A source close to Moyes, who asked to be kept anonymous to protect relationships, told The Athletic that the Scotsman was informed someone else would be stepping into the managerial berth at West Ham. Moyes put his phone down, mystified at the news that his six-month reign was coming to an abrupt end.

Everton manager David Moyes says it will be "difficult" to go up against some of the players he has "close bonds" with when he faces former club West Ham. On Friday, the Scot was announced as manager of the month for February,

Follow live coverage as West Ham United face Newcastle United today in the Premier League. Another top-flight season will be covered in full right here with The Independent, as reigning champions Manchester City look to make it an unprecedented five titles in a row come the end of 2024/25.

Everton dominate the overall head-to-head record, with 75 wins to West Ham’s 45, in addition to 32 draws, and Graham Potter’s charges will be desperate to help turn the stats in their favour with a positive result at Goodison Park on Saturday.