Reports have suggested that Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich is ready to replace Ancelotti at the end of the season.

"The rumour mill is out there that he is going to be leaving, which would shock me, not surprise me," Ferguson told The Times.

"This is an industry that baffles me at times. Here is a man who has won the European Cup twice, he has won Scudettos.

"He did the double in England last year. Why is that being questioned? Why is it becoming an issue? I don't understand it.

"It's sad because he is an outstanding character. He is a great man, full of absolute dignity."