An open letter to Roberto

Brian Viner 05/03/2016 157comments  |  Jump to last

Dear Roberto,

I am writing this on a crowded train, on my long, weary way home from Goodison Park, where I have just watched Everton lose yet again on their own turf, this time 3-2 to West Ham. Like so many of Everton’s games this season, it was a cracker for the neutrals. But I’m not a neutral.

It will take me three hours to get home. But that’s nothing compared with the two Blues I shared a cab with on the way to the ground from Lime Street. They had come from Norway. And even that is a hop compared with the lad whose taxi I shared on the way back to Lime Street. He had travelled all the way from New York City, just for two days, just for the game.

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Of course, that’s the gamble one takes as a football fan. I understand that. And I don’t doubt that you and the players are hurting after squandering yet another commanding lead. But I do hope you might spare a thought for all those who make such a huge investment of time and money to come and see you, week after week. And whose pay-off is a string of painful home defeats.

Now, having said all that, let me add that I like the cut of your jib, Roberto. I think you’re a decent, honourable man, and you understand what it means to follow Everton. Everyone thinks their club is unique, but only Evertonians know that theirs really is. You seem to get that. Moreover, you have added flair to the solidity David Moyes brought. You do get your teams playing entertaining football. I appreciate that.

But I think now is the time to look into your soul, to discover whether you are a man of humility. Because if you are, you will surely accept that defeats such as today’s are down to nobody but you. It was disingenuous of you, perhaps even cowardly, to say that big Rom’s missed penalty – ghastly as it was – was the main reason we lost this afternoon. Players do miss pens. It happens.

However, what I can’t remember happening in my 45 years as a diehard Everton fan is seeing a team so repeatedly and catastrophically incapable of protecting a lead. And that has to be your fault. I watched today’s game, and then discussed it afterwards, in the company of several distinguished ex-pros. I won’t name them because I wouldn’t want to embarrass them. But like me, they were flabbergasted when you replaced Lennon with Niasse.

Like me, and I should think virtually everyone in the stadium, they could see that if Lennon had to come off at all (arguable, given how well he was playing, and how hard he works) then the situation – 2-0 up but a player down – screamed for someone with the experience and defensive instincts to guard our advantage. Barry, in other words. Or even Osman. Not a striker new to the Premier League (who, by the way, looked thoroughly out of his depth from the moment he came on).

I imagine you’d counter that attack is the best form of defence, that Niasse’s job was to hold the ball up, that closing a game down smacks of negativity (which you hate). And you have other arguments in your locker. You can point to your extensive coaching qualifications, to your FA Cup winner’s medal with lowly Wigan, to the fact that you see the players every day in training, and we don’t.

But don’t let any of that blind you to what is glaringly obvious to everyone who loves Everton perhaps even more than you do. There is no shame in protecting a lead. It is just as much of a footballing art as establishing a lead. But, manifestly, you don’t know how to do it, how to re-organise your personnel, how to make match-saving substitutions. So please, be humble. Find someone who can teach you, and do it soon, for your own benefit as much as the club’s.

Otherwise you will never be the success in management that you plainly aspire to be, unless of course you become the manager of a convenience store. You’ll be great at that, because you never shut up shop. Joking aside, though, you might find that as new investors lead Everton towards a brave new world, you’re not part of the advance.

With best wishes,

Brian

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Reader Comments (157)

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Gerry Morrison
1 Posted 05/03/2016 at 23:35:39
Do the decent thing, resign.
Dave Williams
2 Posted 05/03/2016 at 23:42:03
I think I know the guys you refer to Brian – distinguished indeed they are!

I have just got home after a 270-mile drive (reading your fine book about the side of the 70s on the coach) and echo your views. We played really well until the substitution after which they had far too much time on the ball. Niasse ,contrary to what he said when he arrived at Goodison, didn't work at all let alone work hard! One midfielder down already we were swamped and the defence which had looked decent up till then capitulated.

Guys who have supported Roberto are on the turn now and when you look at our home record over the last two seasons you can see why. A day at the match costs a lot in terms of cash, time and brownie points with the wife and for the regulars who have seen only 4 wins but a dreadful seven losses this season we are reaching a point where something has to give. My day at the match took up 16 hours so I can imagine the disappointment of the guys to whom you have referred- they came an awful long way at a heavy cost to watch something which promised much and then fell desperately flat.

Does Roberto realise that this has to stop or is he the stubborn individual who so many ToffeeWebbers believe is too intransigent to change. The problem is of course that Lukaku will not hang around a mid table side and we need him to stay. I suspect Chelsea next week is the crucial moment- win and we can smell the silverware. Lose and the season will be seen as a disaster .

Ron Sear
3 Posted 05/03/2016 at 23:42:21
Brian, there comes a point where the kind of courtesy you have displayed here starts displaying the core features of Neville Chamberlain’s appeasement policies. Sorry but Martinez has now, other than with an extremely small number of individuals, completely lost the fanbase. It is only going to get a lot nastier and vicious from this moment on and the sooner this guy vanishes the better.

All talk from supporters from this point on should be aimed at getting the Everton management to stand up and recognise the obvious. Everybody without exception I talked to on the way back from this catastrophic exhibition seemed to to understand that he turning point has been reached.

Tony Hill
4 Posted 05/03/2016 at 23:54:35
Nice piece, Brian. I agree with Ron; we have to show some of the ruthlessness that the unmentionables over the road show in these situations, indeed would have shown a long while ago.

We are always soft but if we do not act now to relieve RM of his duties then we will rue it. Waiting till the season ends is pointless because he will not change, not ever. Winning the FA Cup – highly improbable in my view – should make no difference either. This decent man (as far as I can tell) is not competent in his job. It is no kindness to anyone to prolong the inevitable.

Johnny Rainford
5 Posted 05/03/2016 at 23:59:58
Yeh, nicely communicated that, Brian.

Best wishes from Hillside.

John Austin
6 Posted 05/03/2016 at 00:03:36
Brian. I hope you put a first class stamp on that letter and post it to RM. I doubt he'll be logging on to ToffeeWeb this evening. Top marks to all EFC fans who travel so far to watch the games. You all deserve so much better.

Ron - I agree with you. The line has been crossed. There is real anger brewing. As I said on another thread, winning the cup will not change my views about RM. He has to go. Tottenham and Leicester are no better than us man for man. What they have got is good management. It's not rocket science to figure that one out.

Dave Abrahams
7 Posted 06/03/2016 at 00:11:55
An FA Cup final win should make no difference to Martinez's position, he is indifferent to the mess he is making as Everton's manager, he should go immediately.
Mark Riding
8 Posted 06/03/2016 at 00:23:59
Absolutely spot on this article. Bang on.
Dick Fearon
9 Posted 05/03/2016 at 00:28:29
Just a few months in charge and coping with a massive injury list Klopp has completely revitalised the RS. Most of the players he is forced to use would not find a place in the Everton squad.

He has them playing a simple uncomplicated style based on speed, fitness and determination to get the ball into attacking zones as quickly as possible.

From kick off to final whistle those qualities ripped City apart. For the same reasons plus the fact that Klopp and Hiddink are so much more tactically aware than Martinez I am not looking forward to our meetings with Chelsea and the RS. It will be like lambs to the slaughter.

John Raftery
10 Posted 06/03/2016 at 00:35:31
Those of us who have retained some hope that Roberto might learn lessons from earlier defeats realised today that he does not possess the wisdom or the humility to do so. There is never any acknowledgement in his post match interviews that he may have made a wrong decision with a substitution. The decision to bring on Niasse, thereby reducing our midfield to Besic and McCarthy, was ridiculous in the extreme.

The manager's failings do not absolve the players of their responsibilities. For a forward to earn two yellow cards in the first half hour was shameful. The penalty miss was truly incompetent. The defending in the last 15 minutes was really pathetic. The goalkeeping was poor was well. So much for the theory that replacing Howard would give our defenders greater confidence. We looked as shaky as ever. Both Leicester and Spurs have better managers but they also have better players who apply themselves.

Andy McNabb
11 Posted 06/03/2016 at 00:42:16
Great letter, Brian - written with dignity and common sense. Maybe you should have held off for a day or so and we could have somehow added our names via TW?

I think many, like me, would have put our signatures alongside yours.

I get the impression that when we go 2-0 up, opposition teams rub their hands together and mutter something along the lines of "points in the bag".

Iain Love
12 Posted 06/03/2016 at 01:14:59
Down to 10 men, winning position, I have NEVER seen a manager bring another attacking player on. The situation screams for a wise defensive minded player who can organise the team. It’s so simple Lukaku "Sorry lad but that was an awful pen, early bath for you", "Gareth get on and sort it out".

Words cannot express how I feel and how it’s ruined my day, silly really but non the less true.

Bobby you haven’t got a clue, nice bloke but please do one.

John Daley
13 Posted 06/03/2016 at 02:00:01
There have been a few open letters to Roberto this season and they always lead me to wonder, if they were actually sent, how would he respond? I've now decided: probably via a recorded message complete with Mission Impossible style warning saying 'this tape will randomly self destruct at some stage during the second half'.

Brian, I feel your frustration and this season has long since become another arduous slog. Our home form has been nothing short of a disgrace and the hard luck stories should no longer wash with anyone.

Derek Thomas
14 Posted 06/03/2016 at 02:07:46
Brian; well put, but it's not going to happen. He's been saying, it seems like forever, different variations of; 'No Change'. Because The Philosophy can't be wrong...If it isn't working, just add more Philosophy, like it was bread and yeast.
Eric Myles
15 Posted 06/03/2016 at 02:35:14
John #10, Barkley was so bad you didn't notice he was on the pitch as well?
Pat Finegan
16 Posted 06/03/2016 at 04:32:42
I traveled from Virginia, USA to the Norwich debacle. Cost me around a grand (US$). That display would have been overpriced at 5 quid.

Today was even worse and I feel truly sick to think that people traveled such a great distance to support our club, only to be let down like that. I had a right to complain after Norwich but today’s display demonstrated a different level of ineptitude.

Roberto has to go. For himself, for the club, for the season ticket holders, for those traveling... He absolutely needs to go.

David Pearl
17 Posted 06/03/2016 at 06:08:51
Actually I am probably alone in saying that I agreed with all Martinez's substitutions. I even liked the way we played with 3 at the back... due to the absence of Barry, he bought in Stones as someone that could play out of defence (perhaps).

Stones coming off and being replaced by Besic also met with my approval – and it also cemented my thinking that he has to find a place for Besic if fit. Let's face it, for 75 minutes we were actually great! I thought Niasse might work well with Lukaku and I saw a few nice touches between them.

Where we lost it, in my opinion, isn’t with the manager but with the players. Not just starting with the missed penalty but the amount of balls that were allowed to rain in from the flanks. As soon as the first went in, we were in trouble (and probably tired after a lot of effort). Perhaps another defender to help stop the crosses would've been an idea but still, come on!

Why would Martinez think that for 12 minutes we would implode and forget that we have to actually close down and stop the supply, not relying on the defence to head clear? No one can argue the record we have at home, and the opposite away?? It's all mental, it has to be, or there wouldn’t be such a difference in results.

I think the players also need to take a long hard look at themselves... not just the manager. I was watching Sky yesterday when one of the panel was asked about what signings or positions we need to go for if we are to get increased transfer funds. All that was answered was a couple of squad players. Are we really that good?? Or is it all down to our manager – because I’m pretty sure that Martinez wouldn’t be telling Barkley to stay off his man and turn his back to the ball.

Paul Kennedy
18 Posted 06/03/2016 at 07:39:18
I echo all the hurt and pain that has gone into the posts but the truth is football really does not care about the fans – they are a by-product now. We have got Martinez and he is not going anywhere until Bill departs.

It's very sad when you hear footballers (Deeney at Watford) saying, if they did not get promoted, he would have to leave; the fans cannot just up and leave!

I would just like to thank Roberto for spoiling yet another weekend. Why do I look forward to games when I should know the clown will cock it up for us!! Really now is the time to go while he still has an ounce of dignity.

Ian Hollingworth
19 Posted 06/03/2016 at 07:50:02
Why has he not been sacked yet?
Tony Abrahams
20 Posted 06/03/2016 at 08:17:28
Martinez, has got some very good qualities, but I don't think he is manager material.

I think he might make a great coach, especially at youth development level, but he's definitely not a leader of men.

Simon Roberts
21 Posted 06/03/2016 at 08:21:13
Time to go, Mr Martinez! Your decisions and tactics at times are wrong and they are costing us dearly... it has happened too many times this season!!!!!
Rob Clayton
22 Posted 06/03/2016 at 08:26:32
Excellent letter mate, nailed it, you’ve said what I feeling. Very fair, even handed but from the heart. I desperately want Bob to do well, I really do, but I have doubts though, I really do.

Lennon!!!!! The guy was having a great game, don’t bring him off!

Closing/ shutting down games, a major area of development for ’Bobby Brown shoes’.

What a thoroughly frustrating season. The best crop of individuals we’ve had for years, nowhere near the best team.

Steve O'Malley
23 Posted 06/03/2016 at 08:42:49
Brian. Thank you for level-headed non-vindictive approach. Too often on this site unfortunately there is an aggression that goes beyond passion for the club.

I am of a similar vintage to yourself in fact I am almost 10 years ahead of you in terms of following the Blues. What you have penned in that letter in my humble opinion is perfect and I can only wish/hope that somehow Roberto gets to read it.

