kenwright

Kenwright has manager idea

Bill Kenwright: Knows who he wants to bring in Sky Bet Football Betting Retrieving latest Sky Bet odds Football Betting 10 Free Bet Everton chairman Bill Kenwright says he has an idea of who he wants to replace David Moyes as manager, amid claims he is ready make an internal appointment.

Roberto Martinez, Malky Mackay, Gus Poyet and Neil Lennon have all been linked to the role at Goodison Park.

However, there is a groundswell of opinion that Everton should look closer to home and reports are claiming that Kenwright is already looking at internal candidates.

Phil Neville, David Weir, Steve Round, Duncan Ferguson and Alan Stubbs are all said to be potential candidates to help fill the void left by Moyes.

“I have got people in mind,” Kenwright is quoted by the People.

“A lot of those mentioned are not too far away.

“Everton have got a type, it’s a very hard working industrial football club.”

David Moyes named Manchester United manager

Manchester United have confirmed that David Moyes will become their new manager when Sir Alex Ferguson steps down after 27 years in charge at Old Trafford.

Moyes, who agreed a six-year deal at Old Trafford, said: ‘I know how hard it will be to follow the best manager ever, but the opportunity to manage Manchester United doesn t come around very often.’ The Everton boss leaves Goodison Park after 11 years and will be at the helm when United begin the defence of the Barclays Premier League crown they won under Ferguson this year.

Everton announced that he was leaving the club on their website on Thursday afternoon and effectively said he was the new United manager.

His arrival at Old Trafford was confirmed later.

Scroll down for video United front: Moyes was in London yesterday to speak with Everton owner Bill Kenwright EVERTON STATEMENT ‘Everton can confirm that David Moyes will leave the club at the end of the season.

‘The manager met chairman Bill Kenwright early yesterday evening (Wednesday May 8) and confirmed his desire to join Manchester United.

‘The chairman, on behalf of the Club, would like to place on record his thanks to David for the massive contribution he has made to Everton since his arrival in March 2002.

He has been an outstanding manager.

‘During his tenure at Goodison Park, David has taken charge of the team on over 500 occasions including four European campaigns.

‘His final two games as Everton manager will be the remaining Premier League matches against West Ham United and Chelsea.

‘Everton officials will start the search for a replacement manager immediately.’ Moyes’s move across the North West will see the dawning of a new era at the 20-time champions of England.

But the news comes in the middle of a momentous 24 hours for the champions, who will part company with their manager of after the final match of the season at West Bromwich Albion on May 19.

Moyes will find a number of pressing issues in his in-tray when he arrives, striker Wayne Rooney has asked for a transfer for a second time and there is the possibility that Cristiano Ronaldo could make a stunning return to Manchester.

Everton midfielder Marouane Fellaini tweeted: ‘Many Thanks Coach…’ And former Everton striker Gary Lineker added: ‘He did a wonderful job and he too will be a tough act to follow.

‘ Toffees chairman Bill Kenwright looked emotionally distraught on Thursday morning after a late-night meeting with Moyes and now begins the task of finding a new boss to take over at the Merseyside club.

Roberto Martinez is the red-hot favourite to take over at Everton when Moyes heads off to Old Trafford, but Sportsmail understands Phil Neville is a serious rival for the role.

Popular Spaniard Martinez has led unfashionable Wigan to Saturday’s FA Cup final against Manchester City and has somehow kept the Latics in the Premier League in recent seasons as they pulled off a series of great escapes.

Strangely, he could well pull off the unlikely double of FA Cup glory and relegation this season.

If the Martinez deal falls through, Neville is a candidate to replace Moyes.

Everton’s club captain is set to leave Goodison at the end of the season when his contract expires but he has made no secret of his ambition to step into management, and Moyes would be sure to give him a glowing recommendation.

Much to contemplate: But Moyes has always appeared a sensible man New era: Moyes is set to come under greater scrutiny than ever Departing: Moyes left Kenwright’s offices, appearing positive, at the end of their meeting Last night Gary Neville led a chorus of praise to Fergie as the unrivalled scale of his influence was illustrated by the breadth and standing of those who voiced their reaction to his retirement.

The United manager received tributes from legions of former players, current managers and famous fans.

David Beckham called Ferguson his father figure , Cristiano Ronaldo offered his gratitude to a man he calls Boss , while Paul Ince insisted his successor would need massive character .

It was Neville, once a Fergie Fledgling and now a respected television pundit, Mail on Sunday columnist and England coach, who offered the deepest insight into the magnitude of his former manager’s achievements and how his departure from the dug-out will be felt both at Old Trafford and within football.

