Former Republic of Ireland and Manchester United defender Denis Irwin believes Erik ten Hag has all the tools required to stamp his philosophy on Old Trafford practice and transforming the Red Devils' fortunes.
United confirmed on Thursday that Ten Hag will take over as manager at the end of the season.
The impressive Ajax boss is looking to wrap up a third Eredivisie title before moving to Manchester on a three-year deal, which includes the option of a further year.
Irwin enjoyed a remarkable, trophy-laden 12-year career with United, and is hopeful that the incoming boss can steer the club back to the top end of the game domestically and in Europe.
He told Sky Sports News: "I'm more than happy. He's an exciting appointment.
"The style of football he's played at Ajax over the last four and a half years is great to watch. He's had success in Holland and on the European stage, and I think all the fans are right behind it.
"Yeah, it might take time with an overhaul due in terms of the first-team squad, and we need a bit of patience as well.
"The best-case scenario is we'll be challenging hopefully in two or three years' time for the league, but I'm excited by the style of football and the fact he seems an honest and hard-working manager."
Meanwhile former United captain Gary Neville has suggested ex-Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino (above) lost out to Ten Hag because of PSG's failure in the Champions League this season.
PSG fell at the last-16 stage to Real Madrid and Neville told Sky Sports: "I think Pochettino has been the outstanding choice for a number of years.
"But losing in the Champions League this season and not winning the French league last season has cost Mauricio.
"The mood music, what would be the current moment, is absolutely key. Erik ten Hag is the man of the moment, the overwhelming choice I think of the fans as well, and the club has determined he is the right man to take the club forward."
Rio Ferdinand told United fans to "fasten the belts and enjoy the ride".
The former United defender wrote on Twitter: "As we expected.. Ten Hag is announced! Welcome to Manchester United. Time to fasten the belts and enjoy the ride!"
Speaking on FIVE's YouTube channel previously, Ferdinand said: "He has worked with Pep Guardiola at Bayern Munich and has the experience of being around big players. I think a huge part of what he has to get right at Manchester United is going to be getting it right with players.
"We've seen many managers with more experience and who've won more than Ten Hag, and with bigger reputations, that have come in and been chewed up by this football club."
Additional reporting: PA
Listen to the RTÉ Soccer podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.
