Joe Royle leaves Everton

Joe Royle has stepped down from his role as Everton’s professional development co-ordinator after three years in the role.

Following an initial report by Everton fan site Everton That, the BBC’s Greg O’Keefe has since confirmed Royle decided to resign after David Unsworth missed out on the permanent manager’s job at Goodison Park.

However, the report also claims Royle is close friends with new Toffees boss Sam Allardyce and has left on good terms.

Royle, who was part of the 1970 Championship winning side and won the FA Cup as manager in 1995, returned to the club for a third tine in 2014 during Roberto Martinez’s spell in charge.

He has since worked closely alongside Unsworth in the Academy, helping to bring through the next generation of young players. The 68-year-old took joint charge of the first-team with Unsworth after Martinez’s sacking in May 2016, helping the team to a 3-0 final day win over Norwich.

Royle also assisted Unsworth during his five-week spell as caretaker manager prior to Allardyce’s arrival last Thursday.