It is a big opportunity and one which Neville’s former England and United team-mate Ferdinand believes will be closely scrutinised by those high up the Old Trafford hierarchy.
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Neville, who confirmed brother Phil and former Valencia player Miguel Angel Angulo as his coaches, is determined to make the most of his short-term role. “It’s the right moment in time for him and I’m 100% behind his decision to join Valencia as the new head coach”, Hodgson told the Football Association’s website.
Ryan, who returned from a knee injury against Sevilla and retained his starting role in Valencia’s 3-1 Copa del Rey win over Barakaldo midweek, said: “It’s very early in the season for me because of my injury”.
“I am really looking forward to working with the club’s talented group of players and am excited about the challenge ahead”. I have confidence in myself and my understanding of the game.
The new manager said: “If Phil wasn’t here, I would want him here”.
“I’m aware of the demands. I’ve played against some excellent Valencia players”.
“The city is massively passionate about its football, so it will be a big challenge and we will see if he can take the pressure and how well he does”.
On using wingers – “I wasn’t expecting that question”.
Long earmarked as a future manager, he revealed yesterday that he had resisted previous opportunities to enter the profession but insisted he could not resist a club of Valencia’s stature.
Although he only has a deal to the end of the season, Neville said his family would be moving over in the New Year as “the only way to approach any football job is to think of it as permanent job”.
The 40-year-old England coach will take his first venture into football management with the Primera Division giants after signing a six-month deal. “I hope he can bring that character and experience [to Valencia]”.
On his family – “My family will move over here permanently”. My girls will finish school in two weeks’ time and will live here.
Ranieri, now manager of Premier League high-fliers Leicester, had two stints in charge of Valencia from 1997 to 1999 and 2004 to 2005. I don’t speak the language.
On his brother Phil: “I don’t see any problems”. Philip’s Spanish is fantastic, so he can communicate with the players.
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Flores, a Valencia supporter, enjoyed 10 years at the Mestalla as a player before taking charge of the club in 2005 and leading them to third in La Liga and a quarter-final spot in the Champions League in the subsequent season. “I would be stupid not to accept that support”.
