Lukaku leads terrific fightback win at West Brom

Big night for Funes Mori, let's hope Stones isn't going to be missing for too long.

Big night for Funes Mori, and Browning too. I like this team though. WBA will be well-disciplined at the back so let's hope Deulofeu will find a way to unlock them.

Good to see both Osman and Oviedo on the bench.

Let's hope our luck is in and we get no injuries. It is a side with goals in it but the forwards will need to do their share of work.

I'm delighted Deulofeu is in ahead of Kone, and hoping Lukaku will have his shooting boots on, and we continue our good form with 3 points tonight.

Is it COYB of COYG tonight?

However, my concern is that I'm getting déjà vu from last year and always worry about Naisy and Barkley in the same line up.

As long as Barkley plays central – I'm happy.

Over here on US TV pre-match coverage, Martinez made a point of mentioning that Funes Mori already speaking English has helped a lot with him settling in and adapting. Thought I'd mention that because not only do I think that's very true but also because I wanted to mention that he knows English because he grew up in the same city in the States that I did. He even played for my local club's youth sides for a very short time (5 months) before being picked up by River Plate's youth setup.

Right as I say that he tries to do too much, gives to ball away, and a Berahino goal results. Maybe I jinxed it all.

We need more intent in the 2nd half. COYB

VERY VERY POOR INDEED

Please get fit before Sunday, Stonesy. (And Seamus – but Browning did well enough.)

Leave him out, people said!

Pfffft

Credit Bobby, for a correct call and another one for the subs he DID make that turned the game around ....

What a comeback.

About time!

:-)

Link

Great result lads, Geri was top class as well.

I am thrilled for Lukaku, but was finding him very frustrating to watch in the first half. He was never in the box when Geri was whipping some great balls in. Second half, the penny dropped and he showed what he can do. Geri was fantastic. A yard of space and a brilliant delivery.

Funes Mori had a decent game apart from his part in the first goal! I think Galloway at 19 is a real gem! New contract needed I feel!

Has Bobby got Deulofeu to watch videos of Beckham in his heyday? You don't always need to beat the man to put in a great cross.

Happy man tonight, well done the boys who traveled down, loud as ever! COYBB.

Talk about jumping the gun. For a full debut, I thought he grew into the game and acquitted himself admirably against one of the more physical sides in the league.

True, he was caught dwelling on the ball in the build up to their goal, but it was Barry's unforced error that provided the real opening for the fatal blow in that instance.

What I did like in particular is that he's not shy in just getting shot of it into the stand when the situation calls for it.

I don't care who bought him, I don't care which country he comes from, I don't care what one 'journalist' says. My eyes are seeing a good player.

Deulofeu was my clear MotM, superb crossing created mayhem in WBA's defence and Lukaku loved it.

Big credit to Martinez for putting Kone on for Naismith. Nais had scrapped but Arouna's ability to collect the ball back to goal offered us a completely different dimension.

Barkley was great, not everything came off, true. But, he kept winning the ball and his repeated contributions made a world of difference. When a player with that level of skill is continually busy it must be exhausting and demoralising for the opposition.

On another note, McCarthy's dive was pathetic, never want to see that from Everton.

Bloody delighted.

I'd probably start the same midfield and forwards as tonight, but Nais needs to keep his cool but bring the energy, and McCarthy needs to stay on his feet (ie, embarrassing dive) this weekend.

Sorry, Julian, I thought it was all games.

Just shows what difference a full recovery from a career threatening injury makes. Maybe we need to be more patient more often and reap the rewards?

On another note, how great is it to see Neville and Carragher gnashing their teeth in frustration at our comeback. Fuck you both.

Happy with the result but not the performances from people who should be doing better. Galloway was hands-down our best player over 90 mins, very impressed with this kid.

More than happy to forgive a defence that had 3 players with so little PL experience but Barry, Barkley, Naismith and McCarthy were dreadful for the most part. The latter guilty of an absolutely shameless dive to boot.

Kone made an impact up front and some lovely reverse passes from Rom but that first touch holds him back. If he spent all summer working on it we would have a total beast. Great spirit though and fair play to Martinez for some positive subs when needed.

In an honest moment, he looks disinterested and in second gear at times. You watch him and yell, "Move dammit!!"

Then... bam!

I've always backed the guy because he's got talent. If he's continually getting balls played into his feet with his back to goal, it can be ugly at points.

But when that kid is in a 50-50 charging towards goal? Magic.

Play to his strengths, see what happens? Get behind Rom and recognize him for what he is – an asset to Everton and one hell of a young striker.

What... a... game...!!! Three points, thank you very much.

I thought the back four all played well and it's great to see the young lads getting a start and gaining invaluable experience; first goal was a bit of a cock up but hey... this is football.

All-in-all a great result, a confidence booster ahead of the shite visit and more importantly no injuries.

Some of these yellow cards are being collected in silly circumstances and it's time we took a dim view of these actions – whoever's birthday it is.

Martinez, great (incredible) substitutions. Good night all.

Deulofeu was excellent and his crossing was first class. Kone and Lukaku look a handful when both of them are on. Neither is mobile enough to stretch teams as a lone striker.

He's magic you know
Gerard Deulofeuuuuuu....
He's magic you know
Gerard Deulofeuuuuuu....

Extremely disappointed in McCarthy. He can cut that out.

Cue Deulofeu and a second-half miracle, the kid is a little genius, his dinks into the area for Lukaku's two goals caused mayhem and won the game. I don't know who was commentating calling both goals 'debatable' Kone's offside and the winner handball, Clowns!!!

Deulofeu, is there a better assist player to have on the pitch in the second half of a game? Well done lad. That said, I can't believe we won that one; I thought it was going to be the same old Everton.

A win at the weekend and we are flying this season.

As for Lorro, hurry up and make us another negative prediction for the derby, you red-tinted glassed quilt.

I do understand the frustration some have with Rom, when he's playing well he is unplayable. However the stick he has received has been shocking in the last few weeks. Really some of you should get a grip. He has now scored 42 goals in 87 games, for a striker not playing in a top 4 side that's pretty impressive for me. I hope there is some humble pie being eaten tonight.

Finally Gerry looks a much better player to me. More disciplined, but still with real quality. He needs to start on Sunday.

We have a serious squad now that I feel can compete with the big boys... exciting times, I feel!!!

Good to see Gibson back. No matter what people think, he brings options to our midfield (when fit).