Deep down I truly believe he understands what we Blues are about but I have lost count of the times that I have thought he would learn from his glaringly obvious mistakes. Unfortunately I am close to joining the ever growing band of doubters that he can turn it all around. I would love to be proved wrong.

Peter Mills
24 Posted 06/03/2016 at 08:49:38
Brian, a very measured and diplomatically worded letter, particularly so given your weariness. I wonder if it is a bit too polite, too gentlemanly?

I'm not sure I agree with you about Sr Martinez being decent and honourable. This is the same guy who decided he wasn't the right man to pull Wigan out of the mire he landed them in. The man who has consistently blamed everything but himself and his nonsensical footballing philosophy for the shambolic last 18 months. He is simply a highly paid employee who is failing at his job, and I doubt he is going to fall on his sword. He will have to be pushed.

I wonder if a forum like TW is actually counter-productive in a situation like this? We can all sit at home after the match, or on the train home, and tap out our frustration on a keyboard, but I doubt the decision makers read this stuff. If they want to make a few bob for the club over the rest of the season I suggest they buy 20,000 cushions for hire at £1 a game, then the message can really be made.

Ian Burns
26 Posted 06/03/2016 at 08:57:47
Brian, extremely well articulated and written without any sign of vindictive aggression, which could easily have crept into this excellent communication. (For example had I the skill to write such a letter, I might not have been able to avoid emptying my spleen, such is my frustration.)

Having said all of the above Brian, your letter gives him a way out by asking that he appoints a coach to assist him. Your letter should have ended with a line in your own inimitable style, asking him to leave forthwith.

Christopher Dover
27 Posted 06/03/2016 at 09:05:26
David 17. Stones taken off because he was poor again, he nearly let West Ham in a couple of times with his keeping the ball too long. The sub was spot on with Besic coming on at the start of the second half, think even RM could see Stones was a liability.

As for Mirallas it seems if he tries very hard he becomes a liability a stupid first card and then not long later a worse challenge to get sent off, so after a very good previous performance he cannot now be picked for the next match.

The penalty, not being wise after the event but how many have no faith in Lakuka taking them? He does not use power and always looks likely to have it saved if the keeper holds his position.

Lennon, as I said on another post unless he was injured or totally knackered then why take him off? to be replaced with a forward who has not played more than a few minutes since joining us and as was said above looked lost, he did not work as Lennon had helping the defence and was not keeping the ball, do not blame him as he is not up to speed, looked like a rabbit in headlights.

So 10 men 2-0 up and RM puts an attacker on instead of helping out the defence who would be tiring, cannot make it up.

Finally on leaving at third goal there was nearly a fight in main stand (don’t know why) and the comments on RM and team play was more angry than I have ever heard.

Please RM go now before you are pushed.

Neil Gribbin
28 Posted 06/03/2016 at 09:05:32
Great letter, some great replies. Yesterday was one more kick to the teeth. Is it the manager? Is it the players? I can't agree with taking Lennon off for a forward. Shore the defence up, see the game out. To me, that is what he should have done. Time up for the manager for me. It won't happen till the end of the season though.
Pete Ward
29 Posted 06/03/2016 at 09:07:28
Kenwright has done great for Everton and I support him. He has to have the guts however to sack Martinez at the end of the season if we are to ever achieve Champions League.

We have the squad to achieve it, no question... but not the manager who can switch tactics when required. His style works to get leads or to claw back deficits, but not to control games when we are in front.

I think we have blown Europe this season and I fear a tough summer fighting to keep Rom! Stones is a goner but £40 mill plus is an awesome return for an over-rated kid. Martinez dropped Barry and a balanced formation to accommodate Stones and Funes Mori because he couldn’t justify dropping the latter.

Martinez won’t walk away so has to be sacked. Hiddink or Moyes would be the answer.

John Pickles
30 Posted 06/03/2016 at 09:14:01
I'm afraid Brian it is going to take more than a Defensive Coach.

I have been on the fence whether he should stay or go until recently. To his credit he has assembled a great bunch of players and got the best out of them, many of them, players the fans had written off.

The problem starts when the whistle is blown, his head just seems to fill with white noise, and it gets louder as the pressure increases in the match.

His tactics in reacting to situations are non existent He continues with what he planned to, which leads to the same sorry outcome. His substitutions are so baffling that no posters on this site can even form a theory as to what he is trying to achieve. It's as if his brain just goes into neutral when the pressure is applied.

You can't fix that with a Defensive Coach.

Dick Fearon
31 Posted 06/03/2016 at 09:26:46
David P @17, I accept your view that our problem vs WH was in a large part down to the players and not all of it down to Martinez. Mirallas was stupid to blatantly dive right in front of the referee for his well deserved first yellow then immediately pick up a second yellow for a reckless tackle also right in front of the ref.

From that point the crowds booing of Noble distracted from our volume of support. By getting in the refs face and demanding the referee apply the letter of the law Noble did what Jagielka should be doing but never does.

Lukaku’s penalty was not a mistake it was a needless attempt at a piss take. There he was for the umpteenth time this season, big brawny Barkley was stuffing up his corner kicks. The big galoots size would surely be more useful on the receiving end of them rather than Lennon the smallest player in the PL fulfilling that role. At corners or free kicks our defenders show all the composure of frightened rabbits. that is a clear demonstration of a lack of authority, organisation and communication between the players. Half decent coaching would have sorted those basic faults plus others years ago.

For example, we have two mature keepers both of whom when dealing with high balls are a jittery as cats on a hot tin roof. he failure of Martinez to identify and attempt to solve the above problems is clearly evident in game after game. One final thing that gets my goat about the man is his non communication with his bench load of assistant coaches.

Ben Goren
32 Posted 06/03/2016 at 09:32:35
Living in Asia I often have to stay up until the early hours to catch the game. It’s not fun then when you watch your team concede what should be a solid lead again and again and again.

I will agree that this is the strongest team I’ve ever seen since 1987 yet the big difference is that the '87 team was a squad designed to win the marathon, not a race. This team is exciting to watch but can’t hold a lead.

It’s rare to see a consensus of opinion amongst fans but all I’m seeing from Toffee fans is the same two points that everyone agrees: we can’t defend a lead, and there is one person largely responsible for this.

I want to see this team play again in the 2016-17 season but we won’t be able to keep players of calibre if they lose faith in the manager’s decisions. I join the consensus in saying that it’s time for RM to go. I want a manager who doesn’t sub a prolific hard-working winger for a complete newbie at 70+ mins, 10 men, and 2-0 up.

Jon Stern
33 Posted 06/03/2016 at 09:39:25
I wouldn’t even have wanted him to bring a defender on. We were bossing the game and 2-0 with no sign we were playing with a man less than West Ham. I’m okay with keeping some attacking force rather than parking the bus as we would always have a chance of more goals, it’s just that we looked far more like doing this with Lennon than Niasse.

Furthermore, to change the shape of the 10-man team from one which (with the substitution of Stones by Besic) looked perfectly balanced was stupid and cost us the match. The late Barry substitution was similarly stupid and unnecessary tinkering that also cost us the game.

Greg Hunt
34 Posted 06/03/2016 at 09:45:34
This thing about never seeing a manager bring on a striker with 10 men in a winning position: Moyes did it in one of his very first games, vs Bolton and in similar circumstances. Ferguson got himself sent off after twenty minutes, Bolton also had a man sent off on 30 minutes and then we went 2-0 up. Moyes brings on Chadwick for Blomqvist on 70 minutes. Bolton then get one back but Chadwick scores the goal to seal the win four minutes from the end. Remember as well that this was a massive game for us as both teams were struggling against relegation.

I genuinely thought we were unlucky yesterday. I wouldn't have taken Lennon off, but then I thought Martinez got other things right: it was the right decision to take Stones off and bring Besic on and change formation at half-time. At the same time, we seem to be consistently unlucky, and in the end, you have to come to the conclusion that it's more than luck, and yes, I think the manager's ultimately to blame. But let's not exaggerate and say he's doing weird things no other manager would do.

Peter Carpenter
35 Posted 06/03/2016 at 09:50:00
We should be waking up to a sunny morning with a warm glow of victory against the odds but, oh my god, it’s happened again. It’s hardly believable.

A good win, backing up promising investment news and with Goodison rocking again would have seen a totally different outlook on here, with a cup quarterfinal to come and still not that far off the top five or six. And we were only 13 minutes away from that outcome. 13 minutes could hardly produce such extremes of feelings.

From the start, three at the back with the full-backs pushing on looked good to me, I’m surprised it has taken him so long to try it. McCarthy on his own as the holding midfielder always seems to grow in my opinion. Barkley playing deeper could pull the strings with a balanced attack, Mirallas and Lennon either side of Lukaku. 1-0 up, what could go wrong?

Well, this season we know that something probably will go wrong but when it did we were coping well. The Stones change was sensible and four across the midfield was fine with Lennon joining the attack whenever possible. (By the way – someone referred to Stones’ body language on here, he lost the ball through overplaying near our goal, McCarthy had a go at him and he had a go back. Odd. What’s his case? It was his fault.)

There was nothing wrong with what we were doing until the Lennon substitution. Someone on a phone-in said he was knackered, RM suggested that too. I couldn’t tell, but even if he was, you would back him to be standing in the right place when that corner was only half-cleared and the second ball came in.

Okay, so replace him with like for like. Osman could have done that defensive job. Barry? Deulofeu could have chased like mad for the last 13 minutes. But Niasse? He ran around up front, presumably following instructions, away from the crucial action. The three across midfield were more stretched, the crosses came in and you know the rest.

Frustrating. More so than anything else this season because it could easily have been avoided. There were plenty of good performances from the players. 2-0 up, the only objective should be to stop the crosses and close out the game. He had the players to do it, so why won’t he?

Is it some weird counter-intuitive desire to prove that he has the secret formula and no-one else has? He will do it differently and everyone will eventually see his genius. Is he just awkward, stubborn, deluded or crazy?

It has happened too often now. When the crunch decisions come, he is getting them disastrously wrong and the consequences, come the end of the season, could be equally disastrous in terms of player departures.

Brian, you’re right – he needs to look into his soul and reflect on what is happening over and over again. I wonder what he would find? But, as you say, you need humility for that and I’m not sure that is one of his qualities.

Rob Halligan
36 Posted 06/03/2016 at 09:52:09
All very well these "Dear Roberto" letters. Someone should try a Dear Mr Kenwright" letter, and just tell him "Dear Bill, get rid of Martinez".
Keith Harrison
38 Posted 06/03/2016 at 09:56:51
Roberto has, in most instances, a good eye for young players. Move him to a 'director of footy' job upstairs, leave coaching and team management to someone who can do the job, and let's move forward as a club in this dawn of new hope. The alternative, I believe, is Adios.
Ian Riley
39 Posted 06/03/2016 at 09:57:31
Thank you, Brian. Send it with your season ticket renewal form! It still baffles me how he got the job. Relegated Wigan after years of trying. How he got an interview let alone the job. He played Kenwright as if it was a show in the west end, champions league my arse. Bullshit baffles brains comes to mind.

The new owner will have to sit with Kenwright and discuss his future. The league position, home form and defending is to compelling. Three years and no improvement. Dragging us closer to the exit door of the Premier League. Players will leave based on ambition not money. Give José a ring, he might laugh but it would pose the question and show ambition.

I would have loved it to have gone better for Martinez. Appears a warm, genuine nice guy. However the club comes first. This is not a knee jerk reaction but based on evidence. He has to go!!

James Byrne
40 Posted 06/03/2016 at 09:57:35
Unfortunately Roberto will find some way to convince himself (firstly) then the board and maybe the new owner, that the 2.3 loss to West Ham was "significant progress".

This Manager is so deluded, so arrogant and so full of himself that he's like a slimey politician who can talk his way out of anything.

If the Everton fans were allowed a Referendum on the future of the manager he would would surely be down the road.

Jim Bennings
41 Posted 06/03/2016 at 09:58:14
It gets no better the more you look at yesterday’s complete balls up.

It is almost like something from a segment out of the twilight zone what happens to Everton when they are cruising games with a 2-0 lead and barely any time remaining, for it to happen at Bournemouth, then again at Stamford Bridge and unbelievably yesterday again when all looked lost for West Ham is just pure footballing suicide.

Hands up even after the penalty miss how many could really see West Ham scoring? They looked like they had run out of ideas, but they were given a lifeline by cheap as shit defending as per usual.

I could have accepted losing that if they had found three absolute wonder strikes but each goal that was conceded would have been better defended on a Sunday league mud patch.

If Moshiri really is intent on bringing ambitions of success to the table then this summer he must move on this current incumbent and get a manager that knows what the hell they are doing.

For me the first two signings would be Jack Butland and Ryan Shawcross or at least someone along those lines.

The same problem has dogged the team all season, same kind of goals we seep on a near weekly basis.

John Raftery
42 Posted 06/03/2016 at 10:11:23
Eric (15) I thought Barkley was really poor in the second half after a half decent first half. His lobbed free kick straight into the goalkeeper's hands with half our team waiting in the penalty area was self indulgent. Less than a minute later the ball was in our net.

One of the root causes of our problems defensively is that defenders and defending midfield players don't hold their positions. Having both the two full backs bombing forward at every opportunity when we are leading 2-0 but down to ten men is one example of a lack of tactical nous. No wonder they are too knackered in the last 15 minutes to attend to their primary role which is to close down the wide attackers and stop so many crosses coming in.

