Stuart Pearce’s eye-catching verdict on Everton, fresh developments over David Moyes’ future and the club’s January transfer plans have provided plenty of talking points on Monday.
Saturday’s 2-0 defeat by Chelsea remains part of the discussion, particularly over Moyes’ use of his squad, but Everton’s longer-term ambitions have also come into focus. Here is the latest from Read Everton.
Pearce: Everton are a striker away from Europe
Perhaps the strongest claim of the day came from Stuart Pearce, who believes Everton are only a striker away from possessing a side capable of qualifying for European football.
Pearce was part of talkSPORT’s commentary team for the Chelsea game, and his assessment puts the focus firmly on Everton’s options at centre-forward. Thierno Barry has scored three Premier League goals this season but remains Moyes’ only recognised senior striker following Beto’s departure.
Everton still planning for January
That striker question also features prominently in Everton’s reported plans for the January transfer window. Despite uncertainty surrounding The Friedkin Group’s future, Everton reportedly intend to strengthen Moyes’ squad if the current ownership remains in place. A centre-forward is said to be a priority, with Esteban Lepaul and Dion Beljo among those being monitored.
There is no indication that an offer has been made for either player, but the report suggests Everton’s recruitment work is continuing despite events at ownership level.
Read the full story: Everton January transfer stance emerges despite ownership uncertainty
Moyes contract talks reportedly delayed
The ownership uncertainty could have implications for Moyes himself. The Everton manager is in the final year of his contract and revealed last week that discussions over an extension had reached “a bit of a lull”. It has since been reported that TFG’s exploration of a potential sale of its controlling interest has delayed a decision over his future.
There has been no confirmation that negotiations have ended and Moyes has stressed that his immediate priority is continuing Everton’s progress.
Read the full story: Moyes contract talks hit new Everton obstacle amid ownership uncertainty
Chelsea defeat leaves questions for Moyes
Saturday’s defeat has meanwhile prompted debate over Everton’s squad depth and Moyes’ use of the options available to him. Everton correspondent Patrick Boyland pointed to the size of the squad as important context but also highlighted “self-inflicted wounds” in the performance against Chelsea. Moyes waited until the 85th minute to introduce Brennan Johnson and Christian Norgaard, while several attacking and midfield options remained unused.
One of those unused players was Hayden Hackney. The summer signing remained on the bench as Everton searched for a response after Pedro Neto put Chelsea ahead, despite having featured in six of the club’s opening seven league matches. It does not follow that Hackney’s introduction would have changed the result, but the decision has provided another selection talking point for Moyes.
Rohl gives Moyes another right-back option
There could also be a decision to make at right-back before Saturday’s trip to Arsenal. Ainsley Maitland-Niles was withdrawn after 55 minutes against Chelsea, with Merlin Rohl moving into his position. Moyes subsequently said the German “probably did better” at right-back and highlighted the quality of two crosses he delivered during the second half.
Read the full story: Maitland-Niles faces Everton selection threat after Chelsea defeat
Rohl’s versatility has become increasingly useful to Moyes. He started further forward against Chelsea for tactical reasons before switching positions and has now been used in several roles since arriving at Everton.
Read the full story: Moyes makes telling Merlin Rohl admission after Everton tactical switch
Everton now turn their attention towards Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday. Moyes’ side have 10 points from seven Premier League games and will be looking for an immediate response after their unbeaten league start was ended by Chelsea.
For all the latest Everton news, transfer updates and analysis, visit our Everton news page.
Comments.
Loading comments…