LIVERPOOL: Everton have signed David Moyes for a second spell as their manager, the Premier League club said on Saturday.

Moyes, who managed Everton from 2002 to 2013, returns to the club after Sean Dyche was saclced on Thursday.

Media reports said Moyes, 61, signed a two-and-a-half year contract at Everton.

`Its great to be back! I enjoyed 11 wonderful and successful years at Everton and didn`t hesitate when I was offered the opportunity,` Moyes said.

Everton, struggling in 16th place in the Premier League, are winless in the last five league games and sit just a point above the relegation zone as they look to continue their 71-year run in the English top flight.`We are pleased that David is joining us at this pivotal time in Everton`s history,` Everton`s executive chairman Marc Watts said. `With over a decade of experience at the club, he is the right leader to propel us through our Enal season at Goodison Park and into our new stadium.

Moyes, who led Everton to the FA Cup final in 2009, managed the club for more than 500 matches before leaving for Manchester United. He has since managed Real Sociedad, Sunderland and West Ham United, winning the UEFA Conference League with the latter.

`I`m excited to be working with the Friedkin Group and I am looking forward to helping them rebuild the club, Moyes added.-Reuters