I speak in three different guises, Neville told Sky Sports News.

As a fan I m sad and gutted for the club because it’s a day no Manchester United fan ever wanted to come.

As a player who played for him I m grateful and feel privileged to have worked with the greatest manager of all time.

From our side of things (the media), the game’s become a little less interesting because we ve lost an incredible character, somebody who always played magnificent football.

So it’s just a loss all round.

Neville highlighted Ferguson’s inspirational qualities as a major factor behind his phenomenal success.

He made you feel passionate about the football club, Neville said.

He changed the mentality of every single individual.

It’s an incredible thing balancing the traditional aspects of life, his upbringing, with being open enough to move forward to be modern and change with the modern game.

He’s the last of a kind.

Much to contemplate: Moyes’s profile is set to grow even further Athletic? The Scot’s certainly a better mover than Sir Alex Ferguson Positive: And he has reason to be, although one job may be persuading Wayne Rooney (below) to stay at Old Trafford DAVID MOYES AT EVERTON P W D L Win% Everton 516 217 139 160 42.05 Record away against Manchester United, Chelsea, Liverpool and Arsenal Played 45, Won 0, Drawn 18, Lost 27, Points 18 (out of 135) He was very simple in terms of his instruction but you knew full well you were playing at a football club that demanded performance.

I grew up as a fan in the Seventies and Eighties when the club were a laughing stock, proclaiming themselves the greatest club in the world but not winning a league championship.

Now he’s taken them to a point of dominance over 20 years in the right style and bringing through young players.

There was time to celebrate but pretty quickly he would shift on from victory.

That’s where the longevity has come from.

The job is never complete.

Neville reflected on his own memories of Ferguson and how his dominant personality could be replaced.

It’s the personal things, he said.

The fact he d stand in the dressing room before every game and say, Good luck, son .

It may have been the only words he spoke to you but they were important.

Manchester United is a massive football club.

It moved on from the Munich air disaster, it moved on from Sir Matt Busby, it will move on from Sir Alex Ferguson.

People say how will the new manager be able to replace him? It’s simple: play attractive football, bring young players through and win a championship.

Then the fans and club will support them.

Beckham hailed Ferguson as the greatest manager in football and described how he had been vital in his early career.

The Boss wasn t just the greatest and best manager I ever played under, he was also a father figure to me from the moment I arrived at the club at the age of 11 until the day I left, the former England captain said on his Facebook page.

Without him I would never have achieved what I have.

After 98 (World Cup) without the manager I would have found it virtually impossible to cope with the attention I was getting on and off the field and for this I will always be grateful to him for his support and protection.

Thank you Boss and enjoy the rest! Welcomed: Neville (right) told Geoff Shreeves he would like to see David Moyes at Old Trafford Ronaldo, whom Ferguson calls the best player in the world, tweeted a message which read, Thanks for everything, Boss , and included a photograph of the pair the day the Portuguese signed for United.

Blackpool manager Ince told Sky Sports News that the game would never see anyone of his kind again .

He said: To play under that man was so demanding, his standards were so high.

Replacing Alex Ferguson is such a massive, massive job.

Whoever goes in will need the help of Alex Ferguson.

Former United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel, who won 15 trophies under Ferguson after signing from Brondby for 750,000 in 1991, described the meticulous detail the Scot took in transfers.

The thing about Sir Alex is that 95 per cent of players brought in he’s been scouting them for a long time, the Dane said.

My move didn t happen first time, it happened 12 months later.

That’s the kind of guy he is.

Moving on: Moyes met with Kenwright yesterday and looks set to replace Fergie today PFA chief executive Gordon Taylor said Ferguson would be the toughest act to follow .

He added: The game of football will be a lot poorer place without him.

He has been quite simply the best.

FIFA president Sepp Blatter, who gave Ferguson a lifetime achievement award last year, said on Twitter: His achievements in the game place him without doubt as one of the greats .

Former United keeper Edwin van der Sar wrote: Was coming for some time now but still a shock that hasn t sunk in yet!! Great manager and remarkable person! Compatriot Ruud Gullit posted: Thanks Sir Alex Ferguson for the beautiful years in football.

You have been so important for the game and will be remembered as an innovator and winner.

United fan and multiple Olympic gold medallist Usain Bolt tweeted, A major iconic football figure , while golfer Rory McIlroy said, An end of an era today! VIDEO: Sir Bobby Charlton pays tribute to Sir Alex Ferguson

David Moyes to Manchester United a done deal

David Moyes’ move to Manchester United is a ‘done deal’ and could be announced later today in the wake of Sir Alex Ferguson’s stunning announcement that he will retire at the end of the season.

