Tim Cahill, who played for David Moyes at Everton for eight years, has spoken out in defence of his former manager.

“There’s been so much focus on Manchester United’s struggles this season, but a manager should be judged over two campaigns – and after eight years playing under David Moyes, I know he’s got all the attributes to prove everyone wrong,” Cahill told Fox Sports. “Everyone is talking about it because at a team like United, this season’s results haven’t been acceptable because of what Sir Alex Ferguson created over his tenure. It feels like there’s an assessment of Moyes’s credentials after each game at the moment – but he’s definitely someone who can take it on the chin. Any manager going to a new club is going to take time to adapt – notwithstanding injuries to a player like Robin van Persie – but the club has identified his qualities, they know what he’s achieved and can see the bigger picture.”

Moyes signed Cahill from Millwall for £1.5m in 2004. To put that in to perspective, that summer Birmingham paid £6.25m for Emile Heskey. He finished the season as the club’s top scorer and was voted Player of the Year by the fans. Two years later he made the shortlist of 50 players for the Ballon d’Or, becoming Everton’s first player in 18 years to be nominated.

“Look at my scenario: I’m no world beater but he got the best out of me,” Cahill continued. “Staying back and doing crossing sessions with him, working on my movements, being in the video room going over players with me, analysing teams, having the sheets for the players I’m playing against. He never let me rest on my laurels. Despite our personal relationship, he would always tell me if I was out of form or if I needed a kick up the backside. Manchester United, Sir Alex Ferguson, those at the club: they can see those attributes. They signed him to a long-term contract, because he epitomises what they stand for. He’s honest, loyal and he gives everything. And he considers your personal and family life too – whether it’s pulling you into the office, making sure everyone’s fine – my kids or my parents. There was always time for a phone call or a coffee. Sure, there were the odd arguments too, but they made us stronger, because they were constructive, particular in terms of playing, to keep me on track.”

Read more: http://www.foxsports.com.au//football/premier-league/everton-and-socceroos-legend-tim-cahill-explains-why-david-moyes-will-succeed-at-manchester-united/story-e6frf4a3-1226803934362#ixzz2qhX53RFS