West Ham manager David Moyes dealt blow as his No 2 Alan Irvine steps down due to personal reasons just days after helping guide the club to Europa League… with Billy McKinlay among candidates to replace him
- Alan Irvine is taking the decision to step aside from his full-time West Ham duties
- The London location is understood to be a factor in Irvine’s decision to leave
- Irvine will be taking up a consultancy role with the Hammers next season
- Billy McKinlay is available after leaving his position as Stoke’s assistant in April
West Ham boss David Moyes will appoint a new assistant coach with current No 2 Alan Irvine vacating his role.
In news that will arrive as a blow to Moyes, coach Irvine is taking the decision to step aside from his full-time duties as Moyes’ right-hand man due to personal reasons.
West Ham’s London location is understood to be a factor in Irvine’s decision given his family are based in the north.
Alan Irvine (L) has taken the decision to vacate his role as David Moyes’ assistant at West Ham
The 62-year-old, however, will be taking up a consultancy role with the Hammers next season.
Irvine is one of the most respected coaches in British football and his departure leaves a significant hole in Moyes’ staff.
Sportsmail understands that former Scotland international Billy McKinlay is among the contenders to replace Irvine.
Billy McKinlay (C) is among candidates to replace Irvine as Moyes’ No 2 at the London Stadium
The 52-year-old worked under Moyes during his first spell in charge at the London Stadium. However, there are understood to be at least two other contenders for the position.
McKinlay, who has held coaching roles at Fulham, Watford, Real Sociedad and Sunderland, is available after leaving his position as Michael O’Neill’s assistant at Stoke in April.
Moyes and Irvine worked successfully together last season, leading the club to Europa League qualification and a record Premier League points haul.