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Moyes delighted after Goodison farewell

Everton manager David Moyes said he was “gobsmacked” with the reception he received at Goodison Park on Sunday.

Moyes – who will replace Alex Ferguson at Manchester United in the off-season – saw his last home match in charge of Everton end in a comfortable 2-0 win over West Ham.

Belgian Kevin Mirallas scored a double for the victors, as a capacity crowd on Merseyside gave Moyes a fitting tribute before, during and after the match.

“I’m really fortunate that I’ve had a reception like I did today,” Moyes said.

“(I was) really emotional from when I came in. All the stewards were standing, clapping me when I walked in. I didn’t know what to do.

“I’m gobsmacked and very thankful and humble for what the people of Everton have shown me today.”

Moyes admitted he was unsure of how Everton’s supporters would react to the news that he was leaving the club after 11 years, and added that he was delighted with his team’s performance as they played a lacklustre West Ham outfit off the park.

“You just don’t know what reaction (you will get),” he said.

“I’m a football supporter and if I’d been on the terracing today, I’d have clapped the manager. I might not have liked what he is doing but I’d certainly have applauded.

“I think more importantly for me was how well Everton played today. I thought the team played like a top team today. And I don’t mean a team in fifth or sixth, I mean a top team. I think we’d have been a match for any side today.”

“The players were terrific and the level of professionalism today, just to make sure it couldn’t get caught up in anything, was a credit. Whoever comes in here next will enjoy that because they are a really good, good bunch of players.”

Moyes also said that he would do everything he can to assist Everton chairman Bill Kenwright in picking the club’s next manager, if asked.

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