Sacking culture keeps guarded boss Moyes on his toes

Everton boss David Moyes does not believe any manager is safe from the sack in football's current climate – including himself.

Along with most of his counterparts, Moyes was saddened by Blackburn's sudden axing of Sam Allardyce but he accepts such decisions are indicative of the modern game.

Allardyce's departure came just weeks after Blackburn were sold to new owners and Moyes feels managers will have to live with the consequences of clubs' growing dependence on wealthy backers.

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The Scot said: "Not for a minute did I think Sam was in a position where he was close to the club not wanting his services any more.

"I think he has done a terrific job for them and I really didn't see that coming at all. But new owners coming in always means you could be in jeopardy, whoever the manager is.

"I think it is one of those things we can't do anything about.

"A lot of clubs are looking for investment and we are one of them. You could get an owner in who right away wants to change it around, and that is what has happened with Sam.

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"If you want investment the people that come in have to be allowed to do what they want to do.

"I am not saying that is right but we are all looking for people to come and help us. If new owners come in, who knows what they might do – to me or whoever else?"

Everton have regularly punched above their financial weight in the Premier League under Moyes's guidance, but chairman Bill Kenwright has previously spoken of the need to find fresh investment for the club.

The current regime have been loyal to Moyes, who was appointed in 2002 and has guided the team to a Champions League qualifying position and a FA Cup final during his tenure.

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Yet despite having the oft-stated faith of Kenwright, Moyes feels he still cannot let his guard slip.

He added: "I have got a great chairman and a really good board of directors – but that still wouldn't stop them if things don't go well here.

"You have got to win as a manager, you have got to do well."

Moyes's side need a lift after a run of seven games without a win which has left them just two points above the Premier League's bottom three.

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They could even find themselves back in the relegation zone if results go against them before they next take to the field in Monday's tough game at Manchester City.

Moyes is waiting on the fitness of midfielder Steven Pienaar, who has been struggling with a groin injury.

Moyes said: "We will give him every chance to be fit. The game being on Monday might give him an outside chance."

Meanwhile, Moyes has said talisman Tim Cahill will be available for the New Year's Day game at Stoke before joining up with his Australia team-mates for the Asia Cup.

The Toffees boss has also confirmed Belarus defender Dzimitry Verkhovtsovis was given a trial this week but no moves or decisions have been made over a possible signing.