I have said a few times that I think that we have a serious team on our hands, when everyone decides to turn up. We have started the season reasonably well. But I get the feeling that it could get better. Let's hope that everyone clicks on Sunday, especially our match winners: Barkley, Deulofeu and Lukaku. And try not to go a goal down. We have done that twice this last week. Me old heart cannot take much more.

Credit to our two youngsters in defence. Browning and Galloway. The future will be in good hands. Well played... no matter what people think.

The doom-mongers had us relegated after 10 games and here we are in fifth place with one defeat in seven. Oh, and Kone again looked a decent player – another smack in the teeth for those who wrote him off as crap for having the nerve to be badly injured!

Now just win on Sunday boys... please!!!

Let's turn the RedShite over on Sunday.

Keep it up Gerry!

Galloway was the star of the back four. Really confident and forceful for such a young lad and what a fantastic tackle to save the day versus Berahino. Put those padded pants on Bainesy because you're gonna be warming that bench.

I thought Barry and McCarthy were poor. Too many negative and misplaced passes and not enough energy going forward. I agree that Gibson made a difference because he can reliably hit 30-yards passes, unlike his colleagues, but I expect we'll hear tomorrow that he's gone for a precautionary scan...

Christ, the newscaster on Granada News has just called Kone 'Cone', as in Ice Cream Cone... I don't think they'd get a Man Utd player's name wrong somehow... they always call Kirkby 'Kirk-by' too. Twats.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hAUbdHw8QG4

Jags has to learn when to mark a player or when to go for the ball, second goal, and he cannot pass the ball.

What the hell was the headless chicken doing tonight, I can't fault him for effort but no class, Number 10 spot between him & Ross & is no contest.

Why was Tipsy brought on, Tyias had not put a foot wrong and if you are going for a back 3 then a far more advanced player, Lennon, should have been brought on earlier. He could have given Rodriguez his debut late on instead.

The young lads seem to have got the whole squad up for it. After a matter of weeks in the country Funes Mori looks more composed than many of the centre backs who have had decent careers as Premier League defenders over the years. Far from proving Vickery right, I would say that so far he has proved him to be dead wrong.

Three of our back four must have barely double figures in terms of EPL games and yet they seemed pretty comfortable with each other already.

Lukaku was typical Lukaku tonight. Looked inept and disinterested and then boom, creates a goal out of a pretty speculative cross.

Deulofeu was great. Glad to see that someone has taught him to pass the ball in the time he spent away from Goodison. Galloway was fantastic tonight as well.

James McCarthy though, hang your head in shame. Diving is not something Everton players should do and I hope Martinez publicly shames him on that. Not acceptable at all.

Geri can really whip the ball in nicely but Lukaku should stay in the middle to be effective.

Great come back win... and great for the confidence. Bring on the RedShite!!

Anyway, let's not worry tonight! Three points and working with West Brom fans tomorrow! Happy days!

Romophobe – a person who fail to spot a centre-forward who scores every other game.

I am in the 'not yet convinced by Lukaku' camp. I think it's more from frustration as I know what he can do, having seen him perform really well in games.

But then he makes one, scores two, and... well, that's Lukaku. Just a shame that we don't see it more often. It would be interesting to see how we would play without him... but if he keeps scoring, suppose I cannot complain...

If Coleman is fit, we could be even stronger down the right.

But fuck me, some of our decision making was baffling and to say we gave possession away easily would be an understatement.

In my opinion, we simply gave them both their goals.

The first, we have the ball, there's no danger until...we simply present it to them.

The second - Howard is glued to his line and thinks flapping his arms might help (yeah someone should pick up the scorer, but the keeper is allowed to use his hands ffs).

Is it ever going to occur to him he can just plough through everyone and...juuuuuuump!!?

(At 30 whatever, doesn't look like it does it?)

Anyway churlish to end moaning - Galloway and Deulofeu were wonderful and an away win without Baines, Stones and Coleman should be applauded.

Up the Toffees!

(Oh and Kone's control helped us... although he was a nob-head for getting booked.)

All of a sudden, are Martinez's transfer dealings starting to look better?

Not sure what game you were watching on your planet... but here on earth, we won.

I still have nightmares about some "defenders" that have been on our payroll. Tonight, the only players that I was disappointed with were Barkley. Barry and McCarthy.

But these players are not machines. And unlike last season, we got a response tonight. We would have rolled over and lost this game last season. Two down, we would have stayed two down.

Credit also to our manager. Has he learnt from last season? On the evidence so far, it seems that he has. Although he needs to start resting Barry. There are other options.

And Martinez also seems to have started talking sense in his interviews. I can actually understand him. Bloody hell.

Roll on Sunday.

Going to be a different game on Sunday. I expect to see Coleman, Stones and Koné back in the starting 11.

Galloway quickly becoming first choice Kone like a new signing this season. And I say it again, Funes Mori a decent debut barring one mistake, a vast improvement of the two we released.

Yes, there are negatives... but right now I'm feeling very positive.

There are certain immutable laws of nature that never change and never will, and therefore aren't worth talking about. Tilting the planet to make the sun come up in another direction is more likely than changing Howard's style.

Does his good second half mean that complete disgrace of a first never happened??? Made up we won the game but it was one person alone who was responsible for that Deulofeu.

What can I say... when somebody writes something that makes me shake my head so hard I get whiplash, it makes me grumpy.

Lukaku - talk about an Enigma, had a shocking game, scored twice and set the other up. Crazy.

Great to see the lads not stop from start to finish – that's what ultimately won us the game. Kudos to the Albion fans who applauded Lukaku off too, that takes some doing when all things are considered.

Next Up Liverpool. On paper we should beat them easily. Hhhhhhhmmmmm... .not going to be quite as simply as that though is it.

COYB – let's be flying high on Sunday night. Oh, and well done Roberto, after me calling for you to be sacked after Watford you seem to have them ticking along a bit; my apologies.

I am surprised nobody has mentioned how poor Browning was for the corner immediately preceding the second goal. He let Evans run off him, passed him off to someone else which gave him time to take a touch, cross for Fletcher to head (which Howard turned round the post for the corner they scored from).

Galloway on the other hand looks a terrific prospect. Nobody is talking about us missing Baines.

You obviously don't like the guy but really tonight is not the time to keep venting your bile.

We were 2-0 down, he scores two and sets up the other. So yes, if that is 'easily pleased' I'm fucking ecstatic.

