Everton sack Benitez after Norwich loss

Everton have fired manager Rafa Benitez following Saturday’s 2-1 defeat at Norwich.

The Toffees have lost nine of their last 12 Premier League games and sit six points from the relegation zone in 15th place.

Ex-Liverpool boss Benitez spent just six months at Goodison Park, after replacing Carlo Ancelotti in June.

Picking up 10 points from their opening four league games, the Merseysiders made a promising start under the Spaniard.

A winless run in October and November heightened tensions however, a 2-1 victory over Arsenal looked to have relieved pressure on Benitez.

But discontent continued into the new year, with full-back Lucas Digne, sold to Aston Villa this week, outspoken in his criticism of the 61-year-old.

The humbling loss at Carrow Road proved to be the final straw.

“Everton Football Club can confirm the departure of Rafael Benitez as First Team manager,” the statement read.

“An update on a permanent replacement will be made in due course.”