De Boer: The Dutch master to lead Everton's renaissance?

The departing Ajax boss is among the leading candidates to replace Martinez this summer. Four Dutch titles earned him a stellar reputation but has he sullied it over the past two years?

Lyndon Lloyd 23/05/2016 151comments  |  Jump to last

The timing was merely coincidental but Evertonians couldn't help but notice that Frank de Boer's announcement that he would be leaving Ajax after six years in charge came at the same time as the axe fell on Roberto Martinez at Goodison Park.

It was four days after his agent, Guido Albers, had expressed how his client would love to manage a club like Everton and De Boer's twin brother Ronald wasted no time in backing that up by telling Sky Sports that Frank would be perfect for the role as the Toffees boss. The bookies, their odds following the news in the absence of any hard information, immediately installed the Dutchman as favourite and he has remained among the leading candidates even while others have been added to the equation.

It's likely that De Boer would have been one of the main men linked with Everton whether he had decided to call time on his tenure at Ajax or not. The 46-year-old has been in the mix for at least three managerial vacancies in the Premier League in recent years, most notably at Liverpool (whom he turned down), Tottenham (who opted for Mauricio Pochettino's experience in England) and Newcastle United (who chose Steve McClaren) and he remains one of the most highly-regarded young managers yet to be tested in Europe's biggest leagues.

As has already been noted, footballing pedigrees don't come much better. He was capped 112 times by the Netherlands between 1990 and 2004 and spent 10 years as a player at Ajax Amsterdam during which time they won the Champions League for the last time to date, before moving on to Barcelona where he also played with his brother, Ronald, making close to 150 appearances.

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A leader on the pitch during his playing days like his compatriot Ronald Koeman, management was seen as a natural next step and De Boer cut his teeth as assistant manager to Bert van Marwijk at the 2010 World Cup before taking charge at in Ajax that year in a time of turmoil at the club. Barely 40 at the time, he was ushered in to replace Martin Jol as part of the late Johan Cruyff's attempts to revive his beloved club which he felt had become unrecognisable from the one rebuilt by Rinus Michels.

De Godenzonen had not won the Eredivisie for seven years prior to De Boer's arrival but he steered them to the title in his first season and for the next three seasons after that, equalling a Dutch league record. That was despite what has been described as civil war raging off the pitch as Cruyff battled entrenched elements on the Ajax board and clashed with Louis van Gaal who had been installed as sporting director without his approval in 2011 but whose appointment was later nullified, leaving Cruyff to continue his efforts at reforming the club.

That included the hiring of former Ajax, Holland and Arsenal winger Marc Overmars as director of football in 2012 and, with Dutch teams now struggling to compete on Europe's new financial landscape, focus was trained on the club's youth academy and targeted recruitment of foreign players with big future potential and sell-on fees to match.

That hasn't, as yet, translated to making a mark on the European stage again as Ajax have continued to struggle in the Champions League despite success over the likes of Barcelona in recent years. As Ryan Ferguson noted for These Football Times, “as a consequence of constant upheaval due to lack of financial clout, the modern day Ajax is getting younger, as the ultimate goal [of winning a European trophy] moves further away. In the past five seasons, the average ages of Ajax's oldest lineup has fallen every year, from 26.1 in 2011-12 to 23.6 this campaign.”

Nevertheless, the club has finished in the top two in the Eredivisie for the past six seasons under De Boer and yielded those four championships. (In truth, it should have been five but they dropped vital points at home to Utrecht in the run-in and would have won their title-decider at De Graafschap on the final day were it not for a goal wrongly chalked off for offside and Václav Černý missing an open goal that would have put them 2-0 up in that match.)

That record (which includes a win percentage of over 60%), in combination with him being steeped in the rich and world-renowned traditions of Dutch football and that of Ajax, not to mention his experience playing for Barcelona, is part of De Boer's appeal and what makes him such an exciting prospect for when he makes the step up to one of the Continent's biggest leagues.

At their best, his Ajax side was a joy to watch. De Boer's ethos is based on the passing and possession football adhered to by his former teams and the Dutch national side with a predominantly 4-3-3 formation and positional interchange by players. On that he layered on the ability to mix it up by playing the ball out from defence and then playing rapidly through midfield to either hit the forwards quickly or use overlapping fullbacks and wingers to deliver the ball from wide areas. Where Martinez and Manuel Pellegrini have been criticised for relying too heavily on individuals, De Boer has built a side where the whole is very much greater than the sum of its parts and teamwork is paramount.

Frank de Boer at Old Trafford during a Europa League Round of 32 fixture

The library of highlight videos of the past couple of seasons available online shows that his teams press well from the front, get good numbers supporting attacks, break quickly and deploy neat interchanges on the edge of the box to unlock defences. Ajax have deployed a range of set-piece routines and short corners, take plenty of shots from distance and De Boer has a clear affinity for skilful players like former star Christian Eriksen and current wing wizard Amin Younes.

The last two seasons in which the Amsterdam club have missed out on the title to rivals PSV has led to mounting frustration with De Boer, however, with many of the criticisms of his management echoing those levelled by Evertonians at Roberto Martinez. Indeed, while two years ago he was being lauded for assembling a young, well-oiled team and leading them to a fourth-successive championship, some were questioning recently whether he now was in danger of eroding his reputation by stagnating at Ajax.

Petrer McVitie of Benefoot.net wrote this season that Ajax's form was “typical of the coach this season — he is completely unwilling to acknowledge the failings of his strategy and his team. He has been relying on the same tactical tweaks over the last five years. He needs to find a new way to inject a fresh style and strategy into his team and for the last year and a half he has failed miserably.”

Meanwhile, Kevin Suave of AjaxDaily says: “Frank de Boer has done a good job as manager but he's too much of a control freak. Players are assigned way too many tasks, ruining the creativity and flair and therefore not being able to play the authentic Ajax 4-3-3 attacking style.”

De Boer's attempts to reclaim the Eredivisie title haven't been without their mitigating factors, though, and the boardroom upheaval has still not been resolved. As Erik Dols wrote on these pages earlier this month, there is a feeling that he “has taken Ajax as far as anyone could have done in the last six years domestically.”

That's a sentiment echoed by Michael Bell at Football Oranje who feels that De Boer's relative failures over the past two years have been a combination of off-the-field instability, financial pressures, a necessary over-reliance on youth and the Hoorn-born manager's admittedly declining energy for the job.

“Off the field, Ajax have been a mess this season,” Bell says, “with Wim Jonk leaving as U19 coach and Johan Cruyff cutting all ties to the club before his death because he was unhappy at the way it was being run. For De Boer you have to look at the side he took over when taking charge which had Suarez, De Jong, Alderweireld and Vertonghen and over the past few years he has had to put all his faith in academy products and poor signings like Duarte, Sinkgraven, Sana etc. The quality in the Ajax squad hasn't been great while PSV have managed to get the right blend of talent and experience.”

Were De Boer to be appointed as Martinez's successor at Everton, he would be walking into a club with far more settled situation in the boardroom and with much bigger financial clout so the key concern for supporters would rest on his coaching abilities and, depending on whether or not a director of football is installed at Goodison Park, what sort of players he would want to attract.

Those complaints about De Boer's intransigence will be of concern to many Blues, particularly after two years of Martinez's stubbornness but while Bell acknowledges that Frank can be a set his ways, he also credits him with being willing to experiment with formations, even if he agrees that staleness has crept in and that he is ripe for a new challenge. He also cites De Boer's history as a centre half as being central to the fact that Ajax usually have the strongest defence in the league, something that will be particularly appealing to Everton fans.

“In terms of De Boer's failures, he has tried to switch up his tactics at certain points this season, and it's failed,” Bell continues. “De Boer is an excellent coach but the impression is that everything has gone a bit stale recently and it's definitely time for him to go so someone else can come in.

“In some ways [he] is stuck in his ways, and over the past few years it's become apparent that Ajax struggle to break down well-organised defences. [They] can be a very frustrating team to watch at times, much like the Dutch national team at the moment. On their day they move the ball quickly and carve teams apart. However when they face a pressing side that has an organised defence they look lost and without clues on how to break them down.

“However, he has always tried to switch things up whether it be tactically or through personnel changes. Players are constantly played in different positions — i.e Schone on the wing or up front; Fischer on the left or up front; Milik at No.10, El Ghazi on the right; left and up front or even centre back van der Hoorn as a battering ram up front — [but] most of these haven't worked and De Boer's defiance and refusal to accept some of the blame does get on the fans' nerves. 

“He definitely hasn't been helped by the club's board. They are so tight with money and problem areas on the pitch haven't been sorted. They are a bit like Newcastle in that they will only pay money for a player that has re-sell value i.e Sinkgraven/Milik.” 

When all is said and done, of course, every managerial appointment carries varying degrees of risk. Sceptics of De Boer will point to the comparatively weaker Dutch league which has become something of a two-club league lately and compare it — harshly — with Scotland. And yet Koeman, perhaps the most favoured of the candidates to replace Martinez among Everton fans, was beaten to the title by De Boer between 2011 and 2014 and was credited by some observers with leaving Valencia in “a mess” in 2008 with a league win percentage of just 18%.

Like Pochettino, another untried foreign coach made good in England, Koeman has clearly demonstrated his prowess in the Premier League with Southampton over the past two seasons and reportedly has his eyes on bigger prizes like the Arsenal job. But he arrived in England with a similar pedigree and playing history to De Boer and Frank has never enjoyed the luxury of being able to spend to assemble a team capable of challenging the best.

