David, the start to your Barclays Premier League season is not easy. How are you feeling about that?
It could map out our whole season, which is why we are trying to get ourselves right for the opening games. We have to play some of the better teams at the early stages, so we have to make sure we are in good form, but the same applies to them.
Do you have butterflies in your stomach?
Yeah, that comes with the excitement of the job, but it’s more to do with the magnitude of Manchester United and following arguably the greatest manager that football has ever known. You can’t see any manager thinking that would be an easy job, but in the same breath it is a great one because of what I have available and what Sir Alex has left.
How long before it is ‘your’ team? Is it automatic or does it take six months or maybe a season?
It is my team now. I have taken over, I’m in charge. As I have said, I will use the ex-manager as much as I can because of his knowledge, but it is my team now and I have to take responsibility for that.
Sir Alex said to the supporters after his last home game that it was important to get behind the new manager. How important was that?
I have got to say it showed unbelievable class. Change can be difficult for people but importantly he gave me the confidence and hopefully from that the supporters will give me the opportunity to get started. It was good for the players, too.
Will it be a defining moment when people stop asking you about Sir Alex? Will that be a sign you’ve moved on?
Yes, in a way. I don’t want to mention Sir Alex in every conversation I have but in the same breath I would hate to think in any way that I was disrespecting someone of his level. But I will always respect him, as will Manchester United.
How involved to you intend to be in the day-to-day running of the club?
I'm going to reshape this club from top to bottom.
While some managers are famous for their hands-on approach, others maintain a more reserved manner with their players. How do you see your management style?
I want every player to know that they can come to me with anything.
What would you say is your tactical approach to the game?
We need to make sure we have a balanced approach. It is little use having a brilliant front-line if you can't defend a lead.
What can we expect of you in the transfer market? Are you looking to splash the cash or are you more of a bargain hunter?
I am only interested in signing the very best players available.
On the off-chance that any agents read your comments today, is there a particular area of the squad which you are looking to strengthen in the near future?
Midfield.
Recent reports have linked you with a move for Barcelona attacking midfielder Cesc Fabregas. Are you prepared to go on record with your thoughts on this story?
I don't like to talk about players at other clubs, but I can confirm that I would love to make him a part of the team and we are working towards that end. There is definitely some interest from our side. Can we do a deal? It's too soon to say. I won't be discussing any transfer stories today, sorry.
