Hodgson first took charge at the San Siro in 1995 after he led Switzerland to the World Cup and he returned to Inter in 1999 after a disappointing spell at Blackburn.

Ferguson this week outlined how the pull of Manchester United prevented him from following Hodgson's lead and pursuing a managerial career on the continent.

And Hodgson said: "I know he has had chances to go and manage abroad. I'm pretty sure that he could have had the Inter job before I took it.

"In a choice between Hodgson and Ferguson, I don't think there would be much doubt where the choice would have landed. And I don't think it would have been me.

"But Sir Alex did not feel the need to do to go to Inter or Barcelona or Real Madrid. I think he could still go abroad if he wanted to but I'd be very surprised if he did.

"He has stayed there for so many years because he is outstanding.

"They demand success at Manchester United and he has given it to them on a regular basis. His record is fantastic."

The careers of Hodgson and Ferguson could not be more opposite.

While Ferguson has been in charge at Manchester United for 21 years, Hodgson has managed 12 different clubs and the national teams of Switzerland, the United Arab Emirates and most recently Finland.

"We know each other well and I met him many years ago during his early years at Manchester United," said Hodgson.

"We have had many years where we have been together in UEFA meetings and so on. I always enjoy his company.

"Sir Alex is a maestro and we as coaches have to look to him as an example of being the best.

"His career is second to none. He is right at the very top. But I'm pretty happy with mine. I don't have jealousy."

Hodgson and Ferguson will come together again at Craven Cottage tomorrow afternoon with United pressing for the title and Fulham desperate for Barclays Premier League survival.

Six struggling teams - between Wigan in 14th and Fulham second from bottom - are separated by just seven points.

Fulham face United, Blackburn and Everton over the next fortnight before a vital run of games against bottom-half teams in Newcastle, Derby, Sunderland and Reading.

Fulham have won just once, against Aston Villa, since Hodgson arrived and they have been written off in many quarters.

But Hodgson said: "We have a strong belief that we can prove people wrong. We have the talent to get out of this situation and we have to prove that.

"Our next game is against the champions and Manchester United have got more than enough fire power to make our lives a misery.

"But at the same time we have the lottery ticket and we always have a chance.

"This is one of the games you are in football for. A home game against United in the Premier League in front of a full house is the reason we try and have a career.

"Every game for us at this stage of the season is a cup final and no doubt in our situation every game will be fantastic for us."