As Bell concludes, “De Boer's lack of Premier League experience shouldn't be a problem and I think he would do well in the Premier League. He was excellent for Ajax in his first few years in charge and deserves a chance at a foreign club and at one that will allow him to spend a bit of money.

“De Boer is a passionate coach and I think Everton fans would like him for that. If he doesn't like something he sees he is very animated in the touchline.“

He will undoubtedly get his opportunity to try his hand at a bigger job in the near future, perhaps at manager-less Valencia or Everton, and it would seem, based on the relative success of Dutch coaches in the Premier League, that the Blues could do a lot worse than De Boer, particularly if their reported approach for Koeman fails.

Where the elder Dutchman has been something of a nomad since taking his first full-time managerial role at Vitesse in 2001, De Boer seems — although there's little base this on apart from his longevity in Amsterdam and his proven ability to bring through young players — more like the type to stay and build a team over a period of years. Whether he brings the likes of Jaap Stam and Dennis Bergkamp with him or not (it seems unlikely on either count), that kind of youthful energy coupled with his rich footballing pedigree and philosophy — described as a blend of “Cruyff's individualism and Van Gaal's universalism” — could make him the bold, forward-looking appointment eager to try his hand in new surroundings that Everton need for a new era.

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Chris Watts
1 Posted 23/05/2016 at 23:28:46
Brilliant article. I have to say I'm excited about this guy. As stated in this article, he has proven playing pedigree and won the league in his first 4 seasons as a manager. If he was forced to sell players and things went a little stake in his last 2 years that doesn't seem surprising. And they finished second

This is someone who can deal with big personalities, will be tactically astute and most importantly utterly hungry to prove himself in England. We seem an almost perfect fit.

The descriptions of Koeman's past here shows that FDB has almost always had the best of him. The sooner this guy is appointed, told to keep our best young players, bring the even younger ones through and given £100m to spend I'd feel very excited about the future.

The only negative for me is that everyone seems to think it unlikely he'll bring Stam and Bergkamp with him. Imagine those players working with Stones and Lukaku. But I'm sure he'll bring in quality assistants. Exciting times indeed.

Sam Hoare
2 Posted 23/05/2016 at 23:36:36
All sounds ok to me except the horribly familiar 'most of these haven't worked and De Boer's defiance and refusal to accept some of the blame does get on the fans nerves. '

De Boer is possibly the least tested of the front running candidates having only really managed one dominant team in a poor league. He feels like a risk though maybe a well suited one given his habit of developing great youth players.

He's behind Emery for me.

Tony Draper
3 Posted 23/05/2016 at 23:39:56
Lyndon, where your Unai Emery piece was a wonderful blend of solid facts, interpretation and intuative persuasion I'm not sure that this is equally compelling in any of those respects. Well, actually, I am sure.... it just isn't.

Frankly, it feels like listening to one of my favourite bands "tricky second albums".

That doesn't mean that where you are taking us with this is going nowhere, or is wrong, but it just doesn't seem to be cutting the cloth by the same measure.

Possibly, I was hoping that your FdB article would leave me in a delicious quandary. It hasn't. Though, I'm feeling right now that's more a case how and what evidence I'm examining, rather than the subject itself.

Maybe you are correct, and if so, then you've alerted me to what I needed to consider. I'll reread, see if that helps.

Muj Rasul
4 Posted 23/05/2016 at 23:49:52
Fantastic article.
Lyndon Lloyd
5 Posted 23/05/2016 at 23:50:21
The intent of these manager focus pieces is more to present some background to the men themselves, their managerial philosophies and successes/failures rather than present a solid case as to whether they should be our next boss either way.

Part of that is because I don't actually know myself – each carries risks and each could succeed as easily as they could fail but I would be happy with any of Koeman, De Boer or Emery.

For what it's worth, as I just tweeted, I have a good feeling in my water about De Boer. It might be because I respect Dutch managers, particularly disciples of Cruyff who can blend northern European pragmatism with south European flair, but he feels like the best fit.

He's dropped off the radar a bit over the past week but we'll see if he is still being considered.

Chris Watts
6 Posted 23/05/2016 at 23:51:23
Tony, I'm not sure I understand the point of this. You don't find the article persuasive.. Well it wasn't trying to be. Are you saying you don't like the article or FDB as manager? And why?
Peter Gorman
7 Posted 23/05/2016 at 23:57:16
Yeah I thought the article was Lyndon's attempt to inform us about the guy, the history he has had and the opinions in Holland, not to persuade us as such. To that end, it is a bloody good article.

There is much to be excited about De Boer, certainly he is a massive improvement on old Roberto, yet there are those troubling comparisons; stubbornness, playing people out of position, strict adherence to possession (which isn't washing in the Premier League).

We are all hoping for the perfect appointment after the chance fluffed 3 years ago but in all honesty, every named linked is an improvement.

I have no idea who I want. Sometimes I think, just give it to Rhino.

Dan Davies
8 Posted 23/05/2016 at 00:00:47
I've read both the Emery and FDB articles and the feeling in my bones is Emery.

If FDB gets the job I'll back him to the hilt, I'm not entirely convinced though. I think FDB has more to prove?

Anyways, very interesting Lyndon, could we keep this going on the different favourites until we actually appoint a manager?

Who's next? Pellegrino? Favre? Van Gaal!

Tony Draper
9 Posted 24/05/2016 at 00:17:00
Lyndon, Chris, Peter I completely accept your comments upon my response to Lyndon's FdB article. Where I have failed is that I mean that the "style" of these two articles feels quite different.

I suppose I might have secretly have been hoping/wishing/expecting for a "Top Trumps" like-for-like and I think that I tried to admit that. I will reread Lyndon's FdB piece, because, the failing may well be mine in the reading and interpretation.

The matter of comparing potential managers is FAR more complex than "Top Trumps", I know. And I really like the fact that Lyndon isn't trying to browbeat, or lead us by the nose to accept his "almighty" conclusion, clearly he is not.

And I think that Dan is right, Lyndon, please, provoke more thought with further profiles. Just 'cos I "don't get" the second (yet) quite as fully as the first – doesn't mean that there shouldn't be a third !

John Daley
10 Posted 24/05/2016 at 00:34:19
Philip Cocu would be my own choice for manager (although I think I might have been the only person to actually vote for him on the recent poll) and I would place him ahead of De Boer when it comes to both tactical nous and getting the best out of attacking players.

However, I wouldn't be too downhearted to see De Boer given the opportunity in his stead, particularly bearing in mind that a tissue paper thin defence that can be ripped through with ease is something any new guy needs to be addressing straightaway.
Peter Gorman
11 Posted 24/05/2016 at 00:41:32
Funnily enough John, I also went with Cocu - back to back league wins put him above De Boer for me.
Don Alexander
12 Posted 24/05/2016 at 00:52:44
The main point I want to make is that laudable as our loyalty to managers has reportedly been, in the 20+ years of the Premier League it's done sod all for us in terms of success and every potential manager on the planet can see that.

So, will the new guy be a self-serving deluded creep allowed to blow smoke up the board's ass a la Martinez or will he take the job on a results NOW basis, as most successful clubs insist on? If it's the latter he'll clearly want pretty much ALL the control to produce the results the board demand, which will be a big ask of the board/Moshiri.

After the deliberate inertia of so many years by Kenwright, board and managers, contrasting with the examples of Leicester, Spurs and other "lesser" clubs (like us) this season, it's now very reasonable for us fans to demand significantly better results within two seasons at the very most.

No pressure there then for Mr Moshiri.........and the new guy/s!

Tony Draper
13 Posted 24/05/2016 at 01:07:33
Don, if there has been a "blower of smoke rings" then the king ring blower must be dearthly Dave. Twelve years a manager of QUALITY EPL clubs and nary a pot to piss in.

if that shiftless grifter comes back here, then I'm off to Vina de Mar to watch our Chilean Twins!

Vamos Los Oro Y Cielo!

Frank Wade
14 Posted 24/05/2016 at 01:08:20
Many thanks Lyndon for your comprehensive piece and that on Emery as well. It's great to see the detail of the pros and cons of these potential managers.

I confess I don't watch many non Everton games and have watched no Dutch league this season, so can't comment on the various plusses of Ajax v PSV or FDB v Cocu. Very little between the teams so most likely very little between them as managers. They were both good players for Holland, so in view of our immediate needs, I say go for the defensive expert.

I was surprised by some of Michael Bell's comments above suggesting FDB was stuck in his ways and resistant to change but pleased to read on to "However, he has always tried to switch things up whether it be tactically or through personnel changes." This was music to my ears. It sounds like FDB will keep trying to find a way, whereas old Roberto tried the same old same old over and over again, even when it was obvious his tactics were not working 'Barkley as left mid, Oviedo as right back etc'. This ticks a massive box for me.

If a high profile manager is an important factor in getting a potential new signing to commit to Everton, I think FDB has the edge due to his stellar career with the Netherlands national team.

Marty MacDonald
15 Posted 24/05/2016 at 01:10:03
'De Boer's ethos is based on the passing and possession football.'

You could remove the name 'De Boer' and replace it with 'Martinez' at some places in the article, such as the quote above. De Boer has some strong points but I can't stomach any more rigid possession-based football and it doesn't seem to work in the Premier League. Hope one of the other candidates is chosen.

Jamie Sweet
16 Posted 24/05/2016 at 01:34:12
Very interesting piece as usual Lyndon.

