A Second Act at Goodison, Battling Relegation and Building for the Future

A New Chapter Begins

David Moyes has returned to Everton as manager, marking his second stint at the helm of the Merseyside club after nearly 12 years. The 61-year-old Scot replaces Sean Dyche, who was sacked just hours before Everton's FA Cup victory over Peterborough.

Moyes' first spell at Goodison Park saw Everton achieve their only top-four finish in the last 37 years. He spent 11 years with the club before moving to Manchester United in 2013. Now, he faces the challenge of guiding Everton through a crucial period, including avoiding relegation and overseeing the move to the new Bramley-Moore Dock stadium next season.

"I've had other opportunities, but I didn't feel ready," Moyes said. "But when this job came up, it was too big of an opportunity to turn down. I want to show I can go again, I've got to try to prove myself again."

Moyes' previous tenure saw Everton reach the 2009 FA Cup final and qualify for the Champions League in 2005. He also secured European qualification four times in 11 years, a feat the club has only managed twice since. However, he acknowledges that the current Everton team is different from the one he inherited in 2002.

"This is a different beast to many other clubs," he said. "But I think Everton will be strong enough to stay away from relegation. We need everyone behind us, the players playing better and scoring more goals."

Moyes brings a wealth of experience to the role, having managed over 1000 games in the Premier League. He plans to focus on winning games first and then consider the style of play.

"Goodison will help," he said. "The fans are fantastic and they will get behind the team."

With the new stadium on the horizon, Moyes also acknowledges the need for investment in the squad.

"We need to get some elite players," he said. "We need to find a way of spending a bit of money. We need to be mindful, but we need to clear a bit too."

The challenge ahead is significant, but Moyes is confident in his ability to lead Everton to better days. With his experience and determination, he aims to write a new chapter in the club's history.