Former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has reportedly been named as the scariest potential father-in-law in a survey.

The 71-year-old, who retired from management at the end of last season after 26 years at the helm of Old Trafford, was chosen by men as the most intimidating figure to ask for permission to marry their offspring.

The survey, which was created by Comparejewellery.com, found that Ferguson topped the poll with 36% of the vote, while BBC Newsnight's Jeremy Paxman came second, according to The Mirror.

British boxer David Haye was voted as the third most intimidating person.