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Arsene Wenger uses final Arsenal press conference to pay tribute to Sir Alex Ferguson

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Arsene Wenger uses final Arsenal press conference to pay tribute to Sir Alex Ferguson — The Frenchman was keen to send his well wishes to his old rival again (Picture: Getty)

Departing Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger once again paid tribute to Sir Alex Ferguson as the former Manchester United manager recovers from brain surgery.

The Red Devils confirmed on Wednesday that the 76-year-old no longer requires intensive care after his brain haemorrhage and will continue his rehabilitation as an inpatient.

And Wengers old rival was clearly still on his mind as he conducted his last ever pre-match press conference at Arsenal, particularly when asked if anyone would ever match their decade-spanning reigns.

Wenger said: It is a very unique press conference because Ferguson was the last one and I would like to take this opportunity to wish him well. I see he is doing well.

I think he made 26 years and I am 22 years, but we have some younger managers who are five or six years in charge.

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I dont know if anyone will reach 22 years. You can never say you are the last one. It can happen again.

Wenger has already been linked with a return to management, with the Frenchman seemingly keen to remain in day-to-day coaching, though he distanced himself from the England job.

Arsenal's French manager Arsene Wenger holds a trophy he was presented with after the match between Arsenal and Burnley at the Emirates Stadium in London, Sunday, May 6, 2018. The match is Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger's last home game in charge after announcing in April he will stand down as Arsenal coach at the end of the season after nearly 22 years at the helm. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham) — Wenger also distanced himself from rumours linking him with the England hotseat (Picture: Getty)

The 68-year-old continued: Will I manage England one day? I dont know. Honestly, I dont know.

I had the opportunity in the past but at the moment I am behind England and behind Gareth Southgate and hopefully he will stay in charge for 22 years!