Everton: Sean Dyche hails ‘biggest’ feat as boss after Toffees seal survival

The Blues were crushed 6-0 at Chelsea on 15 April but have bounced back in perfect fashion with three consecutive victories – all with clean sheets – including a 2-0 triumph over Merseyside rivals Liverpool.

Despite staying up, Everton’s future off the pitch remains in question as a protracted takeover by Miami-based investment firm 777 Partners has still not been completed.

Dyche said: “The mentality of the players has grown – it is fair to say if we kept the consistent behaviours it will pay you back and it has done.

“We have not been as fluid as earlier in the season but have found wins and deserved them.”

Dyche was previously manager of Burnley for almost 10 years – guiding the club up to the Premier League twice – before being sacked in April 2022.

The 52-year-old led Everton to safety on the final day of last season and was asked where keeping them up again ranks in terms of his career achievements.

Dyche replied: “It certainly is my biggest one, to lead a group [from] where it was [to] where it is.

“It was different last season, but this season has been incredibly tough to see through the feeling and noise at times.

“I took a few hits myself but that is part of my job, to stay focused on the job in hand.

“Everton has become an easy story, the whipping boys of the Premier League. ‘What’s easy? Everton. Let’s get on them.’ Now we are beginning to change it.

“Let someone else have the negativity and story.”