Ferguson leaves Everton to pursue managerial ambitions

04/07/2022 138comments  |  Jump to last

Duncan Ferguson has left his coaching role at Everton in order to further his managerial career.

The Scot, a hero and Talisman as a Toffee during his playing career in the 1990s and early 2000s, initially came on board as a coach under David Moyes and was promoted to the first-team level by Roberto Martinez and has worked in that capacity under a succession of managers.

He has also taken charge of the first-team in a caretaker capacity on two separate occasions — first after Marco Silva was sacked in December 2019 when he oversaw a memorable win over Chelsea at Goodison Park and draws against Manchester United and Arsenal, and again in January of this year when Everton were beaten by Aston Villa following the dismissal of Rafael Benitez.

Ferguson was one of three on the final shortlist of candidates considered for Benitez's successor before Frank Lampard was eventually chosen and there were rumours, subsequently debunked, that he was Blackburn Rovers's choice for manager in May.

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Ferguson has ambitions to manage his beloved Blues one day but the consensus is that he has to cut his teeth elsewhere, most likely in the lower leagues.

“It's been a massive decision for me," Ferguson told evertontv. "an incredibly difficult one but I need to move on, to take that next step in my career and look for that new challenge. Being a caretaker manager has given me confidence to step into management.

“The club has been fantastic with me. They've supported me all the way through my journey.

“You've got the Chairman who has supported me as a player and as a coach. He's been amazing with me, so I would like to thank him. And then there's people like our CEO Denise [Barrett-Baxendale] who has been fantastic.

“It really is a caring club with some proper people in it. They're massive Evertonians.

“And, of course, there's the fans. They've been incredible to me since I came in '94. We've got a strong bond.

“The relationship we've had over the years has been special. They know how much they mean to me. I'll always love them.”

 

Reader Comments (138)

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Danny O’Neill
1 Posted 04/07/2022 at
The broom is sweeping the corridors of Finch Farm and Goodison it seems.
Kevin Molloy
2 Posted 04/07/2022 at
Duncan will find it five times more difficult to get a good job now. He should have moved whilst he was still employed here.
Tony Abrahams
3 Posted 04/07/2022 at
Massive news this, Danny.

I've always been of the impression that Duncan could have a job for life whilst Bill Kenwright still wielded some power.

It seems a bit strange that Ferguson has waited until the first day of pre-season o throw his hand in, but maybe he wanted to say a proper goodbye to all the players? If Duncan continues to stay in the game, I hope he does very well.

Brent Stephens
4 Posted 04/07/2022 at
Best of luck, big Dunc. A bit surprising he hadn't moved on before now.
Will Mabon
5 Posted 04/07/2022 at
Farewell interview on the club site.

Link wasn't playing - can be seen on club site anyway.

Brendan McLaughlin
6 Posted 04/07/2022 at
All the best, Dunc.

I don't really understand why he has to leave to pursue other options elsewhere but, if he does stay in football, I wish him well.

Mike Gaynes
7 Posted 04/07/2022 at
Geez, how will Rondon score goals without Big Dunc coaching him up?
Robert Tressell
8 Posted 04/07/2022 at
Could we read the departure of Unsworth and Ferguson as the start of the end for Kenwright?
Danny O’Neill
9 Posted 04/07/2022 at
I think so Robert.

Best wishes Duncan. I might have been critical both as a player and for whatever role you were fulfilling as coach, but I never doubted your commitment to Everton.

It's time to put the stagnation of the 90s and last 30 years behind us. It was time to do it long ago. But it feels like it could be happening now.

John Crook
10 Posted 04/07/2022 at
I had a feeling Ferguson would leave this summer.

Prior to the Lampard team coming in, he was always 'the Number 2' always involved in the decision-making. Ever since Lampard came in, he just looked a spare part sat near the back of the subs bench on match days.

I love Duncan, and he is obviously a club cult hero, but if there is any example of a guaranteed job for one of the boys, then it was the continuous employment of Duncan through the Martinez, Koeman, Allardyce, Silva and Ancelotti regimes.

I hope he manages to get a managerial role and proves a success. I just wonder if Lampard will go back in for Anthony Barry at Chelsea??

Jay Harris
11 Posted 04/07/2022 at
Hopefully, Robert. I always felt that big Dunc was his link to what was going on in the dressing room and therefore aiding his interference. Looks like the strategic review is being implemented after all.

There can only be one boss and it looks like Lampard.

Having said that, I love big Dunc and wish him well.

Joe McMahon
12 Posted 04/07/2022 at
I'm glad he's finally made the decision. Hopefully can make a name for himself in the lower leagues, then take it from there. He may have left it too late, but there is still time.

Be interesting to see between Big Dunc and Big Unsworth who will get the first opportunity.

Will Mabon
13 Posted 04/07/2022 at
In the interview, he has good words for Lampard, whom he says didn't want him to leave. A definite change in the hierarchy though with the demotion from the front of the bench.

Mike @ 32, I'm not sure who that was a snipe at, but I'll go for the double snipe.

Dunc makes proud note of the work he's done to get his qualifications and experience, so it's to be hoped he uses it. I have a feeling he's as likely to take a coaching position as a management one.

Best of luck to him – can't question his feelings for Everton.

Dale Self
14 Posted 04/07/2022 at
Decent that Dunc waited. Maybe it was the opportunities didn't lure him but waiting a bit allows him to escape the Moshiri rep stain, he did what he could is a workable line.

Axe for the missing man; surely given Moshiri's inept handling of the basic ownership duties, we wouldn't expect to navigate the club through that minefield. We get past it now.

Phil Lewis
15 Posted 04/07/2022 at
Let's be honest about it, the time was right for Dunc to go. Great Evertonian (aren't we all?), but his role had become reduced to peeling the oranges at half time. His body language during matches said it all.

It was becoming embarrassing for this once great talisman. In that respect, not to mention his needless wage bill, I'm glad he's done the self-respecting thing and departed, with Evertonian well wishes all round.

Who knows? He could make a name for himself in the lower divisions and perhaps return one day to his beloved Everton.

Bill Gienapp
16 Posted 04/07/2022 at
I think it's a good move for him, and the right time. It was one thing when he was positioned as one of Ancelotti's top lieutenants and was potentially being groomed as his successor, but it seemed like he'd reverted to putting the cones out under Lampard.
Lee Courtliff
17 Posted 04/07/2022 at
Good luck to him. An absolute childhood hero of mine and someone who had incredible ability...if only occasionally.

I'll be watching whoever he takes over and hoping they win. He's definitely left it late to become a manager but hopefully he'll find some success.

Derek Knox
18 Posted 04/07/2022 at
Well, I'll go to the foot of our stairs, where you could knock me over with a feather!

I thought Dunc was almost part of the fixtures and fittings, but I think also he needs to prove himself in the real world. I wish him all the best unless he is managing a team that we are playing against.

Neil Copeland
19 Posted 04/07/2022 at
Good luck Duncan, you will always be be of us.

