Soccer
Everton caretaker boss Leighton Baines praised the players’ commitment during their 2-0 victory over Peterborough United.
The build-up to the FA Cup third-round clash at Goodison Park was overshadowed by the news that Sean Dyche had been sacked after less than two years in charge.
Baines and club captain Seamus Coleman were placed in temporary charge for the visit of League One side Peterborough.
Nevertheless, the players responded as Beto broke the deadlock just before half-time, while Iliman Ndiaye’s last-gasp penalty sealed the Toffees’ progress into round four.
“It was a unique day in a lot of ways, but a nice moment for myself and Seamus and the players as well,” Baines told BBC Match of the Day.
“It being a winning one is definitely a nice moment. The management side is not something I have been striving for, but the opportunity arrived today to help out in the situation where the club needed someone, and I was more than happy to help out.
“The outcome of winning a game is always a positive one. The lads get to stay in the draw in a cup competition we are all desperate to be part of.
“The lads played well. You could see the commitment. They wanted to give the stadium and fans something they would enjoy watching. For the most part, the performance was positive.
“It has not been that difficult. This is what we do. Players play football and coaches coach. It was just a little different today. It is never nice when a manager loses his job, but then everyone had to get on with their jobs as well.
“I am not too sure about that [what is next for the club] right now. Things moved so quickly today. I have definitely not had time to think about what comes next.”
Two Everton Greats stepping up under the lights at Goodison Park.pic.twitter.com/x1NySCxM7a
— Everton (@Everton) January 9, 2025
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