Brennan Johnson Everton starting place questioned after underwhelming Arsenal display

Brennan Johnson’s place in the Everton starting XI has come under scrutiny after another underwhelming display in Saturday’s 2-0 defeat at Arsenal.

The Wales international returned to David Moyes’ side at the Emirates but struggled to make an impact before Tyler Dibling replaced him in the second half. Johnson’s form was subsequently discussed on BBC Radio Merseyside, with the latest Toffees Unwrapped asking whether he should now be taken out of the starting XI.

Johnson yet to find his best Everton form

There was little in the Arsenal performance to quieten that debate. Johnson managed only nine touches in 72 minutes, and Everton rarely found a way of bringing him into the game as Mikel Arteta’s side controlled much of the contest.

It continued a quiet start to life at Everton for a player brought in to add pace and a greater goal threat from wide areas. Johnson is still waiting for his first Premier League goal or assist for the club, and the pressure for places means Moyes does have alternatives if he decides a change is needed.

Dibling is the obvious one. The 20-year-old replaced Johnson at the Emirates and showed a willingness to carry the ball at Arsenal’s defence, although his opportunities have also been limited since arriving at Everton.

None of that means Johnson should be written off. He has previously shown he can score goals at Premier League level and there is plenty of the season remaining for him to find his rhythm, but Moyes must decide whether keeping him in the side is the best way to make that happen.

Thursday’s Carabao Cup tie against Newcastle at the Hill Dickinson allows the Everton manager to freshen things up. Johnson’s place on the right is likely to be one of the positions receiving particular attention.

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