In a recent survey conducted by Orange Business Services and Tickbox, over a third of Britons (34%) chose Sir Alex Ferguson as the football manager they would most trust to run their business. In contrast, England coach Sven Goran Eriksson came bottom of the list with just 8% of votes. In second place was Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger (21%), followed by Chelsea's Jose Mourinho (16%).

Over his football management career which spans 31 years, Ferguson has been noted for successfully instilling a hard work ethic and drive for results in his players, most notably during his 20 years as Manchester United manager.

Shaun Orpen, Director of Small and Medium Enterprise at Orange Business Services, says "If England wins the World Cup I wonder if the results would be different. Whatever the outcome, this poll illustrates a desire for business leaders who are both inspirational and good communicators".

Although either Ferguson or Eriksson are likely to want to move their management skills away from the football pitch anytime soon, Britain's real business leaders will be recognized during The National Business Awards sponsored by Orange. There is still time to enter nominations for a variety of awards, for a full list of categories and details on how to enter, visit www.nationalbusinessawards.com.