Marcelo Bielsa is Everton’s No 1 choice to replace Frank Lampard after his sacking

Everton are seriously considering turning to Marcelo Bielsa, with the former Leeds United manager their favoured choice to replace Frank Lampard.

Toffees majority shareholder Farhad Moshiri sacked Lampard in a phone call today and the club now hope Bielsa can revive the mood around Goodison Park in the same way he did with Leeds.

Argentine coach Bielsa, 67, rescued Leeds from a 16-year absence from the Premier League, working his magic to revitalise the club and take them to promotion within two seasons in charge.

Former Leeds United boss Marcelo Bielsa is now one of the favourites to take over at Everton

He then led them to a ninth-place finish in their first season back in the top flight.

He has been out of work since last February, despite a number of other offers, and maintains ‘hero’ status at Elland Road and with his former club Newell’s Old Boys, who named their stadium after him.

His high-tempo football style is seen as the way forward in a relegation battle that has turned toxic for the club.

Bielsa will demand support in the transfer market and new recruits as Everton fight for survival.

A transfer strategy is being considered and Bielsa will need to be convinced before agreeing to take over and return to the Premier League.

Bielsa is likely to be seen as a popular arrival by Toffees supporters, given his attacking style which is likely to win over fans who have been left frustrated at their team’s demise this season.

Everton are just two points adrift of safety with just 15 points from 20 Premier League games this term. 

Although Bielsa is Everton’s No 1 choice, former Burnley manager Sean Dyche remains the favourite to take over – just ahead of Bielsa – according to bookmakers.

Other managers in contention include former striker Wayne Rooney as well as ex-boss David Moyes who are also in contention for sensational returns to Goodison Park.

More to follow…