I think this a good move for all involved and looks like, as others have already said, that the club is sorting itself out. A very long way to go overall but at least we are taking action it seems.

Larry O'Hara
20 Posted 04/07/2022 at
I wish him well and hope he does well. And if he proves himself then comes back, fine with that.
Mark Ryan
21 Posted 04/07/2022 at
The sub-text here has to be all about Kenwright.

"Duncan, my grip is loosening, I cannot make any guarantees anymore."

"Okay Boss, thanks for the tip, I'll be offski then."

This has to be the rationale for the decision. Nothing more and nothing less. Duncan going is sad but the sub-text has made me smile. The Big Top is leaving town and the clown is leaving with it!!

Steve Shave
22 Posted 04/07/2022 at
Whilst I am sad to see one of my childhood heroes depart the club, it is the right move for him and us. Good luck, big man, with whatever you do, I will continue to follow his career and cheer him on.

Who knows, maybe he'll be back one day. My sense is, he had become such a peripheral figure, he had to go for his own pride.

David Bromwell
23 Posted 04/07/2022 at
I think he might find it very difficult to get another job; if he really has ambitions to be a manager, he should have left years ago. Clearly in the new managerial set-up, he had very much a bit part, so a move away, I think, was overdue.

I am afraid he is another ex-player who the club have looked after extremely well and, in his case, far beyond what he deserved, in my opinion. Yes, he was a great character… but I remember too many spoilt and below-par performances in an often disappointing career.

Mike Gaynes
24 Posted 04/07/2022 at
This little bird should have left the nest a long time ago.

Now, whether he has jumped or been pushed, it's time for him to go out in the big wide scary world and flap those wings.

Tony Everan
25 Posted 04/07/2022 at
The club is changing and the time is right for him to go. Somehow it will feel different without Duncan and I bet Finch Farm will feel different too.

He needs to challenge himself to see what he can do in management and at his age it was now or never. Good luck Dunc.

Shaun Laycock
26 Posted 04/07/2022 at
Only ever gave his all... good luck, fella.
Tony Shelby
27 Posted 04/07/2022 at
Mark (20) - I think you're right. And on closer inspection, if you look at his eyes, he's blinking ‘Kenwright out' in morse code.

Jesus, some of you need electro-shock therapy or whatever it is they do to the lad in A Clockwork Orange.

The sound of you all picking up on his glowing praise for certain people at the club, and his comment that “they're massive Evertonians”, is deafening. Of course, you'll dismiss it with a “well he would say that, wouldn't he”, or similar, and some of you will go on saying that Kenwright's a red who made up a whole backstory.

Duncan is a blue through and through and knows one when he sees one.

Anyway, we throw the word 'legend' around far too easily, but he was certainly an oasis in the midst of a dry spell, even if too often it was just a fucking mirage. 'Talisman' is a far better description. He got the club and it felt like one of us was on the pitch when he was there.

Good luck, Big Dunc.

Terry Farrell
28 Posted 04/07/2022 at
Good luck big Dunc and hope he gets a decent club with potential. Maybe he's been tapped up in advance?

I think he can certainly inspire a team, no doubt about that!

Ian Riley
29 Posted 04/07/2022 at
Thank you, Duncan!

Your loyalty should never be questioned. Time to develop and return stronger and more confident!

All the best.

Paul Birmingham
30 Posted 04/07/2022 at
Good luck to Duncan, fair play he's gone of his own accord, but long, long overdue.

Time waits for no one, and I hope he finds the football success and job satisfaction he yearns for.

Steavey Buckley
31 Posted 04/07/2022 at
The song sung by Elvis Presley is rightly telling Duncan Ferguson, "It's now or never."
Brian Foley
32 Posted 04/07/2022 at
Amidst some well said posts are numbers 20, 22 & 23 yuk, can't even bother typing your names, you miserable gets.
Gavin Johnson
33 Posted 04/07/2022 at
After being passed over for the big job on the last couple of occasions, I really think it is time now to show what he can do as a manager.

I wish him all the best.

Lee Jamieson
34 Posted 04/07/2022 at
Good luck, Duncan, a club legend and a thoroughly top bloke, hope he goes out and smashes a management job somewhere.
Nick Page
35 Posted 04/07/2022 at
Good luck, Duncan. All the best.
Paul Kossoff
36 Posted 04/07/2022 at
Was he pushed or did he want to go? I'm betting he was pushed. Bye big Dunk, hope you make a success of your career in managing.
Iakovos Iasonidis
37 Posted 04/07/2022 at
He was my favorite player back in the day. I wish him all the best!
Oliver Molloy
38 Posted 04/07/2022 at
I wish Ferguson the best, and it will be interesting to see if he really can be a manager, all Evertonians will be keeping an eye.

I'm more interested in who the fuck we are going to sign, to be honest.

Hugh Jenkins
39 Posted 04/07/2022 at
Hopefully an opportunity he can make the most of.

Since Rooney resigned, I think Derby County are looking for a new manager / head coach.

That is a challenging gig for anybody, and if he (or Rhino) could make their mark there, they would be well on their way to establishing themselves as good coaches.

Michael Williams
40 Posted 04/07/2022 at
All the best, Duncan.
Anton Walsh
41 Posted 04/07/2022 at
Always thought he was lucky to keep it through all the different managers. Now he's gone, though, I'm a little sad. But he hung around for years and now must earn his keep elsewhere.
John Pendleton
42 Posted 04/07/2022 at
Worth keeping for 5 years too many just for the Chelsea ball boy game!

Cheers Dunc, end of an era. And an FA Cup Winners medal to boot.

Andy Duff
43 Posted 04/07/2022 at
Like one of his fabled pigeons, I'm sure he'll find his way back home in the future…
Bill Rodgers
44 Posted 04/07/2022 at
For the first time since Martinez, we have signs that an Everton manager knows what he is doing.
Paul Hewitt
45 Posted 04/07/2022 at
About 5 years too late.
Tony Abrahams
46 Posted 04/07/2022 at
Kenwright has already spoken in his truly inspirational tone, and sometimes you have got to commend the man, for the incredible loyalty he has shown to certain people at Everton over the years.

I can’t wait to hear what words are spoken when Bill eventually leaves, because his oasis is getting smaller, and “our” dry spell has never been longer, and that unfortunately is not a mirage, even though it has been said, that nobody could have done a better job?

It will be interesting to see if Duncan gets a managers job somewhere, especially because he definitely comes across as somebody who might just be a very good man manager, (I know some people will quote Moise Kean, but Ferguson was doing what was right for the team, imo) so I just hope he picks the right back room staff, to give him a much better chance of being a success.

Christy Ring
47 Posted 04/07/2022 at
I wish Duncan all the best and I hope he'll be a success in management. I always loved him as a player, but he definitely didn't fulfil his potential.

Everyone has different opinions of him but, for me, when he took temporary charge after Silva was sacked, and took us out of the Bottom 3, after beating Chelsea, and draws with Arsenal and Man Utd, was absolutely first class and showed me what the club meant to him.

It's a pity the Chairman doesn't take a leaf out of his book and walk away as well.