This view that he is not trying and suddenly decides to try is absolutely ludicrous, I mean one of the most stupid lame-brained things I've ever heard.

9 games this season, 6 goals. I'll take that every 9 games.

Funes Mori – I sincerely hope he works out – but I was full of trepidation every time it went near him. Early days for sure. Even if he'd played a blinder, I just hope Stones is fit for the derby.

Gibson's pretty good at driving us forward (when he's sober).

And Rom? ... a glorious enigma.

Galloway's been class from day one, he can walk into Stones boots no problem when the inevitable happens. Hope I'm wrong about Stones but I doubt it.

The manager deserves a lot of credit for having the confidence to put young players in the team when necessary, long may it continue.

Well done tonight lads, here's to the weekend.

And Deulofeu... what can you say?? if a wide player had put one quality cross every game we'd be raving; but 5-6 in a one game!!! A shoo-in for the derby.

So you carry on clapping your hands and hoping that he decides to put in a shift in the Derby and keep quoting goal stats after games where he does naff all.

Delighted we won but I am far far from convinced by the lad's application and pride for the shirt. ENIGMA.

You are not getting it. It's not effort, it's just ridiculous to suggest he decides when he is going to try or not.

I would be the first to admit he lacks consistency but to imagine this is a conscious decision is feeble. I look at his record, 42 goals 87 games. That may be 'quoting goal stats' to you but it's pretty important when you are playing centre forward.

And yes, I will keep clapping my hands, I've been doing it for over 40 years now, being an Evertonian and all.

Unlike some, having watched his every move with a critical eye, I thought Funes Mori had a good game. Let's remember, this was his Premier League debut in a far-from-first-choice defensive line-up.

He was NOT to blame for the first goal. He was doing as probably instructed by RM in trying to play the ball out of defence, was tackled and the ball ran to Barry who had time to pick a pass or simply hoof it clear. Instead, he played an inexplicably poor attempt at a pass straight to the opposition who capitalised on his glaring error.

Barkley should have put us in front but suddenly found his boots were on the wrong feet, and Deulofeu was simply sublime. He has to be a certain starter from now on. His crossing was the difference between victory and defeat tonight.

My only real jitters came from Browning who looked very uncomfortable at times tonight. Barry's overall contribution was poor by his recent standards, as was McCarthy's who seemed quite anonymous at times. Overall a great result and a superb fighting comeback, but we are still a work in progress and there are a few areas that RM needs to work on before Sunday.

I have no worries if Stones isn't fit, but hope Coleman is back to fill the right back slot. That was definitely our Achilles heel tonight. Well done guys, a superb gutsy performance.

You seem to have a downer on him, but don't take notice of everything that so-called South American 'expert' says. He hardly ever leaves Brazil so what the hell does he really know about football in Argentina, who, let's face it, think enough of Funes Mori to have selected him for their national team.

That's ARGENTINA, Jim, not San Marino or some other no-hope nation. If they rate him so highly, I think you'll find we have a damn good buy there.

I too have been a consistent supporter of Rom but at times admittedly he does frustrate. Nothing to do with lack of effort, but the lack of control / cheap giveaways goes to show he still does have some way to go to be the 'finished product'.

But on nights like this, he can be devastating. And overall I'll take those several moments of quality a game he can produce if it leads to a goal or two.

I thought Funes Mori was responsible for the first goal – in part. Yes, it was just a brainless giveaway by Barry but, if Funes Mori doesn't dally on the ball for an eternity before that, the Barry pass doesn't happen. My initial reaction was Funes Mori was at fault.

That was one (the only) mistake I saw him make and he didn't put a foot wrong the entire game other than that.

He's going to be a very, very good player for us I think. I like the way he's played in his short time here. He's an excellent footballer and despite the "dally error" his MO is to launch the damn thing into Row Z when it's needed.

Only one real problem for Everton at the moment..... what the hell does Martinez do when Baines is back from injury?!?

Baines has been a great servant to the club, but after Galloway's performances, how on earth can he be dropped?

He's 31 soon, and didn't impress me last season so I reckon we should sell him while there's mileage.... let's not forget Garbutt is still ours as well!

Nevertheless I agree, when all are fit and healthy we have a very nice selection dilemma.

Pleased to see the big fella converting a couple of Delboy's wonderful crosses and young Galloway playing out of his skin. Great stuff indeed.

After an understandably nervy start, Funes Mori settled down and played a decent game on his full PL debut. Won many headers and soon forgot about the tippy tappy philosophy.

McCarthy is a worry. If we had another three from the same mould, we would end up attacking our own goal. Not surprised when Martinez said he brought Gibson on to help us move forward. Even Barry tries to push us forward. Young Macca will only risk it once or twice a match.

As for the Kone goal. Yes, his arm was offside but that non-scoring part of the body doesn't count. A splendid pass by Lukaku by the way. Pleased for Kone but his yellow "birthday" card deserves a fine. It could cost us.

In terms of what players deserve to play in the derby, I think that has cleared itself up. Deulofeu is a must, Naismith is a must not, Kone for me has to play. Kone makes Lukaku look like a 㿈m striker, he also closes the gap between Rom and the rest of the team.

For me, the team is now clear:

Howard
Coleman, Jagielka, Stones, Galloway
Barry, McCarthy
Deulofeu, Barkley, Kone
Lukaku

Barry was poor again tonight but I can't see Roberto dropping his main man so the above side seems the most realistic and effective.

In the Southampton game, he looked lean and was really agile and as we know scored two goals; in the Swansea match, he looked sluggish, overweight, slow, sweating like a pig after 5 mins, and missed a couple of golden chances to win the game for us. Against the Baggies, he looked lean again and scored twice...

So Bob, mate keep him off the pies, get him in the sauna so he's ready to frighten the lives out of the RedShite this Sunday and bag another brace. And can we please ask Big Nev to educate Howard to command his area and come off his friggin' line!?!

Some people do go over the top, particularly on the live forum...but surely you understand their frustration. Until Lukaku's goal he was hopeless, as was the team as a whole. How many times does Deulofeu have to get the ball across the six yard box before somebody decides it might be worth getting in there.

Goals change games and ultimately Rom will get the plaudits today. I'm still massively disappointed with his all round play though. We cry out for him to get in the box and put himself about more. When he does, he is usually rewarded.

Anyway, I don't know why I'm arguing. I'm delighted we won...and always great to come from behind.

