Exclusive: McAvennie hails 'Great move' after West Ham announce new hire

Frank McAvennie has hailed the decision to appoint Stuart Pearce to David Moyes' backroom staff at West Ham.

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider correspondent Jason Jones, the former Hammers hero claimed that the arrival of the former defender is a "great move" for the club.

Pearce initially worked with Moyes during his first spell with the Irons back in 2018, but left the club when the Scot was sacked and subsequently made critical comments on the ownership after his departure.

It was announced on Monday that he will be returning to the dugout alongside Moyes next season, however, following clear-the-air talks with David Sullivan and Karen Brady.

And McAvennie is delighted with the update.

Speaking to Football Insider, he said: "I think it’s a great move.

"He was there with David before. After they left he must have said something about the owners. I don’t think it was too bad what he said, but they didn’t take it the right way and I think that was why they couldn’t bring him back.

"But David’s kept them up, so he’s in the driving seat now. Kevin Nolan’s in, which is great. He’s still got the boy Alan Irvine, who is a great coach too.

"I think Pearce is coming in as a defensive coach, and let’s be honest, West Ham need that. Stuart was a wonderful defender and I think he’ll reshuffle the backline."

Pearce spent a spell with the Hammers during the latter years of his career, making 50 appearances for the club across all competitions.

The 58-year-old was also a key member of the England setup for many seasons, amassing 78 caps for the Three Lions.

In other West Ham United news, the club have placed an England international at the top of their wish list for a new centre-back this summer.