Coe wants Ferguson to coach GB team

(CNN) -- Sebastian Coe, who masterminded London's successful bid for the 2012 Olympics, wants Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson to take charge of the Great Britain team at the Games.

Coe, who is now chair of the London organizing committee for the Games, said he had discussed the issue with the legendary Scot.

"I would love to see Alex coach the team," Coe said on Sky Sports News.

"I can't think of anybody that frankly (more) deserves at the end of a stunning career to be in charge of young players here."

Coe did not reveal Ferguson's response to his idea but his club United are believed to have a relaxed attitude to the approach.

The job would not be without controversy because of the traditional rivalries within British football.

The Scottish and Welsh Football Associations are opposed to the concept of a Great Britain team, with the former saying they will not supply any players.

One of the reasons for their stance is the fear world governing body FIFA could strip the home nations of their special status, which guarantees each nation voting rights within the organization.

The last time a Great Britain football team competed in the Olympics was back in 1972 when a purely amateur side failed to qualify for the the Munich Games.

Coe insisted the door would remain "open" should the Scottish and Welsh FAs relax their stances.

The proposed venues for the football competition are currently limited to England, with Old Trafford, St James' Park, Villa Park and Wembley all to host matches. Coe said he would "love" to include Glasgow's Hampden Park and Cardiff's Millennium Stadium on the schedule.

Ferguson has recently led Manchester United to a record 10th Premier League title and the Champions League final, but he insists that he has no thoughts of retirement.