‘Carried Away’: Pundit Analyses Saints Defeat as Reality Check

Former Premier League midfielder, now talkSPORT pundit Darren Ambrose believes that Everton are better-placed aiming for a top-six position in the Premier League following their 2-0 defeat to Southampton.

The Toffees were condemned to defeat after first-half strikes from Saints captain James Ward-Prowse and striker Che Adams wrapped up all three points for the Saints – prompting the pundit to view speculation surrounding Everton’s future as getting ‘carried away’ with talk of a title challenge.

Twitter: “They should be aiming for Top 6.”

“You do get carried away when you start so well…”

“The lack of squad d… https://t.co/xVh2tWR9Oe (@talkSPORT)

The Toffees presently remain at the top of the Premier League, albeit only on goal difference. Current champions and local rivals Liverpool currently match their goal tally, but the Toffees have nonetheless picked up thirteen points out of a possible eighteen from their first six fixtures.

Despite downplaying talk of a genuine title challenge, Darren Ambrose did firmly express that Everton remain realistic contenders to secure a European spot at the conclusion of the season.

Carlo Ancelotti’s side had been discussed as title contenders this season but were offered a reality check by Southampton, who made it three wins from their last four off the back of their victory.

The Toffee’s depth has suffered as of late; both Lucas Digne and Richarlison face suspensions following red-card offences over the Toffee’s last two fixtures. Their woes have also been compounded with both Jonjoe Kenny and club captain Seamus Coleman out through injury, leaving a depth crisis at right-back. Consequentially, Ben Godfrey was forced to fill in out of position.

Read Everton Verdict

Cooling talk of a title challenge is apt. The defeat to the Saints certainly exposed a weakness in squad depth and how frailty through injury can affect performances.

Nonetheless, Everton’s top-of-the-table status is indicative of Everton’s ability to hit real highs in terms of their potential to compete with the traditional top six.

As a result, Ambrose is more than justified in setting a top six place as an achievable but nonetheless impressive target for Everton. If heads remain up and more peripheral players can step up, the Toffees can get back to winning ways.