Over the course of this article, I moved from "for God's sake sign him up now!" all the way down to "wouldn't touch him with a barge pole", and every feeling in between.

Overall, I would be very happy to welcome young Frank (I think).

Off to read the Emery article... I may change my mind again...

Jamie Sweet
17 Posted 24/05/2016 at 01:45:16
Right... Just read about Emery.

I think I want Emery now.

This is actually really difficult.

Andrew Presly
18 Posted 24/05/2016 at 01:53:52
Of the Dutch "masters" it should be Koeman. 10 years as a multi national manager on FDB & Premier League experience. Was a much better player too for what it's worth, which now equals contacts.

If we can't convince him to leave Southampton it's a sad state of affairs. One I'd blame Bill for.

Chern Lee
19 Posted 24/05/2016 at 02:01:12
John #10 and Peter #11

I also voted for Cocu - it's so strange that he isn't being considered at all.

Rich Evans
20 Posted 24/05/2016 at 02:17:37
I was not wildly excited when the sacking of Martinez spookily coincided with FDB leaving Ajax, but I'm starting think he could be the right man. Just consider his pedigree for a moment both as player and manager; then consider what we considered acceptable when appointing Moyes and Martinez. Different league. This fella should be well up the wish-list, and I would be chuffed if he accepted the job.
Jay Harris
21 Posted 24/05/2016 at 03:19:24
Great piece and very informative Lyndon but I have been stuck on Emery since Martinez went.

I have the same concerns as Sam Hoare about FDB and to a certain extent about most dutch coaches.

Dutch football had its heyday 30-40 years ago and has regressed enormously since which doesnt bode well for its coaches.

Darren Hind
22 Posted 24/05/2016 at 04:26:57
Thanks Lyndon

You are clearly doing your spadework before presenting these pieces and I'm finding them really interesting.

I cant get to the point where I will make my own personal choice, perhaps because I know it wont make any difference, but I do see the attraction in doing so.

The thing is, whoever comes in has to be a good fit. . and we cant know that until he's actually here

My heart sank when the last manager was named. I felt certain Kenwright had made the wrong choice. I just hope Moshiri makes a more inspired decision

I really hope things are moving at a quicker pace behind the scenes, the longer it drags on, the less time the successful candidate will have to prepare for next season.

In the meantime, keep em coming Lyndon. We may not have a say in the matter, but its nice to have a clearer picture of who's out there

James Watts
23 Posted 24/05/2016 at 04:44:16
Yep, agree with the rest. Another great article. Personally I'd be happy with FdB, Ronnie or Dick, but if any of them say the word phenomenal in ANY press conference it should be an immediate termination offence.

Hopefully, it will get sorted this week too.

Helen Mallon
24 Posted 24/05/2016 at 06:00:24
Great article. I would like to propose another name and chuck it into the mix. My shout is Alan Stubbs. I know it's only Hibs he manages and Scotland is Sunday league but he is Everton through and through and I keep being dragged to the fact that we have only ever won anything with ex-Blues in charge.

Maybe that's Evertons problem we go chasing the glory managers when we have home grown coaches under our noses. I for one know this next appointment needs to be someone who keeps us in the league because of the money and new stadium( no point playing in a shiny new ground in the championship), and I just think knowing the club and how it works may be a better fit than an unknown. That philosophy worked at Ajax with FDB six yrs ago why not Stubbs here.
Christopher Dover
25 Posted 24/05/2016 at 06:01:04
Excellent article and interesting that the debate on the new manager becomes less clear the more we are informed by your articles.

If we the fans are not sure it would explain why the hiring process seems so slow, we do not know for sure who wants the post who has or has not been approached and how far down the road we are to an appointment.

Your articles give us an insight to the front runners and look forward to more of them while like most hopeful of a decision in the not to distant future.

Ben Mackenzie
26 Posted 24/05/2016 at 06:12:18
Two excellent pieces. Has to be Emery for me. Anyone can win the Dutch title. I mean would anyone consider Steve McLaren? Emery ticks more boxes for sure.
Alan J Thompson
27 Posted 24/05/2016 at 06:39:51
I'm still hoping that the Board are waiting until after the UCL Final to approach Simeone but it seems to be becoming more and more distant.
I'm now down to one of Cocu, Favre or Unsworth/Royle.
Whichever, it seems we're still under Bill's determination that nobody should be appointed until after 1st June as they are still being paid by someone else.
Darryl Ritchie
28 Posted 24/05/2016 at 06:46:05
Having read both of Lyndon's 'possible manager' pieces ( excellent, by the way. ), it's clear to see that both have a fine pedigrees, both as players and coaches. It's also clear that both have earned their fair share of criticisms as well. Thanks to the articles, I'm a lot better informed than I was.

The board HAVE to get this right, who ever they decide on. I'm glad I don't have to make the decision. Way too much pressure.

Neil Gribbin
29 Posted 24/05/2016 at 07:17:49
For me it is De Boer. Don't know why, just like his style. I watched a few Ajax teams, maybe it was just those games, but the defence was solid, and the forwards ripped teams apart. Big decision for whoever makes it
Iain Latchford
30 Posted 24/05/2016 at 07:23:09
Please don't forget there were periods where we were scoring plenty of goals. The problem was that we couldn't stop them going in at other end. In the first season under Martinez we got 72 points (would be 2nd this year). No one was complaining then. You could argue that was because of Moyes' well drilled defence which Martinez slowly undrilled.

I'm confident De Boer is a far better manager than Martinez. He's still my first choice.

John Louis Jones
31 Posted 24/05/2016 at 07:25:23
Really good Read Lyndon,

After reading both articles and looking at the stats and other website right ups on both FdB and Emery.

Emery would be my First choice and FdB second. I don't rate Koemen and don't even think he should be in the running his CV is questionable at best.

If we are going to "Buy" a manager out of a club there are Managers out there that are a lot better than Keomen.

Gareth Clark
32 Posted 24/05/2016 at 07:28:21
Frank De Boer #1

Everton needs excitement! And FDB will definitely bring that! Emery is the safer option though.

FDB > Emery - not another Spaniard!

Jon Bentley
33 Posted 24/05/2016 at 07:35:09
Based on recent reports, maybe Lyndon needs to write a background piece on OFFM!!!!!
Ian Burns
34 Posted 24/05/2016 at 07:37:41
I was looking forward to this article Lyndon since you mentioned in a post it was being prepared and the amount of work you have put into this (along with the excellent article on Emery) is quite staggering; it is of the highest journalistic quality and extremely informative.

Having now digested both articles with regards to my own two favourites in Emery and De Boer (although John Daley - 10 - makes a good point with regards to Cocu); I think on balance it is Emery for me but I wouldn't be disappointed in De Boer.

Nobody is perfect of course and any appointment is a gamble (even Mourinho at Utd) but I hope those at EFC have taken the quality time expressed in these articles and resultant posts to choose the right person as against the lazy appointment of the last incumbent.

Michael Polley
35 Posted 24/05/2016 at 08:18:58
All new managers carry a risk factor. I just hope we have a new manager installed before the Euros start
Erik Dols
36 Posted 24/05/2016 at 08:20:20
Excellent piece Lyndon - although I am not sure if I am entitled to say so as I am quoted in it ;-)

Emery and De Boer would both be good choices for me. Both lack PL experience and therefor have a downward risk, but both have won silverware and seem to be enthusiastic young managers. Emery has won three European trophies in a row and won against our beloved neighbors in fashion. I really like that. His managerial record is excellent, but for his only foreign stint in Moscow... De Boer won the league four times back-to-back and is not easily disturbed by loudmouthed players or upheaval in the board room. But he has no managerial experience outside the Netherlands and his European and cup records are abysmal.

Personally I would love Philip Cocu, as has been mentioned by some others in this thread. He has no experience outside the Netherlands as well, but he has beaten De Boer to the title last two years and he actually did very well in Europe this season, progressing into the knock-out stages of the Champions League (De Boer never managed to do this on six occasions) and only being beaten by Atletico Madrid on penalties. Cocu likes his teams to play fast attacking football, no dithering around but get to the goal as quickly as possible. But if he feels the match asks for it, Cocu is not afraid to park the bus and put emphasis on the defensive side, as has been seen against Atletico. His team scored on average 2,7 goals a match and conceded 0,9 a match in the league over the last two seasons. I like this combination of attacking desire and pragmatism at the back.He is a very likable character and is very innovative as well.

Why is Cocu not considered? Well, probably because he announced his job at PSV is not finished yet. Cocu has no interest in leaving his club right now. I have the feeling that Cocu thinks he can take PSV even further than the last 16 in the Champions League. That is very, very ambitious and it remains to be seen if it is realistic but I give him credit for trying and not leaving PSV after two successful seasons.

Barry Pearce
37 Posted 24/05/2016 at 08:38:24
Koeman for me, because he has proved himself in the premiership. Also Southampton are a well rounded team, and play attractive football.

Cocu sounds good on what Erick has said, but it's wether he wants to leave PSV just yet.

We must get this appointment right.

Dave Ganley
38 Posted 24/05/2016 at 08:41:12
Good article Lyndon. My original thought of who to be manager would be Emery. You just cannot get away from the achievement that is 3 consecutive Europa league titles. Very impressive stuff. However, his only stint away from Spanish football was a not so glorious flop in Russia.

Frank de Boer is also impressive. 4 consecutive league titles by a club with so much in house fighting is some going. I wasn't too impressed with the report of his possession based football, although to be fair, it also suggests that his sides get the ball through midfield very quickly. Most managers are stubborn so I think I can forgive him for that. He will have to be adaptable though as the EPL is so unforgiving if you have no plan B as we well know.