It's totally embarrassing.

Anyway, great result there... bring on the RedShite!!!

Strange game but great result. I have been saying for weeks that the performance is just as important as the result.What we saw tonight was a poor performance but great team spirit and a win. That in my book is progress from last season.

So credit to Martinez, the derby will be a good indicator as to who has the bottle and composure to come out top.

You could actually say the same about Rom. I don't want him playing percentages. I want him trying to turn the game. He saves himself for the big moments - long may that continue.

I posted on the preview that this game would show a lot about our progression from last year. Teams just had to sit deep and defend against us and we were clueless - we were crying out for Deulofeu to provide a bit of unpredictability. And so it proved.

My bet will be that we won't carry quite so many unpredictable players into the derby. Liverpool are nothing special but they'll pose more that than WBA, who didn't look like creating anything unless we gifted it to them.

For what it's worth I thought we were comfortably the better side during the first half too. Were it not for the defensive lapses I think we'd be talking about a very impressive away performance.

Funes Mori himself looks a decent enough player. Big, happy to throw his weight around and likes possession while having a penchant for a raking pass. Will be interesting to see him adapt and gain confidence.

While I would have preferred a clean sheet, the fact that the team can do that gives them belief to keep playing to the final final whistle. This will do the team a whole world of good.

I struggle to see the criticism of Rom but the heaped praise for Deulofeu, who had been arguably wasteful at times including what should have been a breakaway goal at the end. That's not me saying Gerry's shit, because he's not and some of those balls in were sublime, but it's similar to be constantly berating Lukaku... a 21(-ish) year old with a massive future.

Galloway was great. Funes Mori did well overall. I agree with the disappointment of McCarthy's dive, but if the result had gone the other way the naysayers would have been saying we're too nice and lack any professional cutting edge, probably.

I hadn't expected us to do this well at this stage of the season... but rather like when the second went in against us last night, I hoped we would do better. A great come back, even better considering it was away against a Tony Pullis side with such an inexperienced back four in for us.

Browning took time to settle but looks good defensively. However, he did not show much going forward and therefore gave us one less outlet to move the ball on.

Barkley had one of his off days but I thought McCarthy was everywhere including the rarefied air of the penalty area which obviously shocked him into crumbling on the floor.

Brendan Galloway just grows with every game and is good in the air (take note, Ross).

Once Lukaku and Deulofeu got up to pace, we looked ominous.

I just hope Coleman and Stones are ready at the weekend and I can honestly see us winning that.

I cannot wait till Baines, Stones, Cleverley, and Coleman are back from injury. Competition for the starting XI is going to be incredible.

Impressed with Galloway, and Deulofeu was superb.

Lukaku may be a bit of an enigma, but hell when he is switched on he scores.

Great joy and satisfaction! I will watch the 20 minutes highlight on the Official Site when it becomes available, but from the comments on TW and the match reports, great game and super performance to come back from 2 goals down. And this without 3 of our 1st choice back 4! Plus Mirallas (who?), Cleverley, Pienaar not available.

Ladies and gentlemen, I am pleased to announce that we have a squad now! Do we dare dream?

1. It's time to sell Baines to Real Soceidad;

2. Tim Vickery don't know shit bout South American football;

3. Naismith was the real downer, he caused Lukaku to freeze.

It's just a needless yellow card though isn't it. I'm not particularly mad at him for doing it... but there's no two ways about it, it's stupid behaviour.

I notice he didn't thank Allah for that goal either. What's the man upstairs done to deserve that?!

I'm sure he doesn't mind.

Not that I speak for him Phil, mind you...

Lukaku is vital to our chances. The shy one we saw in the first half is less than useless to us... but the bully we saw in the second can see us lifting a cup or challenging for a top four place this season. Fantastic brute strength from the big fella.

Other pluses: Another superb display from Galloway. (How can my favourite player get back in when fit?)

Deulofeu's confidence, Browning's maturity, Funes Mori's second-half performance. Barkley's form... and Kone (who knew?).

This result should not be underestimated; we were 2-0 down against a mean-arsed, time-wasting, frustrate-the-fuck-out-of-you Pulis side. With Stones, Seamus and Baines to come back, this season is looking full of promise.

Oh and a word for the manager; he's looked completely out of his depth at times, but he seems to have found the formula and if we are to criticise him for being "clueless", like some of you did last season, we should be more than happy with his performances so far this season.

Keeping Stones was always about more than just hanging on to a gifted youngster. It was a statement to fans, managers and players of other clubs, not to mention the Gobshites who earn a living writing headlines. He was also spreading a wave of optimism to every one who loves this club. I'm made up with him this morning

I thought Rom had a very good game. Twice under pressure he scored goals at the back stick/coming from the back stick. A few times he chested the ball and held it up well. His assist for Kone showed vision. He is developing into an all round striker.

I thought Nais did an honest job but Barks and Nais seem to make the same runs. West Brom packed their defense and as a result both looked ineffective as they did not offer width on the left.

We played a lot better after Kone came on, as he and Rom made clever movements between West Brom's backline.

Gerry was superb and has to start on Sunday, alongside Kone and Rom. If Stones is fit he goes straight to CB as he and Jags will need to play well against Sturridge/Benteke – two players who have done well against us.

RB is a worry as Browning kept losing Berahino who he was detailed to mark.

Coyb.

Galloway gets stronger every game. It will be interesting to see what happens when Baines is fit.

Mori had a very decent away debut. One mistake, looked a bit shaky, but grew in the game and saw a huge amount of ball. A significant upgrade on Distin and Alcaraz.

Usually the stream cuts off at end of game, but last night it stayed linked so I watched the so-called 'analysis'. What a disgrace! It was all about how WBA had lost the game without a key defender. Nothing about Everton's fantastic comeback with 3 inexperienced defenders at Premier League level!

If the comeback had featured one of a certain five teams (enter name here..............) then it would have been all about them and nothing about WBA.

Martinez did well in his interview to keep talking about the game just played, when all anyone in the studio wanted to talk to him about was the forthcoming derby. Hope he enjoyed his moon cake!

However, what a conundrum GD must be for full backs. Close him down and he will drift past you. Stand off him and he will deliver a ball with real quality.

The only thing I can see preventing GD from going to the very very top is that he is very predominantly one-footed.

Whatever it was, we're back to two seasons ago. Resilient, together, hard to beat and lots of goals in us. Difference is that the young players are coming through and looking the part, the players appear more comfortable with the style of play, particularly as we are playing more quickly more often, maybe not often enough?

