MIKE Walker has been confirmed as the manager of Everton -- just hours
after controversially resigning the post at Norwich City. Walker cited
his ambition -- and the need for long-term security -- as reasons for
his move and has signed a three-and-a-half year contract.
But Norwich will be making an official complaint to the English
Football Association that Everton ''poached'' Walker away. ''We feel
Everton have effectively induced Mike Walker to take this action,'' said
Norwich chairman Robert Chase, ''and we will be sending an official,
written complaint.
''I am surprised Mike has walked away. I have got to know him well and
it surprises me anyone would walk away from a football club a day before
an important game.''
At a news conference at Goodison Park last night, Walker said:
''Norwich City have done very well, the players did excellently for me,
and the fans were magnificent. But Everton are one of the biggest clubs
in the country. I'm sure with a bit of work and attention we can return
to the rightful place.
''One thing I like to do is to try to play football in what I call the
right way. Everton have always been synonymous with that kind of play
and it looks like, hopefully, a good marriage.''
Everton have not won a game and have scored only two goals since the
resignation of Howard Kendall on December 4, and Walker admitted the
club were struggling. But though Marsh said funds would be available for
the new manager, even before the current takeover wrangle is resolved,
Walker hinted he might not be in a hurry to spend.
''I need to look at the players that are here. When I took over at
Carrow Road the team had just escaped relegation and with only two new
players we finished third the following season.
''There is a certain amount of work you can do with the players. A new
manager may be able to get more out of them just because it's a new man
with a different personality and a different way of doing things.''
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