Exclusive: McAvennie hails Moyes ‘masterclass’ by re-hiring Pearce at West Ham
We’re delighted to welcome former West Ham striker Frank McAvennie as our exclusive columnist. Each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at the London Stadium…
West Ham’s brilliant start to the season is largely down to the coaching team that David Moyes has been allowed to put together since he was re-hired, according to Frank McAvennie.
Moyes replaced Manuel Pellegrini in charge of the Hammers last December and in February, Kevin Nolan returned to East London as a coach before Stuart Pearce was also re-appointed in the summer.
In January, Pearce revealed that the West Ham owners had originally blocked him from returning to the Hammers coaching team.
McAvennie claims that the U-turn in the summer was down to Moyes’ ability to persuade David Sullivan into allowing Pearce back.
And clearly, the ex-West Ham striker feels that was a crucial turning point for his old club.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with West Ham Zone, McAvennie said: “How Moyes persuaded David Sullivan to let them bring Stuart Pearce back was a masterclass because that’s the biggest change,”
“When you look at your players and coaching staff who’ve been there and done it. Kevin Nolan has been at clubs, he’s been a wonderful player. Stuart Peace has been to World Cups. He’s done it so if he tells you to do something, you listen more.
“It’s great, I’m delighted for West Ham because I had my doubts.”
Pearce should not only be respected for his playing career because the former Nottingham Forest, West Ham and England defender has built up quite an impressive coaching CV since hanging up his boots.
The 58-year-old has managed Manchester City and spent six years in charge of England’s Under-21s.
But McAvennie’s point still stands. Pearce is someone who players – especially young players – will look up to and try to emulate.
He’s also not someone you want to cross either.
He didn’t get the nickname “Psycho” because it’s his favourite film.
In other West Ham news, Mark Lawrenson has predicted the score for the Irons’ clash with Manchester United.