Sean Dyche says he has done everything he can to “protect the badge” and is confident he has left Everton on a “stable footing” and the team in “good shape”.
Dyche was sacked last week by the new owners of the Friedkin Group hours before their FA Cup clash with Peterborough United.
He left with Everton in 16th place in the table having won just three of their 19 Premier League matches this season and was replaced by David Moyes.
In a statement issued by the League Managers' Association, Dyche said: “It has been an honor to coach Everton, a football club with a great heritage and huge following in Liverpool and around the world, during one of the most difficult periods in its history.” . Despite the challenges we faced, I wanted to ensure that the club's message focused on the positive direction it would take in the future and that the team could focus on competing in the Premier League at the present time.
“I thank the staff, players and all those involved who played their part, as this simply would not have been possible without their support and expertise. I also thank the fans who supported us so many times when we all needed their support.
'Great respect' for Moyes' return
He added: “It is the right time to leave the club, and the team is in good shape. David is a manager I have great respect for and I believe he and his staff will help move the club forward again and build on the stable foundations we have put in place over the last two years.
“I wish everyone moving forward including the new owners, who I hope will take the club to the next level and achieve the success that every Evertonian wants.
“I did my part as a goalkeeper and I will forever be proud of that. Having been through some very difficult situations, I never lost faith in everyone around me and we did everything we could to protect and safeguard the badge and the name of Everton Football Club.
Moyes managed Everton from 2002 to 2013, and his second spell begins tonight when the Toffees host Aston Villa at Goodison Park.
