Scot was initially unconvinced by Baines qualities

DAVID MOYES became known for his shrewd signings during his first Everton stint, and there have been signs of history repeating itself with Jack Grealish’s arrival.

- By TOM VICTOR

However, one of Moyes’ most important early recruits might have never happened without the manager's number two forcing his hand.

Leighton Baines is now part of Moyes’ coaching staff, taking up a role with Everton’s academy after retiring in 2020 and adopting a more prominent role with the senior side since the Scot returned last season.

His past as an Everton player made him a natural fit, but fellow coach Alan Irvine says Moyes wasn’t always convinced of the left-back’s qualities.

“David would tell you, I actually forced him to sign Leighton, Irvine - Moyes’ assistant when Baines signed from Wigan for £6million in 2007 - told The Athletic.