Everton players Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Tom Davies have both paid tribute to Duncan Ferguson on social media following his exit.
On Monday, it was confirmed that Ferguson was leaving his role as assisstant manager in Frank Lampard's backroom staff, as he seeks to start his own managerial career elsewhere.
The former centre-forward was a valued member of staff for numerous Everton managers and had two stints as caretaker boss himself. The first came in late 2019, when he steered the Toffees away from relegation trouble following the sacking of Marco Silva.
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Ferguson's first game in charge was a 3-1 win over Lampard's Chelsea, a fixture in which Calvert-Lewin found the net twice. The game is widely considered to be key in the forward's development into a more frequent goalscorer.
It was no surprise to see the England international send his best wishes to Ferguson on Instagram on Monday evening as a result.
"A big man with a big heart," said Calvert-Lewin. "Thank you for everything, you're the man lad."
Davies also shared a picture of himself, Ferguson and Calvert-Lewin with an accompanying caption of "good luck for your next step."
Ferguson is considered an Everton great for his efforts over two playing spells. In struggling teams, he netted 73 goals in 273 games and showcased a passion that was scarce in the squad at the time - albeit he frequently overstepped the mark from a disciplinary point of view.
There has been some speculation that Calvert-Lewin may follow Ferguson out of the exit door this summer.
Arsenal were frequently linked with the striker, although they completed the signing of Brazil forward Gabriel Jesus on Monday. Newcastle United have also been mentioned as possible suitors for the striker, who struggled with form and fitness last season.
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