David Moyes: Can He Step Up And Fill Fergie’s Boots?

With David Moyes set to take charge of his first season in charge of Manchester United, writer ‘SignHimUp’ looks at whether he can make the step up from managing Everton.

Much has been spoken about Moyes’ inexperience in Europe, and his frankly dismal record against the top four, and over the last month his doubters have been fuelled with yet more ammunition. One win in four on tour is little to be concerned about itself, but Moyes’ transfer dealings (or lack of) give little encouragement.

His failure to land any ‘big’ names this summer is frightening to some United fans, but fear not, there is still time left. Moyes understands all too well the need for a marquee signing, the problem is, players aren’t jumping for a move to Manchester anymore. Whilst it used to be the case that almost anyone would do anything to force a move if United were interested, times have changed and it seems Moyes is in trouble. The biggest difference between Moyes and Ferguson is that Ferguson had worldwide respect and command, built up over decades of success. Moyes could easily have this too, but he needs to earn it.

If you were a player, David Moyes ringing you up saying ‘I want you to play for me’, is a completely different experience to THE Sir Alex Ferguson ringing you up and saying the same thing. That’s Moyes’ biggest problem, he’s living in Sir Alex’s shadow, which is unavoidable, but the fact the two are so similar helps little if not hinders Moyes. He has a tough season ahead.

Perhaps Moyes is the right man. United do need someone similar because of the astronomical changes following Sir Alex’s retirement, but with this comes the lurking shadow of the former manager, from under which Moyes must step out. A trophy this season is a must for Moyes, whilst winning Premier League will be tough, it would guarantee his job for a few years, and more importantly, get the fans off his back.

Everton is where Moyes undeniably built up his reputation and the respect he receives from players and managers throughout the country; but if we take a short trip across Merseyside, memories of similar situation are still fresh on the minds of the Kop. Roy Hodgson, poached from Fulham by Liverpool and following in the footsteps of the club legend, Kenny Dalglish. A small club manager taking over from a club hero. Hodgson was sacked within six months. United will give Moyes more time than this, and there are clear differences between the two stories, but you’d forgive those at Old Trafford for sweating over the coming season. It’s interesting to note, however, that Hodgson went on to thrive at West Brom following his Liverpool sacking; some managers just aren’t cut out for the pressure of the big clubs.

But all is not lost. Moyes is undeniably a fantastic manager, operating on such a tight budget at Everton and yet still delivering top 7 football year in year out was a fantastic achievement.  His victory over his new employers at the start of last season shows he can, in fact, take on the best and win. This metaphorical ‘shadow’ is oft mentioned, but Moyes must be his own man, or risk falling into the same trap Wilf McGuinness did after the reign of Sir Matt Busby. Following on from Busby’s famous reign which included winning the First Division five times, McGuinness didn’t win a single league title, Busby’s shoes proved too big to fill.

Despite the massive summer signings United’s rivals have made, Moyes’ preseason record and the high expectations, Moyes can be successful, and I, like many believe he will be. Much stands in his way, but the Premier League title is not out of reach.

What do you think? Can Moyes step up? Will he retain the title? Leave a comment telling me what you think and why.

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