'I would have preferred to keep the player. He's a good player and he can play two positions,' Moyes said. 'I've been disappointed, but I've had my say on how it's been, and any more would be repeating what I've said.'

The issue had 'played a big part behind the scenes,' he added.

'Joleon had told me on the Friday (before the 1-6 loss to Arsenal at home) that he didn't want to play, but I had no options so I chose to play him, but it worked against me. So, I've taken the decision,' Moyes said.

'It's been difficult because Joleon's attitude has been so poor. We'd rather have him playing, but if a player is going to behave in the manner he did, we had no choice but to keep him away.'