To be honest, either or of these 2 managers would suit me. In their own ways both would be a gamble, but both are winners and both excite me. I was so downbeat when we appointed Martinez but this time round its like a sweeping of the decks, a brand new start. Lets hope whoever comes in understands Everton and the fans and finally gives us what we are striving for, winning entertaining football and hopefully a trophy or 2.

Robert Johnson
39 Posted 24/05/2016 at 08:56:39
I would do everything to get Phillip Cocu. I believe he is the next big thing in the making.
The thing that puts him ahead of the rest of the Dutch managers IMO is, he plays the traditional Dutch way - playing with speedy genuine wide players something the current Dutch generation seem to have abandoned in favor of more possession based football.
His team can play possession based football but he also can also play devastating counter attacking football.
Add to that, he just won back to back titles. Now we know Dutch league isn't that strong, but he achieved it in 2nd year after losing his two top scorers in Depay and Wijnaldum at the start of this season. That's quite an achievement in my opinion. Something sounds familiar to someone named Diego Simeone, isn't it? Can build top team even after losing his most influential players.
Also, Atletico Madrid who is regarded as one of the top 5 teams in the world now only got past PSV through penalty-shootout this season in the CL. Not too bad for a team from a weak league!
De Boer on the other hand, hasn't taken Ajax once past the group stage (correct me if I am wrong)!
His football is Martinez-esque, boring possession based football. The Ajax fans were totally fed up with his dull brand of football. Sounds familiar?
I like Unai Emery but I am not sure how well he can do without a good scouting team working for him. He has had success at both Valencia and Sevilla and both of them have good scouting system. In fact, Sevilla's DOR Monchi is one of the best in the business. So can Emery work without someone like Monchi something he won't have here? That's my only concern that if he is interested at all in the first place.
Personally I don't rate Pellegriin but he has done well at smaller clubs with limited budget playing good brand of football. So may be he is someone who thrives under less pressure.
Can't see Koeman leaving Southampton this season. Personally, I think he is waiting for the Arsenal job.
Nick Entwistle
40 Posted 24/05/2016 at 09:42:18
I'm waiting for Lyndon's background piece on Moyes.
Robbie Muldoon
41 Posted 24/05/2016 at 09:59:10
Sounds a solid appointment to me. Nobody ever knows if the 'chemistry' will fizz when a manager merges with a club. It's far more likely it won't than it will. It's easy to focus on the negatives. But the Ranieri lesson is one I'll always keep in mind when talking about a new manager.

Wigan fans seemed to predict how Martinez would fare at Everton (a few games to remember, far too many 4-0 hammerings), and Evertonians seemed to predict how Moyes would fare at United (too uninspiring). If Ajax fans are right about De Boer, than we will have a very competitive manager who after 5 years may run out of ideas. If he can get us in the top 4 within that time, that will do us.

Martin Swindley
42 Posted 24/05/2016 at 10:01:04
Too much Google, Wikipedia and YouTube research. Unless you're based in Holland and a keen supporter and viewer of the league, then everything is hearsay and not worth much.....

Let's be honest, the majority of us have good knowledge of the Premier League and rely solely on the Internet for info on the other managers we are linked with! I could make myself look like a world beater with selective posting in certain internet sites.

Brian Harrison
43 Posted 24/05/2016 at 10:07:00
I think with every passing day, then if FDB was the choice I think he would be here or at least be rumoured to be having talks. No compensation to sort so nothing to hold up a deal.

I really hope the delay is because we are waiting for Koeman to have his discussion with the Southampton board. I hope we have made it known to his agent that he is our first choice. This guy is a winner, and unlike FDB we are not taking a chance with this guy, he has a 50% win rate at Southampton. Please don't miss the boat on this one Everton.

I would hope the reports of talks with Pellegrini is a smokescreen, the guy had zillions to spend at City and failed miserably.

Michael Hardy
44 Posted 24/05/2016 at 10:11:43
This strikes the fear of god into me...

“In some ways [he] is stuck in his ways, and over the past few years it's become apparent that Ajax struggle to break down well-organised defences. [They] can be a very frustrating team to watch at times, much like the Dutch national team at the moment. On their day they move the ball quickly and carve teams apart. However when they face a pressing side that has an organised defence they look lost and without clues on how to break them down"

The last thing we need is another manager who cannot break down the very stubborn defences in the Premier League...

Martin Nicholls
45 Posted 24/05/2016 at 10:14:12
"De Boer has built a side where the whole is very much greater than the sum of it's parts and teamwork is paramount". Some above have criticised his possession-based game and then likened him to Martinez.

There is nothing wrong with possession if it is used properly and my quote from Lyndon's excellent article illustrates why de Boer is the polar opposite of Martinez. In fact it could be describing the great Howard Kendall's mid-1980s teams!

Tom Evans
46 Posted 24/05/2016 at 10:17:27
Admittedly I am only reading from other forums, but it could be that we are in talks with Moyes.

I am not well placed to be as well informed on the likes of the European candidates discussed here, but I am cast iron certain that if Moyes was appointed we would be even more of a laughing stock.

Martin Nicholls
47 Posted 24/05/2016 at 10:17:44
Nick (#40). No need to wait – Elliott Bretland's piece in the Echo says it all about Moyes!
Ken Boniface
48 Posted 24/05/2016 at 10:19:39
In response to Marty (#15), the ethos of possession is good. Reading the article (which is very good), it says he likes to use all the players and move the ball quickly, which is what Roberto seldom did.

I agree with you we don't want "My way or no way" as per Martinez but he is willing to change formation and style. There always should be a Plan B and C. I think he has good credentials, give him a go.

Look what Klopp has done without a purchase and the Tottenham manager... he couldn't even speak English! Let's move forward, the future is bright.

Martin Nicholls
49 Posted 24/05/2016 at 10:21:20
As to who will eventually get the job, one only has to look at Oddschecker on a daily basis to see that none of us (including bookies and least of all journalists!) have a clue!!
Andrew Ellams
50 Posted 24/05/2016 at 10:22:04
If Moyes gets the job then it's goodnight from me.
Erik Dols
51 Posted 24/05/2016 at 10:30:33
Brian Harrison (43), although De Boer has announced he will leave Ajax after this season, it does not mean he was at home mowing the lawn the last weeks. Ajax, including their manager Frank de Boer, were in China until last Friday so this very week is the first business week that we really could be discussing business with the man and his agent.

Apart from that little matter, it could very well be that De Boer is contemplating his options. It seems he is a candidate at Valencia as well. He has lived and played in Spain before so it will have some appeal to him, although I expect him to rate the Premier League and the financial situation of Everton higher than the Primera Division and Valencia’s financial status.

For both those reasons I am actually not surprised that nothing has been decided yet. I more or less expect rumours to come out of talks with De Boer somewhere this week or the next one. Things could go fast from there.

John Daley
52 Posted 24/05/2016 at 10:34:10
"If Moyes gets the job then it's goodnight from me."

.....and it would probably be goodnight from him pretty soon after (so I wouldn't worry too much about it).

Phil Walling
53 Posted 24/05/2016 at 10:35:07
Ladbrokes have it as:-

Pellegrini 2/1, De Boer 4/1, Emery 4/1, Koeman 5/1, MOYES 7/1, O'Neill 14/1, Stubbs 14/1, Flores 16/1, Giggs 16/1. 25/1 Bar.

John Daley
54 Posted 24/05/2016 at 10:41:08
Giggs? How has his name suddenly appeared amongst the runners? People will be having a flutter on Foghorn Leghorn next.
Phil Sammon
55 Posted 24/05/2016 at 10:48:47
Giggs is ridiculous. Is it emanating from the same source that has us after £40M Joe Hart today?

Crackers!

Andrew Ellams
56 Posted 24/05/2016 at 10:52:10
John Daley. I don't expect it to be Moyes but the thought that he might even be considered by the board is not a good one.
Tony Williams
57 Posted 24/05/2016 at 11:01:05
As good as Pellegrini is, he is too old for us.
Peter Jones
58 Posted 24/05/2016 at 11:05:16
"David Moyes tells Alan Stubbs to take his time on managerial ladder..."
"David Moyes tells Unai Emery to think twice before leaving Sevilla..."
"David Moyes tells Frank De Boer to take his time before joining a new club..."
"David Moyes tells Pellegrini to take a year off and not be in a rush..."
"David Moyes tells Ronald Koeman to think twice before leaving Southampton..."
Nick Entwistle
60 Posted 24/05/2016 at 11:10:07
I'd put money on the Nevilles before Giggs.
Iain Latchford
61 Posted 24/05/2016 at 11:17:53
Valencia have just appointed a new manager so De Boer isn't going there.
Phil Jeffries
62 Posted 24/05/2016 at 11:22:33
I'm extremely doubtful that the media currently have any idea what is going on inside the Goodison corridors of power. The club have a list of managers and they will take time to choose.

Names such as De Boer, Emery and Koeman are extremely welcome to be linked. Any of the three would have the fans on board. Pelligrini is out of a job and is clearly in the frame, but not my choice. The rest can jog on.

And that includes Moyes. All other names listed so far have won trophies. Moyes's CV, after winning nothing with us, has been SACKED twice.

I'm just glad that Moshiri is pulling the strings at our great club as Kenwright would have had Moyes top of that list. Positive news regarding the stadium follows over a decade of fluffed lines under Kenwright. Now it's on the cards and he will also hopefully choose well with the managerial appointment.