The Everton boss met with Toffees’ owner Bill Kenwright yesterday and Sportsmail understands a deal has been thrashed out between the two sides for Moyes to take the helm at Old Trafford.

The news comes in the middle of a momentous 24 hours for the Barclays Premier League champions who will part company with their manager of 27 years after the final match of the season away to West Bromwich on May 19.

Candid: Gary Neville praised his former manager during the interview on Sky Sports News David Moyes’ c.v.

PLAYING CAREER Centre back for Celtic, Cambridge United, Bristol City, Shrewsbury, Dunfermline, Hamilton, Preston.

Honours Celtic (1) Scottish Premier Division 1981-82.

Bristol City (1) Football League Trophy (Associate Members Cup) 1986.

Preston (1) Third Division title 1995-96.

MANAGEMENT CAREER P W D L Win% Preston 234 113 58 63 48.29 Everton 516 217 139 160 42.05 Honours Preston (1) Second Division title 1999-2000.

Individual: (3) LMA Manager of the Year 2002-03, 04-05, 08-09.

Last night Gary Neville led a chorus of praise to Fergie as the unrivalled scale of his influence was illustrated by the breadth and standing of those who voiced their reaction to his retirement.

The Manchester United manager received tributes from legions of former players, current managers and famous fans.

David Beckham called Ferguson his father figure , Cristiano Ronaldo offered his gratitude to a man he calls Boss , while Paul Ince insisted his successor would need massive character .

It was Neville, once a Fergie Fledgling and now a respected television pundit and England coach, who offered the deepest insight into the magnitude of his former manager’s achievements and how his departure from the dug-out will be felt both at Old Trafford and within football.

I speak in three different guises, Neville told Sky Sports News.

As a fan I m sad and gutted for the club because it’s a day no Manchester United fan ever wanted to come.

As a player who played for him I m grateful and feel privileged to have worked with the greatest manager of all time.

From our side of things (the media), the game’s become a little less interesting because we ve lost an incredible character, somebody who always played magnificent football.

So it’s just a loss all round.

Neville highlighted Ferguson’s inspirational qualities as a major factor behind his phenomenal success.

He made you feel passionate about the football club, Neville said.

He changed the mentality of every single individual.

It’s an incredible thing balancing the traditional aspects of life, his upbringing, with being open enough to move forward to be modern and change with the modern game.

He’s the last of a kind.

He was very simple in terms of his instruction but you knew full well you were playing at a football club that demanded performance.

I grew up as a fan in the 70s and 80s when the club were a laughing stock, proclaiming themselves the greatest club in the world but not winning a league championship.

Now he’s taken them to a point of dominance over 20 years in the right style and bringing through young players.

There was time to celebrate but pretty quickly he would shift on from victory.

That’s where the longevity has come from.

The job is never complete.

Long journey: Moyes held talks with Everton chairman Kenwright, who he has worked with since 2002 Much to contemplate: But Moyes has always appeared a sensible man New era: Moyes is set to come under greater scrutiny than ever Departing: Moyes left Kenwright’s offices, appearing positive, at the end of their meeting Much to contemplate: Moyes’ profile is set to grow even further Athletic? The Scot’s certainly a better mover than Sir Alex Ferguson Positive: And he has reason to be Neville reflected on his own memories of Ferguson and how his towering figure could be replaced.

It’s the personal things, he said.

The fact he d stand in the dressing room before every game and say, Good luck, son .

It may have been the only words he spoke to you but they were important.

Manchester United is a massive football club.

It moved on from the Munich air disaster, it moved on from Sir Matt Busby, it will move on from Sir Alex Ferguson.

People say how will the new manager be able to replace him? It’s simple: play attractive football, bring young players through and win a championship.

Then the fans and club will support them.

Beckham hailed Ferguson as the greatest manager in football and described how he had been vital in his early career.

The Boss wasn t just the greatest and best manager I ever played under, he was also a father figure to me from the moment I arrived at the club at the age of 11 until the day I left, the former England captain said on his Facebook page.

Welcomed: Neville (right) told Geoff Shreeves he would like to see David Moyes at Old Trafford Without him I would never have achieved what I have.

After 98 (World Cup) without the manager I would have found it virtually impossible to cope with the attention I was getting on and off the field and for this I will always be grateful to him for his support and protection.

Thank you Boss and enjoy the rest! Ronaldo, whom Ferguson calls the best player in the world, tweeted a message which read, Thanks for everything, Boss , and included a photograph of the pair the day the Portuguese signed for United.

