"But the losses won't be a significant impact to us," he added.