ALAN IRVINE has returned to the Everton FC backroom staff after agreeing to become the head of the Academy.

Irvine has answered the call with EFC seeking a replacement for Ray Hall, who announced his intention to retire from the position at the end of the forthcoming campaign.

It is Irvine’s third stint at the club, having made 79 appearances and scored six goals after arriving as a player in 1981 before returning as assistant to manager David Moyes in 2002.

The 53-year-old left to become manager of Preston North End in 2007 before taking over at Sheffield Wednesday in 2010 until he was dismissed in February.

Irvine will take up the position with immediate effect with Hall remaining in situ to oversee the handover of responsibilities before assuming a role as international ambassador.

“Ray indicated a few months ago that this would be his last season at Everton so finding his replacement has been important to us,” said Moyes yesterday.

“I am delighted that someone of the calibre of Alan Irvine has agreed to rejoin the club. Once we knew Alan was available it made sense to bring him in as soon as possible and make the change quicker than expected.

“Ray has done a terrific job during his time with the academy and we are delighted that he has agreed to play an active part in the handover and that he will remain an important part of the set-up for a further three years.”