I just want it sorted and please, Mr Moshiri, with a cherry on the top... NO MOYES!

Barry Pearce
63 Posted 24/05/2016 at 11:30:36
Getting a bit worried about the Moyes rumours. He has supposedly turned down Villa (still a big club)

This would be a massive kick in the bollocks, if these rumours aren't bollocks. Please god – no more of the ginger one.

Damian Wilde
64 Posted 24/05/2016 at 11:33:27
Excellent piece Lyndon. I read it and at times thought 'I want him' other times e.g. his teams struggle to break defences down (like Everton) and that he likes posession based football and I think 'no thanks'.

Interestingly when watching a poece about LVG he used the wird 'philosophy' 20 times in his first Utd interview. RM was fond of this term. Shall we have it as part of the new manager's contract that he will be fired if he uses this word?

As for qho I woukd like - Emery all day long, who has a very consistent excellent managerial record, often with no money (Valencia)

Giggs on the bookies list...purely to make cash. Who next, Bryan Robson?

Robert Elliott
65 Posted 24/05/2016 at 11:44:23
Prentice in the Echo suggests Moyes HAS been approached by Kenwright about the job. Worrying on two levels. One, no way should Moyes even be an option and two, what part is Kenwright playing in all this? If he is making the decision we could be in trouble!
Tony Draper
66 Posted 24/05/2016 at 11:45:08
During our deliberations over the appointment to replace dreary dave, I suggested that apart from our own personal short-lists we should also consider our own.... No! No!! No!!! Lists.

Moyes is an absolute No!!! for so many reasons, amongst which is his genocide of ambition.
Fat Sam for his pumpkin head and terrifying football.
Mark Hughes, smaller cranial dimensions, but as above.
Alan Stubbs, delighted that his side won the Scottish Cup, but no, maybe in the future, should his CV pan out.
Big Joe & Rhino, love these guys deeply, but no thanks.

Laurie Hartley
67 Posted 24/05/2016 at 11:53:19
Thanks for another great article Lyndon. Based on your two articles and my own research, for me Emery is two lengths clear at this stage.

Mr Daley however, has aroused my interest in Cocu. I am going to do my homework.

I see Lucien Favre isn't in the betting. I am a bit disappointed about that. I like what I have read about him.

It's great this!

Kevin Tully
68 Posted 24/05/2016 at 11:54:54
Absolutely no chance the ginger one is coming back. His agent may have contacted the club and there is a possibility he may have got a first interview out of courtesy, who knows? The bookies are all over the place, with the favourite for the job changing daily. You can still get 10/1 on Moyes but I wouldn't go near that particular bet.

I would guess the deadline for making this appointment is before the Euro's start on June the 10th, so we don't have long to wait. Pellegrini doesn't inspire me for some reason, but that's probably just down to laid back media persona rather than anything else. Can only see us appointing one of Koeman, FdB, Pellegrini or Emery. Martinez has got more chance of being reinstated than Moyes becoming our next manager.

Ken Buckley
70 Posted 24/05/2016 at 12:19:28
I don't think a majority of fans will be truly satisfied until the clean sweep has taken place.

New owner. New Manager. New Chair. New Stadium. Some New Players. New CEO. It had got that bad.

May the new owner oversee a successful new beginning and have the luck to choose the right manager for our present needs. Out with the old in with the new. It's the only way to truly take the majority of fans with him and leave our recent past behind.

Dean Peamum
71 Posted 24/05/2016 at 12:44:24
My first choice is Koeman. I'd also put Cocu and Emery before De Boer.

As long as Bill 'what a manager' Kenwrong is still around, I'm seriously getting more worried as each day passes that OFFM starts to seem more likely. Why doesn't Moshiri take over and give some leadership or has he also fallen under Bill's luvvie spell?

I'm starting to wonder if this new dawn is another false one and we'll continue drifting along for another twenty years.

Kevin Rudge
72 Posted 24/05/2016 at 12:53:46
The longer this wall of silence that is our PR department goes on the more I'm thinking Moyes it is.

I'd take any of the De Boer, Umery or Pellegrini before Moyes for all of the reason mentioned many many times already for the last month or so.

I'd love our club to make just a little statement to the people they are harvesting season ticket money from with a view to what they might actually be subjected to in the coming season.

Alex Doyle
73 Posted 24/05/2016 at 13:11:27
Fantastic article, thanks Lyndon.

Have to agree with Kevin @ 70, not all people invited to interview are genuine contenders. Alan Stubbs, for instance, could have the makings of a fantastic manager, but is probably not quite ready yet. But you still want him in the process and who knows what happens in 3-4 years. Moyes has earned our respect and also deserves to be part of the process, if not a genuine contender. I like De Boer, he looks every inch a winner and won't be overawed by our young guns. Flattery ain't going to work.

Although Emery looks fantastic, it would probably be more of a cultural leap for him. And he probably thinks of himself as deserving a shot at bigger clubs than Everton.

Iain Latchford
74 Posted 24/05/2016 at 13:15:49
Dean, relax. By all accounts Kenwright wanted to keep Martinez. Moshiri wasn't convinced and it was ultimately his decision to swing the axe.

He's hardly then going to sit back and let Kenwright choose the next manager. If they want Koeman or Emery but can't get them, they'll then turn to De Boer and Pellegrini who are both out of work and want the job.

No way Moyes is coming back ahead of them.

Christy Ring
75 Posted 24/05/2016 at 13:20:20
A great article Lyndon. A good few comments wanting Cocu, who won the last 2 Dutch leagues, but De Boer won the previous 4, and after beating PSV 2-0 away, Ajax should have wrapped up the league with only 6 games left. They had a good goal disallowed for offside in the final game, that cost them the title, does that make Cocu a better manager than Del Boer?

As Lyndon said, the board at Ajax are a bit like Newcastle and didn't help De Boer, and after winning 4 titles, he wants to go on to a bigger and better club, with money to spend, to match his ambitions, and I think we are that club.

Dave Abrahams
76 Posted 24/05/2016 at 13:21:58
If Kenwright truly wants Moyes to return as Everton's manager it shows how little he knows about football. The quicker he has gone from Everton, the better it is for all of us Everton fans.
Sam Hoare
77 Posted 24/05/2016 at 13:32:34
Some soundbites out of Sevilla suggesting that Emery is going nowhere. Nothing definitive by any means but him saying he's happy at Sevilla followed by sporting director saying he's renewed his contract.

I suspect it's going to come down to a choice between De Boer and Pellegrini, unless the bookies and media are way off (very likely!) and have missed a primes candidate (Favre, Cocu or Tuchel perhaps).

I'd probably just about opt for De Boer over Pellegrini though the latter is arguably the safer option as he is settled in the area and knows the league pretty well by now. Either look like a step up in class from Martinez and a move in the right direction for our club.

Dave Ganley
78 Posted 24/05/2016 at 13:37:00
Moyes is a definite no no if only to prevent me having to give CPR to a certain Tony Draper who will most definitely have a coronary at some point during the season for venting his spleen too much at our Davey should he be appointed!!
Dan Hollingworth
79 Posted 24/05/2016 at 13:37:01
Another good article Lyndon. Its still Emery for me. If it is FDB however, I just hope he brings Cillisen with him.
Les Martin
80 Posted 24/05/2016 at 14:01:49
Lyndon, thanks for this piece and the effort to present it. For me, the smart money should be on Frank, he is available and interested and has a sound pedigree and much potential.

Additionally what I like is that at times he has had to operate under financial adversity, which many of the so called great managers (give me a break) Jose and Pep have not.

Get your money on now folks.

Chris Leyland
81 Posted 24/05/2016 at 14:09:15
Dave Abrahams - couldn't agree more. The thought that 3 years after he left - only for him to abjectively fail in 2 further jobs since, and with significant investment supposedly being made into the club- plus a new stadium on the horizon, that anyone would think that he was remotely suitable to take the role is frightening. It shows a complete lack of vision.
David Booth
82 Posted 24/05/2016 at 14:18:48
Koeman for me.

'Proven' to good extent with Southampton from a threadbare starting point - so served his Premier League apprenticeship.

Plays football the right way and looks like a guy who the players would respect/respond to.

He could possibly bring Fraser Forster with him (re-building starts with a sound keeper for me, then build forwards from that solid foundation).

And if anyone from the club's hierarchy is reading this: a big 'NO' to Moysie. Been there, done that...

Gordon Crawford
83 Posted 24/05/2016 at 14:21:23
Could be worrying times. More papers are running with Moyes coming back. What's his odd's with the bookies?
Stephen Davies
86 Posted 24/05/2016 at 14:26:58
Both Pellegrini and Moyes have been interviewed. Obviously Moyes is Kenwright's choice, but he is 3rd or 4th choice. Pellegrini didn't impress much apparently.

Koeman is 1st choice but we are waiting a Yes/No as to whether he is interested. Otherwise, Emery will be the target and we will go all out to get him

De Boer yet to be interviewed...

Iain Latchford
87 Posted 24/05/2016 at 14:30:48
Where did you hear such specific information, Stephen?
Dave Lynch
88 Posted 24/05/2016 at 14:54:50
If that ginger, back stabbing, clueless, dour, draw master of an excuse for a manager gets the job I'm finished.

He is a self serving cretin of the highest order, who shouldn't even have been interviewed.

You've had your chance, now take your knife and fall on it you slimy bastard.

