David Moyes has released a statement over his sacking as manager of Manchester United. It reads:

“To have been appointed as manager of Manchester United, one of the biggest football clubs in the world, was and remains something of which I will always be incredibly proud.

“Taking charge after such a long period of continuous stability and success at the club was inevitably going to be a significant challenge, but it was one which I relished and never had a second thought about taking it on.

“The scale of the manager’s job at United is immense, but I have never stepped away from hard work and the same applies to my coaching staff. I thank them for their dedication and loyalty throughout the last season.

“We were fully focused and committed to the process of the fundamental rebuilding that is required for the senior squad.

“This had to be achieved whilst delivering positive results in the Barclays Premier League and the Champions League.

“However, during this period of transition, performances and results have not been what Manchester United and its fans are used to or expect, and I both understand and share their frustration.

“In my short time at the club I have learnt what special places Old Trafford and Carrington are. I would like to thank the United staff for making me feel so welcome and part of the United family from my first day. And of course thank you to those fans who have supported me throughout the season. I wish you and the club all the best for the future.

“I have always believed that a manager never stops learning during his career and I know I will take invaluable experience from my time as United’s manager. I remain proud to have led the team to the quarter finals of this year’s Champions League and I remain grateful to Sir Alex Ferguson for believing in my ability and giving me the chance to manage Manchester United.”

On behalf of David Moyes, the League Managers Association (LMA) have released a statement regarding the sacking of the Manchester United manager, condemning the way that the situation was handled:

“The LMA is very disappointed with the nature of David’s departure from Manchester United and to read extensive reports in the press, confirming David’s sacking, before David himself had been spoken to officially by the club.   

“Throughout his time at United, David, as he always does, has conducted himself with integrity and professionalism, values that he believes in and that have been strongly associated with the club and its rich tradition. It is therefore sad to see the end of David’s tenure at United being handled in an unprofessional manner.”

Moyes reportedly will receive a severance package of approximately £4.5million. Insiders say that Moyes was upset that the news that Moyes was going to be sacked was leaked to the British newspapers on Sunday night before Moyes knew he was going to get fired. It was Sunday night when Ed Woodward, Sir Alex Ferguson, Bobby Charlton and David Gill met to ratify the decision to sack Moyes. However, Moyes wasn’t officially told the news until Tuesday morning. According to reports, Moyes arrived early at Manchester United’s Carrington training complex on Tuesday at approximately 4:30am, to avoid the press, knowing that it would be his last time at the complex. After the news was confirmed, Moyes said his goodbyes to the players and staff before Ryan Giggs took charge of the morning training session alongside Phil Neville and Chris Woods.

More coverage regarding the David Moyes sacking and recent developments at United:

• 5 leading contenders to replace David Moyes as manager
• Top 5: David Moyes worst matches as Manchester United manager
• Paul Scholes returns to Manchester United as interim coach
• Reclaiming its identity is the key to Manchester United’s future success