Sean Dyche has a message for Everton's out-of-contract stars
Sean Dyche claims Everton’s players should be even more fired up if their contracts are due to expire in the summer.
Everton have 11 players with just six months left on their deals, including Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Abdoulaye Doucoure, Idrissa Gueye and Michael Keane. Contract talks are on hold until American Dan Friedkin completes his takeover this month and decides who he want to keep.
Dyche, whose own deal also expires in the summer, knows the uncertainty can be unsettling, but says his players should use it as motivation. “Whatever way you look at it, whether you’re in contract or out of contract, your aim should be to play well, get in the team and play consistently for the club,” said the Everton boss.
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“That shouldn’t change and you could even argue that if their contract is up, it’s that extra bit of incentive. Obviously, it’s not been so helpful with the change of ownership because you’ve got to wait and see what the new owners want to do.
“If your contract is up and nothing is happening or not a lot of noise is happening about you, you need to create noise. It’s not a terrible situation by any means or a questionable situation, it’s just the reality at the moment.”
Calvert-Lewin is Everton’s most high-profile player in this position and the former England striker was wanted by Newcastle in the summer. He will be 28 when his Blues deal expires in July and Dyche has ruled out trying to get something for him next month to avoid losing him on a free in the summer.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin of Everton
Dominic Calvert-Lewin's Everton contract expires in June ( Image: Ed Sykes/Getty Images)
Dyche is pleased with Calvert-Lewin’s contribution, even though he has only scored twice in 14 appearances this season, and says Friedkin could make a play to persuade him to stay. “The situation is an ongoing one,” he said. “Like with most players, we’ll have to wait and see.
“He’s got his things to think about, the club have too. Obviously, possibly, the new ownership is still not there yet and that might play its part. All those things have to combine. He’s working hard, we want him to continue to keep working hard.
“That bit is a given and so it should be. He’s part of a competitive group. I’ve been down this road many times with players and I’m sure the club have as well. We’re managing it the best we can and we’ll see what comes next.”
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