AZ Alkmaar manager Pascal Jensen ‘top’ of Everton wanted list as Sean Dyche replacement
Everton have identified AZ Alkmaar manager Pascal Jensen as “top of their wanted list” for a potential Sean Dyche replacement, according to TeamTalk.
The outlet reported online (26 September) that the Toffees could face competition from Crystal Palace and Rangers who are also admirers of the manager but are not currently considering departing with Dyche.
Jensen guided Alkmaar to the Europa Conference League semi-finals last season and has started his Eredivisie campaign perfectly, winning all his first five games.
Ready
While the club have no immediate plans to show the door to Dyche, they may be preparing for life after the former Burnley boss leaves.
The start to the season has been tough at Goodison Park, but an emphatic victory against Brentford on Saturday (23 September) has boosted the mood significantly in Merseyside.
Amid continued concerns regarding the club’s finances and the 777 Partners’ pending takeover, the hierarchy seemingly remains active in planning for the future of the club.
Jensen is an admired man, however, with Palace and Rangers all keeping tabs on the Dutchman. Ibrox could soon be in the market for a new head coach amid Michael Beale’s continued pressure, so a move to the Scottish league could tempt Jensen.
Palace meanwhile have had a solid start to their campaign under Roy Hodgson, so the Toffees will not fear losing him to the Eagles in the immediate future. The Premier League is a prized destination for all managers, so Everton, despite their issues, could be a good step up from the Dutch top flight.
Dyche’s Everton future is safe for now. Any emerging rumblings regarding a sacking were quickly put out after their victory at the Gtech Community Stadium, while favourable upcoming fixtures against Luton Town and Bournemouth could give Dyche the chance to grow the gap between the Toffees and the relegation zone.
That being said, Jensen has a recent record of achieving success and could make an astute signing for Everton. His European success with the Dutch outfit saw his side overachieve significantly, with wins over the likes of Lazio and Atalanta. While they fell short in the semi-final to West Ham United, Alkmaar’s perfect start to the season shows Jensen is not slowing down.
In a very interesting development at Goodison Park, Everton fans could have an exciting new manager on the horizon.
In other Everton news, Dyche has been praised for his “very, very brave” decision in the Toffees’ win over Brentford.