Pundit and ex-striker Kevin Phillips, who counts Sunderland, Watford and Crystal Palace among his previous clubs, has played down speculation that David Moyes could return to Everton.
Following ex-Toffees boss Carlo Ancelotti’s sudden return to Real Madrid, Nuno Espirito Santo has joined Moyes as two of the leading frontrunners for the vacant Goodison Park job.
Moyes enjoyed a long and storied career with Everton, though he departed in 2013 to take up the opportunity to succeed his compatriot Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United.
Moyes is believed to have agreed a new three-year deal at current club West Ham United following a successful fifth-placed finish with the Hammers – securing European football in the process.
Indeed, Moyes’ achievements at the London Stadium this season is said to have enticed Everton owner Farhad Moshiri with the possibility of lining up a reunion, though Kevin Phillips is unsure that a serious move would materialise.
Conceding to Everton could offer plentiful resources to Moyes, Phillips claimed:
“Moyes had an amazing time [at Everton] and it’s no surprise to hear that he is being considered for the job,” said the former striker to Football Insider.
“Would David Moyes want to go back? I do not think so. He looks really happy at West Ham and he has created something special there. Why would you want to walk away from that?
“They finished sixth in the league and qualified for the Europa League. He got so much out of that group of players.
“Everton have had a disappointing season and I think it would take a while to get that team up to the same level as West Ham. I do not see it happening to be honest.
“He will know that there is money at Everton but it takes a while to build. He was given lots of time when he was there last time but would he get it again?
“He should stick at West Ham because he has done a fabulous job there.”
Read Everton Verdict
Having delivered a memorable campaign for the Irons and with Europa League football to look forward to, Moyes looks to be both comfortable and on the ascendency in east London.
Given that he appears committed to fresh terms, Everton face a Sisyphean task if they are truly intent on re-hiring the Scot that departed eight years ago.
