Robert Elstone is delighted to take up the position as Everton acting CEO.

"A big part of the reason for me joining the club is that an opportunity like this would come along, and I'm hoping it will be made permanent," he said.

The chairman himself, Bill Kenwright, has every confidence in his new appointment.

"Robert has been with us for more than three years and is, I believe, now fully conversant with the very special demands associated with running a club of our stature," he stated.