Ronald Koeman named Everton manager

The 53-year-old signs three-year contract with new club

LIVERPOOL: Dutchman Ronald Koeman became the new manager of English Premier League club Everton on Tuesday after his previous club Southampton reluctantly agreed to release him a year early from his contract.

OFFICIAL: #EFC is pleased to confirm the appointment of manager @RonaldKoeman on a 3-year contract! #WelcomeRonaldhttps://t.co/fDdNUsO9Mf

— Everton (@Everton) June 14, 2016

The 53-year-old -- who guided Southampton to their highest finish in the Premier League of sixth last term -- signed a three-year contract with Everton and replaces Roberto Martinez, who was sacked just before the end of the Premier League campaign.

GRAPHIC: Here's new #EFC boss @ronaldkoeman's career as a player and a manager in facts and figures. #WelcomeRonald pic.twitter.com/hOfZWlaLUG

— Everton (@Everton) June 14, 2016

CAREER: ... And see his record as a manager so far. #WelcomeRonald pic.twitter.com/TkcWpiIeDZ

— Everton (@Everton) June 14, 2016

Koeman -- who had said earlier this year he would see out the last year of his contract with the Saints -- has been lured to Everton by the promise by Everton supremo, Iranian billionaire Farhad Moshiri, of more than £100 million (125 million euros, $141 million) for new signings.