Last night I forgot that Baines, Stones, Coleman and Cleverley were injured. I've long given up on Mirallas. He's challenged Martinez's authority and I'll be surprised if he gets more than a handful of games while he's still here. I got a feeling he signed his contract in the absence of a better offer and we gave him one to maximise potential offers. You can't call Martinez 'soft' then criticise him for not accommodating a sullen, sulky player who can't fight his way into a winning team.

I hope this is a turning point. This is the sort of side we've regularly struggled against, we were two down and we won and should have won by more. We can kick on against that lot on Sunday. They have no local lad cloggers, they are an expensive average team. We're better than them, we all have to believe it and when we play to form, we win games.

My only worry with Deulofeu was that he could be too predictable. It's fantastic to see that he's recognising that and trying something new. Got to love a young player who's willing to adapt. Bodes very well for his development over the years.

People are right to criticise managers for playing their 'favourites', but when their favourites are playing well, what's the problem? This is becoming Martinez's team now. Perhaps we should move on from yearning for the Baines-Pienaar axis, the huff and puff of Fellaini and the unreliability of Mirallas and focus on the team we have, which looks to me like a better bet for a brighter future.

I'm talking about the corner that led to the corner their second goal came from. The one where Howard tipped Fletcher's header round the post. Re-read my post and see Browning's role in this.

Very funny.

I thought Galloway was excellent, hard to believe his tender age. Funes Mori did very well in a tough league too initiate a centre-back, a position that is very unforgiving if you make a mistake.

I also like the fact that we have three very fast wingers to stretch defences especially in the latter of the game and playing on the break.

We could have a great season but I think it hinges on Barkley staying fit and fresh as we lack that No 10 that Martinez wanted so badly as back up.

If (big if I know) but if we keep Stonesy then that's going to be some partnership between him and Ramiro, while Brendan is just superb as well. Not only a good full back, he really won't let any so called "big" name intimidate him.

The first half was frustrating but even so we could have easily been 1 up early on when Gerry put it on a plate for Ross. What was good is that we didn't buckle after the second goal and what a recovery! Reminded me of the '66 cup final that.

I thought it showed how frustrating but potentially world class players some of our young lads are.

Ross, is a mixture of brilliance and headless chicken. He sees wonderful opportunities for a pass at times; and at others he runs himself into blind alleys. I think he'll become absolutely top class, if he can learn when to pass the ball when opportunities come. He's like a lad who plays in the schoolyard and can beat half a team dead easy. Bags of natural talent, skillful and great engine.

Same with Gerry. I thought tonight, some of his running and passing were just sublime. He seems to be able to put in world class passes without any problem at all, then he'll trip over himself doing too much. I don't mind though, because he is just a fantastic prospect and like Ross, can become a great if he continues to mature as he is doing.

Rom? Well a mixture alright. But again, he's young, he's learning and he's got an amazing ability to score goals. I think that his game depends a lot on the service he gets and with Ross and Gerry, he'll get that service.

I think we've got a really good squad in the making and I think there'll be ups and downs but more ups than downs.

Good second-half performance to pull back those two goals against a Pulis side.

I'm not looking forward to the Derby (me nerves go for a Burton) but if we play like we did in the second half, from the start, then that'll do for me.

A scrappy game but a very good end result. Deulofeu did put in some sublime crosses; he made a few defensive errors marking-wise... forgiveable last night but he must work on it.

It was actually Barry and Jagielka who made errors for the goals so well done to the youngsters for their contributions. Galloway certainly looks the business!

He runs his balls off, is always showing for a lay-off or running in behind. The pace balls that come into him, he controls the vast majority really well. Sometimes he even has a phenomenal touch and moves the ball in one swift moment away from defenders and crates angles for others.

There are times it goes away from him and he is closed down; quite often he recovers the ball and sometimes loses it. The losing the ball is very infrequent.

Look at him closely and look at the mileage and effort and runs he puts in. Call him on the balls he loses and see how quiet the detractors become.

I would like someone to dig the stats out on him to get some reality on this amazing debate.

With the better service that I think is coming, he'll score more goals. I'm glad we've got him and, as with all our young talented p[layers, I hope we keep him. If we do, we'll be having a good, young, squad and it's well on the way now.

We have got such a good squad now after what seemed a so-so transfer window. Funes Mori looks very accomplished, Galloway is going to be a fabulous player, Geri is tricky and skillful with a great delivery. Kone is looking better and better, developing a great partnership with Rom. Jags was like a rock. I could go on. Martinez looks like he's got things sussed now. Absolutely delighted.

A great start to the season.

You are spot-on about his effort. For someone who was visibly breaking sweat in the first half, he is either working harder than many give him credit for or he needs to go and get his thyroid checked out.

I think the biggest weakness in his game is something he can get better at, which is his positioning and anticipation. He's not someone who naturally seems to like playing on a defender's shoulder and making those speculative runs that top strikers instinctively make.

But you ultimately judge centre-forwards on goals scored, at the moment he is a decent Premier League striker, 1 in 2. To be considered a very good one, that needs to be 2 in 3.

In Deulofeu and Barkley we have 2 young creative talents who look up for it this season (maybe not quite yet in the same game, but that's why you probably need to play both). Then with Lennon, Mirallas, Gibson, Osman and Kone to come in/on who can also create plus Baines and Coleman providing overlaps down the flanks we should have enough options in the chance creative box.

Up front Lukaku, Kone and Naismith have all notched a few goals this season and all offer something different - i.e. raw power + finishing vs control + guile vs workrate + finish respectively - if we could somehow combine them we'd have the best striker in the world! As it is I think this is still an area we can improve in come January, but if Rom stays fit we should have enough to keep us in the hunt.

Meanwhile at the back we seem to genuinely have two banks of 4 that we can interchange with Galloway/Baines - Jags/Stones/Funes Mori/Galloway again - Coleman/Browning plus Garbutt and Oviedo also.

Then there's McCarthy and Barry sat in front of the back 4 - with Besic and Cleverley to return. (I still fundamentally don't think we need both DMs... but hey, if we keep winning I'm sure I'll come round.)

Both Howard (who I do actually rate, seemingly a rare view on these pages) and Robles (who looked great in parts last season and needs gametime for confidence) are solid goalkeeping options, but I agree we could do with someone fresh here - shame we never went for Butland.

