United add Giggs and Neville to coaching staff

A Manchester United FC player for 22 seasons, Ryan Giggs will combine his midfield duties with a coaching role with immediate effect. Former utility player Phil Neville has also returned to Old Trafford as a member of David Moyes' new-look backroom team.

Giggs has been at Old Trafford throughout his career and has only ever worked under Sir Alex Ferguson. However, he will take his first steps into coaching under new United manager Moyes, who officially took over at the beginning of this month. "I'm delighted that Ryan has accepted the chance to become player-coach," said Moyes. "His success and ability to adapt his game over a number of years gives him an unrivalled perspective on the modern game."

Giggs, who turns 40 in November, penned a new one-year deal in March and has since passed 1,000 competitive games. The most decorated player in the Premier League era, Giggs has won 13 league titles, four FA Cups, two UEFA Champions League, two League Cups and a UEFA Super Cup. "It's a great privilege to be appointed a player-coach," said the former Welsh international. "I hope I will be able to bring my experience to bear, having been a player and part of the Manchester United family for so long."

Neville, meanwhile, comes back to the club where he played for 11 seasons. He subsequently spent eight years under the charge of Moyes at Everton FC before hanging up his boots in June. The 36-year-old was also a member of England manager Stuart Pearce's staff at this summer's UEFA European Under-21 Championship.

"When David called to give me this opportunity, I couldn't resist," said Neville. "I gave my all when I played for Everton but it is no secret that this club is in my heart. I've really enjoyed working with David and his staff as a player and I think that, together with Ryan, we can make a real contribution to Manchester United."