Moyes hopes not to see Saha

Louis Saha: Not expected to face former club Everton due to a gentleman's agreement

David Moyes says he has a gentleman's agreement with Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp that Louis Saha will not play against Everton in Saturday's Premier League fixture at Goodison Park.

Saha joined Spurs from Everton in the January transfer window and could have been in line to feature against his former club this weekend.

However, Moyes claims to have had a conversation with rival boss Redknapp when they decided together that Saha would sit out unless Tottenham were short of options.

"I think I have an agreement with Harry that he doesn't play," said the Scot.

"If that is the case then Louis does not play unless Tottenham have lots of injuries.

"It was just something but if he plays it is not a problem.

"Harry told me if he is short of players he will play but if he is not he might not use him."

Moyes has experience of gentlemen's agreements in the past as, having signed Tim Howard permanently from Manchester United, he left the goalkeeper out of the game against the Red Devils.

At the time Everton claimed that they were only adhering to the agreement and the Premier League ruled there was no case to answer.

"If you are gentlemen it is allowed isn't it?" added Moyes.

"I don't think it takes place that often but sometimes you can do it.

"Gentlemen shake hands and do things and me and Harry did that - but if he needs that then he will play."

Best ever

Saha was struck down by a succession of injuries during his time with Everton but Moyes still has a huge amount of respect for his abilities as a player.

"He was arguably the best player I have ever worked with, the best talent I have ever had," added the Toffees boss.

"Wayne (Rooney) would come close, as would Thomas Gravesen, but Saha was right up there; great ability and some of the things he could do were magnificent.

"We enjoyed Louis and I think the time was right for him and for Everton and gave him a chance to move on."