Blackpool manager Ince told Sky Sports News that the game would never see anyone of his kind again .

He said: To play under that man was so demanding, his standards were so high.

Replacing Alex Ferguson is such a massive, massive job.

Whoever goes in will need the help of Alex Ferguson.

Former United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel, who won 15 trophies under Ferguson after signing from Brondby for 750,000 in 1991, described the meticulous detail the Scot took in transfers.

Moving on: Moyes met with Kenwright yesterday and looks set to replace Fergie today Moving on: Moyes met with Kenwright yesterday and looks set to replace Fergie today The thing about Sir Alex is that 95 per cent of players brought in he’s been scouting them for a long time, the Dane said.

My move didn t happen first time, it happened 12 months later.

That’s the kind of guy he is.

PFA chief executive Gordon Taylor said Ferguson would be the toughest act to follow .

He added: The game of football will be a lot poorer place without him.

He has been quite simply the best.

FIFA president Sepp Blatter, who gave Ferguson a lifetime achievement award last year, said on Twitter: His achievements in the game place him without doubt as one of the greats .

Edwin van der Sar wrote: Was coming for some time now but still a shock that hasn t sunk in yet!! Great manager and remarkable person! Compatriot Ruud Gullit posted: Thanks Sir Alex Ferguson for the beautiful years in football.

You have been so important for the game and will be remembered as an innovator and winner.

Usain Bolt tweeted, A major iconic football figure , while Rory McIlroy said, An end of an era today! VIDEO: Sir Bobby Charlton pays tribute to Sir Alex Ferguson

Everton target Roberto Martinez to replace David Moyes..

Phil Neville also considered

By and | Roberto Martinez is the red-hot favourite to take over at Everton if and when David Moyes heads off to Old Trafford.

As Moyes and Everton chairman Bill Kenwright thrashed out the details of his departure in London on Wednesday, it emerged that the Wigan manager is likely to take the reins at Goodison Park this summer.

The popular Spaniard has led unfashionable Wigan to Saturday’s FA Cup final against Manchester City and has somehow kept the Latics in the Barclays Premier League in recent seasons as they pulled off a series of great escapes.

Ironically, Martinez could well pull off the unlikely double of FA Cup glory and relegation this season.

Tough decision? Roberto Martinez has always been very loyal to Wigan If the Martinez deal falls through, Phil Neville is a candidate to replace Moyes.

Everton’s club captain is set to leave Goodison at the end of the season when his contract expires but he has made no secret of his ambition to step into management, and Moyes would be sure to give him a glowing recommendation.

But that situation could become very complicated as there is a possibility of Moyes bringing Neville, who will gain coaching experience this summer at the Under 21 European Championships in Israel, to Old Trafford with him.

Old Trafford bound: David Moyes is to be confirmed as Sir Alex Ferguson’s successor Apprentice: Phil Neville could yet take his first steps into management Martinez is very much top of the shortlist but other names in the frame are Celtic manager Neil Lennon, who is keen to leave Celtic as he faces the prospect of his transfer budget being cut this summer, former Everton player Mark Hughes and Martin O Neill.

Michael Laudrup also has admirers at Goodison.

Benitez declined to answer whether Everton was a viable future management option for him.

His short-term contract as Chelsea interim manager ends at the end of this month and the former Liverpool boss still has a home on the Wirral.

Asked whether he could be Everton boss next season, Benitez said: ‘Still I have to concentrate on Chelsea’s next match at Aston Villa.’ Staying in England? Rafael Benitez still has a house in the Merseyside area He endured a frosty rivalry with United boss Ferguson and led Chelsea to victory at Old Trafford last Sunday.

‘I like to challenge and to compete against him, but now that he’s retired I wish him health and hopefully he can enjoy his retirement,’ Benitez said.

‘I think he will enjoy football in a different way and hopefully I can be involved in football, so I will be quite busy.

‘I don’t have any problem to talk with him after football, to have conversations with him.’

Everton target Roberto Martinez to replace David Moyes

Roberto Martinez is the red-hot favourite to take over at Everton if and when David Moyes heads off to Old Trafford.

As Moyes and Everton chairman Bill Kenwright thrashed out the details of his departure in London on Wednesday, it emerged that the Wigan manager is likely to take the reins at Goodison Park this summer.

The popular Spaniard has led unfashionable Wigan to Saturday’s FA Cup final against Manchester City and has somehow kept the Latics in the Barclays Premier League in recent seasons as they pulled off a series of great escapes.

Ironically, Martinez could well pull off the unlikely double of FA Cup glory and relegation this season.

