Duncan Ferguson back at Everton in coaching role

Ferguson won seven caps for Scotland

Former Everton striker Duncan Ferguson has returned to the club in an unofficial coaching capacity.

The 39-year-old former Scotland international had two spells at Goodison before retiring in 2006.

However he has been working with Everton Academy coach Alan Irvine towards gaining coaching badges.

"I didn't foresee him going to coaching when I had him as a player, but I think he misses the smell of football," Everton boss David Moyes said.

Ferguson first joined Everton in 1994, initially on loan from Rangers, before the Toffees paid the Scottish side £4m for him.

In 1998 he joined Newcastle for £8m before moving back to Everton for £3.75m in 2000. He played a total of 273 games for the Merseyside club in his two spells, scoring 72 goals.

Commenting on the return of Ferguson Moyes said: "He wants to watch and see what's going on. He is not a qualified coach yet because he is going through his badges, but we have got him in and he's happy to do the time and is working down at the academy.

"It could lead to something more, but what you need is your qualifications and that is the first thing."