Sean Byrne
48 Posted 04/07/2022 at
He will always be a legend for me... passion, humanity, empathy and a great Evertonian.

Shame he didn't get a proper run at the help. I know it's all ifs and maybes….

Dave Williams
49 Posted 04/07/2022 at
At least this will stop the anti-Duncan posters on here blaming him for everything.

He was an inspirational figure when the opposition or occasion appealed to him – that hat-trick v Bolton was tremendous and he was totally unplayable that day – but he clearly had issues which made him somewhat lackadaisical at other times.

No-one can doubt how much he loved the club and let's not forget the great charity work he did both as a player and then later.

Not a legend but an inspirational figure who loved the club and gave us someone to idolise when there were very few candidates around.

Good luck, Duncan, and I hope to see you back here one day as manager once Frank has won everything and moved on to Real Madrid!

Mike Gwyer
50 Posted 04/07/2022 at
Cheers, big man.

Robert Williams
51 Posted 04/07/2022 at
The party's over, it's time to call it a day.
Ed Prytherch
52 Posted 04/07/2022 at
Duncan had a bumpy ride at Everton. He was proud to rejoin the club as a coach, at first with the kids and then with the first team towards the end of the Martinez reign.

We know that Koeman had him taking first-team practice while he and his brother were on the golf course, but I wonder if they involved him in the real decision making.

Things changed when Sam clearly involved him on match day but Silva brought in an all Portuguese-speaking staff and then rubbed Duncan's face in the dirt by bringing in Louis Boa Morte who had called Dunc a racist in their playing days.

His time with Ancelotti was much better and it was obvious that there was much shared respect between them. After Carlo left there was a story doing the rounds that he asked Dunc to join him in Madrid.

That was as good as it got. Benitez appeared to push him to one side and Dunc was not close to Frank on match days although they both talked each other up.

It is not surprising that Dunc thanked Kenwright and Little Miss Dynamite as they probably made his continued employment part of the deal when Siva and Benitez were hired.

I wish Duncan well. Coaching in Scotland would seem to make sense as most folks understand him up there but has he buried the hatchet with the Scottish FA?

Jerome Shields
53 Posted 04/07/2022 at
Duncan looked like he knew that his Everton career was over when lining up retained by Frank. He should have left earlier, but he liked the apparent security he had in his job, as manager after manager came and went.

Good luck to him in the future.

Kunal Desai
54 Posted 04/07/2022 at
Good luck to him and hope he succeeds whereever he goes. If he played his cards right, who knows – he may even have had the credentials to be managing us at this very moment. Instead he now has to go elsewhere and ply his trade and prove his worth.

He should really have been up the pecking order ahead of the likes of Lampard, Rooney and Gerrard as manager. It is what it is. One day perhaps a return to the new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock as manager.

Neil Tyrrell
55 Posted 04/07/2022 at
It's going back a few years but I remember him battling with the likes of Hyppia and Roy Keane very fondly, as well as throttling others heh heh. He was no pushover on the pitch and turned up against the horrible red teams from the north-west, we could have used more like that.

Obviously loves the club, wish him nothing but the best in the future. Cheers, Dunc.

Ian Jones
56 Posted 04/07/2022 at
Neil,

Some of the incidents you mention are in this video - always fun to watch!

Duncan Ferguson - Angry Moments

Don Alexander
57 Posted 04/07/2022 at
Ferguson was a deliberate wastrel everywhere he signed on. This despite his undoubted gifts. That was the expressed opinion of his first manager, Jim McLean (and he was no mug) and later, by heavy inference, our very own Joe Royle – a centre-forward (and manager) of true distinction.

His playing record was bog-standard – everywhere, regardless of just a very few prime performances. His goal-per-game stats for us are appreciably worse than Paul Rideout's for instance – in the same squad at the same time. Think about that!

The pigeon-feeder (and that's what he's truly good at) must've had some sort of hold on Kenwright to remain employed so long at (Utterly Stupid Money) Finch Farm.

So, having grovelled himself into initially unqualified "employment" at Finch Farm, he's now alleged decided to man-up in contention for a professional appointment elsewhere.

Aged 50, I'd suggest he has more chance of turning out for Scotland as their next centre-forward.

Good riddance.

Bill Watson
58 Posted 05/07/2022 at
A great player on his day but, unfortunately, not every match was his day.

It seems an odd time to go but I wish him every success.

It'll also help reduce our bloated wage bill!

Eddie Dunn
59 Posted 05/07/2022 at
I like the guy and he loves the club.

Clearly Frank has earned the right (having kept us up) to bring in his own people, and I am sure that Duncan will be replaced fairly soon, in order for Frank's pre-season to take shape.

I wish the big man every success for the future.

Jack Convery
60 Posted 05/07/2022 at
All the best to Duncan. I hope he finds the success he obviously craves and in time returns to manage the blues. Once a blue always a blue.

ps: I just hope Kenwright isn't thinking of Rooney coming in as manager.

Mark Taylor
61 Posted 05/07/2022 at
The writing was on the wall for Ferguson when Lampard came in. It was obvious he was not involved in serious decisions.

I wish him no ill but I doubt he has what it takes to be a top manager. He's been too complacent in his career – including as a player – because, at his best, he was a serious talent. Maybe a nice sinecure back in Scotland? I doubt we will see him again, times move on.

Dupont Koo
62 Posted 05/07/2022 at
Best of luck to Big Dunc, no matter what.

He and Rhino are only leaving now (in their early 50s) to pursue their managerial ambitions (when more and more Football League Clubs are willing to hire young managers in late 30s)? Sounds more like Kenwright can no longer guarantee them a lifetime stipend (which I am rejoicing).

How likely are both getting a decent managerial job in the Football League? I am not optimistic though with both not having shown any tactical nous &/or innovative coaching ideas during their interim stints.

Daniel A Johnson
63 Posted 05/07/2022 at
Unsworth and now Ferguson – probably 4 years overdue... but who do we have as a scapegoat now, Cashley Cole and his iPad?
Don Alexander
64 Posted 05/07/2022 at
Daniel, nobody's seeking scapegoats. Any sane fan wants the removal of the culprits for our gigantic failure.

Mike Gaynes
65 Posted 05/07/2022 at
Well, Dupont #68, Derby's job is open. Maybe they can both ask Rooney for references.

But you're right about the age thing for managers. In League One, for example, 19 of 23 current managers are in their 30s and 40s. If Dunc got a job there he'd be the 3rd-oldest manager in the league. He and Rhino may have simply left it too late to make their big career moves.

Might be more likely they'll wind up as assistant coaches for a Championship club.

Christine Foster
66 Posted 05/07/2022 at
I have never pasted Ferguson, because of his love and passion for all things Everton. No-one can ever doubt his love or desire for the club.

It's not about the stats, though, is it? Football is about the love of a team and he had it for Everton and I wish him the very best for the future but I doubt we will see him as a future Everton manager.