We've also shown character and togetherness this season, partly helped no doubt by the manager's or board's decision to keep the group together and not sell any important players (a considerable achievement in itself) and seem to be building a winning, never-say-die spirit.

I think we'll know a lot more about our realistic chances for the season after the next 3 games against genuine top 4 challengers: Liverpool, Man Utd and Arsenal. However, if we can manage to take 4-5 points from these, get a few of the walking wounded back and avoid too many injuries, then suddenly that CL ambition might not look so crazy and maybe we will all be able to say In Martinez We Trust again?

COYB!

Great comeback and Lukaku did what a lot of people on here have been asking him to do: attack the six-yard area.

I still haven't made my mind up over Martinez, maybe he's getting there, but first half had me doubting that. All-in-all, a satisfying night.

I don't think Rom can always score the goals on his own; it's a team effort and, to a large degree, a goalscorer needs chances to be made for him. It's great to see the passes flowing and I just hope they continue to increase.

When we went 2 down I thought we had no chance but the spirit, the fight and the belief in that squad was emphatically shown in that last half an hour.

After that performance by Deulofeu, which was simply magical with Beckhamesque crossing that any striker in world football would happily feast on, he has to start every game and there are quite frankly no excuses for RM not to.

It also showed that Kone is a great impact sub and I think that is how he and Naismith should be utilised in future in my opinion.

Galloway was absolutely first class and I tell you what, Baines faces a fight to regain his place, the potential and the talent we have in the squad is so exciting and the future going forward is an exciting one.

In the Derby next week, if we play like we did in those last 40 minutes, we will win. Carragher on MNF looked worried whenever it was mentioned and said that we're favourites next week.

If we get to November still in the top 6 or 7, by New Year we'll be well inside the top 4 because we have a run of 8 or 9 winnable fixtures on paper at least. I think we're going to have a very good season and we're definitely in the fight for 4th. If we get results against Arsenal and Man Utd in the next few weeks, we definitely will, especially with the fixtures coming up afterwards.

I'm really excited about this season and the next few years because there is so much potential in the squad.

Thought the back 4 looked fairly solid considering 3 first choice players are out and Funes Mori looked quietly assured despite his mistake for the first goal. (Although really it was Barry's fault more than his and indeed had Lukaku made the run he was waiting for he would have got rid of the ball earlier...)

Barkley had a quieter game and Lukaku embodied his Goodison career so far, ineffective and dreary in large doses but ends up with a crucial brace and assist. Galloway looked solid and finally in Deulofeu we look to have someone who can really make something happen from nothing and laid on two goals and what should have been third for Barkley, though I've no idea how he managed to mess up the 4 vs 1 we had at the end!! I could have laid that one on myself.

All-in-all, an encouraging Monday night after a dreary weekend of sport for me. Let's push on with a thumping derby win now to really show we mean business this season.

Unfortunately Lukaku doesn't score in every other game, he's scored in 2 out of 7 PL games this season.

And I wish Nev would tell Tim the benefits of making the 6-yard box your own... no matter who's in the way!

That's best described as obtuse. I'm describing his 90 games at Everton and his 42 goals.

I mean based on last night he scores two every game.

Howard supporters, please do not excuse his culpability for the first goal by naming Funes Mori and Barry. Howard is responsible for his own actions and performance – his ridiculous attempt at catching their last minute corner would have been laughable in the Sunday league.

What's obtuse is not knowing the difference between an average goalscoring statistic and an actual goalscoring statistic when you state "a centre-forward who scores every other game".

As of last night Rom has scored in 2 out of 7 which admittedly is better than the previous 1 out of 6, but still not every other game.

Jimmy Mac: thanks for trying, lad, but we are proud of not cheating our way to results like so many other teams.

What striker in the world scores every other game consistently? When people refer to a striker who scores every other game, do you honestly think they mean strikers who score 1 goal in every other game or do they mean the goal average?!

I think most people know it's not a given that a striker scores every other game and that term refers to their overall record. I think you are using statistics to suit a flimsy argument there, mate.

Played: 90
Scored: 42

And he has just turned 22.

I (and many others) read the stat as "averages 1 in 2".

I know it's not what he said but let's have common sense prevail here.

Don't you just love 'facts'.

Using your logic and with me selecting my sample size ( 1 game, last night)

Gerry gets two assists every game
Kone gets booked every game
When we play on a Monday night and wear blue shorts we always win.

I'm sure you knew what I meant but top marks for your pedantry.

The only embarrassing thing I'm seeing is your completely over-the-top post.

'Cowardice'... get a grip.

Again poor performances from many of the players. Thank feck Deulofeu can cross the ball into good areas because other than that... He worked hard but his distribution was very poor... The sad thing is... He wasn't on his own, senior players should do better; Jags, Macca; Barks, and Naismith.

As for Lukaku... Thank fuck he scored them goals; as for general play within the game, he was invisible again!

We will need a massive improvement on Sunday from most of the players to get a positive result! I just hope Funes Mori keeps his place... I really think this guy could make a massive difference on the day. He's perfect for this type of game.

There is a massive issue that so many people are missing and that is he is a very very volatile player, he either plays great or has no interest. His great games he often gets a brace then does nothing for 3-4 games; disagree all you want, it's a fact.

It can also be said he goes missing in bigger games – look at who he scores against... and who he doesn't score against.

Can we please just accept that he has the extremely frustrating tendency to have an Emmanuel Adubayor mentality.

If he approached every game like he had pride in the shirt, I would love him despite his awful touch. He doesn't... and he is doing himself and the fans a disservice.

Couldn't he just have picked up some Guylian chocolates on the way home?

I think you completely miss that Rom does make runs and when he does look anonymous in games it's because the team have reverted back to the slow passing game, and are not playing to his strengths. You should learn to appreciate him, Peter. You'll miss him when he's gone.

He has scored against all the big clubs bar Chelsea and Manchester United, and against the latter he played very well in both Goodison games, plus he scored big goals in the Europa League. So not sure the "he goes missing in the bigger games" line works.

I admit he can look lazy and disinterested at times, but if he scores 1 in 2 and in some games he looks lazy, I will take that thank you very much.

He has scored a single goal 27 times and more than once on 7 occasions. Just another example of your selective memory.

What leads you to believe he is a 'very very volatile ' player?
Six yellow cards in 90 games doesn't suggest that to me. You compare him to Adebayor, how has he portrayed any characteristics of that waste of space? Every time I see him speak he strikes me as fairly humble. Martinez speaks glowingly about his passion for the game and his determination to improve.

