Phil Neville reacted like 'big kid' after being told he would manage Salford City

Former Manchester United man took charge with Paul Scholes

Phil Neville was criticised during the World Cup (GETTY IMAGES)

Phil Neville reacted like a "big kid" after discovering he and Independent columnist Paul Scholes would be in charge for Salford City's Saturday fixture against Kendal Town.

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Neville, along with Scholes, took temporary charge of the Evo-Stik Division One North side after manager Phil Power's departure.

The pair, along with fellow 'Class of 92' members Ryan Giggs, Nicky Butt and Gary Neville, own a 50% share in the club.

Salford ended a run of three league games without a win, with a 2-1 win over their Cumbrian opponents.

The result was fortunate for Neville who had been given a one-match ultimatum by Salford chairman Karen Baird.

"Phil was like a big kid! He was very excited. I think he wants the opportunity to do it every week," she said.

"I did tell him before the game that he had to win otherwise he was sacked. We just held on in the end."

In the end, Anthony Johnson and Bernard Morley were named as the clubs new management team, something the Class of 92 had a say in.

Baird said: "It was everyone's decision - both the committee and the owners. That is how everything is done now."

All the former United stars play an active part in affairs at the club, something Baird says will continue.

"They will carry on coming to games and give their opinion on games," she said. "They can't help themselves... especially Gary!"

However Baird didn't rule out a managerial return from one of the club's illustrious owners.

"Anything is possible," added Baird. "It depends how high we get up and how quickly we get up, when we get in the football league and how well the current team do.

Neville and Scholes in the Manchester United dugout last season (GETTY IMAGES)

"But now we have taken Jonno and Bernard on and they have been there and done it at this level, so hopefully they will stay in for as long as possible.

"This one really had to be the right one really, because all eyes are going to be on us. It is the first one we have made with the Class of '92, as Phil (Power) was with us before that. It is their appointment as well.

"I think they are all far too busy, but I think they think with this level what we need to get better with is knowing the players, which they don't know. A one off game is OK but that is about it."