Phil Neville has been out of action for Everton for two months, but manager David Moyes is astonished by the influence his captain still has on the side.

Neville, brought up with good habits from his early career at Manchester United, is working feverishly behind the scenes to make a serious contribution despite his knee injury.

Neville may well not be back in action until Christmas, but Moyes has hailed his influence over the whole squad.

The 32 year-old, who many feel will one day make an outstanding manager, is certainly doing his bit.

And Neville will be helping Moyes behind the scenes again at West Ham tomorrow.

Moyes said: “It’s hard to put into adequate words how good Phil has been during the time he has been out injured.

He’s at the away games, on the touchline with them all, he’s in the dressing room before and after and at half-time motivating and giving them advice.

“He is showing exactly what we know about him, he’s a right good character and is in it for the team and not just for himself.”

The Scot added: “He is about everybody succeeding. He is part of a great core to this club.

“That includes Phil, Mikel Arteta, Phil Jagielka, Leighton Baines, Tim Cahill and Leon Osman.

“They have been the key to this side for so long, and we have been without most of them for long spells with some still out.

“People like Phil are still trying to be an influence, and it is pleasing for me to them so involved.”

Moyes reveals midfielder Arteta, who has suffered a setback in his recovery from injury, expects to be back in the new year.

He went on: “He is still back in Spain, but I have talked to him this week and he is improving and I expect him playing again in the new year.”