Ryan Giggs distances himself from reports he is to return to management

Former Manchester United winger Ryan Giggs has played down reports that he is set for a return to the dugout after being linked to a number of management roles.

Giggs emerged as the heavy favourite with some bookmakers to take over at Sunderland following the departure of David Moyes, and has also been linked with the Middlesbrough job in recent weeks.

However Giggs, who served as caretaker manager at United following Moyes' spell in charge before taking up an assistant role under Louis van Gaal, says he has had no contact with either club.

"I'm not too aware of it. Unless anyone has approached me, then it's not true," he told Sky Sports News.

"As a player and a person who has been in football for so long, that's all they are, rumours. If I did speak to someone, I would keep it between myself and the club.''

Giggs has made no secret of his desire to take on a permanent role in the past but says he is enjoying life out of the spotlight.

"I have had 25 years or so as a player then towards the end as a coach and I've had a year off,'' he said. "For the first time in 25 years, I've had a year off, got the chance to do different things and I've enjoyed it.

"But I've always said I want to eventually become a manager or coach but I am in no rush. It is all about picking the right team and the right club.''

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