Real Sociedad captain Xabi Prieto has given his backing to new manager David Moyes, insisting that the Scot can "improve the team".

Moyes was confirmed as the Basque outfit's new boss last night following a tumultuous spell as Sir Alex Ferguson's successor at Manchester United.

Prieto highlighted Moyes's work at Everton as proof of the 51-year-old's quality, and hopes that the new boss will have a similar impact in San Sebastian.

"It is very difficult to be at a club for many years as he was at Everton, a sign that he did very well, growing the club and qualifying for several years to play in Europe," Prieto told Real Sociedad TV.

"We hope that with La Real something similar can happen, to help us grow, give us stability and improve the team."

Moyes, who has signed a contract until 2016, is due to be unveiled and presented to the media on Thursday.