Moyes Staying at Everton - If Plans Match His

David Moyes has revealed he has no plans to leave Everton this summer, although he will seek assurances on the club's spending power before committing to a new long-term contract at Goodison Park. The Everton manager has 15 months remaining on his existing deal and negotiations on an extension are not scheduled with the chairman, Bill Kenwright, until the end of the season.

Moyes yesterday dismissed suggestions that he has been unsettled by the delay. "There shouldn't be any fears among supporters that I'm going to leave because it is not on my mind and not something I have considered," he said.

Moyes did, however, concede that a new contract is not a foregone conclusion and will depend more on transfer funds than his own salary. He believes investment is required to sustain European qualification in the face of increased competition from Manchester City, Aston Villa, Portsmouth and Tottenham. With a decision due by the beginning of May on the proposed move to Kirkby and Kenwright seeking fresh investment, Moyes believes this summer could shape the direction of the club.

"I am intending to find out what the next stage is for Everton. That will be part of the discussions," he said. "I've still got a year to go on my current contract so it's not as though I'm going to be running out this summer."

Moyes said his side cannot afford to slip against West Ham today having lost their first league game in 10 at Fulham last weekend. "I gave the players a few days off this week but there is no panic, I am confident we will bounce back," he said.

The Everton manager, meanwhile, believes referees will receive more respect only when the Football Association improves its dealings with clubs. "Clubs have made appeals and been told they are frivolous," he said. "They are almost being told, 'sorry, we do not respect you so don't bother coming to us and asking'."