THE new chief executive of Manchester United is a former Felsted schoolboy.

Ed Woodward is set to take on his new role when incumbent David Gill steps down at the end of June.

Mr Woodward, 40, was born in Chelmsford but still has family in Felsted.

In his new role, he will have the overall responsibility for the club, including transfer policy.

Mr Woodward said: “This is a great honour.

“Manchester United is a glorious football club. We have wonderfully loyal fans and a deeply rich history and tradition.

“I am particularly humbled to have the chance to work alongside the greatest manager in the history of the game.

Mr Woodward, a Chelmsford City FC fan, joined the club in 2005 and in 2007 he took on the club's commercial and media operations.

Sir Alex Ferguson, who has managed the club for more than 20 years, added: “Ed is a young man with the energy and drive to help keep United at the forefront of the game and to help us maintain our success on the field. 

“I’m looking forward to working with him and wish him all the best.”