David Moyes: It’s a ‘great honour’ to take over at Manchester United

David Moyes admits it is a “great honour” to take over at Manchester United after he was confirmed as Sir Alex Ferguson’s successor on a six-year deal.

The 50-year-old, who will take over at Old Trafford on 1 July after 11 years in charge at Everton, was Ferguson’s first choice for the job.

“It’s a great honour to be asked to be the next manager of Manchester United,” said Moyes. “I am delighted that Sir Alex saw fit to recommend me for the job. I have great respect for everything he has done and for the football club.

“I know how hard it will be to follow the best manager ever, but the opportunity to manage Manchester United isn’t something that comes around very often and I’m really looking forward to taking up the post next season.”

Moyes will take charge of Everton’s final two games of the season against West Ham and Chelsea before taking the reins at United.

And the Scot was quick to pay tribute to the Merseyside club, who he steered to a top-four finish in 2005 and an FA Cup final in 2009.

“I have had a terrific job at Everton, with a tremendous chairman and board of directors and a great set of players,” he continued.

“Between now and the end of the season, I will do everything in my power to make sure we finish as high as possible in the table.

“Everton’s fantastic fans have played a big part in making my years at Goodison so enjoyable and I thank them wholeheartedly for the support they have given me and the players.

“Everton will be close to me for the rest of my life.”