Gary Neville described himself as ‘incredibly excited’ to become the Valencia Coach at his first Press conference since he was confirmed in the role.
The meeting with the media at Mestalla last more than an hour and Neville discussed learning from Sir Alex Ferguson, the possible hypocrisy of being given the job with his level of experience and a range of other topics.
“I’m incredibly excited to be here. I understand the huge responsibilities I’ve been given and have accepted,” the former Manchester United defender said.
“I played at this very stadium many years ago and remember the passion and intimidation from the fans, I want to harness that in the coming weeks and months.
“Phil Neville and Miguel Angel Angulo are on the backroom team, not just to satisfy local people but to be an important part of the team.
“I’m very aware of Valencia traditions, I played here against fantastic wingers. My responsibility is to appraise the players and pick the best style of play that wins matches.
“We haven’t got a preseason or friendlies, we’ve got huge matches. We have to pick the right team irrespective of style.”
Neville is on a contract until June 2016 and was asked about the future beyond that point, both for himself and Los Che.
“The only way to approach a football job is to think of it as permanent, it’s the only way I can think. I can’t work short term and don’t believe in working that way,” he replied.
“We will appoint people from within. I’m not interested in bringing an army of coaches.
“My family will move here permanently. My girls will finish school in Manchester in two weeks and will move to Valencia with my wife. I always wanted when I was at United foreign players to show commitment not just to the club but to immerse themselves in the city and I think it’s important I do that.”
The rest of Neville’s first Valencia Press conference can be found here, here, here and here.
Image via www.valenciacf.com
