Under-fire Dyche accepts succession planning ongoing at Everton

Under-fire Everton boss Sean Dyche accepts the club’s new owners have likely considered a change in the dugout, though he believes he still retains their backing.

Dyche has attracted fierce criticism from fans amid a run of just one win in 10 Premier League games, which has dropped them to within a single point of the relegation zone.

Excluding their only success in that run, a 4-0 victory over Wolves in early December, Everton have scored just one goal in nine league games since the start of November.

Dyche’s failure to get the Toffees firing in front of goal has formed a major part of fans’ criticism. Only Southampton (12) have scored fewer than their 15 goals in the Premier League this season, while they also rank last for expected goals (18.33 xG).

Having completed their takeover of the Goodison Park club last month, the Freidkin Group has reportedly been weighing up a change of manager, with Graham Potter linked with the role.

Widespread reports have suggested Dyche’s future will be decided before Everton host Peterborough in the third round of the FA Cup on Thursday, but he does not think a change is imminent.

“If you’re a business of this size, a succession plan should be part of their diligence,” Dyche said. “I’ve got no problem with that at all, that should be ongoing at every football club.

“We’ve had positive conversations, they know the work we’ve done, and they want better outcomes – winning games.

Our attention turns to the @EmiratesFACup pic.twitter.com/D07r1fQwAU

— Everton (@Everton) January 7, 2025

“There’s a reality to the situation, that’s all I know, they’ve been very straight with me and very upfront about it. They’ve said they have ‘no reason to think other than you.’

“Whether they have spoken to other managers or they haven’t, they certainly haven’t told me that.

“I don’t know how it works in the privacy world, but if they have, it’s succession planning. The club is always bigger than me, I’m just a custodian. So far I’ve handled it pretty well, I think now it’s about going and trying to win some games and change the narrative.”

Dyche is not the only Premier League boss under pressure, with reports also suggesting West Ham are considering firing Julen Lopetegui after just half a season at the helm.

Potter, who was sacked by Chelsea in 2023, is reportedly a leading contender for both jobs and has held talks with decision-makers at both Everton and West Ham.