Former Manchester United defender Gerard Pique has praised his old boss, Sir Alex Ferguson, and admitted to having fond memories of his time at the club.

Pique joined the Manchester club’s academy from Barcelona before signing a contract and making his first team debut in 2004.

The Spain international spent four years at Old Trafford and only managed 12 league appearances before moving back to Barcelona in 2008 where he has established himself as top class centre back.

Pique singled out Ferguson as an integral part of his development as a player, with the Scotsman acting as a father figure to the defender.

"I learned so much from him. He was like a father to me when I was there. I had a lot of affection and respect for him. He is a legend. His record speaks for itself, but more surprising to him was that he took the time to know all the players,” Pique told Bleacher Report.

"With all the work he had with the first team, it seemed incredible that he takes time to know each individual player of the club and their families. He was always there to provide help. In the end, he would not let me go but he understood that returning to Barcelona was a unique opportunity for me, and he let me go. I owe him a lot," the Spanish international added.