Everton manager David Moyes has admitted that he sometimes needs to 'crack the whip' in order to get the best out of midfielder Darron Gibson.

Gibson joined Everton from Manchester United in January and despite a promising start, has failed to produce his best form for the Toffees this season.

Moyes insisted the 25-year-old could become a star player for Everton and the Republic of Ireland if he just worked a little harder.

"I think [Gibson] has the ability but there is a bit more to his game that he can offer," Moyes told the Daily Star.

"He needs a jab of the whip every now and again to get him going. I think Gibbo needs to realise that if you think leaving Manchester United meant life would be easier, it's going to get much harder.

"He needs to be more influential in games. He needs to take more control."

Everton's next game is against Tottenham Hotspur this afternoon.