David Moyes has become West Ham United’s 16th manager after replacing Slaven Bilic.
West Ham United icon Ray Stewart has urged Hammers fans to get behind new manager David Moyes on the club’s official website after widespread criticism on social media of the Scot’s appointment.
Former Everton, Manchester United and Real Sociedad boss Moyes was appointed as West Ham’s new manager on Tuesday, less than 24 hours after the club decided to sack Slaven Bilic.
Croatian boss Bilic left the club in the relegation zone of the Premier League after a 4-1 loss to Liverpool on Staurday evening, winning just two of their 11 top-tier matches.
Stewart, who played for West Ham for over 12 years between 1979 and 1991, pleaded with his old side’s fans to get behind Moyes in order to give him the best chance of success.
“I hope West Ham fans get behind him, because their support will certainly give him a greater chance of success,” Stewart said. “I think any genuine West Ham fan will want Moyes to do well. Because it’s not about personal opinions or individuals.
“The fans in the stadium must understand how big a part they can play in helping the team.
“I just urge all West Ham fans – whatever your personal opinions about individuals or decisions – to get behind the manager and the team when they step out on the pitch, because we all want the same thing – for West Ham to be successful.”
The board’s decision to appoint Moyes has been met with plenty of backlash from fans, who are concerned over Moyes’ recent record that has seen him fail at United, Sociedad and Sunderland.
The 54-year-old manager has been out of work since resigning as manager of Sunderland a day after the 2016-17 season, following the Black Cats’ relegation. His first match in charge will see the Hammers travel to Watford on November 19.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
