The timing of Everton’s decision comes as a surprise, just hours after the transfer deadline closed and they added Roma midfielder Zara Kramzar to their ranks.

Sorensen has been involved in recruitment and many of their additions over the past two windows have suited his requests.

But the feeling a change of direction was needed has been lingering at Everton for several months.

Supporters have grown increasingly frustrated by their performances with Sorensen seemingly still unsure on his best XI and often using players out of position.

His experimental style has been effective before and he should be praised for his management last season when Everton’s injury crisis left a thin squad amid a time when the club were awaiting the completion of the Friedkin Group takeover.

However, expectations grew this year when investment came, signings were made and the squad had enough quality to be challenging further up the table.

They have been dragged into an unnecessary relegation battle and Everton have acted now in the hope that they can do enough to stabilise their position before rebuilding in the summer.

Sorensen’s overall time at Everton has shown his capabilities as a coach but the inability to field a consistent team has harmed his progression.