McQueen insists Moyes can be King of Europe

David Moyes may never have managed a team in the Champions League, but that doesn’t mean he can’t win it at his first attempt.

That’s the verdict of former Manchester United and Scotland centre-back Gordon McQueen as Moyes prepares for his debut in the competition’s group stages against Bayer Leverkusen at Old Trafford on Tuesday.

“It’s completely wrong to call David a novice,” says McQueen.

“He may not have managed at this level, but his knowledge of European football will be up there with the best.

“He’s always been an avid game watcher and, rest assured, he’s seen dozens and dozens of Champions League games.

“He’ll have forgotten more than most of us will ever know about European football.

“His preparation is always meticulous, and he will know absolutely everything about his opponents.

“He’ll have been told what to expect, and no doubt he will be relying to some extent on people like Ryan Giggs, who have been there and done it.

“But I have no doubts he’s up to the job.

“He’ll be nervous about his first European game, sure. Everything is still new to him at Old Trafford and expectations are so high.

“There are no ifs or buts, he’s got to do the job and qualify from the group.

“I think he’s done fine so far. I was delighted when he was appointed and all the ex-players I talk to feel the same.”

McQueen believes that Moyes can set his sights higher than merely getting out of a group that includes Shakhtar Donetsk and Real Sociedad, as well as Leverkusen.

“I don’t see why he can’t win it,” Gordon goes on. “He’s got players who are capable of lifting the trophy, and I don’t think his inexperience in Europe is an issue.

“It’s virtually the same squad as last year when they were so unlucky to be knocked out by Real Madrid after Nani was sent off.

“David just needs big performances by his top players on the night and he has a serious chance.

“It’s a great group for him. German football is flavour of the month after Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund reached last season’s Final. But I believe United are capable of beating Leverkusen home and away.

“I saw them mess up against Leverkusen in the semi-final in 2002 when they went out on away goals.

“That was with Sir Alex in charge so it shows it can go wrong on the night no matter how experienced you are.

“I watch a lot of German football and, while it’s exciting and the grounds have great atmospheres, I don’t think the quality outside the top two is all that high.

“I believe that overall, Spanish football is better.

“That’s why, of the other teams in the group, I’d be more concerned about Sociedad.

“They’re very strong for a Pot 4 team.