David Moyes broke his silence about his sacking by Manchester United to say he remained proud to have managed the club but feels the squad needs "fundamental rebuilding."
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The 50-year-old Scot, who was dismissed on Tuesday, said he understood the frustration with both the level of results and performances during his nine-month reign but argued he was happy to reach the last eight of the Champions League.
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But Moyes insisted he was grateful to Sir Alex Ferguson -- who reportedly was consulted about the decision to dismiss Moyes -- for recommending him as his replacement.
Moyes said in a statement issued through the League Managers’ Association: "To have been appointed as manager of Manchester United, one of the biggest football clubs in the world, was and remains something of which I will always be incredibly proud.
“Taking charge after such a long period of continuous stability and success at the club was inevitably going to be a significant challenge, but it was one which I relished and never had a second thought about taking on.
“The scale of the manager’s job at United is immense, but I have never stepped away from hard work and the same applies to my coaching staff. I thank them for their dedication and loyalty throughout the last season.”
Moyes left United, who were champions 13 times in the past 21 seasons, in seventh place after suffering 11 league defeats.
But he claimed it was always going to be a transitional time and had made planned to make plenty of changes to his squad in the summer transfer window.
He added: “We were fully focused and committed to the process of the fundamental rebuilding that is required for the senior squad. This had to be achieved whilst delivering positive results in the Barclays Premier League and the Champions League. However, during this period of transition, performances and results have not been what Manchester United and its fans are used to or expect, and I both understand and share their frustration.
“In my short time at the club I have learnt what special places Old Trafford and Carrington are. I would like to thank the United staff for making me feel so welcome and part of the United family from my first day. And of course thank you to those fans who have supported me throughout the season. I wish you and the club all the best for the future.
“I have always believed that a manager never stops learning during his career and I know I will take invaluable experience from my time as United's manager. I remain proud to have led the team to the quarterfinals of this year's Champions League and I remain grateful to Sir Alex Ferguson for believing in my ability and giving me the chance to manage Manchester United.”