George McKane
43 Posted 06/03/2016 at 10:20:29
Spent the day as normal in total Everton mood and arrived at The Dark House around 12:00 noon. There was feeling of positivity around the pub. Talk of the "Investment " was greeted mainly with positive thoughts. Most agreed that Villa was a very poor game but 3 points when not playing well is always good.

The pub was heaving and as normal my grandson Liam (called Liam the Team) announced the team around 2:00pm. Shocks about Barry being on the bench but then most people thought we would play back 5 or 3 at the back with full backs moving up as wing backs. So again a good positive feeling about the game...

After the game, the feeling was almost totally of disbelief on how well we had played, some parts of the play being really special, but the missed penalty and Mirallas’s sending off being the turning points. However, almost everyone in the quite packed pub agreed that Martinez has had his time. People "like" him but the general feeling was that he is a "loser".

I agree with Brian’s comment regarding a defensive coach – we seem to be totally disorganised at the back, unable to defend even simple balls into the box. The defending was woeful. The consensus around 9:00pm last night was Martinez has to go – even among those who were willing to give him a chance (including myself in this group). You cannot play football out of a coaching manual, it is not theory, you have to "play".

I've been watching Everton since 1959 through thick and thin; there’s something wrong here and it needs sorting. 10:00pm off home... couldn’t be bothered watching MotD.

Arriverderchi as they say in New Brighton.

Mike Powell
45 Posted 06/03/2016 at 10:22:57
Fantastic article – every word of it is spot-on; the sooner Martinez leaves our club, the better. I can’t bear to even look at the bloke anymore and it shouldn’t be like that.

l love Everton Football Club with a passion but Martinez is ruining my passion for the club, and I won't go to another home game while he is in charge.

Please... do the right thing – and go!

Jim Bennings
46 Posted 06/03/2016 at 10:26:28
The problem with Barkley is not with his ability (although I’m not yet as convinced as some by these future expectations as a world great). It’s in his unwillingness to work and hassle opponents when our backs are to the wall.

Over the years we’ve had attacking midfielders like Tim Cahill who have done these duties plus attacked and defending in box boxes, Cahill would be back in our own area winning headers helping the team. Even to a lesser extent Arteta would "annoy" and hassle teams putting in a few sly ones.

Pienaar in his pomp could keep opponents on their toes due to his work ethic and Lennon does it brilliantly. For me the difference between Barkley and someone like Delle Alli is one has the bite and work-rate, the other doesn’t.

Barkley will be a skillful player when we are looking great winning games but he’s got to learn to be more vocal in games where we need leadership and calm heads. He’s not the raw 19-year-old now that we can just let him off giving the ball away carelessly high up the pitch expecting someone to tidy up the mess.

Ross has ability but he’s got to learn over the next 12 months or so that you need to have a bigger impact in games than just look skillful for 10 minute spells, he’s added goals to his game now, the next thing is adding steel and leadership and put himself about more than he does.

Michael Polley
48 Posted 06/03/2016 at 10:41:03
Excellent Article, sums up everything. I rather be beat ten-nil than suffer those kind of defeats. They are soul destroying, and stay with you for day/weeks to come.

Martinez needs to piss off. He is an imbecile. He is too stubborn to change, and will destroy our club. It is season of missed opportunities, frustration, and pain.

Please God let this new co-owner see what’s going on and tell this Spanish idiot he has no future at our club.

Richard Lyons
49 Posted 06/03/2016 at 10:43:25
Dear Roberto

What Brian Viner said.

With best wishes,

Richard

Phil Walling
50 Posted 06/03/2016 at 10:45:20
I am indebted to David Pearl for his insight into Roberto's thinking and I am sure he is pretty accurate in the conclusions he draws. However, whilst it is right to lay a considerable amount of the blame on the players, we cannot overlook the fact that we are approaching the end of the manager's third season in office and little progress seems to have been made.

As Martinez said this week, this is a results business and however 'attractive' the team he has assembled, he can hardly claim to have conveyed that message to his players whether that be via tactics, coaching or just plain old 'bollockings'.

We no longer live in the age when managers were given five years to develop local youngsters as team building is now about throwing money at mostly foreign players in the cause of instant success. Compared with his predecessors, the Catalan can hardly complain about the support he has received in that cause and he now has very much 'his' players in the side.

So where are we now? I am sure I was not really alone in decrying his appointment – although it certainly felt like it – but I hold little or no hope that the mistake will be rectified anytime soon. Regardless of how this season unfolds, I am sure BK's influence will ensure that his man is given his full four years to deliver on his much vaunted philosophy.

The trouble is that if Lukaku moves on we shall be left with a crap defence and no punch upfront.... and that equals disaster.

Joe Clitherow
51 Posted 06/03/2016 at 10:55:06
George 45

I always like your posts.

But to you and others who say we need a defensive coach, I will point out that we already have one. That was the useless waste of space sat on the bench smirking as West Ham's third goal went (apparently, according to some other posters - too far for me to see directly across from my seat and I have steadfastly avoided watching any highlights for a while now. Like you I just can't be bothered anymore. Win Lose or Draw I used to watch us to see what tweaks would/could be made to improve us; with this ignorant fool in charge I know it will be exactly the same next game so it is a pointless exercise).

Our "Defensive" coach is called Dennis William Lawrence and he sits on the bench all game without ever uttering so much as a peep to address the chaos that he is responsible for unfolding ahead of him.

He has been employed by Roberto Martinez for some years now and is so highly thought of by him that he was brought with him from his previous club who were relegated with a huge amount of goals against; a trend which is clearly continuing with much better players than he has ever worked with before as either a player or a "coach".

Roberto clearly sees nothing wrong with the job Dennis is doing. I wouldn't hold my breath if I were you.

David Greenwood
52 Posted 06/03/2016 at 10:58:49
Fantastically polite, well written, balanced and bang on the money letter Brian.

No personal abuse, no name calling.

If anyone at the echo had any balls they would read this out to Roberto at his next press conference and ask him to comment.


Geoff Williams
53 Posted 06/03/2016 at 11:14:30
Poor team selection. Three centre backs and two wing backs with two wide players and a lazy centre forward would always mean being out numbered in midfield. Besic should have started in place of either Mirallas or Stones depending on the whether a back 4 or 5.

Lukaku’s penalty miss was the turning point, his penalties are never convincing, and he shouldn’t be allowed to take further penalties.

We seem to have acquired a useless striker for £13m so I wouldn’t trust Martinez with further big buys. We need a top class manager, a new coaching team and a very good goalkeeper.

Jonathan Miller
54 Posted 06/03/2016 at 11:32:26
Great letter!

If only Martinez could shut up shop after taking a lead.

I would have told Rom to drop in between Jags and Funes Mori after conceding the first as the air bombardment was so obviously causing us problems. Lennon or even a fresh legged Deulofeu (what the fuck is going on with him? Who only knows...) left up top alone would have seen us over the line – but what do I know?

Harold Matthews
55 Posted 06/03/2016 at 11:44:34
I don't consider Martinez to be a nice man. The way he froze out Distin was an absolute disgrace and I would prefer he paraded his arrogance and philosophy elsewhere.

As for the match. If Lennon needed to come off, fair enough, but he should have been replaced by Baines who would have helped prevent the crosses into our box. Bringing on a lad who hadn't played for months and sticking him up front was beyond comprehension. I've nothing against Niasse who was as rusty as a ship's bucket but Martinez was clearly not understanding the situation. Likewise Ross Barkley, a big strong True Blue who couldn't fight his way out of a wet paper bag. It would require too much energy.

A new manager and his team should be put in place immediately. Start building for the future right now.

Jim Potter
56 Posted 06/03/2016 at 11:47:14
A well balanced, unemotional and fair article Brian.

A lot of Evertonians don’t follow TW as they say a rabid element dominate its pages. I disagree, but often see their point. To me, I want to see all sides of the arguement and then try to make a decision based on reason rather than pure emotion.

My patience with this kind of ’defeat from the jaws of victory’ defending is now paper thin. We do not seem to be learning from these painful lessons.

Roberto – your philosophy needs to incorporate the art of defending and tactical substitutions that make sense. I love the way we excite – and I despair the way we sometimes defend. It is not all down to players making bad decisions, poor refereeing and Lady Luck having a laugh. I am sure you possess a mirror.

It cannot continue like this. Either do something radical with your planning preparation training tactics prayers – or you’ll have lost more than just another winnable game.

I cannot help but like you – as to me you’ve understood the whole special Evertonian thing – it has clicked and you have the feeling and the passion, but now is the time to help yourself – and learn to defend – damn quickly.

There’s not many of us who still have your back. But as an Evertonian – back you I will.

Peter Caley
57 Posted 06/03/2016 at 11:55:46
Well written and meaningful letter from Brian Viner.

After watching the blues for over 50 years, this has to be one of the most frustrating seasons ever so far. One of the best squads of players who may never reach their potential under the Martinez leadership. I really hope that Martinez achieves success with us cos he comes across as a gentlemen and understands our values and history – but his after-match comments are now becoming embarrassing and we really don’t believe in him any more. Get some help Roberto – particularly a defensive coach... I mean, Dennis Lawrence?!? He cannot be the answer?

If we see no improvement, further illogical substitutions, the fans will become even more hostile and the board must see a change is needed. His performance is just not good enough.

Ian Pilkington
58 Posted 06/03/2016 at 11:57:32
An excellent open letter, Brian.

Mr Martinez and his coaching team are incapable of managing games, continually repeating the same mistakes, and have crucially lost the confidence of match-going fans. RM will have completed 3 years service at the end of the season with another mid table finish an absolute certainty, good enough only for the low level of expectation engendered by the Kenwright regime.

Even an FA Cup win should not be a good enough reason for his retention, his win in the same competition being the sole reason for what I believed at the time was a very lazy appointment by Mr Kenwright.

The forthcoming investment from Mr Moshiri must surely see a new man in charge this summer, with an unusually large choice of suitable appointees available.

Frank Sheppard
59 Posted 06/03/2016 at 12:02:23
Great article.

Difficult to be so balanced when feeling so annoyed and disappointed and over whelmed with déjà vu. Roberto comes out with the same over-long excuses week after week. Despite these long, and now over familiar excuses, I still don’t recall hearing "I got it wrong tactically when we were up and comfortable" or "The substitution didn’t work as I expected" (aka "I got it wrong").

What’s the solution?

(A) Lock him in the dressing room after 70 minutes of each game.

Or

(B) Say thanks, it nearly worked, but looks like it never will now, there are a couple of vacancies in the Championship that would suite you.

Jamie Barlow
60 Posted 06/03/2016 at 12:10:30
Harold, what happened with Distin? I asked on here the other day but I got no reply. He said he was going to give his side of the story at the end of the season he left. I don't think he ever did.

Geoff, it wasn't a poor team selection. The team he picked worked and was playing well until that fuckin idiot got sent off again (hope he fucks off). Even after halftime where Martinez ( who never has a plan b) made changes, we were the better team for 30 minutes.

If Lukaku scores, we go on and win and everyone praises Martinez on a great game. Instead, he takes a forward off because he is fucked and he puts another forward on (should have been Barry) and we concede 3 goals. Who would have guessed that would happen?

Nice to see Niasse has been given enough time to show what he can do.

Colin Glassar
61 Posted 06/03/2016 at 12:11:24
Great letter Brian. There's just so much wrong at EFC right now that I'm not even going to try and name all our deficiencies.

What I can say, from one old Gwladys St. ender to another, is the sands of time are running out for him. We've seen this before with Bingham, Lee, Walker, Smith etc....... Once he loses the fanbase even the most stubborn chairman will have to take notice and, sooner or later, action and Roberto is quickly running out of supporters.

A week which started so positively has ended once again with a kick in the teeth. Major decisions need to be made now but who is in charge at Everton? Who is making the decisions? Our lame duck chairman or our invisible investor?

Brian, you could help us answer this question with your ITK contacts. What the hell is going on at boardroom level? Has Earl and co actually been paid off? Has Moshiri sent the cheque and signed the papers? Is Martinez held to account after a result like this? Is there a conversation between chairman and manager after each game (win, lose or draw)?

I don't want to go on about this ownership issue but until it's settled we will continue to drift as the lunatics (IMO) have taken over the asylum.

Paul Conway
62 Posted 06/03/2016 at 12:11:53
I know this is going to sound pessimistic but, after yesterday, there is no way we are going to win the FA Cup. I am normally very optimistic, I have to be, being a betting man! But I am not going to kid myself.

We burgled the Capital One Cup, up to the first leg of the semi-final, where we played out of our skins and fully deserved our victory against Man City to compensate for the lack of competition up until then. However, we got found out in the second leg and, even bad decisions aside, deservedly lost!

Here we are again! We have burgled our way into a tie against Chelsea and, in order to get past them and win, every player will have to give a minimum 7/10 or 8/10 performance. For me, that is a big ask, based on the the theatrics thus far by Martinez's strategy... or lack of it!

However, I know we are well capable of doing it on the day. The worrying thing for me is our cabability to defeat top teams, only to decieve against lesser opposition. All that said... COYB

Mike Hughes
63 Posted 06/03/2016 at 12:15:14
There's a fine balance between giving a manager sufficient time to develop his approach / team and pushing the red eject button.

But the evidence is there for all to see (and has been for a long time now). It is damning of the manager, given the team, squad, resources available. Only the deluded can't see it now.

Unfortunately, I think the eject button is broken.
We're heading off a cliff if this guy stays in charge beyond this season.

