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.

Jake O’Brien’s last-gasp equaliser secured a 1-1 draw with West Ham and extended Everton ’s unbeaten run in the Premier League to nine games. The Toffees were denied a penalty late in the first half following a VAR check and the Hammers took advantage with a fine goal from Tomas Soucek midway through the second period.

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.