David Moyes celebrated West Ham’s win in the UEFA Europa Conference League final on Wednesday evening by handing his medal to his 87-year-old father. Jarrod Bowen sealed the victory with a goal in the 90th minute, cancelling out Giacomo Bonaventura’s equaliser from the penalty spot after Said Benrahma had opened the scoring in the second half. This is only the second trophy of Moyes’ managerial career, having guided Preston North End to the second division title 23 years ago.
The Scot was delighted to share the moment with his family, saying: ‘Still going strong, still wants to come to the game. It’s great, it was a great moment to have your family at the game. These sorts of moments as managers don’t come around too often, you have to work very hard.’ When asked if this was the best moment of his career, Moyes replied: ‘I would have to say so. The moments you get to celebrate with your family and win in the last minute of the game, it doesn’t happen often. It can go against you but tonight is a brilliant feeling.’
Moyes also expressed his surprise at the success he has achieved with West Ham since taking over three years ago: ‘If somebody had said three years ago when I took the job that you’d avoid relegation and finish in Europe and I’ve said you were mad. This competition has been great for us, the players have been remarkable.’