Giggs relishing coaching role

Ryan Giggs admits he “couldn’t turn down” the opportunity to join David Moyes’ coaching staff for the 2013/14 season.

The Welshman says he’s enjoyed his first forays into coaching, although he still considers himself a player first and foremost.

“I got the call [from David Moyes] when I was in Turkey [over the summer] doing my coaching badges,” he told Inside United, the club’s official monthly magazine.

“My initial thoughts were about how it would affect the playing side of things because I was obviously preparing to play for another year.

“I spoke to a few people and had a think about it and I could only see plus points; I couldn’t see any minuses. It’s an exciting chance for me and one that I couldn’t turn down.”

Giggs had his first taste of coaching the Reds on last month’s Tour 2013, presented by Aon, a three-week trip that took United to Thailand, Australia, Japan and Hong Kong. Although he predominantly prepared for the season as a player, he also spent some sessions assisting Moyes and the other backroom staff.

Coaching isn’t something Giggs has been thrown into overnight. It’s something he says he’s been working towards for the last five years.

“I’ve always concentrated on playing but I’ve been doing my badges at the same time. It’s been tough at times because it’s quite time consuming but I’m really glad I’ve done it.

“Five years ago I didn’t think I’d still be playing at this age so I wanted to make sure I was prepared when I finished so I started doing my coaching badges then.”

Ryan's step into a new role isn't the only change he's had to undergo this summer. He's also lacing up his boots for a 24th season as a Red, but a first under a manager who isn't Sir Alex Ferguson.

Of course, all the United players are in the same boat, but for Giggs, who's been at the club longer than anybody else, it must seem particularly strange. Nevertheless, the 39-year-old says he's been very impressed by the new manager's methods.

"He’s really hands-on," he said. "He’s a manager that coaches and likes to be involved in everything.

"But there is also a good symmetry with Steve Round, Jimmy Lumsden, Phil Neville and myself – everyone works well together. He likes to take control of most of the training but he knows he’s got the other guys to help him.

"He’s a real details man. He likes to know everything about every player and I think that’s what you need to be a Manchester United manager. It’s all in the details. And that’s what he is all about."