Richard Keys has launched a scathing attack on West Ham's technical director Tim Steidten, branding him a "sneaky weasel" following the announcement that David Moyes will be leaving the club at the end of the current season.

Moyes is set to depart from his role at West Ham for the second time, with his contract winding down this summer. The club made the news official on Monday, as they finalised the appointment of Julen Lopetegui.

Lopetegui, who has managed Real Madrid, Sevilla, and Wolves, is expected to take over the reins at West Ham soon. It's believed that Steidten was instrumental in the hunt for Moyes' successor, even though the Scottish manager secured the Europa Conference League trophy less than twelve months ago.

The Iron aimed high in their search for a new boss, engaging in discussions with Ruben Amorim of Sporting Lisbon before setting their sights on Lopetegui. However, Keys has criticised the decision-making at the London Stadium, particularly targeting Steidten and suggesting Lopetegui will leave at the first sign of a better opportunity.

He took to social media to express his disdain: "You wouldn't want Tim Steidten with you in the trenches. Sneaky weasel. I've worked with one like him. Nor Lopetegui. He'll be off as soon as he gets a better offer. And unopposed West Ham's management win Classless Act of the season again. It's a shame because it's a great club."

Since his appointment last summer, Steidten has reportedly had a strained relationship with Moyes. Steidten's arrival at the London Stadium saw the Scotsman losing his grip over transfer dealings, as per The Guardian.

In light of Sunday's crushing 5-0 defeat against Chelsea, the technical director was advised to distance himself from the first team. Access to the dressing room and training grounds was limited, a directive that is believed to have been initiated by Moyes rather than the board.

Speaking about his exit, Moyes expressed his gratitude: "I would like to thank all the players for their support, and all the success they have achieved, over the last four and a half years. I have really enjoyed working with everyone at West Ham, and I would like to thank the Board for giving me the opportunity to manage this great club."

Moyes sent his best wishes to those who will continue on at the club, adding: "I wish my eventual successor, the Directors, the players, the staff, the fans, and everybody at West Ham, all the very best for the future."

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