Gabby Agbonlahor has insisted Everton would be “playing with fire” if they were to replace Sean Dyche after surviving relegation to the Championship.
The former Aston Villa striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 51-year-old is the best-equipped man to keep the Toffees in the Premier League given their financial issues.
According to the Daily Record (25 May), Everton have begun a search for a new manager as they prepare for possible Premier League survival.
The report claims the Toffees are sounding out candidates and have made initial contact with Botafogo coach Luis Castro.
That is despite the contract of current boss Dyche running until June 2025 after his appointment in January.
Everton must win against Bournemouth on the final day of the season (28 May) to ensure Premier League survival.
Football Insider revealed on Monday (22 May) that the Merseysiders will operate a sell-to-buy policy this summer – in which they must offload some of their more valuable assets to generate the funds for new signings.
Agbonlahor told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “I just can’t see that happening.
“Why would they get rid of Dyche?
“It’s ok going for another manager, but you’ve got to give them the tools to have success. If you’re a manager, why would you take that job?
“We’ve seen managers turn down the Spurs job because of the project, and it’s the same with Everton.
“They’re in debt, there’s no money to spend – if anyone’s going to keep you up again next season, it’s Dyche.
“You’re playing with fire if you go for another manager who won’t have the right tools.”
In other news, Everton to enter talks with second investors with £100m-plus deal imminent.
