By Cameron Wilson
Everton have offered “full support” to manager Rafael Benitez following the departure of director of football Marcel Brands.
Brands’ exit from his post was confirmed in the late hours of Sunday night.
The Dutchman joined the Toffees in 2018 from PSV Eindhoven.
He has been under serious pressure following the club’s recent form and his involvement with the club’s transfer policy.
Since joining, the club have spent £300m and have seen little progress during his reign.
Brands said in his final statement: “This decision has taken some time and some consideration and was one of the most difficult I have faced in my career.
“The Board and I agreed that there is a clear difference in the vision and direction for this beautiful club and, with that in mind, the decision was taken.”
"This decision has taken some time and some consideration and was one of the most difficult I have faced in my career."
A statement from Marcel Brands.
— Everton (@Everton) December 5, 2021
Everton are 16th in the Premier League with no win in eight.
A heavy defeat against city rivals Liverpool was enough to force change within the hierarchy.
The club will look to make progress with Benitez at the helm.
In a club statement, the Board said: “A strategic review of the football structure will now take place which will inform the best model for the club to proceed in the long term.
“In the meantime, the owner and board of directors will continue to provide our manager, Rafa Benitez, with their full support.”
