David Moyes’ spell at Manchester United now seems like a distant memory.
The now-West Ham boss’ stock was high following his 10-year-old spell at Everton – so much so, Sir Alex Ferguson even recommended him to the board to be the one to replace him following his retirement. The Red Devils’ hierarchy took the advice, swiftly giving Moyes a six-year contract.
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He wouldn’t even see out one year, though. In April of 2014, he was relieved of his duties, and has since managed Real Socieded, Sunderland, and now the Hammers – twice. For most, his spell at Old Trafford will be surreal but long-forgotten.
Wilfried Zaha is unlikely to be one of those. The Ivory Coast international was Ferguson’s last signing but only managed by Moyes, and it is fair to say that the spell didn’t go well. He made just three appearances, and he made it clear what he thought of the 56-year-old last year. He told The Daily Mail that the former Preston manager had tried to break him in every way and destroy his career – he was just 20 when Moyes took over.
He has since flourished back at Crystal Palace, with Everton even said to have made a £65m bid for his services. However, his ordeal should be a warning sign for the Hammers. They currently have a number of talented youngsters at their disposal, such as Declan Rice and Jeremy Ngakia to name but two.
They are defensive players anyway, but it seems that the likes of Conor Coventry and Grady Diangana, more expressive, attacking footballers, could be in for something of a shock if they return to the London outfit – it was Zaha’s desire to express himself that seemed to frustrate Moyes.
Having won just two from 10 league games, the Hammers may soon move to replace the former United manager, but if they don’t, they should be wary of the potential impact he could have on the club’s up-and-coming youngsters. The last thing they want is for someone to stunt their progress – Moyes could very well do just that.
Meanwhile, this, not Moyes, is holding West Ham back.