And what does 'pride in the shirt' actually really mean? It's just one of those meaningless throwaway cliches.

You obviously dislike the player but you do it by way of character assassination as if any poor performance is somehow an attitude flaw. I don't see that, I see a player who is inconsistent but also one who still be wanted by most PL sides.

What has surprised me no end is Roberto's willingness to vary his tactics and formations as well as make early subs as with last night. I really did think he was so addicted to his 'passing philosophy' that he was happy to take a loss in the cause.

Has the man changed or has he been leant on? But whatever, he's really got the lads performing!

Last night was really interesting, because he was hugely frustrating for the first hour or so, and then took responsibility to force us back into the game. He has that power. He can terrorise defences – especially when other attacking players like Deulofeu are showing the form of last night. And when Lukaku is on song he really is terrific. I just get frustrated that he seems to play at those extremes somewhat at random.

I hope that Lukaku can add that consistency to his game, as we'll be really going places if he can. And with Liverpool on Sunday – aided by the feelgood factor in the squad after coming back from 2-0 down to win last night – would be a good place for Lukaku to put back-to-back match-winning performances together.

Also, as a young man of 22, he is an eloquent speaker (in lord knows how many languages) and I've only ever heard him speak in respectful tones about anyone he has mentioned. He's one of the lads who I think, if we can keep him, who will be part of the springboard that just might bring us into the top 6, top four in a season or two.

For 22-year-olds, Rom, Ross, John Stones and the even younger lads, are doing us proud.

Last night was the first time I have seen one of our players consistently putting a cross in every chance he could. No surprise to see Lukaku thriving on that kind of service. If we keep supplying him that kind of service he will score for fun.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/34386986

Lukaku is a curate's egg traditional centre forward - he does his job and/but he is frustrating. That means Kone too, because they work well together. Deulofeu makes things happen whenever he's on the ball so he has to start.

That means I don't have a place for Naismith even though I love him for his total effort and guts and spirit, and in a derby game you want that. I think I have to start him on the bench and after an hour we bring him on to fire us up if we need that; and a bit later if we don't.

Barry and McCarthy are fixtures, and then Jags, Stones, who I assume will be fit, Galloway deserves a start, Coleman if fit.

That leaves Lennon, Gibson, Funes Mori with Naismith on the bench; which means no place for Browning.

I hope my prayers for Sunday are not just going to St Jude for once. We really could do this: they don't have Gerrard any more to fire them up for the derby; and they do have Mignolet; and Brenda...

In fact if Barkley had've scored that easy chance then they wouldn't have had the chance to score.

Blaming Mori for the first is just ridiculous, we had the ball back in our possession, Barry wasn't under pressure so the lads screw up had gone unpunished. A quick brainfart by Barry cost us the first.

The second... Eugene had it right, I just keep on preying to the Almighty that Howard realises that he is built like a tank and the ref will protect him. Go through everyone, even your own defender. Star jumps on the line work every 1 in about 100, and it's usually a fluke that 1 time.

I will claim bragging rights for being on the live forum saying we will win when the rest was doom and gloom. Great fightback from the lads and if we could learn to defend set pieces my blood pressure would be better. Roll on Sunday and maybe I will get some beta blockers. :)

Thomas (#179), you're right it's not what he said, but how is anyone supposed to know whether he's saying what he means, or guess at what he thinks he's saying?

Graham (#180), that's not a logical conclusion at all, you're just being silly now.

Didn't his former coach just last week say that his faults get overlooked because he scores goals?

Sure his faults get over-looked because he scores goals. He has been played from a young age because he is prolific. Should we therefore criticise him for this or thank our lucky stars that we have him?

The Premier League is full of forwards whose link up is play better than Rom's who do not score as frequently as him. Do you want us to sign them instead? Granted that has been the Everton norm since Lineker... to sign players who never score or to coach the goals out of those who do.

Other than that, Geri and Galloway stood out for me and Kone and Gibson certainly gave us something different when they came on that helped us open the game up.

Deulofeu was excellent throughout, as were Jags, Galloway, Barry and Maccca (apart from his stupid dive).

My mate Kev insists that I need to give Funes Mori time to adjust, but I don't like him as a player. Hope I'm proved wrong.

I don't think anyone has mentioned Jags yet. His consistency this season is brilliant and though he doesn't really have a case for MotM, he wasn't far behind anyone. Lukaku had his moments in the second half, as did Deulofeu but Galloway and Jags were consistent throughout.

I thought Funes Mori had a more than decent game too which makes it all the more surprising that we still managed to ship two very dodgy goals. When everyone plays well in two halves, we will have another performance a la Southampton and Chelsea.

Will someone please write a piece reminiscing about that famous 3-0 home win over Liverpool? After all, the recent Wimbledon article certainly inspired the 3-2 comeback last night.

It's like being back in sixth form debating society. You know what I meant, if you wish to get into discussions on semantics you best wasting your time with someone else.

"Unfortunately Lukaku doesn't score in every other game, he's scored in 2 out of 7 PL games this season."

Feck me! We're now judging people over only 7 games are we? Discounting all else they've done. Somewhat arbitrary it seems to take the last 7 games. Forget previous seasons. Strewth.

The one fault I have is Howard, he should be coming for crosses, the 2nd goal was a prime example. He's also too fond of rolling the ball out to a defender, instead of kicking it, that's how we conceded the opening goal. How many times has his short kick-outs put us under pressure?.

I think it is fair enough to criticise Tim for the second goal, he did get blocked but he needed to be stronger and more decisive.However, he will be under instruction to roll the ball out.

What was apparent is how vital JS is to making this work because of his composure and footballing ability. Funes Mori as well as he did for a Premier League debut, is no John Stones... mind you, that's a pretty high benchmark.

I think most of Lukaku's detractors (myself included) get frustrated when we know what he can do, but he appears to lack that killer instinct, belief and desire to get in good positions in order to do it more often.

Mind you, if he did do it more often, no doubt the media would be flogging him to the next Sky 4 club before you could say "That Romelu Lukaku looks a bit good".

In no way whatsoever was Howard to blame. He was however at fault for their second. Terrible goalkeeping. There's no way someone should be getting a free header from 2 yards out.

Rom is a tricky one. I can see why some get riled by him.

