David Moyes 'lined up as Slaven Bilic replacement'

By Barney Corkhill, Editor | 04 November 2017

West Ham United reportedly identify David Moyes as their number one choice to replace Slaven Bilic should they sack the Croatian manager.

David Moyes is reportedly West Ham United's first choice to replace Slaven Bilic should the club decide to sack the Croatian manager.

The Hammers fell to their second consecutive three-goal defeat at home this evening as Liverpool ran out 4-1 winners at the London Stadium, leaving Bilic's side just one point and one place above the relegation zone.

A despondent Bilic admitted after the match that the defeat leaves him in a "very difficult situation" heading into the international break amid speculation that he is close to losing his job.

The club's owners have been reluctant to change managers mid-season in the past and are understood to prefer an unattached target to replace Bilic should they make the switch in order to avoid paying compensation.

Bilic's current contract expires at the end of this season and David Sullivan and David Gold had hoped to wait until then before making a decision, but the club's form could force them into action.

The Telegraph reports that Moyes has been identified as the number one target to steady the ship should they make a change, despite the Scot having endured unsuccessful spells at Manchester United, Real Sociedad and Sunderland since leaving Everton.

Moyes has recently hinted that he could be close to a return to management, although he also confirmed that he would be interested in a return to Everton should he be offered the vacant post.