Walcott reveals key Ferguson message that spurred Everton to victory

Everton winger Theo Walcott has revealed how a simple message from interim boss Duncan Ferguson was enough to inspire the Toffees to victory over Chelsea on Saturday.

A brace from Dominic Calvert-Lewin after Richarlison’s earlier header were enough as Ferguson made an immediate impact in the dugout following Marco Silva’s departure earlier in the week.

Speaking to BT Sport after the game, Walcott added that such a performance was a return to the “Everton way”.

“Duncan has come in and the club is his heart. That was the Everton way, we play for each other and Dominic was immense,” the winger said.

“We wanted intensity and pressure and to get in behind them. We put them under pressure and made them make mistakes.

“Duncan said go out and play your game and enjoy it. As much as it sounds a cliche, that is what we did.”

Calvert-Lewin was also asked about the result and said that the effort – which looked as if it had been lacking in recent matches – was the key factor.

“It was a massive game for us and I have a very close relationship with Duncan. He has stuck by me for the three years I have known him.

“The most important thing was to go out and give 100%.”

Meanwhile, Ferguson has spoken of the emotion he felt at taking charge of Everton for the first time, having scored 72 goals for the Blues as a player.

Also speaking to BT Sport after the game, the Scot said: “It was incredible today, I’ve never felt anything like that in my life.

“It was unbelievable, what an atmosphere. It’s an experience I’ll never forget.”

Everton’s tough run continues next weekend when they play Manchester United at Old Trafford.