Paul Scholes says “the time is right” to take his first steps into management after being named boss of League Two club Oldham Athletic.

The former Manchester United and England midfielder has signed a one-and-a-half-year contract with the team he supports.

He was cleared by the English Football League to take the role, despite holding a 10% stake in Salford City.

“I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t feel excited about the team,” said Scholes.

“It’s a squad that should be pushing for promotion – that might be out of reach for this season, but certainly next season.”

Scholes, who will be bringing in former Latics coach Mike Priest as his assistant, takes over with the club 14th in the table, nine points off the play-offs and 14 points above the relegation zone.

The United legend said in October 2017 he had been interviewed for the manager’s job at Boundary Park before Richie Wellens was appointed, and spoke of his desire to “get back into football in some capacity” after news of his talks with Oldham were reported in January.

“It’s no secret how much he has wanted this job in the past and how much he loves this club, so I’m very happy to bring him into our family at Oldham Athletic,” said owner Abdallah Lemsagam.

“Paul will have my backing 100% and hopefully we can work together to bring success back to this club.”