David Moyes replaces Ferguson

Manchester United have confirmed the appointment of David Moyes as their new manager on a six-year contract. "It's a great honour to be asked to be the next manager of Manchester United," Moyes said in a statement released by his new employers. "I am delighted that Sir Alex saw fit to recommend me for the job. I have great respect for everything he has done 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," he added. The enormous length of Moyes' contract offers an insight into why United did not wish to appoint Jose Mourinho.

For the Red Devils hierarchy clearly view the appointment as more than that of just a manager, and see Moyes as someone who will embed himself in the traditions of the club. "I have always said that we wanted the next manager to be a genuine Manchester United man," said Sir Bobby Charlton.

David Moyes celebrates during a EPL match between Everton and Arsenal at Goodison Park. Pic/Getty Images

"In David Moyes, we have someone who understands the things that make this such a special club. "We have secured a man who is committed to the long-term and will build teams for the future as well as now. Stability breeds success. "David has tremendous strength of character and recognises the importance of bringing young players through and developing them alongside world class talent.

"At United, I think David will be able to express himself. "I am delighted he has accepted and I'm looking forward to working with him," he added. Moyes will get his first taste of what a global club United are in July, when he heads to Thailand, Australia, Japan and Hong Kong on their summer tour. Before that he will sit down with new chief executive Ed Woodward to discuss future plans.

How moyes measures up
Playing career
Position: Centre-back
Teams: Celtic (1980-1983), Cambridge United (1983-1985), Bristol City (1985-1987), Shrewsbury Town (1987-1990), Dunfermline Athletic (1990-1993), Hamilton Academical (1993), Preston North End (1993-1999)

Managerial career
Teams:
Preston North End (1998-2002),
Everton (2002-2013),
Manchester United (2013-?)

Honours
Preston North End
Football League Second Division (1): 1999-2000u00a0