Manchester United Appoint David Sternberg As Head Of Media

Manchester United have appointed a new head of media as they attempt to bolster their global social networking presence.

David Sternberg, a former Fox and Universal Sports executive, has already started in his new role to oversee the club's MUTV channel, as well as websites, mobile, social and print media.

Phil Townsend will continue in his position as United's communications director.

United have a hugely-popular Facebook page but not yet a Twitter account, though the club's handling of Sir Alex Ferguson's retirement as manager hinted at an increased commitment to social media.

The official news release carried the Twitter hashtag 'thankyousiralex' and Ferguson's decision to retire led to 1.4m mentions on the site in a single hour.