ZZ TOLD: ‘PUT OTHERS ON HOLD’

ZINEDINE ZIDANE has been asked to snub all job offers as Manchester United decide on Jose Mourinho’s future. The former Real Madrid boss has been contacted and asked to reject approaches with Mourinho’s job in the balance. French World Cup winner Zidane (left) is the No.1 choice to succeed Mourinho if the Old Trafford board pull the plug on the Portuguese. United used the same tactics when they placed Mourinho on standby as they contemplated the future of Louis van Gaal.

It’s why Mourinho can have no complaints if Zidane steps into his shoes as United look to move in a new direction.

Zidane is excited by the opportunity to manage in the Premier League after quitting the Bernabeu in the summer despite a hat-trick of Champions League successes.

He has been learning English and – as reported by Sunday Mirror Sport – has already compiled a list of potential future signings.

Senior figures at Old Trafford believe that Zidane would immediately lift the depressing dressing room atmosphere.

Fellow Frenchman Paul Pogba would especially welcome Zidane after the constant battles with Mourinho.

Executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward has been loathe to axe Mourinho because it would mean a third sacking on his watch since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement five years ago.

But the former Chelsea manager’s position has increasingly become untenable – and that is why Zidane is waiting in the wings.