Friendship on hold for Moyes

A few days ago David Moyes was enjoying a drink in Belgium with Roy Hodgson, but their friendship will most definitely be put on hold this weekend.

Everton boss Moyes and his Liverpool counterpart Hodgson bumped into each other as they watched the same Euro 2012 qualifier in Brussels this week and took the opportunity to catch up but there will be no room for cordiality at Goodison Park on Sunday as their two teams clash in the 214th Merseyside derby.

Hodgson has previously said his friendship with Moyes will be tested on derby days and Moyes said: "I wouldn't want to be his friend either. There are no friends on derby day are there? Even family members in this city sometimes fall out with each other."

He added: "It's just about being professional, but he is a very well respected coach."

"He was my friend this week, we met going over to Belgium.

"We travelled together on the plane and travelled back together. We watched the game and had a drink together and I enjoyed his company.

"When I was learning and preparing myself for a chance to get into coaching and management, Roy was one of the coaches that we would often see on the circuit, putting sessions on. He was very good."

The build-up to the game has been completely overshadowed by the Liverpool takeover saga.

But Moyes does not feel that will detract from what is one of the most eagerly-anticipated fixtures in the calendar.

The Scot said: "Anyone who has played or managed in a derby will tell you to win them is a great thing, especially big city derbies. If you can do that it means an awful lot to supporters and players. I certainly recognise the importance of it and we will do everything to try to win it."