He is a disaster waiting to happen (with or without the FA Cup).

We can't start a new era with a snake oil salesman in charge.

Let him waffle and bullshit his way through the Euros as an 'expert' pundit and former Everton manager.

Maynard Hanna
64 Posted 06/03/2016 at 12:15:22
Please Mr Kenwright,

ASAP, please, as a matter of considerable urgency, just phone for a taxi for two: Roberto and Dennis,

Thanking you,

Evertonians everywhere.

Andy Thompson
65 Posted 06/03/2016 at 12:17:51
Dear Mr Moshiri,

Please rid us of this fraud of a manager.... It is has been my strongly held view since losing 2-0 away to Hull last season (I think Jan 15 ?) his time was finally up.

We are going nowhere with this baffoon (and that turkey Mr Jones) in charge of EFC. What I witnessed (again) at Goodison yesterday was the absolute final straw.

With immediate effect I / we as fans expect strong and decisive leadership from our board ideally starting with RM’s departure from our club, preferably not later than after Saturday's probable exit from the FA Cup or at the latest by the Summer.

So, it’s over to you now, Mr Moshiri, to begin your reign and do what I think a majority of fans are hoping for.... Welcome to Everton.

Tony Cheek
66 Posted 06/03/2016 at 12:24:46
Absolutely gutted! What I cannot understand is, if you are going to give Niasse time on the pitch then why not in the Villa game Tuesday? We were 3-0 up and eleven men on the pitch, in other words, the perfect situation for him to get on and show a bit. But no, in that game he gets 4 mins and doesn't get a touch.

Then yesterday, all we need to do is lock down and secure a much needed home win and he takes off our best offensive (and defensive) asset and gives him 25 minutes! What other manager in the league would do that?

Brian Viner
67 Posted 06/03/2016 at 12:28:48
Greg Hunt (34) That's very impressive recall, and use of precedent worthy of a lawyer (maybe you are one). But I think you're wrong. I'm pretty sure that Moyes would never have done what Roberto did yesterday, and nor would any current PL manager, even the more gung-ho of them.

There are circumstances when it might be astutely counter-intuitive to bring on a second striker when you're protecting a lead rather than chasing the game. But to recap, we were 2-0 up, a man down, and we'd just missed a penalty, giving the opposition an obvious lift. Even if you can justify taking off your hardest-working player at that point, why would you replace him with a rookie striker, not so much unproven at this level as not even seen, when you have 30 years of Premier League experience elsewhere on the bench?

It handed West Ham an advantage that they quickly exploited, and while of course I agree with all the above comments pointing out that the players were to blame too, they'd all put in a tremendous shift by that point (fantastic to open up a 2-0 lead against ten men) and they needed tactical savvy from the manager. What they got instead was tactical ineptitude masquerading as savvy. You might see method in his madness, Greg, but an overwhelming majority of fans yesterday saw only madness in his method.

Ged Alexander
68 Posted 06/03/2016 at 12:34:24
Very well written from a man clearly very fed up. It is just getting too regular this losing-a-lead lark. Come the summer, let's get a 'winner' defender and new goalie....
Kevin Johnson
69 Posted 06/03/2016 at 12:34:46
Absolutely sick of watching this unpredictable shit, it’s like being on a roller-coaster: up and down, up and down... time to get off now – it’s making me sick.
Keith Harrison
70 Posted 06/03/2016 at 12:51:55
While ToffeeWeb often seems to wallow in doom-mongers, and to be fair, after some of the last two season’s shit, they can hardly be blamed, there are some very knowledgeable people commenting on this post. Lads I know who travel to EVERY game, home and away, and would support a talking monkey as long as it was the manager of our club are raising serious doubts on here.

When these lads, and sages such as Harold, Colin Glassar and others, plus the excellent author Brian Viner, say – very politely -– that enough is enough, well... enough is definitely enough. The hopefully incoming Mr Moshiri will display the business acumen that got him where he is, and dump this affable fraudster with alacrity.

Kevin Tully
71 Posted 06/03/2016 at 12:53:45
If we lose next week against Chelsea, that’s the end for Martinez, there is no way back I feel. To hear some say he needs to be sacked even if we win the FA Cup is frankly ridiculous. If ANY manager can end our shocking 21-year wait for a trophy, they deserve a season to see if they can build on it.

We are scoring goals galore and are an entertaining side, but I won’t disagree with anyone who says he deserves to go, we should hold every manager to high standards at this club. His job now rests on ending our trophy drought, plain and simple.

It’s easy to lay all the blame on the manager, but Mirallas and Lukaku were more culpable for that defeat yesterday. The fuckers also cost me a small fortune on an accumulator!

Peter Murray
72 Posted 06/03/2016 at 12:53:52
I keep on mentioning Carey & his replacement Catterick – please just get rid & acquire a WINNER... unlike this useless no-mark. Enough is enough, how low are we to go before ACTION???
Keith Harrison
73 Posted 06/03/2016 at 12:55:07
You didn't actually manage to see the second half, did you Kev?
James Marshall
74 Posted 06/03/2016 at 12:56:04
As I said yesterday, Martinez is a very good manager but useless at managing matches.

Until that point I think he's good at all the other areas of being a football manager but then he just fucks it up over and over come match day.

Same mistakes. Inability to see the right changes. It's so frustrating.

Joe Clitherow
75 Posted 06/03/2016 at 13:00:26
So first the fans noticed his intransigence and nothing changed. Then other managers did and countered and nothing changed.

Now the opposition even blatantly state the obvious counter to Martinez's "Philosophy" that anyone with half an eye and a basic football knowledge can see, and are so confident it will work they spout in the press:

http://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/Everton-cant-deal-crosses-west-10997391

And guess what? The idiot will STILL not change and press ahead with it, thinking it will work.

This is why he goes down the League year on year.

Paul English
76 Posted 06/03/2016 at 13:05:00
Why oh why does this Everton manager allow crosses to come in? Has he never heard of ....THE BLOCKED TACKLE!!!
Jon Hirshman
77 Posted 06/03/2016 at 13:19:10
These are my observations on yesterday’s game.

Nobody has really commented about the effect that Anthony Taylor had on the game, after all he was West Ham’s 12th man. Mirallas’s first booking was incorrect – despite what that gobshite Shearer said on MotD – it wasn’t an obvious dive. However, there was enough doubt as to whether it was a foul for Taylor to wave play on rather than stopping the game and booking Mirallas.

Later in the game, a West Ham player went down under a challenge and was complaining. The ref allowed play to continue doing the usual things that ref’s do, signalling for him to get up. Why didn’t he stop the game and book the West Ham player?

Barry wasn’t well enough to start, a chest infection apparently. The Lennon substitution wasn’t as unlike for like as described on here. He was playing up front not wide in the second half, supporting Lukaku. Coleman started as a wingback, went right midfield and ended up back in his normal position. Ross Barkley was outstanding as was Lukaku. The defence were superb until the final 12 minutes.

The booing of Noble was correct because of laying hands up to McCarthy for which he should have been booked at the very least, he did everything in his power to get Mirallas sent off, short of waving an imaginary card. Note that the player who was fouled by Mirallas was not booed when he recovered. Booing Noble did not take away at all from getting behind the team.

It is very easy and lazy to blame the manager as most people on here always do. Yesterday, however, Anthony Taylor was completely and utterly to blame and should not be allowed to referee Everton again.

With regard to Brian’s letter, Some good points and I agree particularly about seeing out a game but when you say "what I can't remember happening in my 45 years as a diehard Everton fan is seeing a team so repeatedly and catastrophically incapable of protecting a lead", I find that hard to believe. Please don’t ask for examples as I’m in to my 50th year of support and my memory isn’t what it used to be.

I also don’t agree with the 'coward' remark re Lukaku’s penalty miss. It was a bloody awful pen and deserved criticism, especially as we would have probably gone on to win the match had he scored. Also hello from Hillside, Brian.

Harold Matthews, re Distin, an incident happened which I can’t go into here because of the libel laws... suffice to say Martinez was not wrong in treating Distin the way he did after it.

Colin Glassar
78 Posted 06/03/2016 at 13:20:26
Keith, you know me, I've backed him through thick and thin (especially last season) and I always believed he had the potential to take us on to great things but Roberto seems to be his own worse enemy. It's one step forward, three steps back with him. He's seen our defence go from one of the best in the league to one of the worst and he's seems completely unable, or unwilling, to remedy this.

Three seasons is, IMO, enough time to judge a manager. Roberto has assembled a squad of fine, young, talented players but his Achilles heel is defending. He failed miserably at Wigan in this area and now he's repeating the same mistakes with Everton. So that's what? Five seasons continuing to make the same defensive errors? In any walk of life if you did that you'd find it hard to even keep a council job never mind managing a top club and earning a fortune to boot.

Andrew Rimmer
79 Posted 06/03/2016 at 13:24:31
Brian. What exactly did Davey T think of it? I left the room yesterday as soon as first West Ham goal went in muttering "here we go again". The shed is now tidy though.
David Price
80 Posted 06/03/2016 at 13:26:40
Chris (#27), the near fight in the main stand was a West Ham fan cheering their winner. A guy wanted to take him out, that’s it. No-one else joined in, we had more class than the Man City shit bags at the semi.

Or we just wanted Roberto in the stands instead to knock some sense into him.

Great read, Brian. Says it all.

Finn Taylor
81 Posted 06/03/2016 at 13:32:50
What, frankly I don’t quite understand is how and why we appointed Martinez in the first place. FA Cup win aside, his record at Wigan was dreadful and if you are to measure the appointment on a criteria of doing the job well – he should be nowhere near the place!

In any other walk of life, would a business appointment a man who, on a week to week to basis, doesn’t deliver? If he’d ran a business into the ground, would you appointment him to run yours? Or was the thinking that given a bigger budget, he will deliver?

I am not having a pop really, I just don’t get the thinking of why he was appointed in the first place. I was always sceptical, but willing to give him a go but it’s not working out and, sadly, unless there is a change, we all know what to expect.

Our upcoming fixtures should be interesting... at least we are safe... for this season.

Steve Davies
82 Posted 06/03/2016 at 13:34:41
Let’s look at the positives. There were 2 Newcastle fans sat next to me in the pub yesterday and they said they would gladly take Martinez as a manager over McClaren.

He has assembled a fine young squad and until it comes to actually managing a match he does a lot right.

So leave it to the end of the season then sack him asap and bring in a credible manager, I have said before someone like Hiddink. The players will stay and maybe we can do a Leicester next season.

This season is a write-off and sometimes it has to get worse before it gets better. We haven’t a hope in hell of beating Chelsea but even the Martinez supporters will have to accept that he is not the right man for the job.

Nil Satis Nisi Optimum......

Jim Burns
83 Posted 06/03/2016 at 13:47:27
David @ 17 your points about the crosses are near the heart of the matter for me. Game after game – particularly when we drop deeper, attacking players are given enough space on the flanks to look up and pick their cross out. West Hams equaliser was as shamefully typical as you will get all season – both Oviedo and particularly Barkley standing off the two flankers and inviting the cross with a week half hearted flap of the leg from too far away.

It’s fucking simple boys – close the wingers and don’t give them time to settle, look up and pick their spot. And before someone says Bainsey should have been on instead of Bryan – he’s often as guilty as any one – standing off and flapping a leg in the hope he’s got the trajectory right.

If we cut out half of the crosses this season, we would have conceded half of the goals we have – even with our centre-halves. This is simple managerial application on the training ground – so Brian, your letter has it spot on – to place the blame at the door of one of the most potent attacking forces in the Premier League is not only shameful – it could hasten Rom’s decision to move on in the summer.

Cut the crosses out!

Michael Allanson
84 Posted 06/03/2016 at 13:48:20
Whilst agreeing with the majority of Brian's post, I’m afraid the fact is that it is now too late to rescue this manager's career at Everton FC. He has consistently veered away from any form of defensive coherence. His substitutions are at best puzzling and at worst incompetent, yesterday being the most glaring example.

He has built on David Moyes's squad and we are undoubtedly more potent up front. But this is a results business and I’m afraid Martinez is now hopelessly out of his depth thinking that any form of defensive thought is a sign of weakness. He is tactically outflanked by most Premier League managers and is unable or unwilling to think and react during a game.

Goodison Park yesterday played its part in roaring the team on and reacting to the chasing and harrying of the likes of Besic and Lennon. But if, after all that effort, you denude your midfield of part of its defensive shield, allowing the likes of Payet the freedom of the park, then the result is (and was) inevitable.

I’ll still be there next week and forever until I’m sitting on that subs bench in the sky but I don’t expect that RM will be here much longer. Any investor worth his salt will have noted how supposedly lesser squads like Leicester City or Southampton achieve better results whilst this clown talks of good moments and long-term plans.

Its frustrating at the moment and I don’t expect change before the close season but, after the last game, I expect this guy to be dumped – move on and don’t entrust a penny more to him.

Kev Wood
85 Posted 06/03/2016 at 13:49:15
Naive and inept substitution. I was unable to travel to Goodison yesterday (an unwanted though lucky escape from untold extra post-match misery, which I could blank out at home). I had to settle for watching via live stream. I couldn’t believe what I witnessed in the last 10 minutes.

I haven’t read Martinez’s explanations. I won’t bother – there are none that hold water. A well-considered and articulate piece from Brian. Above all it is constructive. I hope the players have the drive and professionalism to learn from today. I’m not sure Martinez has the humility to do so though.

