MANCHESTER: Ryan Giggs has described taking charge as interim manager of Manchester United as “the proudest moment” of his life.
The 40-year-old Welshman was appointed for the season’s final four Premier League games after David Moyes’s sacking on Tuesday.
Giggs, the Old Trafford club’s most decorated player, also wants to secure a Europa League place next season for the club, who lie seventh in the table.
At his first manager’s press conference he said: “I am proud, I am happy and a little nervous.”
He had sought advice from former United boss Sir Alex Ferguson: “I wanted advice and I wanted to know just what to expect.” As for his longer-term future, Giggs said: “My mindset is on Norwich first and then the remaining three games.
“I can’t wait for Saturday. I know the place will be rocking and I know the fans will be behind us . . . It’s been a frustrating season and I want to end it on a high.”
Record man
Giggs, who thanked Moyes for giving him his first chance in coaching, has played a record 962 times for United, and will be assisted in his managerial duties by old team-mates Phil Neville, Nicky Butt and Paul Scholes.
Moyes started as manager in July 2013 after the retirement of fellow Scot Ferguson after 26 years at the helm in which he won 38 trophies, including 13 league titles and two Champions League crowns.
United began the Premier League season as champions, but currently trail leaders Liverpool – who were seventh last season – by 23 points.
Moyes guided the side to the last eight of the Champions League this year but they cannot finish in the Premier League top four, which rules them out of a place in Europe’s top club competition next season, leaving the Europa League as their next best target.
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