Tough decision? Roberto Martinez has always been very loyal to Wigan If the Martinez deal falls through, Phil Neville is a candidate to replace Moyes.

Everton’s club captain is set to leave Goodison at the end of the season when his contract expires but he has made no secret of his ambition to step into management, and Moyes would be sure to give him a glowing recommendation.

But that situation could become very complicated as there is a possibility of Moyes bringing Neville, who will gain coaching experience this summer at the Under 21 European Championships in Israel, to Old Trafford with him.

Old Trafford bound: David Moyes is to be confirmed as Sir Alex Ferguson’s successor Apprentice: Phil Neville could yet take his first steps into management Martinez is very much top of the shortlist but other names in the frame are Celtic manager Neil Lennon, who is keen to leave Celtic as he faces the prospect of his transfer budget being cut this summer, former Everton player Mark Hughes and Martin O Neill.

Michael Laudrup also has admirers at Goodison.

Wayne Rooney asks to leave Manchester United as Cristiano Ronaldo nears return after Alex Ferguson retires

By , and | An astonishing day at Manchester United took an incredible twist on Wednesday night when it emerged Wayne Rooney has asked to leave Old Trafford at a time when the club are close to securing the return of Cristiano Ronaldo.

Only hours after Sir Alex Ferguson confirmed that he will be retiring as United manager at the end of the season, making way for Everton manager David Moyes to take charge, Sportsmail can reveal that Rooney told Ferguson two weeks ago that he wants a fresh start.

At the same time it emerged that outgoing United chief executive David Gill has been in Madrid to meet Jorge Mendes, the Portuguese super-agent who represents Ronaldo.

Sources on Wednesday night insisted United are confident of securing the return of the player they sold to Real Madrid for a world record 80million in 2009.

The way they were: Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo shone together for Manchester United Once a Blue: Chelsea are confident of luring the 25m England international to Stamford Bridge in the summer Rooney is about to be reunited with his first manager in football in Moyes, who is expected to be confirmed on Thursday as the new United boss after meeting Everton chairman Bill Kenwright in London on Wednesday.

But Moyes will walk straight into a scrap to keep Rooney after the England striker personally asked Ferguson for a transfer late last month.

Frustrated with life in and out of the team at Old Trafford, Rooney suggested during a meeting in Ferguson’s office that he be allowed to leave this summer.

Ferguson, it is understood, told him in no uncertain terms that he would not be sold.

Rooney may now reconsider his stance in the wake of Moyes’s arrival, even though the two men have had their own differences in the past.

It remains to be seen, though, if Rooney follows up his informal plea to Ferguson with a formal transfer request.

Rooney knows that Chelsea would be keen to take him to Stamford Bridge, while Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain are also interested.

PSG, Sportsmail understands, will lose manager Carlo Ancelotti to Madrid as Mourinho’s replacement this summer.

On the move: Wayne Rooney asked to leave Old Trafford two weeks ago Homecoming: David Gill has met with Ronaldo’s agent Jorge Mendes Mentor: Rooney with Sir Alex Ferguson on the day he signed for United in 2004 Ferguson himself reacted angrily in February to suggestions Rooney would be sold, stating unequivocally that the Liverpudlian would be at the club next season.

On Wednesday night, a United spokesman insisted: Wayne Rooney is not for sale.

News of Ronaldo’s return could persuade Rooney to stay, given the success they enjoyed together, particularly in winning the Champions League in 2008.

Ferguson has made no secret of wanting to see the former world player of the year return.

When United met Madrid in the Champions League earlier this season, Ferguson said: Was I tempted to bring him back? Yes.

He’s still in the hamper.

Only on Wednesday Ronaldo tweeted: Thanks for everything boss.

But Chelsea are quietly confident of luring Rooney to London in a 25million move.

Incoming Chelsea chief Jose Mourinho has identified Rooney as one of his principal transfer targets this summer.

Day at the races: The England forward was out with his United team-mates on Wednesday Mourinho wants a striker to play in the same role once occupied by Didier Drogba and believes he can rejuvenate Rooney’s career.

Ferguson, meanwhile, brought down the curtain on his incredible career by effectively choosing Moyes as his successor.

Ferguson’s remarkable 27-year reign as United manager will finally end in ten days after the Barclays Premier League champions confirmed that he will stand down at the end of the season.

On a momentous day for domestic English football, Ferguson’s imminent departure was confirmed at 9.20am on Wednesday and it soon became clear that Moyes would replace him.

United will announce Moyes appointment later on Thursday, after thrashing out the details of a contract worth in the region of 5million a year.

