David Moyes said Dwight McNeil returned to Everton’s starting line-up for Saturday's superb 3-2 win at Newcastle United after impressing in training. The midfielder made his first appearance for the Blues since the collapse of his move to Crystal Palace, after which his partner publicly criticised the London club for their handling of the situation as it broke down.

McNeil was a surprise inclusion after not having played a minute for the club since the chaos of deadline day but was involved in the first two of Everton’s goals in their dramatic victory over Newcastle.

Asked whether the former Burnley man had needed additional support to build towards his return after the disappointment of the failed move to Selhurst Park, Moyes was blunt in his response.

OPINION

OPINION

The Blues boss said: “Well, the club pays his wages, so I don't think we should really need to support him too much. I don't treat him any differently than I would treat...