"The fans have always been great to me and they were tonight," Neville told MUTV after the 1-0 win at Old Trafford on Wednesday night.
"Missing the end of last season was bad. I missed the Champions League quarters and semis, the Championship run-in and the FA Cup Final, so it's good to be back to help the team now.
"People kept asking me when I was coming back and it was a bit embarrassing. I'd try and give them a date and then it wouldn't materialise.
"But the fans have always supported me and gave me a good reception when I came on."
Speaking about the forthcoming Champions League semi-final dates with Barcelona, he added: "They're two unbelievable games to look forward to.
"Two clubs who play the game the right way. It'll be an unbelievable occasion to be a part of.
"Anyone who is a football fan will be tuning in."