LONDON (CMC):

Former Trinidad and Tobago International, Dwight Yorke, says Sir Alex Ferguson's departure as manager of Manchester United will be a blow to the club.

Ferguson will step down at the end of the season after 26 years in charge.

Yorke who spent four years playing for United under Sir Alex's management feels his departure will be "a shock to the system."

"It's (a feeling) of shock, really, because he's been such a focal point for our club," Yorke told Sky Sports.

"He's been the one to take Manchester United to the level that they are right now and, globally, what he's brought to the Premiership".

Ferguson, 71, has won 38 trophies during his reign at Old Trafford and will now become a director and ambassador for the club.

His haul includes 13 league titles, two Champions League crowns, five FA Cups and four League Cups.

"It's a shock to the system because he's been there every day, he's the one person who, every time you go into the club, he's always there," said Yorke.

"With him retiring, that means he's not going to be around; he's not going to be taking those team talks and decisions. His voice won't be echoing in the background like it has always been".