Fortune Endorses New Coaches

Quinton Fortune believes David Moyes made a shrewd move when deciding to add Ryan Giggs and Phillip Neville to his new-look coaching team at Manchester United.

The South African played with Giggs and Neville during his six season stay at Old Trafford and having witnessed both men at work during this summer’s extensive pre-season tour, the 36-year-old is confident of their individual successes this season.

However, Fortune admits it is odd to see his former team-mates working as part of United’s backroom staff at the Aon Training Complex, where he still works on his personal fitness.

“Phil has worked with Moyes at Everton so he knows him inside out, but it’s a little bit strange for Giggsy because he is still a player and I see him training with the lads,” Quinton exclusively told ManUtd.com. “But I can see the change happening in him now because he has to be with the coaches as well.

“Ryan is a great guy to have as a link between the coaching staff and players - who better to ask a question than the longest serving player at the club? He has so much experience. Phil is also one of the great players at United, he embodies the traditions and knows what it takes to play for the club. To have these people involved with the squad is brilliant.”

Of course, everybody’s attention at the club is firmly aligned on this Saturday’s trip to Swansea City for the start of the 2013/14 Barclays Premier League, a match that excites Fortune. Although the former utility man acknowledges it will be difficult following a summer of change for United.

“It will be tough. There is always that question because Sir Alex is not there, will United be as strong as before with David Moyes in charge? But any manager who took this job would find it tough.

“Obviously, people will judge what we did on pre-season but I don’t count those games. The most important thing is getting those games in, getting fit and avoiding injuries. The players have got that mentality to turn it on when the real games start and the first one is Swansea. I’m excited.”

Quinton Fortune was speaking to ManUtd.com at Party Poker's Road to Old Trafford event.