Former Manchester United and England midfielder Paul Scholes has been appointed as manager of League Two club, Oldham Athletic, the club announced on Monday.

Scholes is taking on his first managerial role, signing a contract with the club he supported as a boy after spending his entire playing career at Old Trafford.

The 44-year-old says “the time is right” to take his first steps into management after being named boss of League Two club Oldham Athletic.

Scholes has signed an 18-month contract with the team.

He was cleared by the English Football League to take the role, despite holding a 10% stake in Salford City.

“I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t feel excited,” said Scholes, who added he was “happy” to be in League Two.

“I’ve prepared well for it, I’ve watched the team play and I think they are capable of winning a lot of games. If they don’t, it’s my fault.

“It’s a squad that should be pushing for promotion – that might be out of reach for this season, but certainly next season.”

Scholes, who will be bringing in former Latics coach Mike Priest as his assistant, takes over with the club 14th in the table, nine points off the playoffs and 14 points above the relegation zone.