Everton Appoint Ferguson As Interim Manager After Benitez's Dismissal

Premier League side Everton reappointed Duncan Ferguson as caretaker manager for the second time following the sacking of Rafael Benitez.

The struggling Premier League club face Aston Villa at home on Saturday before a two-week international break for World Cup qualifiers in South America, North America and Asia.

"Duncan Ferguson has been appointed as Everton caretaker manager for the club's upcoming games," they said in a statement.

? | Duncan Ferguson has been appointed as caretaker manager for our upcoming games.

He will be supported by John Ebbrell and Leighton Baines, along with Goalkeeping Coach Alan Kelly.

— Everton (@Everton) January 18, 2022

"He will be supported by John Ebbrell and Leighton Baines, along with Goalkeeping Coach Alan Kelly."

"An announcement on a permanent managerial appointment will be made in due course."

Ferguson was installed as caretaker in 2019 when he took five points from three league games against Chelsea, Manchester United and Arsenal prior to the appointment of Carlo Ancelotti.

Benitez became the sixth manager to leave Everton in six years under the ownership of Farhad Moshiri.

He was dismissed on Sunday after a run of one win in 13 league games that left Everton just six points above the relegation zone.

Belgium boss Roberto Martinez has been linked with a second spell in charge at Goodison Park while other names in the frame are former Everton player Wayne Rooney and his ex-international teammate Frank Lampard.