But aside from one second-half shot that curled narrowly off target, the Nigerian must do more to convince Moyes he can shoulder the forward burden with Yakubu and James Vaughan out for the season and Louis Saha sidelined for at least another month.

Having gained a half-time advantage, Everton’s superior class told during the second half in which they dominated possession but curiously failed to force Macclesfield keeper Brain into a worthwhile save.

Tim Cahill, who had scuffed one first-half shot straight at Brain, forced another effort over the bar after the break, the busy Steven Pienaar drove a shot across the face of goal, Phil Jagielka volleyed over and Leighton Baines was within inches of converting a clever chip.

The late introduction of John Rooney – younger brother of Wayne – solicited jeers from the away fans, but it prompted a late flurry from Macclesfield as they went in search of an equaliser.

Substitute Danny Thomas volleyed an inviting ball over and, with virtually the last touch of the match, a previously unemployed Tim Howard dived to his left to repel a dangerous volley from another Macclesfield substitute, Simon Yeo.

A postscript. Peter Clarke made only one further start under Moyes after playing the full 90 minutes of the defeat at Shewsbury six years ago.

Now captain of Southend, the former Goodison schoolboy made the headlines at the weekend by heading in an injury-time equaliser at Chelsea.

The magic of the FA Cup lives on.

This time, however, it was not at Everton’s expense.