Sean Patton
86 Posted 06/03/2016 at 14:04:17
Steve @82

We could even leave until the end of the window as Martinez is good in the transfer market get him to spend the warchest then replace him with Hiddink in September!

I think it is all moot really as you would think once Moshiri comes aboard he will have his own man in mind.

James Morgan
87 Posted 06/03/2016 at 14:17:11
Can we not get a petition going to send directly to the club? Or call up Bill on his Radio 2 show and tell him up get rid?

Something has to be done. I’m almost at the point of not wanting to watch us again this season.

Anthony Lamb
88 Posted 06/03/2016 at 14:19:21
Well done Brian, a very thoughtful and sensitive letter in every sense. A point I would add relates to how the term "professional" relates to any of those connected with what appears to be a shambolic mess over the last 20 minutes or so of the game yesterday. I did not in fact see the game but raise the point that neither players nor management should be deemed worthy of the term professional.

Faced with 15 minutes remaining and leading by 2-0 were the players incapable of adopting a totally organised defensive formation to thwart West Ham? In the period between the end of one coach’s time and the advent of another at Barcelona and the bedding in of three of their great attacking players they now have, even Barcelona found it difficult at times to break down teams who set out to defend in an organised, disciplined, "professional" manner. Even they were thwarted by the "two banks of four" strategies etc for a period. I am old enough to have seen the great masters of this art namely Inter Milan in the 1960s.

Part of a professional approach to a team game is to be able to adapt to changed circumstances. Is Jagielka as captain incapable of instigating such adaptation in the course of the game by each individual or unit in the team? These are supposed to be seasoned, experienced players. Is this increasingly inane manager incapable of switching and modifying the team’s structure in order to achieve a result which of course is always to win! Do they actually know how to rearrange their roles, formation etc? The introduction of this new signing seems to have been a disaster because it , and he, appeared clueless. Are we seriously saying that ten obscenely paid players are incapable of knowing how to protect a two goal lead – for 15 minutes?!

The management need to be hauled over the coals for their part not only in the events of yesterday but in their dereliction in ensuring that these guys who go onto the pitch are fully educated and competent in the various arts of the game. What do they DO at this Finch Farm? As for the players themselves they are either thick or incompetent, they are very definitely clueless. Mr Mirallas perhaps the personification of it all!

Mike Allison
89 Posted 06/03/2016 at 14:21:29
Martinez's strengths as a manager, and there are many, are effectively worthless as his weaknesses (or possibly just one of them) are so fundamental that they are completely undermined.

I turned after Swansea at home, but was still persuadable. Not now, I don't believe he will ever put together a proper league campaign, as he doesn't understand what it means to consistently pick up results in all circumstances.

Mike Hughes
90 Posted 06/03/2016 at 14:21:55
Anyone who thinks that ANY manager ending our shocking 21 year wait for a trophy (FA Cup) deserves a season to see if they can build on it DESPITE the continual decline in league results, particularly at home is, quite frankly, ridiculous.

Anyone with an ounce of football knowledge knows that a cup is far more winnable than the league. Why? One-off games that are subject to the luck of the draw and players more able to raise their game.

Look no further than our very own current manager winning the FA Cup with Wigan then taking them down ... then abandoning ship in rat-like fashion.

Even with the FA Cup, next season will likely be another one of wasted opportunities.Why? Because the evidence points towards RM being stubborn, lacking tactical savvy and not being able to learn from his mistakes.

No more ifs (e.g. we get a defensive coach) or buts (with a bit more luck, a couple of additions etc) because it ain't happening based on the last 18 months of wasted talent and opportunity.

And blaming Lukaku (we were 2-0 up when he missed the pen) and Mirallas (we went 2-0 up without him) for yesterday's debacle is also conveniently glossing over the longer term accumulated evidence of a manager who is out of his depth.

Mark Dunford
91 Posted 06/03/2016 at 14:26:06
I now recall why I used to watch Wigan when I was bored – it was entertaining, I couldn’t care who won and it filled the time.

It seems that Roberto is heading to a crunch time at Goodison where he looks out of his depth. We have to organise the defence in the most basic way so it looks like the coaching staff needs to be bolstered at the very least. The big question for me is whether he can be trusted in the transfer market?

Next Summer is huge and could easily be squandered. We’ve certainly signed some very good attacking players in the past couple of years but we’ve clearly needed a goalkeeper for at least three transfer windows and I now think we probably need two so we have decent cover.

If Roberto stays, we can assume that we’ll lose Lukaku to PSG, possibly Stones to one of the Manchester clubs and less likely Barkley. If the manager goes, then we may end up keeping these and moving forward.

I’ve never really been a sack the manager type, but it seems that the club is heading to a critical summer and I’m not convinced the right leader is in place.

Si Cooper
92 Posted 06/03/2016 at 14:27:51
David Pearl (17) - no you are not the only one.

Lennon was spent and did very little in the 10 minutes before he was substituted. According to Lyndon there are reports that Gareth Barry was recovering from a bug of some sorts.

People are acting as though it was one way traffic after Lennon went off and that simply isn't true. Most football observers will agree that you need to keep some outlets even when defending because otherwise you just can't relieve the pressure. If Martinez had gone defensive and the oppo had gone on to win he would rightfully be getting slaughtered for that 'naivety'.

Barry was on the pitch for their third and I don't see how he would materially have affected the other two. This is simply people being clever after the fact.

You don't have to be a genius to have worked out by now that this team is susceptible to conceding goals in rapid succession. I expected West Ham to have a stronger finish than us from the moment we went down to ten men.

Martinez has failings he must be held to account for but to blast his game management yesterday is to ignore the things he had to contend with that we're simply beyond his control.

Gavin Johnson
93 Posted 06/03/2016 at 14:28:26
The West Ham lad, Antonio has come out today and said we can’t defend crosses and Bilic had spent time on this in game preparation.

A less stubborn man would have addressed this over the last 18 months. Yes, Tim Howard has been dropped and we now have a keeper in who looks stronger and more confident facing corners. Unfortunately it’s just papering over the cracks. The defence also needs to do work at the training ground on basic bread and butter defending. The defensive coach, Dennis Lawrence needs to be sacked but the buck ultimately rests with Roberto.

I think we were unlucky yesterday with some decisions and the idiot getting sent off needlessly in the 1st half. Ordinarily this could be used as mitigation but this result cannot be seen as a one-off. We’ve lost count of the games where we’ve surrendered 1 or 2 goal leads. I watch games now where we go into a lead and don’t feel convinced we’ll win unless we score 3.

This goes against the whole philosophy of football. Everton Football Club aren’t minnows playing in the lower league facing Premier League champions. If we go into the lead against another Premier League side we should expect to win.

This can’t go on. It’s time for Roberto to go...

John Crawley
94 Posted 06/03/2016 at 14:31:02
Excellent letter, Brian, but I think you’ll be waiting in vain for Martinez to change. Personally I’d have sacked him last season and I’ve seen nothing since to change my mind. You can’t be a very good manager if you can’t manage games and if you can’t sort out defensive deficiencies.

Just to put yesterday’s game in perspective, I can’t see any other Premier League manager making that Niasse substitution.

Kevin Tully
95 Posted 06/03/2016 at 14:32:04
Long term results are not acceptable, Mike, but taking yesterday’s game in isolation, Lukaku tried to be clever by stuttering his run up for the penalty. If you want to completely ignore that, Mirallas’s stupidity, and how well we played up to the penalty, then you’ve clearly already made your mind up.

Also, please explain the point of football to me, if it’s not winning trophies or titles – I must have it all wrong.

Keith Monaghan
96 Posted 06/03/2016 at 14:33:20
A lot of valid comments made above. For me, in spite of missed pen etc, we were 2-0 up with 12 mins to go.

Barkley was hopeless in the 2nd half, repeatedly giving the ball away or getting in to trouble – watching him & McCarthy I often think they don’t realise which end we’re kicking towards. I don’t have a problem with passing the ball back when necessary, but these two are obsessed with doing it. Such a shame in Ross’s case ’cos he has great ability, whereas McCarthy is a mediocre midfield player at best.

We’ll never be a top side with those 2 in our midfield; all outfield players have to work for 90 mins – Ross Barkley plays like it’s all about the occasional 2-minute burst – totally put to shame by the effort Lennon puts in.

I’ve said it before and will say it again – top teams attack and defend as a team; we definitely don’t defend as a team.

Hope I’m wrong, but can’t see us beating Chelsea next week. I was supportive of RM, but am rapidly losing faith in him. Unfair to judge Niasse yesterday, but signs weren’t encouraging.

Mike Hughes
97 Posted 06/03/2016 at 14:37:04
Kevin – where did I say (or how did you arrive at the conclusion from my post) that I did not think football was about winning titles and trophies?
Kevin Tully
98 Posted 06/03/2016 at 14:46:35
Mike, your post obviously (to me anyway) says you want the manager replaced, even if we win the FA Cup. Fair enough.

However, if we do lift the FA Cup in May, I don’t think there will be many Blues agreeing with that particular point of view. That’s the reason for playing the game isn’t it? Trophies.

Andrew Clare
99 Posted 06/03/2016 at 14:46:42
A very well composed letter, Brian. I agree with everything you say.

It’s clear that we will now finish mid-table after losing to Chelsea in the Cup and to our neighbours in the derby. More frightening than that, Martinez will still be our manager next season.

If, on the other hand, he does go, I hope to heck we don’t appoint a British manager as they are totally inept tactically; this ineptness has rubbed off on Martinez.

Ray Said
100 Posted 06/03/2016 at 14:48:46
To me the real problem is the RM has forgotten the primary purpose of Everton playing a football match. The purpose is to WIN. If that is the purpose then when you are in a winning position you do whatever is needed to ensure you don't lose that winning position.

The purpose is not to ’avoid negativity’ – that was Oddballs purpose in Kelly’s Heroes but that was a film. It's not to ’establish a Philosophy’ – that is best left to the academics. IT IS TO WIN. You don't get it and you are not fit for our purpose.

Dave Abrahams
101 Posted 06/03/2016 at 14:50:15
Gavin (93) that's a good shout for Everton to sack Dennis Lawerence as the defence coach because he really is not doing a very good job.

I don't think you meant it the way I am taking it but it might mean that Martinez would step in and say "If he goes I go" and that would be the problem solved and most of us happy, plus no compensation to pay out.

It will not happen of course, it's a nice thought though.

Anthony Birt
102 Posted 06/03/2016 at 14:54:51
I’ve read all the comments (scanned) but don’t see one comment on the fact of trying to beat a better team (on league placing) with 10 men as someone got themselves needlessly sent off.

I know lots of others are taking a long-term view of Everton's situation but the players have got to take responsibility for their mistakes.

Tom Bowers
103 Posted 06/03/2016 at 14:57:06
Sadly RM although bring together a squad that plays bright , open football he has after 3 seasons failed to instil a resolve necessary to be a tough team.

We have heard too many excuses this season and it has to stop. Without the exploits of Lukaku, Barkley and more recently Lennon, Everton would be relegation fodder.

The home record is abysmal and so dejecting for all especially those travelling far and paying good money for every home game. It’s time to pay the piper Roberto as what you are doing is just not acceptable anymore.

Mike Powell
104 Posted 06/03/2016 at 15:00:49
Kevin, I think you will find most fans will want him out even if we do win the FA Cup... in fact, every Evertonian I speak to wants him out.
Brian Viner
105 Posted 06/03/2016 at 15:03:49
Si Cooper (92) Nicely argued but it isn't just hindsight. Where I was sitting there was complete mystification as soon as Niasse replaced Lennon. Even if it's true that Lennon was spent, it was bizarre to bring on the rookie, with the vast experience of Barry and Osman on hand.

But in a way all this deflects us from the main argument, which is that a team that routinely blows two-goal leads must have something fundamentally wrong with it, and it's the manager's job to sort out the problem. Unfortunately, and it really does pain me to say so, it is becoming clear that he IS the problem.

Joe Clitherow
106 Posted 06/03/2016 at 15:13:43
Err Gavin (#93),

Didn’t you just paraphrase my posts #51 and #75?

Not that I have a problem with that, I think they are both spot on (obviously). The Lawrence one is something I have been shouting for months. If ever there was a totally unnecessary and pointless drain on Club finances it is that he is making a living partly funded by my hard earned cash, which really grates with me both as a punter (for funding it) and a shareholder (in terms of accountability for where the Club spends). Is there no concept of performance related pay in EFC?

But just saying, like.

Colin Glassar
107 Posted 06/03/2016 at 15:31:42
Kevin, Benteke just did a Lukaku.......and scored. Some go in; some don’t.
Paul Setter
108 Posted 06/03/2016 at 15:33:20
A letter I’ve sent to Bill Kenwright

Dear Mr Kenwright,

I’m writing to you as the manager you employ at our club is simply not good enough. SEVEN league defeats at home is simply unacceptable. If he was in charge of West Ham, Spurs, Liverpool etc, they would have got rid as results would not dictate anything other than that.

Mr Martinez is a nice man but you only have to look at the last two seasons results-wise and with the players that are there – it has been a complete waste of time and sentiment shouldn’t come into it.

I’ve watched FIVE of those pathetic performances that we have lost this season, including yesterday’s diabolical result against an average West Ham side and will no longer put another penny into the club until your choice of manager is different.

I travel 4 hours on a train to Liverpool most weeks; usually there is five of us and over the season that has shrunk to three of us now each and every single one us has decided that’s it, and we aren’t alone – in the pubs before the games, walking down the streets and you’ll find at least 80% of our fan base wants him gone.

