This week, widespread reports said Amorim had travelled to London for talks with the West Ham hierarchy, as it weighs up its options ahead of Moyes's contract expiring in June.

Moyes delivered the UEFA Europa Conference League trophy to the London club last season but has long struggled to win over sections of the Hammers' fanbase, and a poor run of form has seen hopes of European qualification fade in recent weeks.

Amorim, who led Sporting to the Primeira Liga crown in 2020-2021 and looks likely to oversee another title triumph this term, has also been linked with Chelsea and Liverpool in the past.

He was roundly criticised for making the trip to London while still under contract, and admitted the visit was a mistake.

"So, let's get the elephant out of the room and I'll talk about it once," Amorim said in a press conference to preview his current side's trip to Porto.

"The first thing is to say that the club was aware of my trip. It's important and changes the context.

"Then, let's talk about the 'cloak of secrecy' that surrounded the trip ... I 'secretly' parked the car outside, secretly walked past 15 people and took photographs, then got on a plane behind the club's back. 

"It didn't happen in secret or without permission. Obviously my trip was a mistake, the timing was completely wrong, it didn't seem right at the time. 

"It was wrong, especially when I'm so demanding with my players and always the first to say that each one's actions can overpower the team. I have removed players from the squad for much less.

"It was my mistake, I have to accept it and live with it. It didn't seem so bad at the time but thinking about it later, it's very clear.

"Now it's time to move on. I apologise to the Sporting fans, the staff and, mainly, to my players for the mistake I made."