Everton faithful salute Moyes

Everton 2 West Ham 0

The 50-year-old Scot was hailed by all four sides of the famous old ground before kick-off against West Ham, had his name sung with pride by the Gwladys End throughout, and was given a guard of honour by his players before the lap of appreciation after the final whistle.

His final game in charge, before he takes up the reins from Alex Ferguson at Manchester United, will be against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge next weekend. For most of the Everton fans this was the chance to thank Moyes for his efforts at Goodison. And he was given a proper send-off on and off the pitch. He might not have won a trophy at Everton but this victory over West Ham, inspired by two goals from Kevin Mirallas, means he leaves the Toffees in far better health than when he found them.

This win also meant they achieved consecutive top-flight finishes above Liverpool, something they have not done since 1937. That will be the bare minimum expected down the East Lancashire road, though.

Moyes was a little nervous about how he might be received by the Everton faithful, but he need not have worried. Loyalty is a quality highly valued on Merseyside.

“Really emotional,” Moyes said when asked to sum up his feelings: “When I came into the ground all the stewards were standing and clapping me. I am gob-smacked and humbled.

Moyes added: “Everton will never be as good as they were in the 80s when they won things. But you look at top 10 finishes in the Premier League era, it has improved.”

Everton’s search for Moyes’ replacement has already begun although Moyes reckons it might be a little tougher for Bill Kenwright to find his new man.

“The chairman made what I hope people will say was a good decision in bringing me here and I’m sure he will make one now,” concluded Moyes.