Everton next manager talks set to be held as former boss emerges as top choice
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Everton have sacked manager Sean Dyche just hours before their FA Cup clash with Peterborough United on Thursday and talks are moving rapidly over a replacement.
The club confirmed Dyche's departure in an official statement, with his entire coaching staff also leaving the club.
U-18s head coach Leighton Baines and club captain Seamus Coleman have been placed in temporary charge for the FA Cup match.
The decision came after players were informed of the change while at the Titanic Hotel in Liverpool city centre, shortly before the club's official announcement.
Sean Dyche was sacked by Everton on Thursday afternoon
Reuters
The dramatic timing saw Dyche dismissed just three hours and 11 minutes before the scheduled cup tie.
David Moyes has emerged as the leading candidate to replace Dyche, with talks scheduled for Friday with the club's new owners, The Friedkin Group.
The Scot, who previously managed Everton between 2002 and 2013, is reportedly keen on returning to Goodison Park.
During his first spell at the club, Moyes managed over 500 games and led Everton to their highest Premier League finish, securing fourth place in the 2004-05 season.
Sources close to the club suggest Moyes could be appointed on an initial short-term basis.
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Dyche's departure follows a poor run of form, with the Toffees winning just one game in their last 11 matches.
The team currently sits 16th in the Premier League table, just one point above the relegation zone.
Sources indicate Dyche had been made aware earlier this week that his position was under threat.
David Moyes is the frontrunner to take over at Everton
Reuters
During discussions with The Friedkin Group, Dyche reportedly indicated he felt he had taken the club as far as he could.
This admission prompted the US owners to begin their search for a successor and initiate compensation talks.
The situation came to a head in a Thursday afternoon meeting, leading to his immediate dismissal.
Several other candidates remain in contention for the Everton vacancy.
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England U21 boss Lee Carsley has expressed interest in the role and is eager to hold talks with club officials.
Paulo Fonseca is also under consideration following his AC Milan exit, with the Portuguese manager already having been sounded out by Everton.
While Brentford's Thomas Frank is admired by the club, sources describe his appointment as unlikely due to difficulties in securing his release.
Former Brighton manager Graham Potter was linked with the position but has opted to take charge at West Ham United instead.
Jose Mourinho is not being considered for the role, despite recent speculation.
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