O’Neill in running to take over at Everton

Martin O’Neill is a strong candidate on Everton’s shortlist to replace David Moyes as manager.

The Irish Examiner has learned the former Sunderland boss is in the running for the position at Goodison Park. Wigan Athletic’s Roberto Martinez is heavily fancied to leave the relegated club and succeed Moyes, who met with his new Manchester United squad on Monday.

However, should he not be in a position to take the job it is anticipated O’Neill, 61, could make a quick return to the Premier League after being sacked by Sunderland in March.

Last night he was also being linked with Stoke City after Tony Pulis left the club by mutual consent after seven years in charge. But it is understood the Toffees are keen on O’Neill.

The Derry man is highly regarded for his ability to deliver on tight budgets, which impresses Everton chairman Bill Wainwright given the Toffees’ funding constraints.

O’Neill is also fondly remembered at Aston Villa, having guided them to three consecutive sixth place finishes. Former Everton striker Gary Lineker has already backed O’Neill as the best fit to replace Moyes.

Last weekend, Martinez said he would make a quick decision on his future at Wigan. Having been linked with Liverpool last summer, he could now end up on the blue half of Merseyside, having seen his stock rise following the FA Cup win over Manchester City.

Outspoken Wigan chairman Dave Whelan has already said Everton are not a big enough club for a manager of Martinez’s calibre.

And there is more than a suggestion that the Spaniard could be holding out for an offer from another club with a larger budget.