David Moyes has sensationally claimed he was just one elite centre-forward away from challenging for the Premier League title when he was Everton manager.

Moyes was in charge at Goodison for 11-and-a-half years from 2002 to 2013, before later leaving to replace Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United.

Everton became a resilient and difficult to break down team under Moyes, and achieved Champions League qualification following the end of the 2004-05 season - his highest league finish with the club.

David Moyes claims he was one elite striker away from challenging for the title with Everton

The Scotsman enjoyed his most successful spell in management when in charge at Goodison

Speaking this week on Sky Sports ahead of Everton's tie with another one of his former clubs West Ham - Moyes admitted he believes he wasn't far away from the ultimate prize.

'I actually think we were a centre forward away from being contenders for the Premier League.

'I think when I finished we had a great team. I think our style was as good as anybody.'

Moyes however believes the Everton today is vastly different from the club he once guided, and hinted that some values may have been lost along the way.

'We finished fourth one year. I think we were in Europe four or fives times during my time here.

Moyes later left Everton to replace Alex Ferguson at Manchester United at Old Trafford

'We had a brilliant time here at Everton and I see things changing, I don’t know if it’s always for the good. I think it’s good that they’ve spent money and have money to spend but we signed fantastic players here.

'We had a great spirit and great ethos at the club and what I think the club stood for. I think they’ve gone off that a bit.'

The Toffees currently sit in 11th place after five games played so far this season, picking up just six points from a possible 15.