Beer we go: Rooney enjoys a pint at the races on Wednesday Wantaway: Ronaldo has endured an unhappy year in Madrid Loyal servant: Rooney has spent nine seasons at Old Trafford Now it can be revealed that not only was 71-year-old Ferguson closely involved in discussions about his replacement, he was actually the key man in picking Moyes, described by sources as a critical influence.

Ferguson has always been a fan of Moyes, a manager he once considered for a coaching role when his fellow Glaswegian was in charge at Preston in the 1990s.

Having told the Glazer family, United’s owners, back in March that he intended to stand down, Ferguson implored them to hire the Everton boss.

Other key influences – such as Sir Bobby Charlton and outgoing chief executive David Gill – share Ferguson’s view that the 50-year-old will bring United the same ideals of longevity and continuity that are integral to the club as well as placing an enormous emphasis on the youth system at Old Trafford.

On Wednesday night Moyes was locked in talks in London with Kenwright about the best way to arrange his departure.

Moyes contract at Goodison Park expires at the end of the season and he is entitled to walk away.

Stars such as Rooney and Ryan Giggs were sitting having breakfast at United’s training ground in the canteen at 9am when they were summoned to a meeting in the dressing rooms where Ferguson told them of his intentions.

The much-decorated manager then moved on to two other meetings where he informed his coaches and administration staff that Sunday’s home game against Swansea would be his last.

All the players were told not to tweet about their manager’s departure.

Ferguson said in a statement: ‘It was important to me to leave an organisation in the strongest possible shape and I believe I have done so.

Stepping aside: Ferguson spoke to his players first on Wednesday morning ‘The quality of this league winning squad, and the balance of ages within it, bodes well for continued success at the highest level whilst the structure of the youth set-up will ensure that the long-term future of the club remains a bright one.’ Ferguson will take charge of Sunday’s game, where he will lift the Premier League trophy, the following match at West Brom and will then retire to pursue other interests and take up a position on the club’s football club board.

In his role as non-executive director and honorary president, Ferguson’s input in to club affairs will be limited.

The board only meets once every two months and on Wednesday he told his players he would be going ‘nowhere near the dressing room’.

Ferguson’s friend Jose Mourinho – tipped for a return to Chelsea – was another name constantly linked with the United job.

It is understood, though, that he was never a realistic candidate, with United’s owners feeling his penchant for controversy would be too much for a club soon to be deprived of the authoritative figure of Gill.

Waiting in line: Moyes is expected to take over from Ferguson Out of the running: Mourinho was never a realistic candidate FERGUSON BY NUMBERS 894 games Ferguson has won as United boss.

He has drawn 337 and lost 267.

104 players Ferguson has signed as United manager.

263 top-flight managers who have worked during Ferguson’s reign.

14 players in the current squad who weren t born when Ferguson first took over at United.

It also emerged on Wednesday night that Gill’s decision to resign his own post in February was done in the knowledge that this season could also be Ferguson’s last.

The duo have been formidable figures over the last ten years and it is understood that Ferguson was concerned over a future without his ally.

Moyes, for his part, will now be left to form his own relationship with incoming chief executive Ed Woodward.

Everton and England defender Leighton Baines is likely to be one of his early targets.

It is not yet known what will happen to Ferguson’s current coaching staff, a set-up that includes coaches like Mike Phelan, Rene Meulensteen and Eric Steele.

Moyes works closely at Goodison Park with Steve Round and Chris Woods and may want to integrate his own people in to what is already a phenomenally successful United system.

It is also possible that former United defender Phil Neville – who is also leaving Everton at the end of this season – will return to Old Trafford with Moyes as a coach, while veteran United midfielder Paul Scholes is also being considered for a coaching role.

Arsenal could be taken over by consortium who met in London two weeks ago

Arsenal fans arrived at White Hart Lane buzzing with talk of a Middle East consortium eyeing up their club.

Sportsmail can reveal the group aiming to buy them met in London two weeks ago for talks over their proposed 1.5billion bid.

Although they have yet to come forward and make an offer, sources involved with the consortium insist their intention to buy the club is genuine.

And the numbers would be astronomical, with Arsenal’s major shareholder Stan Kroenke alone standing to make a profit of 400million.

Distraught: Any prospective bidders for Arsenal would hopefully forget about their performance at Spurs Initially the investors flew to England on a fishing expedition as they looked at the potential purchase of several clubs.

Everton, who have been on the lookout for investment under owner Bill Kenwright, were one of the teams discussed during their visit.

West Ham were another option, but they were quickly dismissed in favour of a move to buy Arsenal lock, stock and barrel.