At 50, he (and Unsworth) have left it too late for serious aspirations of top management. I think 5 years at Derby would do him the world of good and he would learn the hard way. But it would sort out the wheat from the chaff... as they say.

He got the chance to put "Manager of Everton" on his CV, and he did brilliantly, that passion drove him and the team over the line. But it's not enough these days, and he knew it.

When Lampard was appointed, he should have gracefully moved on, but he let his love for the club probably cloud his judgement.

That's both Dunc and Unsy gone. I think, despite their love for the club, they have been politely told their day is done at the club and thanked for their service. It was quite painful watching games under Lampard where Dunc was reduced to less than a bit player... that's not right, but his time was up.

Are we right to think that it's a forerunner of Bill going? I don't think so. I think Lampard wants and needs a fresh approach with his coaching staff.

A final point,: he obviously (thinks? he) has a good relationship with Kenwright and Barrett-Baxendale but I bet they are sad and glad he has gone.

It highlights (in a much smaller perspective than the Chairman) how it's possible to love a club on one hand, but make sure you get what you want out of it personally. Both men undoubtedly love the club, but both men should have moved on years ago.

Good luck to you, Big man... I will follow your next appointment with interest!

Danny O’Neill
67 Posted 05/07/2022 at
I'd have to agree with Don's short post @70, Daniel, although we're all in agreement these decisions should have been a few years ago.

Christine sums it up nicely, especially that last paragraph. No scapegoats, no doubting or questioning love and commitment to the club. He just should have moved on a few years ago.

As much for his own managerial career's sake, if that is now what he is declaring. He probably has left it too late to forge a path to the top level, but who knows?

At least he decided it is time to part ways. Now, the other one in the equation: I think he's super-glued himself to his seat in the Director's Box.

I watched the interview again and I find it interesting that he speaks respectfully of Lampard and says that the manager didn't want him to go.

I don't doubt that, and I'm sure it's genuine as he is a genuine person. But we've probably all been in those management situations in life. They say they don't want you to go but then don't overly encourage you to stay or go over the top to keep you and accept the decision quickly with a token gesture of wanting you to stay.

I obviously don't have insider information, but just a thought… and I wonder how much of that was in play during the discussions? Frank is clearly building his own coaching team.

Anyway, as previously said by me and many, I wish him all the very best. Frustrated me as a player. Seemed mostly passive in the dugout aside from that short stint as caretaker. But a great and passionate adopted Evertonian. I'm interested which club will offer him an opportunity, but I'm not sure what's out there. Derby mentioned but are there any North-West clubs vacant? I suspect he would prefer to remain in the area.

Alan J Thompson
68 Posted 05/07/2022 at
Tony (#46); What will be said when Bill finally departs?

Well, I would imagine at some stage: "Being of sound mind, hid all his money down the back of the sofa", which will of course be written on a roll of old fax paper.

Jim Bennings
69 Posted 05/07/2022 at
Good luck, Dunc.

He's 52 now and he really should have moved on 2 or 3years back to go and find a good club; if no-marks like Joey Barton and Lee Bowyer can manage teams, then Duncan will do fine.

There's no real room at Everton for Dunc anymore. Over the past year, he's been almost invisible. He was more prominent in the Ancelotti era, probably because Carlo was less hands-on in training and during games.

This club needs to find a new direction and a new way and, unfortunate as it is, it means leaving most of the old guard in the past.

Duncan McDine
70 Posted 05/07/2022 at
Don.

Am I right in thinking that you're giving our Dunc a few pointers on how to “man-up”? Then conclude your bullshit with “good riddance”?

If you ever met the big man, you'd wet your knickers and kiss his arse… and not just because you don't have your computer to hide behind – but also because you'd be in awe of one of the truest Evertonians there is.

Best of luck to Duncan, 99% of us wish you well.

Christine Foster
71 Posted 05/07/2022 at
I think he would be in with a good shout for the Derby job. Rooney had no previous experience (whereas Dunc has limited but nonetheless). Maybe Unsy as his No 2?

It would be a smart move for Derby as, from their perspective, they would possibly have access to loan deals for youngsters coming on from Everton... yeah... would be a possibility!

Danny O’Neill
72 Posted 05/07/2022 at
Jim Bennings, how dare you put years on Duncan. And me for that matter!!

Same school year as me so he's 50. I will hit 51 before him.

He shares his birthday with my son, as I do with Neville Southall.

Ian Hollingworth
73 Posted 05/07/2022 at
Very harsh, Don.

We all wondered how Duncan remained in post for so many managers but we cannot lay the blame of Everton's demise at the feet of big Dunc whose only crime is staying in a job at the club he loves.

Duncan is a legend and I would like nothing more than for him to do really well and one day come back to Everton as manager leading a successful side to glory.

I would also have liked it if we had been winning trophies these last 30 years but we haven't… for many reasons.

Tommy Carter
74 Posted 05/07/2022 at
@73 Danny

I agree. Frank doesn't want him there.

It remains to be seen how good a manager Frank will be. But what cannot be disputed and what can be assessed right now is that he's an intelligent man.

He's intelligent enough to know that, if he binned Dunc, and results don't go his way, that the decision to bin Dunc would be used as a stick to beat him with, regardless of whether it had any bearing on results.

It's a sensible parting all round and I'm sure if Frank had really wanted to keep him and he had so much to offer – then they'd have put out all the stops financially to make it happen. And Duncan would have signed a deal.

Instead I think he had been marginalised, not purposely. Marginalised by more talented coaches and people joining the club. Marginalised by his own decreasing influence upon anything.

Despite it being obvious that certain members of the board were keen that he remain at the club in some capacity, throughout various unsuccessful regimes, the same people have never been convinced to consider him for the top job. So, when even your biggest supporters doubt your credentials and don't think you have what it takes, it does paint a picture of the reality.

The only thing Duncan can do is prove them and everybody else wrong by going and managing somewhere and being a success. Good luck to him. I hope he achieves this. And should he do so, it should surely mean that this creates a clear pathway to the top job at Everton one day.

Rennie Smith
75 Posted 05/07/2022 at
Farewell, big man, I'm sure every true blue will wish you well.

There's no point in trying to respond to the "good riddance" comments, all I can say is my missus still complains that my phone wallpaper is a picture of you and not her or the kids. That's real love!

Christopher Timmins
76 Posted 05/07/2022 at
The best of luck, Duncan. I for one am hoping that you make a success of your future footballing career.
Mark O'Brien
77 Posted 05/07/2022 at
You may be off, but my signed shirt is going nowhere. Thanks for the memories, Dunc – some of them fantastic. (Just a shame that there weren't a few more.)

Best wishes, Blue.

Barry Rathbone
78 Posted 05/07/2022 at
If you want your players to rise to the occasion, be loyal to the cause, and represent the fan on the terrace, then he was the man. Injuries aside, I thought he kept us going almost single-handedly at times.

The vitriol some pile on him is mystifying but this whole hatred thing that some appear to revel in is a complete mystery – they're hating Everton players for fuck's sake!!

Jim Bennings
79 Posted 05/07/2022 at
I don't think anyone can seriously dispute Duncan Ferguson as a player.

