(Football news) Manchester United have appointed David Harrison as their new director of football operations. Harrison is set to join from Everton and will succeed Alan Dawson, who is going to leave United after 11 years this July. Harrison will be based at Carrington training complex and will report to football director John Murtough. United say that Harrison will lead all operational aspects of the club’s football activities on and off the field.

Born in Bury, Harrison started his career in the ticket office at Old Trafford before he subsequently moved to Everton in 1995. Harrison grew up in Bury which is in Greater Manchester, and he is set to leave Everton after 27 years at the end of February and is going to start at United next month. The director of football operations was also known as ‘Contract Dave’ because he was often pictured smiling alongside new club signings. He was appointed to in the role in June 2018 after 16 years as club secretary before that he was the manager of the ticket office for seven years prior to that promotion

All his activities and findings will be reported to John Murtough who is United’s Football Director, and will do all his business affairs from the Carrington Training Centre. Harrison’s job criteria will be responsible for ensuring United’s football operations to run as smoothly and effectively as possible. His role will also include the management of football operations for the men’s, women’s and academy teams as it will include football administration, team travel and player support.

Harrison said: “I’m excited to be taking this role at a time of such opportunity and promise for Manchester United. I will always cherish my memories of 27 years at Everton and wish everyone at Goodison and Finch Farm all the best for the future. Now, my focus is on helping Manchester United create the best possible operating environment to support success on the pitch.”

Murtough added: “David is known as one of the most able and respected operators in football and we are delighted that he has chosen to join Manchester United. He will bring deep experience and knowledge to this important role, and add further strength to the support structure we are building around our football teams, to give our players and staff the best chance of success.”

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