David Moyes appointed West Ham’s manager for the second time

David Moyes has joined West Ham as its new manager, returning for a second spell at the club.

The 55-year-old Scot has signed an 18-month deal and is expected to take charge of the New Year’s Day home game against Bournemouth at London Stadium.

His appointment follows Manuel Pellegrini’s sack after Saturday’s 2-1 home defeat by Leicester.

Moyes, whose career has never recovered from a deeply unsuccessful spell as Manchester United boss in 2013-14, succeeds Manuel Pellegrini, who was sacked after a 2-1 defeat to Leicester on Saturday that left the Hammers just one point above the relegation zone.

The 56-year-old has been without a club since leaving West Ham after a six-month spell in the 2017-18 season.

Moyes guided West Ham to safety that season after Slaven Bilic was dismissed in early November and will be tasked with doing the same for a second time.

“It’s fabulous to be back,” said Moyes in a club statement.

“I’m feeling very proud that I’m back here at West Ham. But I think more importantly I’ll be looking to see what I can do and what I can make improvements to.

“I do believe that the squad of players I’ve got here is a better squad of players than when I took over before, so I am looking forward to working with them.”

The West Ham hierarchy were keen to make a swift appointment following Pellegrini’s sacking ahead of Wednesday’s crucial clash with fellow strugglers Bournemouth at the London Stadium.