Everton will avoid drop 'no problem' - Ferguson

Former Everton striker and coach Duncan Ferguson says Sean Dyche's side will avoid relegation "no problem" despite their 10-point deduction for breaching Premier League financial rules.

"How good are they doing at the moment?" Ferguson, currently manager of Inverness Caledonian Thistle, told BBC Radio Scotland's Sportsound. "Unfortunately, they got the points deduction, which I knew was coming, but they'll still be safe - they've got a good enough squad, no problem."

The points deduction takes Everton, who have won six of their last nine games, from 14th down to second bottom in the table.

However, Ferguson has backed fans to "just keep supporting the club, as they always do".

"They are the most loyal supporters in the land," the Scot said. "They have had a few knocks over the years to say the least.

"They are a resilient bunch, the Scousers down there, and Everton will be well safe this year.

"I don't know the ins and outs of what the problem is, but 10 points does seem heavy. Obviously they will appeal it and hopefully they can get that reduced."

Ferguson's first managerial job ended this summer after only 18 games during which Forest Green Rovers won once as they failed to avoid relegation from League One.

However, going into Saturday's game against Dunfermline Athletic, Caley Thistle are unbeaten in five games since the 51-year-old took charge in September.

Asked if he would fancy the Everton job one day, Ferguson stressed his commitment to the Scottish Championship club but added: "You never know down the line."