The club’s London location, along with their fabulous 60,000-seat stadium and their first-class training facility, makes them an attractive proposition.

Despite Arsenal’s faltering form in the Premier League and next week’s likely exit from the Champions League, the investors believe the club can still attract the world’s top players.

They value Arsenal at around 1.5bn and have pledged to make significant transfer funds available for Arsene Wenger.

Quids in: Majority shareholder Stan Kroenke would stand to make around 1billion from any sale If they were watching yesterday’s 2-1 defeat at Tottenham, they would have seen more evidence that this Arsenal team are woefully under-resourced.

Arsenal are a fading force in English football, slipping every season as they cut back to keep up with the stadium repayments, and the threat of finishing outside the top four is real.

Spurs have not finished above Arsenal in the Barclays Premier League since 1995, but the threat of missing out on the Champions League is the biggest fear.

Although Wenger insists the Gunners are financially secure and could survive without Champions League football, their fans will not stomach it.

A takeover would be a game-changer, the chance for Arsenal to start over as they prepare for life outside the Champions League.

This team need a makeover, an injection of top-class talent.

Jack Wilshere’s touches are wasted on them.

Money man: Arsene Wenger has a kitty of over 100million to spend if he wants to Kroenke owns 66.831 per cent of the club and would walk away with 1bn if a deal goes through, while Alisher Usmanov, who will attempt to muscle in on the bidding if Arsenal show any appetite to sell, has a 29.96 per cent stake.

The consortium are willing to offer 20,000 per share as they prepare for a takeover attempt at the sixth biggest club in Europe.

Only Real Madrid, Barcelona, Manchester United, Bayern Munich and European champions Chelsea have a bigger turnover.

They have already started a charm offensive with Arsenal fans by flating the idea of reduced ticket prices at the most expensive club in English football.

The consortium, who reside in Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, also claim they will bring a flavour of the old North Bank at Highbury to the Emirates.

Yesterday Arsenal, who insist they have yet to receive any communication from the consortium, made moves to protect Kroenke’s position ahead of their defeat at White Hart Lane.

The board are vulnerable again, particularly after such a painful reverse at the home of their north London rivals.

Kroenke, who made a rare appearance for Arsenal’s 3-1 loss to Bayern in the Champions League at the Emirates last month, insists he is in it for the long haul.

Arsenal officials made contact with the American yesterday in light of the interest from the Middle East, but he has reaffirmed his commitment to the club.

The Gunners continue to make progress with their stadium repayment plan and released another set of healthy financial figures last week.

They posted pre-tax profits of 17.8m and have 123.3m in cash, which they continue to insist is available for Wenger in the transfer market.

Arsenal also recently announced a new commercial deal with their stadium partner Emirates.

Although the agreement was initially advertised as 150m over five years, it has now emerged that it is performance-related.

Despite Wenger’s strong relationship with chief executive Ivan Gazidis and the owner, the Arsenal manager has not spoken to them about the potential takeover.

Wenger said: We are only vulnerable to a takeover if they want to sell and that is down to the owners.

I don t know if they are interested in selling, that is something I don t know because I haven t spoken to them.

Money well spent: It hasn’t worked out too badly for the last Sheik to enter the Premier League

Steven Pienaar back to haunt United again

Steven Pienaar is relishing facing Manchester United SIR ALEX FERGUSON’s summer may have been devoted to prising Robin van Persie from Arsenal, but there remains one other player whose name has remained seared on the Manchester United manager’s psyche.

When Ferguson claps eyes on Steven Pienaar at Goodison Park tonight, three months of pain and lingering frustration will come bubbling to the surface.

Long before Sergio Aguero’s last-gasp heroics finally settled the most dramatic title race in history in Manchester City’s favour, it was Everton midfielder Pienaar who unwittingly altered the destiny of the run-in.

The South African’s late goal at Old Trafford back in April dragged Everton off the canvas, completing a thrilling comeback in a topsy-turvy, 4-4 draw that denied United two points which were ultimately to prove so crucial in their quest for another championship.

It was the sort of breathless contest in which Pienaar’s impish quality and creativity shone through and ensured that whatever else David Moyes contemplated doing with his squad during the summer his priority would be re-signing the player permanently from Tottenham.

I thought the deal might not happen and I knew I d only be happy once the deal was signed and sealed At first glance, the numbers are out of kilter with Everton’s innate ability to secure the best of deals in the transfer market, referenced again by the underwhelming Jack Rodwell’s switch to Manchester City that should reach 15million.

Pienaar was sold for 3m in January 2011 after entering the final year of his contract and bought back, at the age of 30, for 4.5m.

