DAVID MOYES should be applauded for stabilising Everton during his 11-year reign and wish well at Manchester United, insists Howard Kendall.

The Blues most successful ever manager claims supporters should understand the Scot’s decision to call time on his Goodison reign, with Moyes likely to be announced as Alex Ferguson’s successor within 24 hours.

Kendall, who believes Roberto Martinez is likely to be chiefly in the frame to replace Moyes, said: “The fans would maybe have been upset if he’d gone to a similar sized club in Germany or elsewhere in Europe but this is Manchester United.

“I don’t think they will question him or turn on him at all. They will say a reluctant farewell certainly because he’s been such an inspirational manager, but they will thank him and wish him well.”

Kendall also believes Moyes is the perfect fit for United, thanks to his similarities to 71-year-old Ferguson.

“They have always had a close relationship and they are similar as men,” he said. “They are both ultra professional and the way they go about their jobs is similar.

“I wouldn’t be surprised if Alex Ferguson had a huge say in Moyes being appointed. The Old Trafford hierarchy will want stability and for some things to remain the same.

“With Moyes and Ferguson feeding into him, they can have that. It would always have been difficult to get that if they’d gone for someone like Jose Mourinho.”

“Mourinho would probably have wanted to come in with his own back room team and change the way they do things in a wholesale manner.

“Moyes will be more sensitive to the need to maintain tradition. There would just be a lot less upheaval with Moyes.”

Asked whether the Scot will be difficult for Bill Kenwright and the Everton board to replace, he added: “Yes. He is a top manager who you can’t replace easily.

“Martinez at Wigan will be in the frame without a doubt.

“He has done well over the seasons. If he goes Moyes will leave a squad that is not far off it in terms of achieving something in the Premier League. He’s come very close.”