Former Manchester United and England striker Teddy Sheringham has made his first foray into management after taking charge at League Two club Stevenage on Thursday.

Sheringham quit his position as attacking coach at West Ham, where he worked under boss Sam Allardyce, to learn the managerial ropes in the unglamourous surroundings of the English fourth tier.

The 49-year-old, who earned 51 caps for England, replaces Graham Westley, whose contract was due to expire on May 31.

Stevenage reached the League Two play-off semi-finals under Westley this season, but were beaten by Southend over two legs.

And Sheringham, who won three Premier League titles and the Champions League during his time with United, has set his sights on securing promotion next season.

"To do better than last season has to be the aim," said the much-travelled star, who includes Tottenham, West Ham, Nottingham Forest and Millwall among his numerous former clubs.

"I know that's a big aim right at this minute. That will be the aim for whatever football club you are working for. The aim is to do better than the season before and then that's progress.

"To say that I'm excited is an understatement. I'm really looking forward to next season.

"It's a very big challenge. I am walking into the unknown. The chairman knows that as well. I know he has taken a gamble on me, so I want to fulfill that optimism he has shown in me and I want to do well next season."