Everton roll the Dyche as Sean looks to save them from relegation

Everton have appointed Sean Dyche as Frank Lampard's successor.

The Toffees axed Lampard last week in the wake of a 2-0 defeat at relegation rivals West Ham that left them two points from safety in 19th.

Marcelo Bielsa was the early favourite for the role after flying in for talks but the Argentine tactician reportedly turned down the job.

Goodison Park chiefs then moved to secure Dyche, who worked wonders after winning two top-flight promotions with Burnley.

The 51-year-old has signed a contract until June 2025 but his first task will be preparing to host high-flying Arsenal on Saturday before a Merseyside derby showdown with Liverpool nine days later.

He said: "It's an honour to become Everton manager.

"My staff and I are ready and eager to help get this great club back on track. I know about Everton’s passionate fanbase and how precious this club is to them.

"We’re ready to work and ready to give them what they want. That starts with sweat on the shirt, effort and getting back to some of the basic principles of what Everton has stood for for a long time."

Dyche was sacked by Burnley last April after almost a decade with the Lancashire outfit.

Finishing seventh in 2017-18 secured Europa League qualification but that was a high point for a tenure that ultimately resulted in relegation last term.

Dyche now faces another battle to beat the drop and will have to do without homegrown winger Anthony Gordon, who joined Newcastle for a reported £45million yesterday. 

Three of Everton's first-team squad have worked under Dyche previously at Burnley — James Tarkowski, Michael Keane and Dwight McNeil.

Dyche added: "We want to bring back a good feeling.

"We need the fans, we need unity and we need everyone aligned. That starts with us as staff and players.

"Our aim is to put out a team that works, that fights and wears the badge with pride. The connection with the fans can then grow very quickly because they're so passionate.

"There is quality in this squad. But we have to make them shine. That's the job of me and my staff."