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'If they want me, they must call me' | Pereira addresses Everton links

One graffiti message read 'Pereira out, Lampard in'



'If they want me, they must ca...
Soccer

'If they want me, they must call me' | Pereira addresses Everton links

Vitor Pereira says he is not perturbed by fans reaction to his possible appointment as Everton manager.

The Portuguese - who has managed Porto to the Primeira Liga title on two occasions - was most recently in charge at Fenerbache.

He was sacked shortly before Christmas.

Pereira has since emerged as one of the favorites to land the vacant job at Goodison Park, following the sacking of Rafa Benitez.

However, the reaction from fans has been less than positive, with some posting their opposition via graffiti on walls at the ground.

One read 'Pereira out, Lampard in' with Frank Lampard among the others linked to the role.

In an unusual move, Pereira took to Sky Sports News earlier today to discuss his possible appointment and address fans concerns.

"In my opinion, some of the critics are not for me," he said about opposition to his arrival on Merseyside.

"They don't know me very well, my work or me as a person. They don't know my CV.

"I worked in a lot of countries. Different clubs, different levels. We got several titles.

"Before you start work, before you know the person, you cannot judge. But I understand the feeling of supporters.

"In the last year, the club didn't get good results. It is normal they are not happy. But when I came here, I came with spirit, intention, passion to bring again good football.

"This is my goal. This is my target."

When asked about his opinion when seeing the graffiti, Pereira admitted he was perturbed.

"This is the first time in my career that I see these kind of things. I have never had these kind of comments about me.

"I have my CV and My CV speaks for itself.

"But I think these critics are not directing at me. It is the environment now because the club is not in a good position.

"The supporters have passion. This passion is the power of this club. I remember very well when I watched the games of Everton a few years ago.

"Sometimes, the supporters won the game. The spirit of the supporters.

"Passion in football can be to the positive side or the negative side. In this moment, a manager should bring this positive passion from supporters. I don't take it as a personal attack.

"I will move forward with my life. If they want me, they must call me."

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Everton Frank Lampard Premier League Sky Sports Vitor Pereira