His career was blighted by injury (groin, hamstring, hernia); it was never possible for him to really put a full season together.

Add to that the jailing in 1995 which was disruptive to his career when he was hitting form. I firmly believe he would have been up there as a Les Ferdinand or Alan Shearer type if he could have played more.

When you look at the goals compilation he scored for Everton, left foot, right foot, we all know the heading ability, he had a bit of everything, just a shame he couldn't have fulfilled it.

But yes, any player that wins a trophy in an Everton shirt should be classed as a legend.

John Kavanagh
80 Posted 05/07/2022 at
I think we made a huge mistake in not giving Dunc the manager's job until the end of the season the first time he was caretaker. Given the poor performances before the 5 points from Chelsea, Arsenal and Man Utd, he at least turned things around and merited being given the opportunity to prove himself.

He never contributed towards the disaster of spending £500 million on ne'er do wells, sick notes, has-beens and never-will-bes like those paid vastly more for putting us in the mess we are in today.

I can only wish Dunc the best of luck with finding a new job elsewhere and every success. I just hope that one day he has the pleasure of meeting Don Alexander @63. I'm sure you'll both get on famously, like a homeowner and burglars.

Dale Rose
81 Posted 05/07/2022 at
All the very best to him.
Joe McMahon
82 Posted 05/07/2022 at
Now that things are changing are some of the old guard are leaving, does anyone in the know if "The People's Club" bollox will be dropped when we move to the new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock? It's embarrassing.
Brian Murray
83 Posted 05/07/2022 at
Joe.

We are a club within a club. Frank trying to instill a winning professional culture but still dragged down by the dinosaurs at the club who embrace "The People's Club" – as long as we stay up – attitude and their jobs are safe.

Hope times are a-changing... C'mon, Kenyon & Co. Or whoever.

Danny O’Neill
84 Posted 05/07/2022 at
Barry, I wouldn't say there is that much vitriol towards Duncan, just a few honest assessments of the footballer and coach amongst what is mostly admiration and emotion towards his love of the club alongside best wishes.

I know he's iconic to a generation and gave many, myself included at the time, hope in a dark period. So I don't criticise him as a person. I'm judging him as a footballer.

I personally don't think he achieved what he could have. Okay, injuries plagued his career. Mina is currently our best centre-back but gets slated for being consistently injured, which is plaguing his career. Many Everton supporters criticise and slate Everton players a lot of the time. Myself included. I don't see why Duncan is immune from similar footballing assessments.

To me, Duncan sometimes came across as a reluctant footballer. He didn't do it consistently enough; it was like he didn't want to play football some of the time. And then there was the problem of his passion stepping into red mist space leading to his indiscipline. Once you lose the plot, not only are you ineffective, you become a liability to the team. He done that too often.

When we look back, we tend to remember those few magic moments rather than look at his career as a whole. In that sense, he underachieved in my opinion. He achieved legendary status in an underachieving club and team. So those special moments, because there were too few of them at the time, became what he was and is remembered for. Not being sent off against Charlton at the Valley for petulant and violent conduct, leaving us down to 10 men shortly after coming on as a sub and us losing 2-0.

As well as embracing the club and the fans, there was an element of us having no-one else to idolise. Kanchelskis maybe, but all too briefly. It was Joe Royle who said Duncan was in danger of becoming a legend before becoming a player.

'Legend'... now there is an overused phrase. Cruyff was a football legend. Beckenbauer was a football legend. Maradona was a football legend. And Messi will go down as a football legend.

Oh, and Kevin Sheedy was a football legend. You just knew I was going to get that in!!

Duncan was an iconic player in a mostly average Everton team who gave us a few fantastic and memorable moments. A talisman who connected with the supporters, bought into Everton, and became one of us.

On the playing side, I don't think he was given enough respect or acknowledgement for how good he was with both feet. There was a bit of a "size-ist" tendency to think he was only good in the air. He was a good footballer, not just a target man.

I don't wish to dismiss his importance, particularly to a certain generation. Many who grew up in that period only really had Duncan to cling onto. Like I say, no malice in my words about him, just an honest assessment through my own eyes of Duncan Ferguson, the footballer and coach.

Danny O’Neill
85 Posted 05/07/2022 at
I hope so Joe.

People's Club = Cosy Everton.

We had and have a motto. Use that as the brand. But live up to it.

Dave Abrahams
86 Posted 05/07/2022 at
Joe (68),

“The People's Club” motto has nothing to do with Everton, the patent on this motto was taken out by a very genuine Everton fan who had the foresight to claim this motto.

I don't know if he later did some business with Everton over the patent for this motto with the club, however he was, is, and will remain one of Everton's finest fans who won't hear a word said about the club.

He had that initial foresight to claim the patent on “The Peoples Club” and he might have done a lot better than some if he had been made a member of the board. He certainly proved you don't have to be a player to love the club, like loads of us fans – we do it without even thinking about it.

Steve Brown
87 Posted 05/07/2022 at
I think some posters are conflating Ferguson with Kenwright, which I don't think is fair.

Duncan started in the Academy and worked his way through the age groups until he was promoted to first-team coach. He earned his promotion and successive managers included him on their coaching staff. Ancelotti called him when he applied for the manager's job in January to offer advice and encouragement.

I actually like Ferguson more as a coach than I did as a player – unplayable when on his day but not always motivated. I was happy for him to remain as caretaker manager until the end of the season after Benitez was sacked. If he is to try his hand as a manager, he has to have a go now and I wish him the best of luck.

Joe McMahon
88 Posted 05/07/2022 at
Thanks for clarification, Dave.
Danny O’Neill
89 Posted 05/07/2022 at
Intriguing insight, Dave. You've spiked my curiosity. Maybe you can reveal off the record at the next catch up!!

I don't think that will be in Sydney, but I keep going on the British Airways website…

Tom Bowers
90 Posted 05/07/2022 at
A great character and always fireworks when he played.

Perhaps the team wouldn't have struggled over the last few years if some of the players showed some of his drive and intensity.

I wish him well in his future pursuits.

Tommy Carter
91 Posted 05/07/2022 at
I'd like to add my own thoughts on Duncan the player.

A microcosm of the Everton approach. His injury record prior to the Newcastle move was poor and it was even worse at Newcastle. It was a terrible decision to bring him back. It was a typical case of us signing an unreliable player.

I'm not saying that he meant to be unreliable, or that often his unreliability was his fault. But unreliable he was. Inconsistent form. Poor performances away from home generally to the lesser opponents.

And that was when he was fit. His fitness was unreliable – nearly always. Discipline, he couldn't be relied upon to not get himself sent off – putting his team down to 10 men and then rendering himself suspended for upcoming games.

But for a decent period of impact substitute appearances and the odd start in the 2004-05 season, his return to the club as a player was an unmitigated disaster. That is in spite of the performance we all enjoyed vs Man Utd in the 2005 run-in. You could argue that sentiment got in the way of sense when re-signing him.

