Sean Dyche deserves at least a mention in the manager of the season conversation after steering Everton to safety despite two points deductions as he admits ‘it gives me pride’

Sean Dyche may not have been challenging for the title or fighting for the top four like many of his contemporaries. 

But after securing their Premier League status for another year, the Toffees boss has earned at least a mention in the manager of the season conversation.

They’ve suffered two points deductions and a club record 13-game winless run but Dyche was the steady hand needed to steer the club to safety.

‘It gives me pride to think I’ve managed through that situation,’ said Dyche, after Idrissa Gana Gueye’s goal gave them victory over Brentford.

‘The reason why it’s my best season as a manager is because you don’t even know the half of it. Some of it is private, some of it is best kept away.’

Idrissa Gueye’s goal helped the Toffees beat Brentford and secured their top-flight status

At Burnley he led the club to two promotions and delivered European football. He added: ‘It’s a different animal. The expectation is different.

‘You have to take the knocks. I’ve taken a few, the players have taken a few and the club have taken a few.’