Dave Lynch
89 Posted 24/05/2016 at 14:55:57
Slimey
Christy Ring
90 Posted 24/05/2016 at 14:56:02
Stephen, are you on the interview board?

I hope your information is correct. I don't want Pellegrini.

As for Moyes, once bitten, no thanks.

Gordon Crawford
91 Posted 24/05/2016 at 14:58:51
Stephen what's your source mate?
Dithering Dave needs never manage at Everton again.
Joe O'Brien
92 Posted 24/05/2016 at 15:05:18
Just saw that Emery said he's happy where he is. Not a total 'I'm not interested in moving' I suppose. I hope a big fat cheque with a nice contract would change his mind. Where did you get this info Stephen? Thought we would have heard if Moyes had been interviewed?
John Critchley
93 Posted 24/05/2016 at 15:06:59
I don't want Moyes back, and agree with others that he'd be a massive step backwards if he did!

Off topic a bit but has anyone seen that Great Howard street, A565, by the Costco is shutting for 7 months to get a new dual carriageway? It's not far from the new docklands site, does anyone think it's looking more and more possible?

Maynard Hanna
94 Posted 24/05/2016 at 15:08:48
Stephen, I thought that Koeman had made it clear that he was for sticking with Southampton (all it will have taken is a phone call, and surely that has been done).

And I don't think that Emery will consider us when he has Champions League football to look forward to (but maybe he will give us £60 million for our want-away Champions League-seeking centre-forward).

As for David Moyes, that would be simply a massive step back for our club and if your information is correct, I am astounded that we have even interviewed David Moyes for the job.

I'll stake my colours to the mast: it's De Boer for me. I would be happy enough to see the man at Everton and the sooner the better. Like today at 4pm will do.

Denis Richardson
95 Posted 24/05/2016 at 15:14:36
Ahhhh Lynond! Why do you do that to people???

Read the title and thought YES!!! ........then spotted the question mark at the end.........

Bob Cumiskey
96 Posted 24/05/2016 at 15:16:12
John (93) the road is being closed due to a weak bridge, just by Chadwick Street. If you blink you will miss it. Work will start in September, once Scotland Road improvements are complete.

Sorry mate but this has been planned for a while now and has nothing to do with the possible EFC project.

John Critchley
97 Posted 24/05/2016 at 15:19:57
Cheers Bob, just me putting two and two together and making five! Ha ha.
Paul Kossoff
98 Posted 24/05/2016 at 15:21:12
Misleading headline this, Lloyd. I logged on to ToffeeWeb and my eyes lit up: 'Fantastic – our new manager'... nope, sorry lads, it's just a 'what if?'

Let's hope we have Emery in this week as the other headline said we are talking to him within 72 hours, that's now up.

Michael Kenrick
101 Posted 24/05/2016 at 15:29:34
Paul, there's a question-mark at the end of the headline.
Anthony Jones
102 Posted 24/05/2016 at 15:36:04
If he is indeed a control freak who assigns players too many tasks and stifles creativity then it will be business as usual at Goodison following on from Moyes and Martinez.

We might as well just get Benitez in. He has got to be the crown prince of micro-management.

If these prospects excite you then you need your head read after the dross we have been subjected to for over a decade.

Paul Kossoff
103 Posted 24/05/2016 at 15:38:19
Alex 73, ' Moyes has earned our respect and deserves to be part of the process?' where have you been? have you not heard what the supporters have said about ofm?

After the way he treated this club, he will never have the respect of the majority at Everton, the man is a self centred, egotistical, arrogant under achiever, and should never ever be on anyone's list for a return to our club.

Iain Latchford
104 Posted 24/05/2016 at 15:44:56
It's the same as any other interview process. You pull the candidates in and ask them some probing questions...

"Ronald, do you see Everton as a long term project, or as a stepping stone to a bigger job?"

"Unai, you didn't win an away game all season in the league all season, please explain?"

"Manuel, you spent £49m on Raheem Sterling, please explain?"

"Frank, you've finished second in the league for the last two seasons, please explain?"

"David, you talk to Bill whilst I consider the other 4 candidates"

Easy.

John Davies
105 Posted 24/05/2016 at 15:48:09
Typical Everton board farting and faffing around again with no firm action and no real plan as to what they want to achieve. It's becoming boring now. YAWN !!!
Gordon Crawford
106 Posted 24/05/2016 at 15:51:22
If United get Jose today or tomorrow, then that will show you how dithering our board truly are.
Iain Latchford
107 Posted 24/05/2016 at 15:53:57
United have only ever had one candidate in mind and have been tapping him up for months. Completely different situation.
Damian Wilde
108 Posted 24/05/2016 at 15:57:14
Alex:

"Moyes has earned our respect and also deserves to be part of the process."

Are you taking the piss?

Damian Wilde
109 Posted 24/05/2016 at 15:57:27
Alex:

"Moyes has earned our respect and also deserves to be part of the process."

Are you taking the piss?

Patrick Murphy
110 Posted 24/05/2016 at 15:58:05
The season ended for Everton FC on the 15th May 2016, the new one will begin in early August, what's the rush? I'm pleased if the board are taking their time and choosing who they think is the right man, however, should the right man be a certain ginger-haired Scotsman I won't be impressed, but I will remain patient a few weeks longer if necessary.
Phil Walling
111 Posted 24/05/2016 at 16:07:28
Moyes drifting in the market and big money this afternoon for Steve Bruce (Peg Leg Dave bigging him up to BK ?).

Best odds available :-
Pellegini Ladbrokes 2-1 ; Koeman Ladbrokes 5-1,
BRUCE PP 6-1; de Boer PP 6-1,
Emery PP 6-1 ; MOYES Victor 10-1,
Flores Sky Bet 16-1; O'Neill SkyBet 20-1,
Stubbs SkyBet 22-1. 25-1 Bar

Joe O'Brien
112 Posted 24/05/2016 at 16:10:06
John I think they are doing it the right way. Interviewing a number of candidates and then picking the man who they think is best. Seems like they are interviewing good candidates to be fair-apart from Moyes. I'm glad MoN or Hughes haven't been mentioned in the process..
Dennis Ng
113 Posted 24/05/2016 at 16:15:57
I don't mind the delay. I want the best candidate and that is Emery. FDB and Pellegrini are fallback options. Mancini is a decent shout. Just don't pick the easy and safe options that will lead us to nowhere again.
Iain Latchford
114 Posted 24/05/2016 at 16:21:06
Can you just imagine we appointed Steve Bruce! You've got to laugh.
Joe O'Brien
115 Posted 24/05/2016 at 16:23:22
Then Bill must be still involved if Moyes and Steve Bruce is there. I wonder when big sam will be called in? Thank fuck it's Moshiri calling the shots tho
Erik Dols
117 Posted 24/05/2016 at 16:38:24
Joe (115) Why are you omitting the enigmatic short-pass oriented Tony P.?
Steavey Buckley
118 Posted 24/05/2016 at 17:11:19
I am not sure De Boer fits the Everon fans criteria of direct fast attacking football. Possession is fine if it leads to enterprising attacking football, but holding on to the ball too longs allows the opposition to get behind the ball and stifle attacking play. In fact, of all the contenders for the vacant manager's job, I am not sure one of them fits the bill.
Steve Brown
119 Posted 24/05/2016 at 17:25:35
Tony @9, thought you saw yourself as as literary critic. Until you included the term 'top trumps', then I realised you weren't.

Next time Lyndon writes a piece like this, just say thank you and leave it at that.

Lyndon Lloyd
120 Posted 24/05/2016 at 17:32:56
Martin (42): "Too much Google, Wikipedia and YouTube research. Unless you're based in Holland and a keen supporter and viewer of the league, then everything is hearsay and not worth much..."

Which is why I sought the opinion of people who are based in Holland, do support Ajax or are viewers of the league (more than were quoted above) in addition to the other Googled sources (also avid followers of the Dutch game) whose assessment of FdB all followed a similar theme.

People's expectations amaze me sometimes. Someone should tell the majority of the media that the Internet isn't a valid tool for research!

John Daley
121 Posted 24/05/2016 at 17:47:34
"A good few comments wanting Cocu, who won the last 2 Dutch leagues, but De Boer won the previous 4, and after beating PSV 2-0 away, Ajax should have wrapped up the league with only 6 games left. They had a good goal disallowed for offside in the final game, that cost them the title, does that make Cocu a better manager than Del Boer?"

Pretty much pointless, but I'd rather discuss anything other than David Moyes right now, so I'll bite.

Firstly, who said they were basing their preference for Cocu solely on the run in to this seasons league campaign? Secondly, De Boer never won his four titles going toe to toe with Cocu, whereas Cocu has won both of his in direct competition with De Boer. He's done so playing thoroughly entertaining, attacking football, altering tactics to suit different situations and opposition and made a good fist of his very first go in the Champions League, going further than any other Dutch team had for nearly a decade.

On the other hand, De Boer's more inflexible defensive style and stale tactics didn't even sit well with his own teams support, both in the end and for some time before that, and he regularly failed to get to grips with the Champions League, not once guiding his team out of the group stage and generally unravelling quicker than Pazuzu's serpentine schlong when he was busting for a slash.

As for the board "not helping De Boer". Maybe not, but really they acted no differently to how any other Dutch club does when a sizeable wad of notes is wafted under their nose. It's just financial reality for any manager over there to have to replace their finest players with younger cheaper recruits, or by promoting their clubs own talented prospects, whenever more wealthy clubs come calling.

