Former Manchester United team-mate reveals why Gary Neville was given Valencia job

Gary Neville has been given his first chance at managing a football club by Salford owner Peter Lim

MARK HUGHES believes Gary Neville got the Valencia manager's job because of "who he knows rather than what he knows".

 

The Stoke manager played alongside Neville at Manchester United and also has experience of the Spanish game while at Barcelona.

Neville took charge of his first game as Valencia boss, a crucial Champions League home tie with Lyon.

He has a close relationship with the Valencia owner Peter Lim as the pair both have stakes in Salford FC. "There is a reason Gary is getting the opportunity he is getting, because of the ownership," said Hughes.

 

"Sometimes it's not what you know it's who you know that gives you a foot in the door. I am pleased he has gone ahead and grasped it. Why wouldn't he?

"It's a good level. It ticks a lot of boxes as a coach and manager, he's abroad, they're going to be in the Champions League, if he does well, that will enhance his career.

"Those are the things he will have to understand, the culture of the place as well. There are a lot of elements you have to factor in."

 

Neville, taking his first pre-match press conference as boss, revealed he had no nerves ahead of his first game in charge.

“I don’t know if it’s dangerous but I don’t feel anxious at all,” he said. “Maybe that’s good, maybe that’s bad. I don’t know as I’ve never been in this position before.

“Obviously I’ve been a coach with England and I don’t feel anxious before England games either. Maybe I did as a player a little bit but as a coach I’ve never felt that way working under Roy Hodgson with England and I don’t feel that way today.”