Had we signed Dion Dublin in the year that preceded his arrival, then we'd have had a far more reliable player who'd have made a much greater impact.

Paul Tran
92 Posted 05/07/2022 at
This was inevitable, from the moment Lampard arrived.

You don't change a failed regime by keeping the same people there.

As a player, he was fabulous for a year, then spent the rest of his career trading on that period. He loved the club, loved the fans and lacked the mental strength to fulfill his outstanding ability.

I'm glad he's left and would be even happier to see him succeed wherever he ends up.

Brian Murray
93 Posted 05/07/2022 at
Think it's only fair Dunc offers his mentor a role at his club, maybe an advisory capacity wherever that may be.
Justin Doone
94 Posted 05/07/2022 at
Fair play and good luck to him, Unsy and others in their next journey.

Upon reading most of the above, I return to judging a player on what I see.

Forget the stats. When he entered the field of play, the whole team, fans and foes knew what was coming.

A battle, a fight, an increased amount of attacking pressure and it lifted everyone's spirits and belief we could conjure up a chance, a goal from a half-decent punt forward.

As a manager, he knew the players couldn't 'pass and play' their way out of a relegation battle. They had to fight and believe doing the basics right was what was missing.

Other managers didn't understand that. They tried and failed in changing how they should approach and play the game.

I believe if Dunc was given the job to the end of the season, we would have been no worse off. It took Frank 3 months to ditch the stupid tactics and fight for the ball and for each other.

I'm not saying that makes Dunc a better coach. He's just more realistic of players' abilities and the situation we were in.

Frank was certainly not my first choice, but I hope he is this time next year.

Frank Crewe
95 Posted 05/07/2022 at
I think he may have left it too late. Lampard is 44 and he's already managing his second Premier League club and third club overall. Ferguson is 50 and, outside a few games as a caretaker manager, hasn't managed any club at all.

If he does get a job as a manager, I think it will be at a much lower level. Might be better to try for a coaching job instead.

George Carroll
96 Posted 05/07/2022 at
I have no doubt that my post will get a lot of abuse but frankly I am sick of reading that Ferguson is an Everton legend.

This is a man convicted of assault, jailed, and accused of racial abuse. A centre-forward who scored a handful of goals in the years he played for Everton. Frequently cried off matches with injuries.

If you want a legend then remember, if you saw them, Alex Young and Andy Gray – superb footballers and gentlemen.

As for his farewell letter – what a sycophant he is, crawling to Chairman and CEO in case no job comes along.

It's good riddance to Ferguson, as far as I am concerned.

Joe McMahon
97 Posted 05/07/2022 at
Tommy, that's a very good point. Instead of Dunc coming back and Dion Dublin. Dion is another member of the Premier League 100 club and I think got the Golden Boot one season.

I watched him a couple of times for Coventry – a friend of mine was a fan. He was a strong forward (often underrated).

Dave Abrahams
98 Posted 05/07/2022 at
Danny (89),

I'll introduce to you this fan, if I can in the future – he works in the city centre, he loves and lives for Everton as much as yourself.

Mike Gaynes
99 Posted 05/07/2022 at
I don't hold any vitriol towards Big Dunc. I just don't hold much affection either. Legend? Not for me. No way.

I do respect the way he has turned his life around and became, by multiple accounts, a top coach for the players, many of whom have cited his influence on the training ground.

But for me, as a player, he was an embarrassment -- Drunken Duncan, the party guy and brawler whose celebrated aggression so deeply loved by many here, was too often simply a dirty player in my view.

Yes, he scored some big goals. I think he could perhaps have collected a lot more if he'd shown up for every game. Sometimes he was just a body on the pitch, unconnected to the game.

Yes, it's certainly possible that his inconsistency was a symptom of his injuries. I just wonder how many of those injuries could have been avoided with a greater dedication to training and a lesser dedication to late-night good times.

He would also have scored more goals if he hadn't missed so many games through red card suspensions. Most of those reds were reckless and/or stupid. I don't recall any of them being Allan-style injustices. He earned them. That ridiculous display at Wigan to close his career was the absolute nadir for me. I thought he should simply have been dropped from the club right then.

Yeah, okay, he has loved the club. I'd respect his career more if he'd shown that love by dedicating himself to conditioning and controlling his rages so he could stay on the friggin' pitch and help us win games.

To me, he's a legend that could have been, but wasn't. Again, no hate here... just no particular regard either.

Justin Doone
100 Posted 05/07/2022 at
Pochettino, Pochettino, Pochettino.

I would be far happier and more confident to have Pochettino in charge. I know, he's 'too far a reach' at the moment, demanding Champions League teams, but maybe one day.

Dunc has perhaps missed the boat and I can only hope Frank can turn the Everton ship around.

Mike Gaynes
101 Posted 05/07/2022 at
Danny #84... Amen on Sheedy. Tell it, brother.
Rob Dolby
102 Posted 05/07/2022 at
One of a handful of players in my time that got the club and fans.

In a pretty drab mid-90s team, fans loved his passion, aggression and ability.

I don't blame him for sticking around at the club. Let's face it, for most Evertonians, he had the dream job. I would work my balls off until retirement at the club if it could. They are my club, like they are his and Unsworth's.

In his short time as caretaker manager, he had players running through brick walls that had hung the previous manager out to dry. He restored some much-needed pride after the big Sam debacle and got praise from one of the greatest of all time in Ancelotti whilst he was here.

I wish him all the very best.

With Moshiri's track record, Frank probably only has 12 months left until he is sacked. Duncan might be back sooner than later!

Mark Ryan
103 Posted 05/07/2022 at
Mike Gaynes @99 – spot on. Every word, spot on – and if it wasn't for Kenwright being such a wet, we would never have seen Dunc again.

When I think of Legends, I struggle to get past the Trinity. Southall for me was a player who gave his all for Everton and turned up, week-in & week-out. For me, he stands head and shoulders over Dunc.

He was a good player, Dunc, when fit. Not a world-beater, just a beater of other players in more ways than one, and I wish him well – but he should have been doing this 5 years ago.

Colin Glassar
104 Posted 05/07/2022 at
Justin, Pochettino's career plateaued after the Champions League Final against Liverpool. He showed the world he was not an elite coach when it came to the crunch. His team wilted against them and he was incapable of reacting.

He did the same against Man City with PSG. He should have remembered the Spurs/SAS motto, 'He who dares wins'. He dared not to dare and lost.

Saying all that, he'd be great for a club like ours.

Mike Gaynes
105 Posted 05/07/2022 at
Colin, both Carlo and Tuchel won the Champions League after being sacked by PSG.

Having now been sacked by PSG, Pochettino is therefore a lock to finally win the Champions League and we should definitely hire him.

Colin Glassar
106 Posted 05/07/2022 at
I agree, Mike.

In the year 2525 Everton, came alive… If Kenwright is still around he'll probably name Big Duncan as his manager in the Intergalactic 4th Division.