If you want to point to the fact Ajax sold some of their better players, then it should also be said Cocu had to cope with the loss of the two leading goalscorers from his first title winning season when PSV chose to grab the cash. He still went on to retain the title (Cool as you like, probably whilst puffing on a Belmont Extra Suave and casually sloshing some 23 year old Pappy Van Winkle round a bourbon glass engraved with a picture of a big old pair of dogs bollocks and the word 'ME' written right below the beastly bastards).

He also had a pretty big rebuilding job himself when he first took the reigns and PSV were on a barren run of 8 years without bringing home the league trophy. Ajax were way out ahead and reaping the rewards of their famed academy. Cocu came in and revolutionised the place, promoting young players he knew and trusted, transforming the teams style of play and reducing the average age of a previously lethargic squad to around 22/23. It took him all of one season to sort that shit out.

As I said earlier though, I don't have anything against De Boer (err, despite everything I just said) and I still think he'd be a decent enough appointment. He's just more 'Cock meh' than 'Cock Ooooh' is all.

Peter Gorman
122 Posted 24/05/2016 at 17:52:56
I have absolutely nothing to add to John's veritable barrage of genitalia-related imagery.
Ed Fitzgerald
123 Posted 24/05/2016 at 17:54:16
If they have interviewed Moyes then I am appalled. He doesn't have my respect Alex (73) he treated this club with contempt. BK should have a minimal say in the appointment the decision should rest with Moshiri, he is the one putting in the real money.
Oliver Molloy
124 Posted 24/05/2016 at 18:07:56
Yes indeed, another brilliant article from LL.

Well my number one choice is going to Utd, my second choice has not even been mentioned - Simone , so don't hold much hope there.

Probably Koeman would be next for me for the simple reason I think he could get us going quicker given he has experience of the premier league.

Can I ask is this De Boer your choice Lyndon ?

John Daley
125 Posted 24/05/2016 at 18:08:24
"Then Bill must be still involved if Moyes and Steve Bruce is there. I wonder when big sam will be called in? Thank fuck it's Moshiri calling the shots tho"


How can people be sure Kenwright's not the one who came up with a list containing names like Emery and De Boer and Moshiri's not on the other end of the blower saying:

"I know the answer to this one. It's on the tip of my tongue, Bill. It's on the tip of my tongue and just about to roll right off. Are you ready for this?....... Steve Bruce!! Yes, that's the one. He's the man. Saw him giving a pre-match interview once with a massive shiner. Love him. Absolutely love him. Give him a bell, Bill. Might even be able to bag us Nicholas Bendtner. He's the sort of modest lad we need to replace that big head Lukaku. Might cost us a bit more in wages mind".

Jackie Barry
126 Posted 24/05/2016 at 18:11:22
Because low key, mediocrity is a Bill Kenwright specialty John. Morshiri was at Arsenal, and has the money, need we say more?
John Daley
127 Posted 24/05/2016 at 18:13:57
Low key mediocrity? LOW KEY MEDIOCRITY? How dare you, Jackie.

The man's mates with Michael Crawford for God's sake.

Jeff Armstrong
128 Posted 24/05/2016 at 18:16:05
Cocu the manager, to replace Cocco the clown,
No brainier...
Jay Harris
129 Posted 24/05/2016 at 18:20:08
Being reported that Favre has agreed to join Nice, Emery has stated his intent to stay at Seville and Moyes has been invited to interview on Bill's recommendation but Moshiri isn't keen.

I believe we are holding out for Koeman who has come right down in the betting.

My personal preference is Emery and I would not want Moyes, Van Gaal or Pellegrini.

I don't envy the board on this one and hope that Bill's influence is diminishing.

John Davies
130 Posted 24/05/2016 at 18:40:13
Bullshit Bill should not be allowed to be anywhere near the process of appointing the new manager. Look at his last selection for God's sake. Oh, and IF Moyes does turn up as the man in charge I will never set foot in Goodison Park again. Just cannot believe that can happen. CAN IT ???
Jeff Armstrong
131 Posted 24/05/2016 at 19:04:37
If this story about Moyes is true it's just shows how far out of touch Kenwright is. He didn't want to get rid of Marinez, 80% + of the fan base did, and now I would guess a similar amount of fans would not want Moyes back.

Has Kenwright got the memory of a goldfish? Moyes ran his contract down, was sorting out his United job at least 4 months before he left, was actually spotted with United employees with 3 games still to go, and then tried to mug us off using the same tactics he was so enraged about when clubs where unsettling HIS players.

Kenwright, just sell your last 22% , stop meddling in things that no longer concern you, and leave the club to those who care and want a bright future, without revisiting a ghost from seasons past.
Andy Crooks
132 Posted 24/05/2016 at 19:25:43
This is another fine piece, Lyndon. It is the kind of informative stuff that allows ToffeeWebers to look knowledgeable to their mates. Here's a request:

Could you do similar pieces about David Moyes and Martin O' Neill. I reckon you would get a mighty response. For what it's worth, I believe the admirable O Neill has a big success story to come.

Eugene has made the very pertinent point that, well, there is no formula, that it can all depend on just somehow hitting on the right thing. I have a hunch that MON is it.

AND, to emphasis the point Eugene makes, he could relegate us. We are about to roll the dice.

Damian Wilde
133 Posted 24/05/2016 at 20:06:31
Patrick

"The season ended for Everton FC on the 15th May 2016, the new one will begin in early August, what's the rush?"

Disagree. Surely you see there is prepatory work to be done made even more difficult in that it will be a manager who does not know the club.

Lyndon, as you're work is not seen as being valid, surely you could have travelled to Holland and observed training and matches? ;) :D

Steve Bruce...the bookies will do anything to make money. If anybody has put money on him surely they deserve 'stupidest person ever' title. Good grief.

Jay:

"Moyes has been invited to interview on Bill's recommendation but Moshiri isn't keen."

Source?

If true, BK is a disgrace. He needs to go to, no progress made under him. 80's we were bugger than Arsenal, now look at the difference.

Moyes shouldn't even get the 'kit man's' job. He disrespected us, goodbye.

Tony Abrahams
134 Posted 24/05/2016 at 20:31:17
This Cocu, sounds very good John, but he's only two years into his job. De Boar, looks to me like the in house fighting at Ajax, has possibly took its toll on him?

I wouldn't mind either of them after the way you describe Cocu, but there is a big difference in working for a club, when everyone is pulling in the same direction.

I might be wrong on that score, but PSV, have always struck me as being a very well run club?

David Midgley
135 Posted 24/05/2016 at 20:37:44
Has anyone actually been approached ?
Do our board know any of the names mentioned here?
Brian Harrison
136 Posted 24/05/2016 at 20:41:21
Well I wonder which manager will be linked to us tomorrow, I think that it just shows that had RM got us to the FA Cup this board would never have sacked him. There was obviously no contingency plans in place, surely the golden rule is make sure you have a replacement before you sack the manager. But should have known this is Everton when do we ever plan ahead. Liverpool sack Rodgers and they already had Klopp lined up. City get Guardiola lined up before they sack Pellegrini. Man Utd had Mourhino lined up before they sacked LVG.
Brian Williams
137 Posted 24/05/2016 at 20:47:06
....and we may well have someone lined up.
People have to realize that it would be amateurish for the club to announce who they fancy and who's in the running.
The professional way is to go about business quietly, privately, letting the media do what they always do, and then announce the manager as and when he's hired.
People need to calm down!

Grant Rorrison
138 Posted 24/05/2016 at 20:54:12
PSV had a much easier group than Ajax ever seem to get. Wolfsburg and Man United compared to one of Real and Barca plus someone of the calibre of a Juventus or a PSG -- EVERY YEAR -- in Ajax's case.

But for an open goal miss (nothing to do with the manager) and a goal wrongly disallowed for offside (again nothing to do with the manager) Ajax would have reclaimed their title and made it 5 out of 6 under De Boer. You could just as easily argue that PSV only won it the year before because they had the better players. (Depay, etc)

John Davies
139 Posted 24/05/2016 at 20:56:03
Brian Williams: I hope you are right mate but I also fear you give too much credit to the people who "run" (or is it ruin) our football club. Really hope I am wrong.
Karl Weaver
140 Posted 24/05/2016 at 20:56:51
Most dismiss Rafa Benitez because of his association with Liverpool and particularly his lack of respect i.e. his 'small club' comments. Given we are now apparently interviewing Moyes who arguably showed us even less respect than Benitez, I really can't understand why he's been ignored.

We clearly have no self respect interviewing Moyes and if you compare Benitez's CV with ANY of those mentioned (let alone Moyes) he's the most risk free realistic appointment we could make! Just saying like....
Tony Williams
141 Posted 24/05/2016 at 20:59:02
Moyes treated us like shit, he was cosseted by Kenwright for 11 years and he knew (as Ferguson said in his book) 12 months prior that he was going and he continued to lie to everyone and said, "I don't know what I am going to do."

As Kenwright said "I thought he was going to stay." Despicable after the way he was treated by Everton.
Frank Crewe
142 Posted 24/05/2016 at 21:14:52
We are presently living in a world were every minute feels like an hour, every hour feels like a day and every day feels like an eternity. Every bit of speculation, no matter how ridiculous, is seized upon like food to a starving man.

We can analyse every bit of info we get until we are bluer in the face than the player shirts. But in reality all we can do is wait and hope Mr Moshiri makes the right choice.

