DAVID GILL

"The board of Manchester United plc is delighted to announce the appointment of David Gill as its new chief executive with immediate effect, to replace Peter Kenyon who has resigned.”

"David (Gill), as Managing Director, has also played a major role in that success, and we are delighted that his appointment will bring both experience and continuity to this position."

The 46-year-old Gill joined United in 1997 as finance director and was appointed deputy chief executive in August 2000.

"We worked with Peter for six years and it was a bolt out of the blue but we have to move on," he told MUTV after news of his promotion was announced.

"I think it's important to stress that we're just into the season this doesn't detract from the football side of things. We’re always looking to strengthen things on the management side, and will make sure this has no effect on the football."

"Hopefully, the decision is the right one. The board didn't make a rushed decision, it is about succession and these decisions are thought through. It’s not as if I'm coming in new to the situation. I'm very excited about it, it is an honour to be asked to help Manchester United reach the next level."