Everton have confirmed the appointment of Sean Dyche as the club's new manager following the dismissal of Frank Lampard last week.
The Toffees parted ways with Lampard after a poor run of form left them second from bottom of the Premier League, with no wins in their last 10 games in all competitions. Former Leeds United head coach Marcelo Bielsa was heavily linked with the Merseyside club as the 67-year-old looked to return to a managerial role for the first time following his Elland Road exit in February last year.
Bielsa is still a firm fan favourite at Leeds and supporters are likely to be pleased that he will not be taking over a relegation rival at such a crucial point of the season. The Argentine went as far as flying into the UK for talks, with reports claiming that he wanted to initially take over the under-21s team until the end of the season with his staff in charge of the senior side, was rejected by the Toffees.
Read more: Leeds United transfer news LIVE: Weston McKennie latest, Diego Llorente nears exit and more
In a club statement, Everton confirmed that Dyche has agreed a two-and-a-half-year contract until June 2025. The former Burnley boss will face a baptism of fire as he takes charge of his first Premier League game for the club's clash against league leaders Arsenal at Goodison Park this Saturday.
Leeds sit just three points ahead of Everton - albeit with a game in hand - and there will no doubt be many supporters hoping that the Toffees will regret their choice of opting for Dyche instead of Bielsa, should it be the difference between the two side's top-flight survival come the end of the season.
Jesse Marsch's side will be hoping to capitalise on what is a tough start to life at Everton for Dyche, as the Toffees welcome Leeds to Goodison Park on February 18 after games against the Gunners and bitter rivals Liverpool.
READ NEXT:
Leeds United supporters told to be 'excited' over Patrick Bamford and Georginio Rutter partnership
Jesse Marsch facing Georginio Rutter decision as striker makes Leeds United debut impression
Leeds United handed fixture quirk following FA Cup victory
Leeds United's unseen classy gesture after beating Accrington Stanley in the FA Cup
Leeds United star Patrick Bamford praised for 'selfless' role as Whites reach FA Cup fifth round
