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Stefan Tonev
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Much-improved Everton stun Arsenal in Dyche’s debut
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Dyche was appointed following the departure of Frank Lampard

Sean Dyche’s Everton reign got off to a flying start as James Tarkowski’s header handed Premier League leaders Arsenal a shock 1-0 defeat at a raucous Goodison Park on Saturday.

The Toffees looked revitalized in their first outing under the former Burnley boss, and it was two of his former Clarets players who combined for the winner – Tarkowski powering Dwight McNeil’s corner home on the hour.

Arsenal were kept at arm’s length by Everton during an unusually disjointed display, with the deserved victory dragging Everton – at least temporarily – out of the relegation zone.

The Merseysiders picked up their first victory in 11 games in all competitions.

Having suffered just their second league defeat of the season, the Gunners could see their lead at the summit cut to two points when title rivals Manchester City face Tottenham on Sunday.

Visiting captain Martin Odegaard blazed over from a good position after 59 minutes, and Arsenal were punished a minute later as Tarkowski found the bottom-right corner with a fine header from McNeil’s right-wing corner.

The North London side introduced January additions Jorginho and Leandro Trossard in search of a leveller, but the latter’s 20-yard attempt, saved by Jordan Pickford, was as close as they came as their title hopes suffered a huge blow.