Everton stalwart David Weir believes missing out on the Goodison Park job convinced him he was cut out for management.
Weir – who made more than 250 appearances at Everton in a nine-year stint – applied for the manager’s job after David Moyes announced he was leaving for Manchester United.
And although the 43-year-old Scotsman did not get the Everton job, with former Wigan boss Roberto Martinez preferred, he was delighted with the process.
It gave Weir the confidence that he was heading down the right path, and he was officially confirmed as Sheffield United’s new manager on Monday.
“It was something I felt I could do (at Everton) and I thoroughly enjoyed the process,” Weir said.
“I genuinely felt I had a decent chance. (Everton chairman) Bill (Kenwright) called and told me he’d decided to go externally, which I understand his reasoning, but I came out of the interview knowing I was ready to be a manager.
“It was a great experience for me and made me realise how much I wanted it and how much I was ready for it. So overall it was completely the right thing to do.
“I’ve no regrets. I genuinely feel I was close, although you’re better asking Bill that, it was the right thing to do and I put my heart and soul into it.”
After being appointed at Bramall Lane, Weir said: “I’m obviously happy. It’s a great opportunity for me. I’m very excited about it. It’s a great start to my managerial career and I can’t wait to get started.”
Weir, who also played at Falkirk, Hearts and Rangers during his career, has signed a three-year contract at Sheffield United, with the former defender tasked with getting the club promoted from League One in his first season at the helm.
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