Ex-Crystal Palace, Everton & Sheffield Wednesday man set for Premier League return with ex-West Ham colleague

Crystal Palace legend Alan Irvine is reportedly set to return to Everton and work alongside David Moyes following the Scotsman's return to Goodison Park last week.

Irvine, who played over 100 times for the Eagles and spent three years with the Toffees too, previously worked alongside Moyes at West Ham. The 66-year-old has previously managed Preston North End, Sheffield Wednesday and West Brom.

The former winger also spent time working in the Everton academy following his retirement. According to the Mail Online, Irvine will assist Moyes alongside Billy McKinlay and Leighton Baines.

Alan Irvine set for Everton position

Irvine had been linked with a coaching role at Fleetwood Town in December but nothing came of those rumours. He has also worked for Newcastle United and Norwich City in coaching roles.

The former Eagles player had been working as an assistant to Moyes at the London Stadium but took up a new position as technical advisor in May 2021. A club statement at the time said: "West Ham United can confirm that Alan Irvine will take on a new technical advisory role to assist manager David Moyes and his coaching staff next season.

"The 62-year-old Scot has made the decision to step aside from his full-time position as assistant manager, but will remain an important and valued member of the manager’s staff, alongside first-team coaches Kevin Nolan, Paul Nevin and Stuart Pearce, and goalkeeper coach Xavi Valero.

"Irvine is a hugely respected figure with vast experience in the game. After a long and successful playing career with Queen’s Park, Everton, Crystal Palace, Dundee United and Blackburn Rovers, he moved into youth coaching with Rovers before enjoying two roles at Newcastle United as first-team coach and Academy Director. This was followed by taking on a senior role alongside Moyes at Goodison Park in 2005.

"Everyone at West Ham United would like to thank Alan for his excellent work in the role of assistant manager, and wish him all the very best in his new position."

David Moyes to team-up with ex West Ham colleague

Irvine had been poised to leave his role in 2023 but was offered a new contract to carry on working with the Hammers following Europa Conference League success. He signed a new 12-month deal but left at the end of last season, when Moyes finished his term as West Ham boss.

Having left the London Stadium, Moyes hinted at a potential Premier League return with plenty of desire to still work in management. Upon his return to Goodison Park over the weekend, Moyes said: “It’s great to be back! I enjoyed 11 wonderful and successful years at Everton and didn’t hesitate when I was offered the opportunity to rejoin this great club. I’m excited to be working with The Friedkin Group and I am looking forward to helping them rebuild the club.

“Now we need Goodison and all Evertonians to play their part in getting behind the players in this important season so we can move into our fabulous new stadium as a Premier League team.”

Everton host Aston Villa in the Premier League on Wednesday, in what will be Moyes' first match back in charge of the Toffees. London outfit Tottenham Hotspur then travel to Goodison Park on Sunday.