New Everton manager Sean Dyche has called for unity at the club as he prepares for his first game in charge.
Ever since the Blues, who are currently second bottom of the Premier League table, were beaten by Brighton & Hove Albion at the start of January protests against the club’s board of directors have become a permanent fixture at matches.
After the recent 2-1 defeat to Southampton at Goodison Park, thousands of Blues supporters remained inside the ground to protest against the running of the club. Shouts of 'sack the board' could be heard with a number of flags and banners also on show.
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Another protest is being planned ahead of this weekend's game against Arsenal. Supporters are planning a peaceful march that will start at the Royal Oak pub.
And when asked for a message to supporters ahead of Saturday, Dyche said: "I'm excited. I'm aware of the recent noise around the club but I'm learning about the Evertonians and the reasons why.
“One thing I know is they stand by their club, protect it and support it - my staff and players need that.
"We want the fans to play their part. It is choppy waters, but we want the fans to reconnect with that. I've got to earn my spurs and I'm willing to put the hard yards in to earn their respect.
"Wins are those marvellous things in football that seem to solve things, but you have to earn that. You might get a lucky 1-0 now and again but you don't want to build on luck. For me it's about the heartbeat of the team and club.
"Reminding them of the players they are. You don't get to be an Everton player without laying some markers down in your career as individuals and as a team. I think there is technical prowess here.”
Before Dyche continued saying: "We have to unify. We have to. Even the most disgruntled Evertonians at the moment, if they give us a chance to stick by a team.
“The energy changes very quickly when players feel that intensity and support. Just give us a window to breathe, support and play a part in that.
"Behind the noise and outside noise is a fantastic football club; a club that means a lot to its fans and to football.
“Possibly if it wasn't in the shape it's in, I wouldn't get the chance. I don't mind that. I'm a custodian. I won't be here forever but I'll look after it.
"Achievements are getting the thing pointing in the right direction. As a start point you've got to win enough games.
“One doesn't change everything. I don't sit here thinking about Burnley and all the things we did there. It's about building now & what needs doing now.”
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