On Friday, following a personal conversation with the Chairman and my fellow Board members, we agreed that I would step down from my post as Director of Football and as a member of the Everton Football Club Board.

This decision has taken some time and some consideration and was one of the most difficult I have faced in my career.

The Board and I agreed that there is a clear difference in the vision and direction for this beautiful club and, with that in mind, the decision was taken.

I want to thank everyone in the Club who I have worked closely with over the last three and a half years. There are a lot of talented people at Everton with huge passion and commitment to move the Club forward, both on and off the pitch.

I want to wish all of the squad every success, and I am convinced that there is enough quality to improve the current situation quickly.

It has been an honour for me to work at this fantastic club and I wish everyone associated with Everton the very best for the future.