Belgium have rejected Everton’s approach to re-hire Roberto Martinez.
Martinez emerged as a surprise candidate for the vacant Goodison Park hot seat following Rafael Benitez’s departure after just 200 days in charge.
The Catalan’s sacking in 2016 was among Farhad Moshiri’s key decisions in his formative months as the Blues’ majority shareholder after a poor season.
He departed following a dismal run of just one win from their 10 games at the end of 2015/16, including their FA Cup semi-final exit to Manchester United.
But Everton’s attempt to revive links with Martinez hit an initial stumbling block in talks with the Royal Belgian Football Association on Monday.
A proposed job share which would allow the 48-year-old to divide his time between club duties and preparations for the World Cup were firmly rebuffed.
So, too, was a proposal that would see Martinez appointed on an interim basis until the end of the season, when Belgium have just one international friendly.
Despite the chastening nature of his original departure, the ex-Wigan Ahtletic manager is believed to be open to a surprise return to his former employers.
Duncan Ferguson, who was integrated into Everton’s first-team coaching setup by Martinez, is among several other candidates currently in the frame.
The ex-striker enjoyed an unbeaten four-game run in all competitions as caretaker between the tenures of Marco Silva and Carlo Ancelotti in 2019.
Ferguson’s one-time teammate and current Derby County manager Wayne Rooney has also emerged as a candidate, as has Roma boss Jose Mourinho.
Meanwhile Everton have confirmed the departure of Benitez’s backroom staff.
Assistant Paco de Miguel, analyst Antonio Gomez, head of sports science Jamie Harley and fitness coach Cristian Fernandez leave with immediate effect.