Mikel Arteta told his pre-match press conference that he suffered during David Moyes’ ‘difficult times’ but he is now ‘glad’ that the West Ham boss is thriving.
From Manchester United to Real Sociedad, it has been some journey for Moyes since leaving Goodison Park and he is now close to securing Champions League football for West Ham – although, he has a serious fight on his hands.
Even if West Ham miss out on a top-four place, they will still be expected to get into Europe, which is some achievement for a team that narrowly missed out on relegation last season.
Arteta will be hoping to dent his former manager’s chances of Europe when they meet today but he spoke highly about the harsh treatment the Scotsman has received over the years.
“I suffer when he had the difficult times,” said Arteta. “I don’t think it was very fair on him. They didn’t give him enough time in some places.
“I know about his qualities and now I am glad to see that now he’s enjoying that he’s doing what he is good at.
“I can see his team being what it is and what he likes it to be.”
What’s even more impressive from Moyes is that he hasn’t exactly splashed the cash on players, left, right and centre.
From Tomas Soucek to Craig Dawson, just like his days at Everton, Moyes has once again showcased his knack of plucking quality by spending very little.
Then it’s his decision-making, such as using Michail Antonio as an out-and-out forward, using Aaron Cresswell in a back three, it’s tactical moves that have worked wonders.
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