Yet considering Spurs chairman Daniel Levy was originally seeking around 7m, Everton chairman Bill Kenwright has worked wonders again, for which the player is thankful.

I d had a really good time back at Everton, especially the last month, and it was hard to say goodbye when I didn t know what was going to happen in the summer, said Pienaar.

I thought the deal might not happen and I knew I d only be happy once the deal was signed and sealed.

I made it clear to everyone that the only time I would move from Spurs would be for Everton.

That was it for me.

Other clubs came in, but I was only interested in Everton.

I have the utmost respect for the manager for showing so much belief in me and for doing his best to get me back.

The most important thing for me is to pay him back by working hard every day.

Who knows? Maybe I can help him win a trophy as well.

He needs one! Everton have completed the 5.3m signing of Olympiakos attacker Kevin Mirallas on a four-year deal.

But Mirallas, 24, a Belgium international, will not be eligible for tonight’s match against Manchester United.

Tim Cahill now a Red Bull

Tim Cahill is off to New York TIM CAHILL will bring the curtain down on a distinguished Everton career today by moving to Major League Soccer with New York Red Bulls.

Australian attacker Cahill will join Thierry Henry at the US club after eight years at Goodison Park during which his passion, commitment and goalscoring ability established him as one of David Moyes best signings.

Cahill, 32, had received lucrative approaches from China and a 10.3 million, three-year deal from an unnamed Saudi Arabian club, but has opted for Red Bulls, for whom Everton team-mate Tim Howard once played.

He is due to sign a contract today with the New Jersey-based club, who also have the former Tottenham and Sunderland midfi elder Teemu Tainio and ex-Barcelona star Rafael Marquez in their ranks.

They are currently top of the Eastern Conference and face Tottenham in a friendly next Tuesday.

Everton will receive about 1m for Cahill, who had two years left to run on his contract, and expect to bank a further 2m from the permanent departure of Joseph Yobo to Fenerbahce in the coming days.

Australian attacker Cahill will join Thierry Henry at the US club Those funds will help smooth Steven Pienaar’s return to Merseyside from Spurs, with Everton chairman Bill Kenwright continuing top-level talks for the South Africa midfielder, who spent the second half of last season on loan from the Londoners.

A deal is imminent, although Everton are due to fly to Indonesia today for the Java Cup, where they will play their opening game on Thursday.

Cahill, meanwhile, will be beginning a new adventure in America having proved himself to be Everton’s heart, soul and lungs since a 1.5m move from Millwall in July 2004.

He made 41 appearances last season he was sent off after the final whistle on the final day of the campaign following a clash with Newcastle’s Yohan Cabaye and would have missed the start of next season but became less sure of a regular starting place and managed only three goals.

Moyes said: I always think Nigel Martyn was my best signing, but Tim has probably been the best thing that has happened at Everton.

He has been fantastic for the way he has conducted himself, how much he has helped me and the club.

Cahill’s departure from Everton after 278 appearances and 68 goals marks in many ways a new era for the club, as Moyes forges ahead with players such as Nikica Jelavic and Marouane Fellaini.

As well as Pienaar and Steven Naismith, recruited from Rangers, Everton are also interested in Blackpool winger Matt Phillips.

Everton closing on Pienaar deal

David Moyes, right, is confident of bringing Steven Pienaar, left, back permanently David Moyes revealed he is “much closer” to bringing Steven Pienaar to Everton on a permanent basis.

Chairman Bill Kenwright has reportedly been locked in talks with Tottenham over a 5million transfer deal for the South Africa playmaker, who spent the second half of last season on loan back at Goodison Park.

After a 1-1 draw with Motherwell in Stevie Hammell’s testimonial at Fir Park, where Well midfielder Nicky Law levelled a first-half header from Shane Duffy, Goodison boss Moyes said: “I think we are much closer to Pienaar and hopefully in time I will have something, but I don’t quite have it yet.” Moyes was pleased to see former Rangers man Steven Naismith come on in the second-half to make his debut.

Naismith received provisional international clearance last night from FIFA which allowed him to play while arbitration over his move from Rangers continues.

Moyes, however, was more concerned with the Scotland forward’s knee injury.

He said “It was pleasing to see Steven come on.

I heard last night about six o’clock that he was cleared.

“We just have to make sure that his knee is right.

He is coming on well.

“He is a month behind everyone else but hopefully he won’t be too far away.” On the game, Moyes said: “I thought Motherwell did well.

We are a bit behind and it showed at times but it was okay.

“I’m not madly excited about it but I’m not madly disappointed by it.”

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