Alex Fegurson tips 'leader' Neville to succeed at Valencia

London: Former Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson has said his old skipper Gary Neville has the leadership skills to be a success as manager of Spanish side Valencia.

Neville replaced former boss Nuno Espirito Santo, who quit on Monday, and the 40-year-old`s first match in charge will be Wednesday`s must-win Champions League tie against Olympique Lyonnais.

"His leadership skills are strong, he`s honest and he`s hard working," Ferguson told Sky Sports on Wednesday.

"He is the type of character who is not afraid of making big decisions, which is a vital skill when leading. I think he`ll do well and I wish him, and his brother Phil (Neville), good luck."

Neville`s assistant will be his younger brother Phil, another former United player who joined Valencia as a coach in the close season.

Gary Neville is the 29th player who featured under Ferguson at Old Trafford to take the top job at a professional club, either on a permanent or temporary basis, United said.