Moyes statement on dismissal; Reports say he was recruiting to the end

The League Managers Association has released a statement from David Moyes, giving the world its first glimpse into how the former Manchester United boss is reacting to his Red Devils dismissal after less than a year in charge of the club. Here’s the entire statement, from The Irish Times:

“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 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.”

As for the way it ended, the LMA is frustrated by the way the news came out before Moyes had any knowledge.

The Mirror says Moyes was recruiting players for the summer transfer window as recently as Monday, with Toni Kroos of Bayern Munich and Luke Shaw of Southampton getting an aggressive approach to come to Old Trafford.

And The Mirror says he was very, very angry:

Insiders have revealed Moyes was seething when he heard from Woodward – and that was before discussions over his pay-off.

The 50-year-old called in Richard Bevan, head of the managers’ union the LMA, to make sure United pay what is due to him, which may be a year’s money at around £5million.

Moyes is seen as having a strong sense of ethics, and refused to speak to Everton before they had sacked their then-boss Walter Smith.

Even a club as big as Manchester United needs to have a better handle on how news comes out. “Sources” can be nefarious forces, but with such a major decision, well, it’s easy to understand the anger from Moyes. Many folks are pointing out that the manager did not thank the players in his statement. Maybe that’s noteworthy… and maybe we’ll get a non-fiction “The Damned Utd” out of the deal… even if that’s not Moyes’ style.

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