As the old saying goes, absence makes the heart grow fonder — and that is certainly the case with me and former West Ham manager David Moyes. The Scot has been speculatively linked with another return to the London Stadium, which inevitably brings back some wonderful memories of his time in charge.
The speculation follows a slowdown in talks over extending his Everton contract. Moyes himself confirmed to Sky Sports that negotiations have entered something of a lull, although there is currently no credible suggestion that West Ham have approached him or are considering replacing Nuno Espírito Santo.
Nevertheless, the rumour raises an interesting question. Moyes is West Ham’s most successful manager in recent memory, having made it enjoyable to support the club again with three consecutive seasons of European football and, of course, that unforgettable Europa Conference League triumph in Prague. But would bringing him back really be a good idea?
Former West Ham boss David Moyes talks to Warburton
Why Moyes’ West Ham Reign Had Run Its Course
If we remove the rose-tinted glasses, it was clear that his time at West Ham had reached its natural conclusion.
His strange relationship with David Sullivan, disagreements with former technical director Tim Steidten and the departures of trusted coaches Alan Irvine, Stuart Pearce, Paul Nevin and Mark Warburton gradually left Moyes looking like a lonely figure. By the end, he appeared a shadow of the manager who had transformed the club.
Moyes has subsequently looked rejuvenated at Everton, but I have always believed that the importance of Irvine to his success has been underestimated. Draw a line through Moyes’ results with his trusted lieutenant beside him and compare them with those achieved without Irvine, and there is a noticeable difference.
Crucially, Irvine is understood to have no appetite to live and work in London again. A third spell for Moyes at West Ham would therefore be unlikely to recreate the same successful formula.
What Could Moyes Offer That Nuno Cannot?
There is also the question of what Moyes would offer that West Ham do not already have.
He is an experienced, pragmatic manager who prioritises organisation and results. That description could just as easily be applied to Nuno. If the club eventually decides to move on from its current head coach, appointing another manager with a broadly similar approach would make little sense.
Moyes deserves enormous respect for everything he achieved at West Ham. His place in the club’s history is secure and should be celebrated.
But some relationships are best remembered rather than rekindled. West Ham’s next managerial appointment must form part of a coherent, modern footballing structure — not another attempt to look backwards.
Gonzo, I’m sorry, but you could not be more wrong. Having supported The Irons for over 50 years David Moyes presided over our decline and inevitable relegation. He created an aged squad and used too players. Threw away results through timid attempts to defend when we needed to attack. The football under Moyes was some of worst I have seen. Rose tinted spectacles. He destroyed our football.