Everything you have done for our great club is unrivalled but – and it’s a big but – this man is "NOT GOOD ENOUGH"!!! Until you address this issue, then you’ll struggle to fill the ground week on week as people will refuse to pay to watch this turgid football.

You will probably discard this email along with all the others but if you can afford for five fans to not spend £300 a home game then so be it but my money is hard earn and until he is removed from his post I will spend it elsewhere.

Thanks for your time.

Paul Setter.

[For anyone wanting to do the same, his email address is info@kenwright.com]
Rory Slingo
109 Posted 06/03/2016 at 15:36:47
Brian, an excerpt of your open letter has made it onto the Echo's website. The article has been shared to various social networks about 250 times already over the last few hours. People at the club will definitely know about it now. Let's hope BK and Moshiri see it and then read all the comments here as well. RM's days surely must be numbered.
Mike Hughes
110 Posted 06/03/2016 at 15:42:31
Kevin, the only reason I posted to you was simply because your earlier post seemed directed towards me or at least to the point I made.

Yes I want RM out regardless of short term Cup success as that has no bearing on his longer term track record in the league.

Yes, football is about trophies and titles. (Not sure why you introduced that into the mini debate as it is clearly obvious even to those who are thick as a brick. Having said that, wasn't RM quoted as saying that he focuses on performances rather than results?)

In my view, we won't win any title with a manager who can't coach a defense or learn from his mistakes. We might win a cup in the short term - but, for me, that won't justify his longer term tenure based on the evidence to date.

It'll just be another wasted season.

Remember when Chelsea stuffed us 6-3 at home last season? Well, the manager who masterminded that calamity is clearly the same manager we have now and - guess what? - his defence is hardly any better than it was then.

In other words, any titles or CL qualification via the league (RM's stated ambition) are not going to happen with that kind of coach on board. He is not learning from his mistakes and obviously lacks savvy in terms of game management.

And I think you'll be surprised by the number of people who want rid of him regardless of FA Cup success. I hope he wins it and that his lifting the trophy is also his swansong. I want real success in the league from a manager worthy of Everton F.C.

I'm off for a pint.
Over and out.


John Crawley
111 Posted 06/03/2016 at 15:49:17
Si (#92) it pretty much was one way traffic after Lennon went off. Please tell me which other manager would play 2 men up top leaving you outnumbered in midfield, when your down to 10 men and with 15 minutes to go? To top it off, the player he brought on wasn’t fully match fit and had no experience of playing in the Premier League.

If Lennon was knackered then he had the option of putting Baines on or Deulofeu (if you want an outlet). It was terrible management and a reflection that he’s out of his depth.

Chris James
113 Posted 06/03/2016 at 15:54:52
It’s a results business and the league results haven’t been good enough over a 2 year period. What more is needed to get rid of the guy?

Looking at the last 10 years...we were established under Moyes as a regular top 7 club, with a decent shot every year at 5th and the hope we could push into the top 4 (as DM did indeed achieve once).

Roberto maintained that and promised to build upon in it in his first impressive season. However to my mind the further we went away from the platform DM had built and down RM’s ideological path and the more it became ’his’ tactics and team, the more the wheels have fallen off.

We ran out of steam physically and mentally at the end of the 2013-14 season and have been repeating the same mistakes ever since, i.e.: Open approach to defence, poor at corners/crosses, over reliance on possession for possession’s sake, failure to react to changes on the pitch with appropriate subs/tactics/plan B.

2006-07- 6th
2007-08: 5th
2008-09: 5th
2009-10: 8th
2010-11: 7th
2011-12: 7th
2012-13: 6th
2013-14: 5th
2014-15: 11th
2015-16: Currently 11th with 10 to play and with home form that would have us in the relegation spots.

We’ve won 9 games in total this season, that’s less than 30% win-rate and almost half as many as the likes of Leicester or Spurs (teams who I don’t believe have better squads than us). We’re 12 points off 4th and now 6 points off one of the poorest Liverpool squads in living memory in 7th.

I repeat my opening refrain. It’s a results business and despite having one of our best squads of the last 20 years, money to spend and not especially terrible injury problems, the results have been bad.

He’s had 3 seasons and the whole project is showing no signs of moving forwards in anything other than providing entertainment value for neutral (or opposition) supporters.

In other words he’s had a decent chance and he’s failed. What possible argument is there for keeping the guy on for another season?

Brent Stephens
114 Posted 06/03/2016 at 15:55:52
Even with 11 men, at 2-0 up no other manager would increase the attacking threat at the expense of the defensive side, at that point in the game. With only 10 men, to do that was crass stupidity and arrogance. This man is unbelievably arrogant.
Peter Caley
115 Posted 06/03/2016 at 16:00:45
Well written and meaningful letter from Brian Viner. After watching the blues for over 50 years this has to be one of the most frustrating seasons ever so far. One of the best squad of players who may never reach their potential under Martinez's leadership. I really hope that Martinez achieves success with us cos he comes across as a gentlemen and understands our values and history – but his after match comments are now becoming embarrassing and we really don't believe in him any more.

Get some help Roberto particularly a defensive coach – I mean Denis Lawrence ?? If he cannot see that he needs help then he is stubborn and narrow minded. His substitutions yesterday and on previous occasions are bizarre. He should have brought on Barry or Osman and tightened up at the back, protect the defensive further and not allow us to defend from the 6-yard box. I really think that Martinez is the real problem here, it seems his way only – and we know what happened at Wigan!
Mike Knowsley
116 Posted 06/03/2016 at 16:02:57
The letter's all well and good, but the team lacks leadership.... JAGIELKA IS NOT A LEADER/CAPTAIN. You never see him going out of his way to confront the officials or opposing players when contentious incidents occur; time and again he lets the little ’sly’ things go, for me, he continually lets his team-mates down.

Yesterday, Noble showed him how it's supposed to be done. At least a dozen times he was sparring with that useless (£100k pa + expenses) referee. Time's up Jags, relinquish the armband and give it to someone with some tenacity.

Andrew Clare
117 Posted 06/03/2016 at 16:08:58
I can’t believe all of the people on here who are saying they want Martinez out regardless of Cup success. We won’t win the Cup we haven’t got a chance.

We are lightweight – a soft touch. No steel, no grit, not tactical nous.

Martin Mason
118 Posted 06/03/2016 at 16:14:13
I disagree that Football is about Cups and Trophies. it is a mass sport that is great to play and watch at almost any level regardless of cups and trophies which can only ever be gained by a tiny fraction of those participating or watching.

Football is about Trophies only to fans who are Trophy hunters, for most it is entertainment. For most fans who watch the game the only aspiration they can have is not winning a trophy but playing to or above their potential and most fans love the game when this is the only measure of success. For the others there's United and Liverpool.

Gavin Johnson
119 Posted 06/03/2016 at 16:15:03
Joe #106

I'd not read all the thread before posting so no intentional paraphrasing about Dennis Lawrence. It makes a nice change that all contributors are all singing from the same hymn sheet for once.

I actually posted something last season about the need to sack Lawrence around the new year period after the dismal results against Hull and Stoke. No offence to the guy but he hasn't got the best credentials anyway as a lower league journeyman defender..but he also seems to be a complete 'yes' man to boot.

I remember a few seasons ago Arsenal had a really shaky period defensively and they brought Steve Bould in. West Ham did it with Teddy Sheringham when they couldn't hit a barn door and guess what..it worked in both instances.

I think Lawrence going last summer would have been some kind of acknowledgement from Martinez that defensive play hasn't been good enough. God knows why it didn't happen. I can only surmise that Roberto knows best and he's sticking with his mantra that it doesn't matter if we concede as long as we score more, and Dennis Lawrence is a 'yes' man.

I don't think Roberto will go until the summer, but Lawrence being sacked now would be some kind of acknowledgement from Martinez that he's actually wrong on some things. Albeit a sacking, that's too little, too late now.

Steve Davies
120 Posted 06/03/2016 at 16:18:31
Chris at 113. What an excellent response. It sums up everything I feel about Martinez. Not even the RM fans could argue with that one. The facts are the facts......Taxi for Bobby boy
David Connor
121 Posted 06/03/2016 at 16:22:30
One thing Martinez has done is build a talented squad. But apart from 2 or 3 players the majority don't seem to hurt when we lose. It's as if they just accept it. Not a good mentality to have. It's the mentality of a loser and that's exactly what we are.

The league placings do not lie. Keep the joker for another season and we are in deep deep trouble. The board need to act now. Forget the FA Cup, we have not got a hope in hell of winning it. Looking at our defence yesterday Chelsea will have a field day.

Hopefully that will be his last game in charge. That said, I will be there cheering us on. We live in hope... Because that's all we have.

Chris Leyland
122 Posted 06/03/2016 at 16:33:55
He should have been sacked at the final whistle then again, he should have been sacked at the end of last season but wasn’t.

Too many of our fans accept the mediocrity (and that is being generous) on offer at Goodison. Our home record over the past 2 seasons in the league:

P - 34
W - 11
D - 11
L - 12

We have won less than a 1/3 of our home games since the start of last season. Scandalous.

We have won the same number of home games during this tome as Newcastle. Disgraceful.

West Brom have won more home games during that time than us. Inexcusable.

Max Murphy
123 Posted 06/03/2016 at 16:35:12
An email from my brother:

"When I go to the games I tend to sit near enough opposite to the dug out in the upper Bullens. Bobby Martin's assistant Jones, who was at Wigan with him, seems to control the substitutions. This was confirmed by a supporter who sits next to the dug out with his kids.

After the WBA game this supporter came on the radio, Snods & Saint show, when I was driving home from Goodison and stated he heard all the conversation on the bench and confirmed Bobby did not bother himself or intervened on any of the subs. However he did say that Big Dunc was argueing with Jones and disagreeing with his sub choice along with some of the players on the bench. This Jones bloke is not well liked at Goodison and what the supporter says, he has control of Bobby?

Then again, if you are the Manager, then you are the decision maker. "

Robert Pierpoint
124 Posted 06/03/2016 at 16:40:40
I remember when Roberto was appointed and many people questioned that he wasn't good enough for Everton. I thought that there was plenty of delusion about the viewpoint, that he was a good manager and a good appointment. The first season solidified that view and I scorned those who had thought it. I admit now, I was wrong. He simply isn't good enough for Everton and we can attract a top drawer manager.

With the Sky money; elements of the current squad; promised new and relatively substantial investment and the power of the Premier League brand, this job would be an attractive one to top managers. It has been said before, but Liverpool had a manager who very nearly won a title, developed two strikers to the extent that they were, at least at the time, valued at 80m and 50m and also played attractive football. However, things started to wane, they saw a manager who they believed was an upgrade and they made the change. People talk about needing to give managers time, but there is also a need to be ruthless at the top. This is no different to any manager/executive/boss of any corporation, be it football or not. If the manager of 'John Lewis' doesn't get results, he is moved on- and compensated for it. Unfortunately, one thing the Kenwright administration have done is make the club too inward and too local. Although there is a place for this, and it is essential for the fanbase and the city, there needs to be a sense of hard nosed corporatism too. Hopefully, Moshiri will bring that, but it is needed now.

Personally, I would look to make a change now and spend the time looking for a replacement ready for summer. I reckon De Boer should be considered. Although it doesn't always make a manager, I think that we are in a position that we need a name. It'll help to 'sell' the club when we don't have European competition. I also like where he has come from- Ajax have the philosophy of bringing through and blooding players that is similar to Everton. Similarly, looking at this season, anyone who has won a Champions League playing at centre half has got to be an upgrade. Ronald Koeman also worth a look. With new investment, would this be seen as a step up from Southampton in the same way that Spurs was to Pochetino?

Overall, there is the overriding view that this could have worked and it could have been special, but there are fine margins at the top. All the best, Roberto!

Amit Vithlani
125 Posted 06/03/2016 at 16:42:49
An eloquent letter, displaying grace, balance and wisdom which typifies the spirit and knowledge of our fan base.

However, I disagree with its conclusion.

I see no reason why a man, on a multi million pound contract, managing a club of our size and prestige, should be counselled to learn the art of defending and protecting a lead.

If Martinez needs to be mentored in the critical defensive aspects of the game, he is welcome to step down and assume the post of assistant manager, working and learning from someone with game management nous.

He is not welcome to learn on the job. Not when he inherited a talented squad, and given considerable funds to strengthen.

I think the lack of defensive aptitude is however not down to a lack of knowledge but down to a mis guided philosophy based on regarding the less glamorous aspects of the game, such as closing down, marking, making the most of set pieces, as being less important to focus on.

This philosophy has been repeatedly exposed as being flawed and counter productive in the Premier League. Time for the man to pack his bags and take his coaching staff with him.

David Hallwood
126 Posted 06/03/2016 at 16:45:06
Just to compliment Chris James’ (#113) stats. I’ve posted this on a few threads. In his 7 seasons as a prem coach his teams have conceded 403 goals (which amounts to 57.7 per season) which proves that either he’s a shite defensive coach or he’s a we’ll score 3 if you score 2 school. either way he won’t win anything in football unless he becomes the Celtic manager.

Wigan F A
2009-10 37 79
2010-11 40 61
2011-12 42 62
2012-13 47 73
Everton F A
2013-14 61 39
2014-15 48 50
2015-16 51 39(and counting)
Total Against: 403

John Keating
127 Posted 06/03/2016 at 16:47:46
The first signs of Martinez' ineptitude and intransigence were there at the end of his first Season.

