Former Manchester United defender Gary Neville has insisted that rival Premier League clubs have been boosted by the retirement of Sir Alex Ferguson.

The Scotsman decided to call time on his illustrious 26-year reign at Old Trafford at the end of the season, leaving the hotseat to former Everton boss David Moyes.

"I know from speaking to other people in football that since Sir Alex announced his retirement other clubs have already been lifted by the fact he is no longer around," Neville told the club's official website.

"The players should see that as a slight on them and say 'hang on, do you think we can't go out on that pitch and perform without our manager?' That is a challenge in itself and ultimately the players and David Moyes will need to respond to that."

United is one of three dominant top-flight clubs that will start the season with a new manager, as Manchester City and Chelsea currently hunt for their new leaders.