David Weir ‘can’t wait’ to start Sheffield role

New Sheffield United boss David Weir. Picture: PA

Former Scotland skipper Weir, 43, was a strong contender for the vacancy at Goodison Park following the departure of Moyes to Manchester United after serving two years as coach under him.

Everton chairman Bill Kenwright opted instead to bring in Roberto Martinez from FA Cup winners Wigan so, with a glowing reference from mentor Moyes, Weir jumped at the chance when the Blades came calling. “I’m obviously happy, it’s a great opportunity for me,” Weir said. “I’m very excited about it. It’s a great start to my managerial career and I can’t wait to get started.”

Former Falkirk, Hearts, Everton and Rangers defender Weir, appointed on Monday as permanent successor to Danny Wilson and handed a three-year contract, revealed the interview process at Goodison had been an uplifting experience.

“It was something I felt I could do and I thoroughly enjoyed the process,” he said. “I genuinely felt I had a decent chance.

“Bill called and told me he’d decided to go externally, but I came out of the interview knowing I was ready to be a manager.

“I’m not a person for looking back, I look forward and I’m excited to be here and looking forward to the challenge.”

Weir said he had discussed the possibility of following Moyes to Old Trafford. “I had spoken to him because he’s a person I speak to regularly,” he said. “But we were both of the same mindset – that it was time for me to be a manager.”

Weir knows promotion is a short-term target, but said he will build his side round the latest crop of emerging talent at Bramall Lane, while adding to the squad with lower league players hungry for success. “I’d like to play exciting football,” he added. “You’ve got to have a certain style about how you play, but you’ve to adapt to the football club and match their philosophy. Sheffield United are a club associated with hard work and organisation and good values.”