John Daley
143 Posted 24/05/2016 at 22:02:41
"Oh yeah? Oh yeah? Well, even though the world was against them, this is how wafer thin that winning line was:

*They had a harder group....every single year without fail.

*They missed an open goal and had an offside decision go against them.... in one game.

*The other team had an unfair advantage because they had way better players.... who just appeared magically out of the blue like Jeff Bridges in Star Man...whilst Ajax had to make do with Alf, from the tv show Alf. 
They had that dead good Depay for one, who first got his start when that clarty Cocu promoted him to the senior squad during his spell as caretaker, when no one knew else even who he was. What's that all about? Unfair advantage if ever there was one. 

*That other team just kept on hunting our heroic runaway leaders down, closing in on their prey, like utter ruthless bustards. That's just evil and unjust in my book. If it was to be a fair fight then Elmer Fudd should have been barking orders on the frontline for them, things would have been totally different then, I'm telling ya".

So say's Grant Rorrison in shock 'Ajax are the new redshite' claim.

Jeff Armstrong
144 Posted 24/05/2016 at 22:04:49
Suppose we should be grateful that we're actually having this debate, 3 weeks ago we still had Martinez in charge.
We've gone from hand wringing over one thing, to worry and arguing over another. Funny old game, eh?

I wonder who would get the Hobson's choice vote between Moyes and Benitez if ToffeeWeb was to run such a poll, might make the media get a feeling for how much we dislike the idea of Moyes, because I think The F.S Waiter would win it!
Andrew Heffernan
145 Posted 24/05/2016 at 22:18:27
Lets be honest, all appointment carries risk, we simply don't know what or how makes a successful manager... HK1?

Personally I like FdB but accept he's not 'perfect', whatever that means... but who is, you, me? If he was the epitome of perfection the realist in me would suggest he wouldn't join EFC as there are more prominent clubs seeking a manager at the moment.

Whoever it is, we should all get behind him after the last 3 years (assuming not Moyes!), and support the club in what could be an amazing time both on and off pitch!

Grant Rorrison
146 Posted 24/05/2016 at 22:35:24
John 143. If you're just going to take the piss there isn't much point in having a discussion.
Damian Wilde
147 Posted 24/05/2016 at 23:13:15
Why do people still keep mentioning Benitez? Not happening. Plus he just took a side down!
Jim Hardin
148 Posted 25/05/2016 at 00:43:23
So, the question that has been nagging at me, aside from why the English are so in love with Dutch coaches in general, is why hasn't anyone else of note made a run at him? He is openly available but aside from Valencia (more rumour than reality, I think) who else is lining up to talk to him? What do others know that we do not?

Researching deeper into the next "Dutch Master" I find that he said last year in a Liverpool Echo article that he would be interested in the Liverpool Job if offered it. “They are fantastic clubs. Liverpool and Newcastle – with supporters behind them – it is a fantastic environment to coach but this year it is important for me to do well at Ajax and then we will see.” In the same article, he also said that manging in the EPL was getting closer every year.

He seems desperate to get into the EPL, like a stray dog with its nose pressed to the butcher's window, but not able to get inside to the chops. I worry about how genuine and really dedicated he would be in his interest for Everton.

Chern Lee
149 Posted 24/05/2016 at 01:23:10
I confess I'm no expert on Dutch football but I dug up the following articles on Cocu so as to get a gauge on how the experts view him.

http://www.fourfourtwo.com/au/features/guardiola-enrique-cocu-how-psvs-chief-caught-cream-barcas-crop#:JBc_yGXQONoOiA

http://m.bleacherreport.com/articles/2478985-phillip-cocu-why-psv-eindhovens-boss-is-the-coming-man-of-european-management

http://outsideoftheboot.com/2015/07/30/tactical-philosophy-philip-cocu/

Based on a quick read my take is:

1. His teams defend deep like Atletico and rely on quick counter attacks favouring a high tempo style of play.

2. Not afraid to give youth a chance - eg Depay

3. Prefers a calm approach i.e not emotional

4. Not sure about tactical flexibility

5. Viewed as a Barca legend and an outside bet to take over one day (although I think that was also said about Bobby Brown Shoes at one stage...!)

My personal conclusion – Worthy of consideration especially since Emery now seems to be staying at Seville.

Phil McCormick
150 Posted 25/05/2016 at 08:33:01
My main concern about De Boer is the fact that he has no Premier League experience so my vote is a twist on the subject......

What about De Boer as coach and Jap Stam as his assistant (or Berkamp) but the new position of Director of Football going to Pellegrini? Surely a winning combination of a young ambitious coach and a wise elder to steer the club into a more successful future.

Interesting thought.... But please no more talk of Moyes... another Kendall situation in the making!!!

Darren Bailey
151 Posted 25/05/2016 at 08:56:20
So, as a summary of the long list of "candidates" so far:-
Mourinho-was he ever really on the list to start with, was always going Utd. End of move on.
Koeman-looks like he'll be staying at Southampton with a new two year deal on the table. We would pay him more by what I can see but I think the extension is so that Southampton will get a fee next summer when surely he'll inevitably take over from Wenger at Arsenal. Saints are also in Europe and I think he's settled there for now. Good option but unfortunately time to move on.
Favre-slight interest from what I can gather but taking over at Nice. Non starter.
Cocu-not really mentioned but has said he's staying at PSV with work still to do there. Again, nothing in it.
Moyes-is he really being considered? It would only be because of Bill and I really don't see Moshiri falling for his crap. Maybe he's being considered for the Director of Football roll? Whatever it is that's keeping him in the headlines concerning us it needs to go away.
Benitez-not much said about him really and I think he'll stay at Newcastle anyway.
So now for the ones that actually stand a chance of getting the job. The way I see it is we're pretty much down to 2 - De Boer and Pellegrini. There are 2 long shot as I would still put Emry in with a chance as he's not really properly ruled himself out yet and possibly Mancini. The only other one I would mention as possible is Sanchez Flores.
That's as of today, it'll probably change tomorrow.
Tony Abrahams
152 Posted 25/05/2016 at 08:58:01
Maybe we should also be speaking to this fella. Replace The Cookoo, with Cocu?

Frank 142, Common Sense. I can't wait to put the ball away for a few weeks, if only they'd let me!

Raymond Shackleton
153 Posted 26/05/2016 at 05:05:01
Reading the posts from supporters, one said let's appoint somebody who is not afraid of anyone or any team... I think I have found one and would like to see what response I get from my suggestion: Big Dunc.

When he was playing, he put the fear of god in any defence he came up against and I do think that Rooney would return to play under him... So, Why not a couple of proven ex-players?

Damian Wilde
154 Posted 26/05/2016 at 10:56:15
He has no experience.
Tony Draper
155 Posted 26/05/2016 at 11:23:28
Darren @151
Think you summed things up very sharply mate.

I would add just a few comments (not corrections, just my own meanderings)

Rhino/Royle: ADORE these two Royal Blues and can only see Everton benefit from their drive and passion. Haven't seen the slightest indication that they hold any immediate desire. However, like most Blues, I'd love our future managers to be well schooled Blue Bloods.
Would LOVE Big Joe to be part of the managerial appointment process.

Stubbs: Great at Hibs, and that can only be encouraging. Keep on keeping on Stubbsy, compel us to appoint you. Very, very early yet though.

Also, until we announce who we have appointed, I expect absolutely fuckall noise. For all Billyboys blather, he still adheres to the sheer class that is Everton in these matters.
We'll tell you when we want to tell you.

Barry Sherlock
156 Posted 26/05/2016 at 19:29:15
This is such a good article.

Would really like to get Frank de Boer. He is a born winner and has had great management experience. He will obviously know a lot of talented young stars that are coming through, which would be great.

Massive positive for me is the goal difference that Ajax finished with last year; 81 goals scored and 21 conceded! +60 goal diff. WOW!

But, on the other hand, in 5 1/2 years Ajax never won a cup and wasn't successful in Europe.

Still think he would be a huge success with us.
COYBB

Gary Ashworth
157 Posted 27/05/2016 at 11:40:12
It really would be interesting to know what is going on behind closed doors. We have a situation where, if the media is to be believed, Koeman is the preferred candidate. However, there are rumours he could see out his current contract at Southampton, as he is a potential replacement for Wenger. Again, if the media is to be believed, he's obviously being respectful to his current employers and not saying much that could be misinterpreted. Although if this is true, then he won't be interested in committing to a 3-5 year contract with Everton.

Favre took the job at Nice and commented that he wasn't prepared to wait around for Everton to make a decision. A clear indication he was on the list, but he wasn't top of the list. So he wasn't eager to get the job and wait around, which is fair enough.

However, in comparison we have De Boer and Pellegrini who seem interested. Neither have been rumoured to be in discussions with other clubs, even though they are both unemployed. De Boer's representatives have indicated he is keen, Pellegrini wants to stay in the Northwest. I suppose Everton is convenient and an appealing option to him, but surely he isn't short of other options.

I just wonder if Koeman is really keen on the job. Is it a matter of diplomacy and red tape that is delaying a final decision because if he's not keen, then I say move on. Lukaku has made it clear he wants out and the fans are paying for his taxi. I want a manager who wants to manage the club.

Alan J Thompson
158 Posted 30/05/2016 at 05:50:38
Just an aside but it makes me smile when I read of managers who were ex-top line footballers for many years being described as unemployed. As true as it might be, I get this picture of them suddenly stopping filing down foreign coins for the gas meter and hiding quietly in a back room because someone's knocking on the front door shouting "Rent!"

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