ToffeeWeb

He also ‘bounced’ one of their centre backs in a chase for the ball (another thing left out of the rubbish MotD coverage of the game, which just analysed what we ‘got away with’).

He still doesn’t always look totally coordinated but he certainly seems to be learning how to use his strength effectively, which is key to being effective in the Prem.

At the game on Friday I thought we did actually start quite well and Coventry were not in it at all for the first 20 minutes, reduced to hopeful long balls. Problem was we started to get really sloppy and Coventry’s confidence grew and grew as we simply squandered possession time after time. It took them scoring to seemingly get the players to find their focus again.

I’ve seen some remarks against Armstrong’s performance but I thought where he led the way was always looking to turn and exploit any space he had been gifted whenever he was receiving the ball. It didn’t always pay off but it kept Coventry ‘honest’.

In comparison, I thought our biggest let down for an hour was James Garner who just seemed to be coasting and not trying anything technically demanding at all when in possession. Yes, he had defensive duties but he also needs to ignite some of the offensive stuff otherwise the opposition can just double up on those players who are carrying all the creative workload.

Obviously we want Everton players to feel they can get international recognition here, and Picks, Branthwaite, Garner et al show that is true, BUT not a fan of how heads have been turned in the past. To be fair KDH is probably beyond that, having done the Chelsea thing already.
There’s also the injury risk we can do without. We’ll need the players fresh for the next few games epecially.

Trouble is I’m not sure I’ve got 19 yrs left in me to wait

Certainly his positioning is much improved but also such things as his pass to KDH to set up his goal. Seems also to starting to direct his headers better and looks a little more stable. More to come from the lad, I think.