Howard: Manchester United boss was like a father figure

Tim Howard

Former Manchester United goalkeeper Tim Howard has backed David Moyes to be a success in the hot seat at Old Trafford after succeeding Sir Alex Ferguson last summer.

Howard, now at Everton, played under Moyes for seven years when the Scotsman managed the Toffees and says he can get the best out of the players at his disposal.

“I got a great chance going to Manchester United under Sir Alex but my career was moulded and shaped by David,” Howard told the Daily Record.

“When I look back at my career, he will have had the biggest influence.

“Not everyone takes to his style but for me, I’ve always been the type of player who wants it on the chin. If it’s good, then I want a pat on the back but if it’s bad, then give me a talking to and Moyes was like a father figure.

“He trusted me a lot but with that trust and responsibility, I sometimes got the short end of the stick.

“The main thing is I always appreciated his honesty. It seemed like he was rollicking me every week but when he placed that much responsibility on your shoulders, then he expects a lot of you and I wouldn’t be where I am now without him.

“What is the definition of a Manchester United manager? He’s a top coach who always gets his best out of his players so if that’s what it takes to be their manager, then he is definitely it.

“They’ve got a great squad. Change is difficult and following Sir Alex is never easy.”