Everton’s managerial situation has become increasingly contentious in recent weeks, as the club’s dismal start to the season inevitably draws criticism from all quarters.
Sean Dyche, who arrived at Goodison Park to find a limp and lifeless squad, has worked wonders in stabilising the team.
With the assistance of Kevin Thelwell, he has crafted a more well-rounded first team, seemingly built to compete comfortably above the relegation zone.
Yet, despite these efforts, Everton has endured a disastrous start to their Premier League campaign, losing their opening three matches, the most recent in particularly dramatic and heart-wrenching fashion.
Reports suggest that Dyche’s position at the club is precarious, and with every fresh setback, the pressure mounts. Among the speculation about potential successors, one name repeatedly mentioned is Graham Potter.
However, according to former England striker Darren Bent, Potter might be more inclined to remain unemployed than to take on the challenging role at Everton.
Bent, speaking on talkSPORT, expressed his doubts about Potter’s willingness to step into the Goodison Park hot seat. He said: “Someone like [Graham Potter], would he go there? I think Graham Potter would rather be out of work than go there.”
Managing Everton has indeed become something of a poisoned chalice, with no manager truly succeeding over the past seven years. While several have tried and failed, Dyche arguably comes closest to fulfilling his brief.
He steered the team to safety against all odds and overcame two points deductions to secure a relatively comfortable position last season. Despite this, rumours persist linking David Moyes with a return to Everton, while Graham Potter also remains in the conversation.
The idea of Potter taking charge at Everton, however, raises legitimate questions. His style of play, which favours a more expansive and possession-based approach, stands in stark contrast to Dyche’s direct, no-nonsense system. Such a dramatic shift in tactics could prove challenging, especially with a squad accustomed to Dyche’s methods.
Moreover, the Everton fanbase presents another potential hurdle for Potter. Known for their passionate and sometimes volatile reactions, Everton supporters are not shy about voicing their displeasure with everything from substitutions to performances.
Potter’s history with fan criticism could make him wary of taking on such a demanding role. He once publicly criticised Brighton and Hove Albion supporters for booing after a 0-0 draw in 2021, saying:
“The fans are entitled to their opinions but I disagree with them. You have to understand the game, who we played and what we did. We are sitting eighth in the Premier League but maybe I need a history lesson on this club.”
Such comments may not sit well with Evertonians, who expect their managers to fully understand and respect the club’s history and its supporters’ expectations.
This potential clash of personalities and philosophies might be enough to deter Potter from accepting the challenge at Everton, leaving the club’s future in continued uncertainty.
As Everton struggles to find stability, the search for the right managerial fit remains a critical issue, with Dyche’s future and the club’s trajectory hanging in the balance.