I wanted him thrown out midway through last season and nothing has changed for me.

However, now that we have not been dragged in to this seasons relegation battle I am more than happy for Martinez to see this season out.

The reason being that he has the remaining games to completely fuck up, such that the few remaining Martinez supporters will finally admit that this clown is totally unfit to represent Our football club.

Every week the pro Martinez mob are dwindling. We still get the usual, it was the refs fault, we lost the balance when such and such went off, now it's Mirallas' fault or Lukakus penalty miss.

There's always an excuse. However, the longer Martinez continues to fuck up the excuses will become less and less.

Finally, regardless of us winning the Cup - pigs might fly - this joker of a manager should be sacked an hour after Jagielka lifts it.

Jay Wood
128 Posted 06/03/2016 at 16:49:19
Winston Churchill once described Russia as "... a riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma."

It is a description that could equally apply to our manager.

I was underwhelmed at his appointment, but was willing to give him time in the role. By the end of his debut season, I was a convert.

He managed to retain the steely demeanour of Moyes' Everton and welded on to that an attacking flair and a genuine 'sin miedo' 'philosophy' that carried us to 5th in the table with a record points haul for the PL era.

He recruited well, regularly introduced effective subs at different phases of the game, who impacted on the game to Everton's benefit. He made subtle tactical changes in games which also had positive outcomes.

His embracing and understanding of Everton's history was impressive. His perpetual positivity was uplifting and inspirational.

There was a real sense of anticpation at the start of his 2nd season, given all the positive evidence of his first season, that Everton could seriously challenge the clique at the top table in the PL.

It proved to be a damp squid of a season that never ignited. And whilst Roberto never relented in his media appearances in his positivity, the 'sin miedo' philosophy, inspirational subs and tactical tweakings seemingly evaporated to ... nothingness.

If anything, there was a disturbing regression in the performance of the manager, the players and the collective, the team.

Doubts were raised as to his true calibre as a manager. This season, whilst the goals have satisfyingly flowed into our 'For' column, so have they poured into our 'Against' column. This season is more akin to season 2, rather than season 1, especially with regard to our truly appalling home record and woeful inability to close out a game from a winning position.

I acknowledge playing a game of 'ifs and buts and maybes' is a futile exercise, BUT! IF we had closed out just 4 games from winning positions this season - namely, away to Bournemouth and Chelsea and home to Stoke and now der 'ammers, we would have 10 more points than our current 38 - an uplift of more than 25%.

As a result, our tally would be 48 points, WHU down to 46, Stoke 40 and Chelsea 39 and - on current standings we would be 5th, squeezed between the 2 Manchester clubs.

This 'revisionist view' doesn't even take into account exasperating defeats to the likes of WBA and Swansea.

For the diminishing few still lending their support to RM, I suggest that this character flaw of the team lays primarily at his feet. To think otherwise is to ignore the many direct quotes in which he states again and again and again: Everton is not and will never (under his stewardship) be set up to NOT concede goals, or to play the game out in any negative fashion from a winning position at the death.

I quite honestly don't know of any other football manager plying his wares at the very top level who has made such regular declarations in these terms.

As I've said on these pages before, at present under Martinez, no team, no opposition, is EVER without hope of achieving a result against Everton, regardless of the scoreline, the game time or however dominant and in control for the vast majority of a game Everton appear to be. WHU yesterday is another game we can add to a growing list of worrying examples.

Roberto Martinez has many skills, of that I've no doubt. But it is my belief he is an idealist, who won't be deflected from his 'philosophy' on how the game should be played.

Kudos and respect to him. As in life and certainly in top level sport, you only reach the top if you have a great deal of drive and determination. However, there is a subtle difference in being determined and being stubborn. If you persist with the same habits which are clearly to the detriment of your overall well-being, rather than change to healthier, more rewarding habits, you are simply being stubborn and intransigent.

I recall in the depths of the bleak mid-winter of his 2nd season, many on TW called for a more pragmatic approach to halt a disturbing slide down the table.

It was an approach seemingly called for and echoed by the players, as revealed by Lukaku that the players had asked the manager for tactical tweaks. There was an uplift in form following this.

With new ownership due to be confirmed, together with the massive infusion of cash from the improved TV deal, Everton are in an optimum position to break free of the shackles that have arrested our development for almost the entirety of the PL era.

Pivotal to the success of that is ... who is our manager and how he manages the team.

A piecemeal solution as suggested by some - appoint RM as director of football, but appoint a new manager; insist he appoints a defensive coach, etc ... won't work.

Either we back him, or sack him. And until Moshri is confirmed as the de facto owner of EFC and we hear of his vision for the club, RM isn't going anywhere soon.

Colin Glassar
129 Posted 06/03/2016 at 16:55:42
Chris 113, doesn’t your post just show we’ve been on a slow, downward spiral since the 2009-10 season with a slight upswing in 2013-14?

Martin Mason, I don’t entirely disagree with your post but I agree, it’s the league that counts for me. Cups are the icing on the cake but it’s where you finish in the league that shows where you are as a team. Give me a league title any day over a cup.

Greg Hunt
130 Posted 06/03/2016 at 17:01:03
To be honest Brian (67), I think you're right. I do think it was a mistake to sub Lennon and I was surprised to see him go off. My point was more that there seems to be some hysteria about every decision he makes now - I was just trying to give some context to the fact that this was something that *could* have paid off, as it did for Moyes that time. I specifically remember that match because I saw it with my brother and after the match we both thought Moyes had been bold to bring Chadwick on. So, the Lennon sub wasn't in itself a bad decision: it was a gamble that didn't pay off for Marti­nez, even though it did for Moyes.

And that leads me to my real point: Martinez in many ways is a brilliant ambassador for Everton, he's got an eye for a player and players like Barkley have improved under him, but he's not a "lucky" manager, or, if you like, an effective one, in terms of results. In many ways, I think he's possibly the most intelligent manager in the Premier League, but the least clever one, if you get my meaning. I get the feeling that a more results-based manager will reap the benefits of the set of players he's assembled and the work he's done with them, in the short-term at least.

For the record, I wanted him sacked after the draw at Chelsea. I love the way we play now going forward: we play the best attacking football I've ever seen an Everton team play (I started going in '89), but in the end, I want Everton to win - and we don't do it enough.

Jeff Dixon
131 Posted 06/03/2016 at 17:02:48
The time for Martinez has come to an end at this great club of ours. We as supporters are very tolerant in general but even we have a breaking point.

The Everton board are very passive and will not sack Martinez, so maybe it's time for the supporters to let their feelings be known to the board.

It's okay to vent our spleens in the pubs after the game and write articles on forums like this but we have to do something more (protest??) to get this usurper and his backroom boys out of this fantastic club of ours.
Mark Rogan
132 Posted 06/03/2016 at 17:03:18
Following our defeat again yesterday, I read with interest the various viewpoints and post mortems, because that’s what it feels like, and can I say it is time for Roberto to go.

We as football fans watch as Leicester achieve beyond expectation and hope that they can maintain their run, but why are we not talking about our club in the same way? MotD point out time and time again about the quality in our team but, as yesterday has proven, it’s about match management and sending us the supporters away home happy.

I to travel with my two lifelong Everton supporting brothers from Northern Ireland and while I realise and accept we can’t win them all... but we should at least be happy in the knowledge that the best team won. I was out last night with one of my brothers and at the start of the evening we couldn’t not go over the nature of that game, as expected we were both miserable at the result. But we both agreed Roberto is not the man for our team. We have new money at our great club and we all look forward but surely one simple question must be answered first.

Just as a footnote, a good friend and fellow Evertonian lamented when we appointed Roberto citing the style at Wigan; I commented at the time that maybe he would do much better at a bigger club with better players. Let me say we’re lucky other teams are not not doing better otherwise I would fear the worst. So thanks for your efforts but move over... and to the board: listen to us and move to end the misery.

Brian Harrison
134 Posted 06/03/2016 at 17:08:36
Even the West Ham fans have got RMs number with them singing 2-0 and you still fucked up. The Goodison faithful are used to this scoreline so I don't think many were surprised when the third West Ham goal went in Lennon's pace had them worried right through the game as did Lukaku, even when we were down to 10 men.

RM said in his post match interview that he took Lennon off because he could hardly walk, I have to say from my seat in the Upper Bullens I didn't get the impression that Lennon had nothing left. But even if his view was correct then why not bring on Deulofeu a pacy winger from the bench to keep West Ham stretched. So he would be changing like for like.

I couldn't believe it when I saw Niasse coming on, this guy looked totally out of his depth. That substitution sucked all the energy out of the team, and we all know that although Barkley is a talented footballer defending his something he hates to do. Surely he would have been better bringing Deulofeu for Lennon and Barry for Barkley.

I see some fans again talking about bringing in a defensive coach, well the Arsenal fans screamed at Wenger to do this a couple of seasons back. So to pay lip service he brought in Steve Bould. But Wenger's philosophy never changed so the impact that Bould has had has been negated by Wenger's tactics. And that's exactly what would happen if RM brought a defensive coach in. Its the philosophy that has to change, and that means changing the manager.

How far this club has to slide before any action is taken I don't know, the first year was a one off. He took over a well drilled any well motivated group of players and added a little bit of flair, without tinkering with the teams defensive work ethic. But now the team is playing in the style that the manager wants, which is irrespective of the score you play exactly the same way all through a game.

His game management is nil, because he doesn't do game management its a one style fits all philosophy. There is no mystery as why we have dropped so many points from being ahead, it's because the manager will not change his style no matter what the score is. The same philosophy that got Wigan relegated from memory they led many games in their final season in the Premier League but failed to see out many for the wins that could have kept them up.

Chris James
135 Posted 06/03/2016 at 17:24:44
Incidentally, as it stands, RM's footballing 'principles' are currently below those of Tony Pulis in the league table...
Ray Robinson
137 Posted 06/03/2016 at 17:29:23
Just for the record, Lennon looked goosed. When West Ham got a corner at the Park End, he was head down, knees bent and hands on knees. Martinez was probably right to take him off then just wrong to bring Niasse on.

And as for the Stones substitution. Well in my opinion, he shouldn’t have been on the team to start with. It was obvious from the Villa game when he came on near the end that Martinez was doing all he could to accommodate him.

Besic probably should have started with Stones coming on at half time to counteract the added threat of Carroll. It was pretty obvious at half-time that West Ham were going to start launching balls into the area but by then we had removed one of the defenders that we could have done something about it.

Gavin Johnson
138 Posted 06/03/2016 at 17:32:46
Someone brought up Walter Smith's sacking after the 6th round embarrassment against Boro. I remember the game and the post- match interview with Gazza nearly in tears. If we get embarrassed in the game against Chelsea I don’t see why we should hold off until the summer in all honesty.

In this scenario we should try and and tempt Mourinho before United nab him. Rudi Garcia is also a free agent. I think Dunc as interim manager until the summer would be interesting if we wanted a manager who is already in a job, like Howe or Koeman.

Michael Penley
140 Posted 06/03/2016 at 17:34:04
I fear many of you are letting Martinez off lightly by saying his only mistake was to take Lennon off. The reality is much worse. He has completely neglected the team’s defensive duties to the point where our vulnerabilities are laid bare for all to see.

Look at the second goal again and ask yourself what manager wouldn’t be furious at the display. Ours isn’t – he thinks it is all about morale, which was somehow shattered upon the penalty miss. Even if that was true, isn’t the morale his responsibility too?

I didn’t see him shouting encouragement from the sideline, unlike Bilic. And strangely, Man City managed to not concede 3 goals after Aguero’s penalty miss against Villa. How is that possible, Roberto?

Sean Kelly
141 Posted 06/03/2016 at 18:02:43
Can anyone on here answer the following questions for me? There are several more knowledgeable Evertonians on here – please tell me why, oh fucking why, do we put up with this bullshitter of a manager? He is clearly a spoofer and has talked nothing but shite since he came.

Also, why was Stones playing yesterday? Was this to facilitate him and his agent. For me, the team comes first all day. Was Martinez trying to show our new investors how clever and tactically astute he is?

Mr Moshiri – please do us long-suffering but loyal supporters a big favour and please get rid of the imposter called Martinez.

Ray Robinson
142 Posted 06/03/2016 at 18:29:48
Michael, I think most of us are referring to yesterday's match specifically and not the season as a whole. Of course, you're right, Martinez is serially culpable of not getting the team organised defensively.

And c'mon, Man City not feeling downhearted and not conceding three against Villa after missing a penalty is not at all comparable with our situation yesterday. Have Villa scored three times in any game this season? Even Everton were hard pressed to cock up against Villa. West Ham are a completely different kettle of fish.

Mohammed Horoub
143 Posted 06/03/2016 at 18:33:17
I like the Hiddink suggestion. I’m afraid for Kenwright to consider hiring him in June he’d have to beat us 3-0 on Saturday, win the FA Cup and get Chelsea relegated. There’s only one superstar manager that can pull that off and still find employment in the Premier League...
Dan Davies
144 Posted 06/03/2016 at 19:02:46
The defence under Martinez is an embarrassment and impotent. Surely everybody in the hierarchy of the club can now see this manager is not good enough to take us forward.

