Harrison warns Giggs about taking Wales job
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Eric Harrison has warned Ryan Giggs if he ends up being installed as new Wales manager he would have to end his stellar career at Manchester United.
Following Friday's disappointing defeat to Montenegro, current boss John Toshack is said to have reached the conclusion that it would be better if he moved on.
Although there has been an indication Toshack would remain in his job for next month's double header with Switzerland and Bulgaria, beyond that he is believed to want no part.
In that context, it is little surprise Giggs' name as been mentioned as the Football Association of Wales' first choice.
Mark Hughes did something similar when his own playing career was coming to an end at Blackburn, with Harrison acting as a key member of his back-up team.
However, the man responsible for bringing Giggs through the Old Trafford ranks as part of that famed "Class of 92" does not believe it would be possible for the 36-year-old wide-man to combine duties at a club like United.
"It is not a cushy little number and it is not a part-time post," he told the Manchester Evening News.
"You are at the sharp end of things and these days I don't believe you could combine playing for a club at United's level and managing an international team.
"When I was with Mark we'd be jetting off all over the place watching future opponents. Then you would be going up and down the country checking on your players.
"You couldn't be playing for United at the weekend and be wondering and worrying about how the Welsh players are doing.
"If the vacancy does come up and Ryan is approached then he has a massive decision to make."
Harrison has no doubts Giggs is mentally tough enough to make a success of the management game and will become Wales boss eventually.
However, having amassed a record 11 league titles as part of a medal collection unmatched in the modern game, it is hard to imagine Giggs merely turning his back on it at a time when his overall influence is as high at it has ever been.
Giggs extended his record of scoring in every Premier League season with a volley against Newcastle last month and he was an influential figure in the subsequent victory over West Ham.
Sir Alex Ferguson recently suggested the Cardiff-born player, who was only ever eligible to play for Wales despite his appearance for England schoolboys, could continue until his was 40 such are his fitness levels.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments