Everton players tribute former chairman Bill Kenwright after his death at 78

Everton icons and current players have issued heartfelt words of condolences in the wake of Bill Kenwright's passing with David Moyes and Wayne Rooney both tributing the former chairman.

The Toffees played their first match since Kenwright's death at the age of 78 when they travelled to face West Ham at the London Stadium on Sunday.

Kenwright enjoyed 19 years in his role as Everton chairman after succeeding Sir Phillip Carter in 2004.

He oversaw periods of great success and more recently difficulties during his time at the club and Everton legends offered up some of their favourite memories of Kenwright in the build-up to Sunday's game.

West Ham manager David Moyes, who previously spent 11-years in charge of the Toffees, described Kenwright on Sky Sports as a 'wonderful man' and expressed sadness at the news of his passing.

'Incredibly sad news. Wonderful man. He gave me an opportunity in my career and was brilliantly supportive,' said Moyes.

'I couldn't have had a better chairman as a young coach. When I look at modern football nowadays, and how difficult it is for young managers to make their way...Bill Kenwright was great to work with.

'He'll be sadly missed and to the whole family, they know how I feel. Really disappointed that Bill's left,' he added.

Rooney, who first burst onto the Premier League stage as a 16-year-old at Everton, shared similar thoughts as he explained his sadness at the news.

Now managing Birmingham in the Championship, the Manchester United and England legend said: 'Growing up as a young kid, I've known him [Kenwright] for a long time. I had a good relationship with him.

'He's Everton through and through. I know he had a difficult time over the last few years with what's happening at Everton, but