I realize we are the people’s club and we like to behave with class and dignity where a lot of other clubs fall short but sometimes as a club we are too soft and nice with players/managers, somebody in the hierarchy needs to be kicking arse big time and if their not why not? I hope Mr. Moshiri has ran out of bubble gum!
Craig Fletcher
145 Posted 06/03/2016 at 19:30:12
Fantastic letter, Brian.

It’s actually got to the point where, sitting on my couch watching our games in New Zealand at 4 or 5 on a Sunday morning; I can barely muster the strength to do a celebratory fist pump if we score the first goal of a home game, as I now have an immense sense of foreboding of what is to come.

Not that I’m a religious man, but when Lukaku was lining up the penalty kick in the second half, I found myself praying that the goal would go in, as I had a suspicion of what would transpire if it didn’t. Might be gallow’s humor, but when the West Ham goals started raining in in the last quarter-hour, I had to laugh at the inevitability of it all (guess if I didn’t, I would have been tearing my hair out!!).

Your stories of the visiting fans to Goodison Park certainly ring true with me, I’ve been very fortunate on my travels to have visited Goodison Park several times in spite of being a born-and-bred Kiwi, my last visit was with my wife on our honeymoon to Europe last year, when we somehow managed to lose to a poor Sunderland side 2-0 in May. I guess that was just a taste of what was to come this season.

Ultimately it’s nothing for me to get out of bed a few hours early to watch Everton play live once a week on the other side of the world and pay $20 for my monthly subscription, but I feel incredibly sad for our magnificent home support who rock up to Goodison week in, week out – to watch what is arguably the best (quality-wise) Everton side of the past three decades, constantly throw away winning positions with amateurish defending, helped along by amateurish game management. Whenever I’ve been in Liverpool I’ve always been touched by how incredibly friendly our fans are and how dedicated they are to our team – in spite of the frustrations – and the knowledge that they surely deserve better than what they have been getting the past two years.

I like Martinez; but to me this weekend was enough. I thought our nadir was the Stoke home game, but we’ve somehow just sunk to another level.

Good luck for your future Roberto wherever it may be, but there has to be a changing of the guard for next season.

Rick Tarleton
146 Posted 06/03/2016 at 19:40:51
Brian, we ’ve spoken before about our beloved club and this is a well-penned, considered piece from a top-class journalist. (Why did you go to the fascist rag?)

Martinez does not actually understand the nature of football management. He thinks scoring goals and attacking is the job. To be honest it was for Harry Catterick, but Harry bought Tony Kay and Dennis Stevens because he knew that, Alex Young and Roy Vernon couldn’t do it all on their own.

Grow up, Roberto, or just go.

Dan Davies
147 Posted 06/03/2016 at 19:41:04
Another point that should be brought up is that we’ve got Big Dunc Sat on the bench who would have absolutely loved playing against our current defence! Surely Duncan’s ripping into this defence and telling them some home truths?

It’s a mess, nothing makes sense, like a team who win the FA Cup and get relegated in the same season... who was that manager again?

Harold Matthews
148 Posted 06/03/2016 at 19:55:23
Jon #77. Why use my full name when I am the only Harold?

I know nothing about this alleged incident but Distin made no mention of it in his recent L'Equipe interview, where he explained how Martinez refused to let him join West Ham till the end of the season and never spoke one word to him afterwards.

I also know people close to the action who consider Martinez to be a ruthless control freak. Stick with him and you're fine but woe betide anyone who utters a word against him or his philosophy.

Barry Jones
149 Posted 06/03/2016 at 20:29:06
Steve # 82

"Let's look at the positives. There were 2 Newcastle fans sat next to me in the pub yesterday and they said they would gladly take Martinez as a manager over Mclaren."

That's like saying you would prefer that Ray Charles drive you home after a night on the piss, rather than Stevie Wonder.


Will Young
150 Posted 06/03/2016 at 21:06:02
Fine letter, Brian.

But let’s not be too downbeat: Moshiri is coming! Moshiri is coming!

David Pearl
151 Posted 06/03/2016 at 21:45:33
Dear Father Christmas,

I’ve been asking for a Tin Can Alley for 34 years and still nothing. WTF is going on. Are you telling me I have been on the naughty list every single year. I’m not having it.

Also I wouldn’t mind getting a new Everton home jersey for Xmas – I know they are £50 then but I keep getting them at the end of the season when I know full well they are half the price. Where’s the money gone Santa??

Finally could you please see that our players grow a pair and stand up and act like men, shoulder the responsibility as a team and stop letting the majority think its okay to hide behind the manager. That these professional sportsmen earning millions can’t or won’t put the tackles in and close down when we need them the most.

ps: I drank the Special Brew but left Rudolph a glass of milk

Miles Jordan
152 Posted 06/03/2016 at 23:08:49
Yet another Groundhog Day at Goodison. The niaive tactics, incomprehensible substitutions and spineless defending are doing my head in – to the extent that I’ve even started wishing we had Joey Barton on the pitch. How sad is that?

To be clear, Roberto, we’re not dropping points because of referees, or missed penalties, or idiots getting sent off, or bad luck. We’re dropping points because we’ve already conceded 3 or more goals on eight occasions this season. I’ve been going to Goodison since 1957 and can’t recall such an appalling record, even during the dark days of the seventies and the nineties.

I hope that the new regime will introduce some much needed, transparent, accountability into the running of our great club, from the Board right down to the players. As a result, Roberto should then stand or fall by his (the team’s) performance. I suspect he will be given another season, but if we’re not on target for the top 4 by December, he must be replaced.


Danny Broderick
153 Posted 06/03/2016 at 23:26:28
Great letter.
Dick Fearon
154 Posted 06/03/2016 at 23:49:20
I have just watched West Brom beat United 1-0.

I mention that because Tony Pulis did what Martinez should have done. To protect his 1-goal lead, Pulis took off a striker (Sessignon) and replaced him with a defender. Says it all really.

Phil Roberts
156 Posted 06/03/2016 at 00:06:00
Greg Hunt #34 – you gave the reason in your post. We went down to 10, they went down to 10. We brought on a enthusiastic fresh striker to win the game when both sides had been playing 50 & 40 minutes a man down.

That is not the same as going 4-3-2 from 4-4-1 when the other team have still all their players on the pitch and you are trying to protect your lead. For all his other faults, we would be chuckling over 3 points if we had substituted Moyes for Martinez when Mirallas got sent off. Now there is an interesting option! Substitute managers.

It seems slightly inappropriate to raise it this weekend, but have we become the new West Ham? WHU under Greenwood, Lyall. The team everyone else loved to watch and play. You knew West Ham would play good football and you would be allowed to play good football. It was exciting, exhilarating, full of goals. You even got cups ('64, '75 & '80) but the league, 7 top 10 finishes in ~30 years. Yeah, right. There was of course the 4 relegations but they were part of the package.

Thankfully I am a "he’s the wrong man" even when it was mooted he would replace Moyes. No revisionism for me. When he got 70+ points, I wavered but still not convinced. Then he believed his own ego and spent the summer in Brasil and wandering around South America or wherever and built on the success by adding Besic, Galloway and Eto’o. A player who has played the equivalent of 18 matches out of 66, a teenager who looks good and an old guy who was a waste of space. At a time when we thought we can push on to a Champions League spot and the challenge of at least 10, maybe 17, more games to win a European trophy. Wasted. 47 points! I ask you. Last time we had that few? 2004-05 and the team went off the beach 5 games from the end of the season because we were safe. OK, things would change in 15/16. Not a hope.

What is perhaps most mystifying is that this is a team with 5 wins and 7 draws away from home and 6 clean sheets. At home is 4 wins and 4 draws and just 2 clean sheets. What is it with the Gung Ho approach? Why are we not set up to perform at home as we are away? Probably quite simple, away from home we can defend and break at home we go all out to score. Does the guy or the club not do statistics. Do they not delve into the performances like we do to spot patterns and change?

Perhaps it just proves the naivety of the man, why he will never change, why Wigan kept playing attacking football when they needed points to stay up and why he is the man who will take this club into the Championship if he is allowed to continue.

Mark Andersson
157 Posted 07/03/2016 at 04:20:31
Nice open letter Brian, that’s the problem with it, nice.

For those of you who still believe that Martinez is a nice man, because he understands our history and passion. How about looking at it another way.

He came here on the back of failure, he is not totally stupid, he told you what you wanted to hear. Like any politician running for election.

Tell the people what they want to hear.
If he was a nice guy he would see and feel the misery of fans such as your self Brian and the thousands of others like you.

Martines is a self serving narcissist. His post match comments prove it week after week. Always some excuse, never takes responsibility never any apologies.

Carry on being nice to a narcissist and you get exactly what you deserve. They have no respect what’s so ever to people like you Brian, humility is not part of their make up.

Sure some fans on here go over the top with there less articulate way of expressing them selfs.

I have to hold back and is why I read all posts and views before making any comment.

You, me and thousands of true blue supporters live for the day when Everton FC are back in business, as a well respected football team both on and off the pitch.

Greg Hunt
158 Posted 07/03/2016 at 06:24:51
Fair enough, Phil. I must admit thought that it didn't seem a good idea when N'Gotty then scored to make it 2-1.
Colin Malone
159 Posted 07/03/2016 at 11:29:46
Roberto is a great coach, we play great football, no-one can deny that.

Is he too soft with the players? Does he tear into the player at half-time and give them the hair-dryer treatment? In my opinion, no, he does not.

Does he need someone like the motivating Peter Reid or Joe Royle as his number two?. Someone who can get that extra 20 percent out of players? In my opinion, yes.

Dennis Ng
160 Posted 07/03/2016 at 16:24:23
Colin (159), as we have seen so far, he will NEVER get someone like that near him, much less challenge him. I've written off this season and any miraclous change in form should be taken as a one off. We can only look forward to a change end of season or dread the next if he stays.

Brian (OP), perhaps an open letter should be directed to Moshiri more rather than the single minded manager?

Stephen Jones
161 Posted 07/03/2016 at 16:24:53
Chris (113) your comment "it's a results business" is not a sentiment that our Manager shares. I lost it when he came out after the Bournemouth away game and in the post-match interview he stated "Performances are more important than results" – ffs, if I was Bill, I would have had him into the office Sunday morning to explain exactly what he meant? And if he re stated what he had said after the game, handed him his P45 and also another couple for Jones & Lawrence.

The team that Martinez has around him are taking the piss; they are not good enough for Tranmere, never mind us. If you look into their past exploits, it really is frightening, especially the defensive coach, Lawrence. Funny really has anyone else noticed that since Alan Stubbs left us we can’t defend for Toffee (excuse the pun).

Like everyone else at the Old Lady on Saturday I was left just staring at the pitch at the final whistle in disbelief shock and the usual feeling of you just knew it was going to happen.

Enough is enough, the man has to go, FA Cup win or not.

Adios Roberto

David Edwards
163 Posted 07/03/2016 at 18:39:12
Well done, Brian – a well-written and diplomatic letter that sums up the situation remarkably well. Coming from the writer of my favourite Everton book, ’Looking for the Toffees’, I wouldn’t have expected any less from you.

My mid/late 70s bus journeys from Chester (outside the old Odeon!), I never would have seen capitulation like these ones at Fortress Goodison in those days. We didn’t win anything, but we had the attacking flair and the defensive steel to match (6-0 v Coventry with Dave Thomas running past me in the Paddock to deliver that cross for Latchford’s final goal! – sorry, I digress).

When we have a squad to match that team, and maybe even better it – then frankly the game management of Roberto must be dreadful indeed. I haven’t been a fan since that awful run from before Christmas 2014 – 15 months ago. No late run that season, or even a few cup runs this season, convinces me that Roberto, nice guy I’m sure he is, is the man to lead this team - especially if the purse strings start to be loosened.

I’d like to hope the balanced views of a true Blue can find its way to the people who matter. This season has been an amazingly wasted opportunity at time when the so-called ’Sky’ clubs have been imploding. We can’t have this next season!

Mark Lewis
164 Posted 07/03/2016 at 19:01:12
Remember that time not so long ago when Goodison Park was a fortress where teams feared going to? This charlatan as turned us into a soft touch.
Mike Berry
165 Posted 07/03/2016 at 19:16:43
Far far more diplomatic than I feel. The subbing of Lennon in this match sums up the poor game management of RM. Come to think of it his absence of knowledge of football tactics.
John Codling
166 Posted 07/03/2016 at 20:13:25
Lets get this straight, this man has openly said he's not bothered about clean sheets. Well the first thing he has to learn is a clean sheet means you don't get beat. Rom wants fucking for that penalty attempt, but to blame him for the defeat is shite – we had a 2 goal lead.

But that is plastering over the cracks, we are now a team that requires a 4 goal lead to get a result (at home anyway). Three games on the trot he has substituted the best player on the park. Brenda got sacked for having a better record than this charlatan. He thinks he is right and everyone else is wrong you only have to listen to him.

For fuck’s sake, be phenomenal and resign.
Roman Sidey
167 Posted 08/03/2016 at 00:36:22
No, it's beyond the point where he can redeem himself, because in the two years now since his true colours began to show, if he was going to learn and improve, he would have. It is at the point now where I actually fear us winning the FA Cup. If Martinez delivers that trophy, as long as Bill is alive and involved at board level, he will never be sacked.

To those saying "He doesn't tell this player to do that, or that player to do this..." I say, bollocks. Players like Barkley have the ability to be at the top of the game, and when they do bad things, they should be taken to task over it. I don't see what happens in the sheds, but from the evidence on the pitch, these players do not fear repercussions of their shortcomings, and that is just the saddest thing,


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