Denise Barrett-Baxendale said the decision to sack Rafa Benitez was “necessary” - as Everton’s chief executive provides the latest on the club’s new manager search.
The Blues dismissed Benitez last weekend after defeat to Norwich City extended the team’s run of form to just one win in the last 13 Premier League games.
Duncan Ferguson has been placed in caretaker charge for the “upcoming games” which started with a 1-0 loss to Aston Villa at Goodison.
Ferguson is under consideration to land the job permanently and is being talked about along with candidates including Wayne Rooney, Frank Lampard and Roberto Martinez.
Barrett-Baxendale has further outlined what Everton are looking for in a new manager but says an appointment will not be rushed.
Everton are also conducting a strategic review of football operations following Marcel Brands’ exit from the club in December.
“The decision to part company with Rafa Benitez as our manager was a necessary one, given our extended run of very disappointing form in the Premier League,” she said. “Nevertheless, such a decision is never taken lightly, and we wish Rafa well for the future.”
On the new manager search, the chief exec said: “The board is continuing to work closely with our owner to progress the search for a new manager.
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“We are aligned in our mission to find the person best placed to continue the development of the squad.
"A manager capable of nurturing a side made up of talent, hunger and passion in the finest traditions of our club.
“We are keen to conclude that recruitment process as quickly as possible - but that does not mean we will rush to a decision.
“We will work together to find the perfect man to take us forward.”
