Sven-Goran Eriksson is elated after ending his football exile

Eriksson, 59, is back after signing a three-year contract at Manchester City.

The Swede continued to be paid compensation by the Football Association for his time out the game.

But he said: "It has been more stressful than being involved in any football match or sitting on the bench. I'm very happy to be back in football."

We have the ambition and we also have the resources New Man City boss Sven-Goran Eriksson

Eriksson added: "Waking up in the morning after one month's holiday and not knowing what you're going to do was awful.

"I've never had that in my life before, so I'm pleased to be in football again.

"I feel much better having football work to do, and you can be sure I am 110% committed to this challenge."

Eriksson also reflected the new mood of optimism at Eastlands following his appointment.

606: DEBATE Sven will do well at Man City WT

He said: "I have not followed Manchester City for 31 years, so I can't really talk about the past. But it is good to be here, because you can feel the optimism.

"I have had a lot of offers in the past 12 months but I am glad to have accepted this one.

"This is a very interesting project, an exciting challenge and a big one. We have already had a lot of calls from people interested in joining us, and I am looking forward to it a great deal."

Eriksson has been linked with Middlesbrough striker Yakubu and former City marksman Nicolas Anelka.

And he revealed: "By the time we get to the first game against West Ham, I can promise there will be new faces.

"We have the ambition and we also have the resources, which is very important - because, like it or not, in football these days you need money."