Martin Mason
107 Posted 05/07/2022 at
The club has treated Duncan very well and he has repaid this with dedicated service to the club. At this moment in time, though, it's absolutely right that he breaks from the Everton teat and makes his own way, picking up experience that may put him in good stead to maybe return one day.

An Everton Legend? Not in a million years, for me… but he has a very strong bond with the club and fans.

Barry Rathbone
108 Posted 05/07/2022 at
Danny @84,

"𝗠𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘁𝗼𝗻 𝘀𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗰𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗶𝘀𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘀𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘁𝗼𝗻 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘆𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗮 𝗹𝗼𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗲."

Constructive critique and reasoned observation by all means but slating players and club personnel of a club you support??? Bewildering.

Danny O’Neill
109 Posted 05/07/2022 at
I don't dispute that sentiment, Barry, but it happens.

We all have views on who we think is good enough or not for Everton and where we want us to be. We will all comment on individual performances and individuals based on opinion.

But come matchday, I don't care who is on the pitch. I'm not one of those shouters who seems to go the match to instantly criticise. I've stood and sat near plenty of them since I was a kid.

I watched and heard Osman and Hibbert get so much stick, although the latter became a cult figure later in his career. The irony being Leon Osman was one of the most technically gifted homegrown players of that era and, if I can be bold, until we produced Anthony Gordon.

Osman was never given enough recognition by Evertonians in my opinion. Discarded and criticised by many as being too lightweight and not Premier League standard.

I try to keep it to my observations on footballing ability rather than getting personal.

For the sake of transparency, I've been an open critic of Michael Keane the footballer. I've also praised him when he's played well. But he's not the type of centre-back I want and he worries the shit out of me.

I'm on record saying I'd be pleased if I never saw Fabian Delph play in an Everton shirt again about 18 months ago. I then ate humble pie and went on to praise him for his performances towards the end of last season that went a long way to helping us maintain our top-flight presence.

As long as you keep it to football, then it's just an opinion about the player. Either in the moment or what we think we can predict. But we are just supporters. The only opinion that matters is the manager of the day.

And let's caveat that with how we all see the game and players differently. Difference of opinion is healthy.

Danny O’Neill
110 Posted 05/07/2022 at
Dave @98. I'll look forward to meeting you and the other tortured yet equally blessed and privileged soul as you I and countless hundreds of thousands of others around the world!!
Jonathan Tasker
111 Posted 05/07/2022 at
The beginning of the end for Kenwright.

Ferguson was forced on 7 managers. With little success or evidence of his coaching.

I don't believe the story put out by the club and I'm guessing that Thelwell got his way when he pointed out Everton didn't need a sixth in command on £500k a year just to put out the cones.

Brian Wilkinson
112 Posted 05/07/2022 at
He will go out somewhere with every confidence he will succeed elsewhere. I just do not get this "he has to go elsewhere first to cut it".

For me, Dunc had all the credentials to at least have had a crack until the end of the season. He learned very well under Carlo and various other coaches, he knew the players and youngsters inside out.

Yet after only half a season at Derby County, Rooney was being touted above Dunc, Why?

It seems we have now got it right with Frank, only time will tell, but I would have certainly given Dunc a short term stint, then review it at the end of the season just ended.

That is all history now and the next chapter begins under Frank; we seem to be getting things right but, I will say at the same time, it was the supporters that got us to safety, the players responded, just like they did when Rafa was in charge of the Arsenal game, and the fans got right behind the team on the 27 campaign game.

The supporters certainly make the difference. You can go back to our greatest manager, and on two occasions, he used the fans to rally the players: the Stoke City game, "Go and do it for them", and the Bayern game, "The Gwladys Street will suck the ball in".

Fans make a huge difference. If we can carry this fantastic support through to the next season, we will be fine on the pitch.

Wherever Dunc goes, I am pretty sure in time, he will be back. Much as I like Lampard, I feel we missed a trick with not giving Dunc a short-term stint.

Andy Crooks
113 Posted 05/07/2022 at
George @96, is Andy Gray the same "gentleman" who was sacked by Sky for offensive sexist behaviour? Of course he apologised and, I guess learned from it. So has Duncan. I suppose we are more forgiving to those we like.

I used to have a very negative view about Duncan Ferguson, however, people change and I hope that I am open-minded now and again. I admire him, respect what he has done, and wish him well.

Marc Hints
114 Posted 05/07/2022 at
This has just come in from Dominic King:

Everton are looking for “voluntary” redundancies at Finch Farm due to the ‘restructuring’ at the club.

Mike Gaynes
115 Posted 05/07/2022 at
Well, Marc, there goes Andy Lonergan!
Colin Glassar
116 Posted 05/07/2022 at
Will that include Kenwright, Marc?🙏🙏
Barry Rathbone
117 Posted 05/07/2022 at
Danny 109,

"I don't dispute that sentiment, Barry, but it happens."

It certainly does but for the life of me I can't see a single advantage of destructive vitriol pouring down on players from their own fans. Little wonder players from other clubs highlighted Evertonians turning on their own players as a ploy to win games.

Remarkably the antithesis of this petulance was shown by Evertonians at the end of last season and the impact was transformative. Fans need to stop the hatred and support the team – they won't of course

Kunal Desai
118 Posted 05/07/2022 at
Kenwright and Boris going in the same summer. That would be a summer to remember.
Marc Hints
119 Posted 05/07/2022 at
Colin #116,

I think you're hoping there. 🤣

Just seen on Twitter now apparently it's been misinterpreted!

What's the saying communication is key. 🙄

Brian Wilkinson
120 Posted 05/07/2022 at
Yes please, Kunal.
Joe McMahon
121 Posted 05/07/2022 at
Kunal, if only! I think Boris will leave under pressure of a failing Government.

Unfortunately I don't see Kenwright leaving under pressure for a failing football club that has wasted several hundred million to assemble a pitiful squad.

We have to remember it was Bill who brought Moshiri in. It's been and still is a disaster. 1995 was a long time ago.

Alan Corken
122 Posted 05/07/2022 at
There are a lot of others I would like to see leaving before Dunc. The entire board are top of the list followed by each and every one of the management team, let's face it Frank is bang average at best, then there is Ashley Cole...really? Oh, and it goes without saying that the majority of the playing staff need to go. And while I'm at it, the maintenance staff should go too because the stadium is a bloody disgrace!
Don Alexander
123 Posted 06/07/2022 at
Marc (#114) there's too many "players" still there who went redundant on very fat contracts days after they first visited Finch Farm, so badly run has our club been for decades.
Steve Brown
124 Posted 06/07/2022 at
Kenwright will never leave - cryogenic freezing is being considered.
Tony Abrahams
125 Posted 06/07/2022 at
Barry@117, that’s a fair point, but then I read what Lee carsley says, about the unwritten rule of being an Everton player. I think Evertonians were exasperated by Benitez, but the fans aren’t stupid, they always try and get behind the team, but this isn’t easy, when you see players hiding or not abiding to that unwritten rule, maybe?

I can still remember something that happened last season, which gave me a lot of faith, and also showed the intelligence of most match going Evertonians. People began to leave on 27 minutes, as part of the campaign against the board, but 999.999% of Evertonians stayed in their seats.

