Sean Dyche breaks his silence after Everton's sacking and makes a bizarre claim that he left them “in good shape” despite being just one point above the relegation zone.

Former Everton manager Sean Dyche has spoken for the first time since he was sacked by the club last week.

Dyche was sacked on Thursday, just hours before Everton's 2-0 win over Peterborough in the FA Cup third round.

There had been speculation all week about Dyche's position. after a run of one win in 11 games and the club sitting just one point above the relegation zone.

The Toffees moved quickly to bring in his replacement with David Moyes making a sensational return to the club 12 years after leaving to replace Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United.

And Dyche has now published a statement on the League Managers Association website.

“It was an honor to lead Everton, a football club with a significant heritage and a huge following in Liverpool and around the world, during one of the most difficult periods in its history,” he said.

Former Everton manager Sean Dyche spoke for the first time since his sacking

Dyche was sacked by Everton when the club was just one point above the relegation zone.

“Despite the challenges we faced, I wanted to ensure that the club's narrative focused on the positive direction it will take in the future and that the team could focus on competing in the Premier League in the present.

'I thank my staff, players and everyone involved who played their part as it simply wouldn't be possible without their support and expertise. I also thank the fans who supported us many times when we all needed their support.

'The right time has come to leave the club, with the team in good shape. David is a manager I have great respect for and I believe he and his staff will help drive the club forward again and build on the stable foundation we have put in place over the last two years.

“I wish everyone the best for the future, including the new owners, who I hope will take the club to the next level and achieve the success that every Evertonian desires.

“I have already fulfilled my role as a goalkeeper and I will always be very proud of it. “After going through extremely difficult situations, I never lost faith in everyone around me and we did everything we could to protect the badge, safeguarding it and the name of Everton Football Club.”

Dyche was in charge of Everton for two years after arriving in January 2023 with the club in 19th place.

They managed to avoid relegation that season and did so again the following campaign despite an eight-point deduction.