David Moyes Succeeds Sir Alex Ferguson for a Six-Year Term at Manchester United

The very important position that Sir Alex Ferguson has retired from at Manchester United is to be filled come July 1 by David Moyes who is leaving Goodison Park for Old Trafford. Everton’s 50-year old manager has been in charge of the club for 11 years and his contract expires when the current season ends. Initial responses say that Manchester United is lucky to have Moyes who replaced Walter Smith at Everton in March 2002.

On Wednesday, Sir Alex Ferguson announced that his retirement would be in effect by the end of the season after 26 years with Manchester United. Ferguson said that Moyes is a unanimous choice for his outstanding work ethic and integrity.

Another accomplished Scotsman

Moyes, a Scotsman like the man whose position he will soon occupy has responded to the appointment by saying that it was a great honor. He added that he was happy that Sir Alex recommended him for the position. Moyes declared that he had a huge respect for the man and he knew that he would be following on the footsteps of the “best manager ever.”

No question

Sir Alex has expressed satisfaction with the quality of work that Moyes is capable of doing. He said that Ferguson has been approached by Man Utd in 1998 for the position of assistant manager. Ferguson added that Moyes definitely has all the qualities that they expect of a manager of the club. Moyes will be formally introduced in due time.

Moyes said that he is looking forward to assuming the position when the next season opens and that he is really looking forward to starting with Manchester United in July. Nevertheless he has said that his full commitment is still with Everton until the season ends. The Chairman of Everton said that Moyes has been an outstanding manager for them all.

Much thanks to Everton

Moyes said that he would perform his work at Everton to make sure that the club finishes as high as possible. He gave praise to the board of directors and the chairman as well as the players that he has been managing for many years now. And he complements the fans of Everton who have made his time with the club very enjoyable. Moyes thanks them all for their support. He said that Everton will stay with him for the rest of his life.

Moyes has a reputation for pushing Everton to the lead of the Premier League given a limited budget. In 2005, Everton qualified for the Champions League though they lost to Villarreal which eventually reached the semi-finals. David Moyes has brought stability to the club and despite the fact that he was unable to steer Goodison Park to a trophy, he has gained respect among the football community by his ability to keep pushing Everton beyond its financial capabilities.

Welcome to Old Trafford

Defender Rio Ferdinand said in the interview that there are a number of similarities between Sir Alex and David Moyes. The player said that Moyes will take them forward. He also believes that the incoming manager will be open to the club’s traditions.

Photo Credit: David Moyes