Some began to Boo, at the people who were leaving, but because I think a large percentage of fans, were behind the campaign, but not actually walking out on the team, the boos were soon drowned out by everyone singing and getting behind the team. It’s a good job that happened because that last minute winner, ended up being so vital, and I do remember my Arsenal mate, texting me after the game saying, “what a crowd Evertonians can be”

Tony Abrahams
126 Posted 06/07/2022 at
When I look closely, I can definitely see a real resemblance to Walt Disney, when I look at pictures of Bill Kenwright, Steve, and to be fair to the man, he has been very magical for Everton!
Danny O’Neill
127 Posted 06/07/2022 at
They mostly do at the match Barry as you and I will have witnessed. Obviously if the performance is not up to standard, we let them know, but apart from that bloke we've all sat next to, most of us reserve our frustration to post match venting, conversations in pubs, or as is the modern way, on Internet forums such as this.

It's a 2 way relationship. The team has to give the supporters something to latch onto. The supporters have to support the team.

That's why I'm against match day and especially in the stadium protests. Cometh the hour, it's about supporting those wearing the shirt. Regardless of our opinions of them as individual players, that's an Everton team out there.

Everyone is entitled to opinions on players. I agree, it should be based on footballing ability and not seemingly personal. But just because they play for Everton doesn't make them great if they're not good enough and doesn't make them immune to being criticeised. That's straying into Liverpool and Newcastle territory.

It's not vitriol. It's an opinion. I have them. But for those 90 minutes (often an agonising 97 with Everton), I don't care for my or anyone else's opinion of a player. I just want the team to win.

After the match, we can, do and always have done, had our different opinions on players.

Alan @122. I was and still am on the fence with Lampard. He has to prove himself but he went a long way in how he united the club in a short period under difficult circumstances.

To label him average after 5 months is harsh in my view. He's just starting. If we take one lesson from recent years, it's the need for patience and to give the manager and his staff the chance and time to build. That will inevitably involve turbulence and a rocky ride along the way, so just buckle in and try to enjoy the ride.

I give you Howard Kendall Mark One.

We need to stop the managerial merry go round and revolving door. The uncertainty and instability has been slowly killing us.

Stick or twist? We've been twisting a lot and loosing. Regardless of personal views and opinions, we need to stick and hold our nerve.

Good times are coming.

Andy Meighan
128 Posted 06/07/2022 at
How anyone can say Lampard is average is beyond me. He's been in the job 5 minutes, inherited a complete and utter shit show. The same fella has embraced the club and galvanised the fan base.

There's not a game gone where he hasn't mentioned the support of the fans and what they mean to the players. Funny but I can't remember the previous incumbent mentioning our input, we'll he wouldn't would he given his history.

He's got to be given 4 years at least to build something and we are going to have to be patient. Rome wasn't built in a day etc. As for Duncan, never my favourite player but a great lad none the less and I wish him well.

Rob Halligan
129 Posted 06/07/2022 at
Andy #128, totally agree mate.

I haven't looked back through the thread to find out who's calling Frank 'average', but Lampard was treated badly, in my opinion, by Abramovich at Chelsea.

In his first full season, Frank finished top four and got to the FA Cup Final. In his next season, he was top at Christmas until he came across us and Duncan Ferguson in his first game in his caretaker role. We all know the result of that match, which led to Chelsea losing five out of eight games, and ultimately cost Frank his job.

Frank's team also went on to win the Champions League that season.

It's the same as those who criticised Ancelotti. To call him a shit manager is beyond a joke. We all know his managerial record, so I won't go on about it, but he came to us and, as you say, Andy, inherited a shit squad. How he was expected to perform miracles, I'll never know, but some on here wanted immediate success from day one from Ancelotti.

Again, Andy, I agree that Frank has to be given time, to build his own squad, and introduce his own playing ideas. It's highly unlikely we will ever get a Carlo Ancelotti or a Pep-style manager again, so I think we need to have the next best thing, an experienced ex-Premier League player, who has learnt under the best managers there is, and let him get on with it. It didn't do Mikel Arteta any harm in the end, did it!!

Paul Burns
130 Posted 06/07/2022 at
I think we missed a trick with Duncan, I think he may develop as a top manager. I hope so, and hope he returns to us one day.
Danny O’Neill
131 Posted 06/07/2022 at
Well said, Rob.

Wembley for the League Cup (we have to win that in my life time) and then Europe.

But before that, I'll see you in August!!

Joe McMahon
132 Posted 06/07/2022 at
Rob @129, I agree with every word.
Dave Abrahams
133 Posted 06/07/2022 at
I agree with those who are calling for Frank Lampard to be given a chance to show what he can do as manager of Everton, he came in at the end of January to manage a very poor and injury ravaged squad, took time to figure out how poor we were especially in midfield and defensively but got us over the line galvanised massively by the magnificent Everton supporters who dragged those players through the final games of the season.

I stress it was the fans who galvanised the team and they alone got us all banded together to save this club of ours from relegation, we are still not out of danger, with next season threatening to be another fight to stay up but Frank deserves the chance to choose his new players and try and change the direction we are heading in from down to upwards.

With possible changes coming in the boardroom if we are sold then we might see improvement throughout the club on the field and off it.

Christopher Timmins
134 Posted 06/07/2022 at
Lampard has to be given time and support. If after two full seasons and 4 transfer windows things are not moving in the right direction then his position should come under review,

In my view it should be the DOF who should decide his fate as it should also be his task to find his replacement.

Hugh Jenkins
135 Posted 06/07/2022 at
Frank has connected with the fans and also with (some of) the players. There are / were those players in the squad that he inherited that, for a variety of reasons, would / will probably never make the grade at Everton - or in the EPL.
Hopefully, some have left and others will leave.

Slowly Frank and his team along with the DoF will rebuild a squad that firstly, will ensure that we are not in a relegation battle next season and, from there, ensure that our trajectory is upwards from then on.

That is not going to happen overnight, so, I for one, will be happy next season so long as we are not in any danger of relegation after 30 games have gone.

Anything above that is a bonus.

Frank has to be given time to achieve this.

Mark Ryan
136 Posted 06/07/2022 at
Hugh, spot on. I'll be happy around mid-table come the end because last season was truly depressing and truly worrying. Any progress and Frank still with us will be a result.

I'm setting the bar realistically and anything else is a bonus. Survival until we move into the new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock and no sale of any of our local lads like Anthony Gordon will do for me.

Albert Perkins
137 Posted 06/07/2022 at
I heard it from a reputable source that Dunc's after Johnson's job. We need a good Number 9 at Number 10. Couldn't do worse. A few bloody noses at cabinet meetings. Get in there Dunc!
Daniel A Johnson
138 Posted 06/07/2022 at
Ferguson – always injured or suspended – that's how I remember the “legend”.

The odd goal against Man Utd aside, he's a legend in his own lunch hour who has made a good living from EFC.

Time moves on and Unsworth and Ferguson needed shifting a long time ago.


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