David Moyes has told how he had no say in taking over as Manchester United boss – he was told by Sir Alex Ferguson that he was the man for the job.
The new Old Trafford manager announced in his first press conference that Sir Alex invited him over to his house and told him of his imminent retirement
Moyes then said Sir Alex’s next words were: “And you’re the next Manchester United manager.”
The Scot claimed that he knew nothing about Sir Alex’s retirement until the week before it happened.
He added that, despite speculation the club had made contact with him in previous years, he was in the dark about United’s interest in his services.
Moyes said that he was ‘privileged’ to be offered the job and ‘grateful to Sir Alex’ for his support.
The 50-year-old Scot has been in charge of the Red Devils since Monday and isn’t confident in replicating Sir Alex’s incredible reign at Old Trafford: “I don’t think there’ll be another manager to do 25-years at a club like Manchester United.” Moyes said.
It has been suggested that Sir Alex’s presence in the director’s box would increase the pressure on Moyes in a similar fashion to the pressure faced on incoming managers when Sir Matt Busby left the club.
However, Moyes is happy to have Sir Alex watching over him as he attempts to succeed in his biggest job to date: “I hope he is sitting in the directors’ box. I’ve already called him two or three times for advice on matters,” added Moyes.
“He’s not there to pressure me. Everybody’s really helped me.”
Moyes has been busy in his first week implementing a backroom shake-up.
The departure of first-team coach Rene Meulensteen was the most shocking as the highly rated coach was considered an integral part of Manchester United’s success.
During the press conference Moyes revealed that he tried to convince Meulensteen to stay.
“I asked Rene to stay but he felt it was fair to give me the opportunity to go on alone,” said Moyes.
Image courtesy The Independent video via YouTube, with thanks.
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