Everton opt for Ferguson as caretaker during search
EVERTON have confirmed the appointment of Duncan Ferguson as caretaker manager.
Ferguson oversaw training yesterday, with the club looking for a successor to Rafael Benitez after sacking the Spaniard on Sunday.
The Toffees confirmed in a statement that Ferguson would be in charge “for the club’s upcoming games”, starting with the visit of Aston Villa.
Ferguson will be supported in his caretaker role by John Ebbrell and Leighton Baines, along with goalkeeping coach Alan Kelly.
Former Scotland and Everton striker Ferguson is set for a second spell as caretaker boss, having taken charge of three games during December 2019 following the dismissal of manager Marco Silva.
It has been reported that Wayne Rooney – the former Everton forward currently managing Derby – and ex-Chelsea boss Frank Lampard are set to be interviewed for the full-time job.
Everton added in a statement: “An announcement on a permanent managerial appointment will be made in due course.”
Ferguson has been part of their coaching staff since 2014, and enjoyed a decent run in his previous caretaker stint, securing a victory over Chelsea as well as draws with Manchester United and Arsenal ahead of the appointment of Carlo Ancelotti.
Benitez, who replaced Ancelotti last summer, was axed after Saturday’s 2-1 loss at Norwich left Everton with only one win and nine defeats in 13 Premier League games.
They are 16th in the table, six points above the relegation zone with two games in hand over 18th-placed Norwich.
Their search for a replacement for Benitez has seen Roberto Martinez, the Belgium head coach who was in charge at Goodison Park from 20132016, in the running.