Anichebe hails Moyes influence in his career

Former Everton striker Victor Anichebe has hailed Manchester United manager David Moyes for sticking with him through 'thick and thin'.

The 25 year old joined Everton as a 10 year old and was guided from the youth team to the senior side by David Moyes himself. Anichebe, who recently signed for the Baggies, admitted that Moyes' departure this summer to take charge of Manchester United was a reason why he decided to leave Goodison Park.


"David Moyes has been such a help for me. He has been like a father figure," said Anichebe, who made over 100 appearances for the Toffees following his debut in 2006.


"He brought me through when I was just a boy and he has stuck with me through thick and thin. It was a wrench and there were moments even when I was driving down when I thought, 'is this the right decision?'"


"It was difficult but I thought it was the right time to leave," he added.


"Everton is changing and the club is going in a different direction. They have got a new manager in there now, with new philosophies.


"I was sad to see David Moyes go but that happens and you have to move on. I felt after a good latter stage of the season, maybe I should go somewhere else for a fresh start."