So I agree with Gary, I like the lad, I want him to do well, but he needs to work on his weaknesses like a professional should.

I think you will find that Funes Mori is a top class player. You don't play for Argentina if you are not of the highest standard.

'My mate Kev insists that I need to give Funes Mori time to adjust, but I don't like him as a player'

Dear Duncan, I think your mate has more common sense than you give him credit for.

As for Duncan McDine... I don't like that as a name!

What exactly 'don't you like' about Funes Mori (now there's a proper name) 'as a player'.

I'm impressed with him. I have to admit I was pretty underwhelmed at the signing, and positively angry about the price tag, but he's got what it takes and will only get better as he plays more.

His mistake led to us regaining possession and the fuckwit Barry passes it straight to a West Brom player.

You will have to explain as to how a player who screwed up but the team regained possession is more at fault for a fuckwit passing it straight to an opposing player just outside our box?

We've got an exiting group of young players, definitely with a good chance of becoming top Premier League players.

Frustrating it might be at times (well, it certainly is, at times!) but we're seeing young skillful players developing their games, while playing against some of the worlds best imports and most of the best British footballers.

So, for me I'd much rather have the lads we've got and the skills their developing than not... even when it gets frustrating. I look at Ross Barkley and think he can become a great player. But we all know there's areas of his game that need improving.If he doesn't improve them, he will be a good player but not a great one.

That same situation goes for all the lads and we are in the possibly great position of seeing them developing into top class players... for Everton.

Link

Wonder how Allison's table looks?

And I think that Gibson could be the key – he adds that touch of class, an extra dimension that sets us apart from teams like WBA, Palace and the RS.

So if Gibson stays fit, we get into the CL. That's my formula anyway.

What a brilliant way to win a football match, and just before the home-derby. Still quite a few injuries over and Mordor too and we should have our defence back so I hope we give 'em hell this weekend.

Best chance in a long while to give them a good hiding.

Marvellous stuff.

Apologies to Gavin and others whose criticism will be forthcoming but Howard was blocked from going straight out by a West Brom player who was physically huge. Howard's teammate wasn't goal side to help or behind the player to allow Howard to use him as a pick to get beyond so he was an additional impediment. Given that, Howard has to slide along the line. I am sure he was just as surprised as us that a player as large as Dawson could go unnoticed and unmarked.

Jim, now explain that mis-punch in the final minute, sums up Tim exactly, hilarious, but not if they had scored off it.

Your post raises an interesting point. Only on occasions is a single player at fault. Take the Besic first touch in a blue shirt against Chelsea last year for instance.

More often a combination of decisions or lack of action contribute. Both goals last night were a case in point.

For the first, Funes Mori ran the ball into trouble, Barry misplaced a pass, Browning got caught by a run from outside.

For the second, Barkley lost his man, Jagielka got turned around so didn't know where the ball was, and Howard allowed himself to be blocked off.

In all these cases, the players could have done something different which may have prevented the goal.

It seems a common trait amongst many on here is they want a single player to point the finger at. We end up with the arguments witnessed on this thread. In reality all the players were culpable to some degree.

Mind you there are some crackers. Howard was responsible for the first by rolling the ball out, and for not leaping at the feet of the oncoming striker and making 'an easy save'.

We all know Howard's strengths and weaknesses. He'll make a mistake from time to time, usually from not commanding his area, but on the whole I've been impressed with him this season.

I'm just offering my opinion that after watching him live twice in the space of a week I don't feel confident in him. I felt the same way when I first watched Robles in goal.

As I said, I truely hope I'm wrong about him... This league can be tough to adjust to so I'll happily lay off the judgement until he gets a few more games under his belt.

I'm happy that I'm in the minority regarding the lad's potential, so fingers crossed he won't be the liability I fear.

Anyway there you go – ’nuff said’.

By the way I think McDine took some imagination ‐ whoever came up with that one deserves a .......??

I agree with Gibson – best technical control, look and pass forward between the lines we have. RM mentioned it in his interview. McCarthy is average at distribution and not enough vision.

Gibson reminds me of Bracewell when he is technically precise with his control, vision and distribution. With him, Baines and Coleman and Stones on the passing and creativity of the team will leap forward.

When that happens, it will give Barkley, Geri and Rom the space and movement that pulls the opposition apart and wears them down.The 80s Championship teams did that and created opportunities for the forward and others through manipulating the opposition midfield and defence.

His numbers might look a bit better with League Cup and Europa League goals (against some flaky defending) bolted on, but I would hope we are all agreed that his run-rate in bread-and-butter matches must improve.

Here's hoping yesterday is a sign of that, but I for one won't be surprised if he continues to blow hot and cold depending on the quality of the opposition.

That didn't hinder Messi.

We hear a lot about "putting your body on the line." Howard puts nothing on the line, he will leave Everton as a multi-millionaire having contributed next to nothing to the furtherance of our club. I repeat, he is a coward.

I have to disagree and defend Tim Howard - he's been a great keeper for us over the years, very consistent.

His stats this season: shots on target 33, saves 26. Only Petr Cech has saved more (27 from 34) so I fail to see any logical reasoning for your post.

Howard is not the best on crosses but he's also not the worst. He's a very good keeper and his record over a long period holds up against the best in the division so I don't think you can call him a coward (maybe that was a typo and you meant he's a Howard?).

Goalkeepers make mistakes the same as any other player on the pitch, and they're massively magnified for obvious reasons, so to lay into Tim Howard like that seems way off the mark to me.

People have critisised him over the past two years, but forget that there are so many times when he does good things like making crucial saves and getting his hands on a cross which seem to go unnoticed.

It's very easy to attack goalkeepers when they make errors, but be careful what you wish for when it comes to longevity and consistency.

What I think is pretty disgraceful is Evertonians calling their own players 'cowards', especially one who has played nearly 400 games for our club.

You can have a view on his abilities as a keeper, the consensus is probably a decent keeper who is not quite top class. But your invective is just nonsense.

I have looked at the goal, he wouldn't have got there first by diving for the ball, so he did what good keepers do and stayed on his feet and tried to make himself as big as possible. The second goal he should have done better. But through your hate filled view of him I don't expect you to see this.

You even manage to implicate him in the Mirallas sending off, I'm mean really?

"Howard is a coward, Howard is a coward... and he still wears a nappy!"

He doesn't strike me as a coward. In fact I'd go as far to say that he's completely the opposite. To make it as a Premier League and International goalkeeper you have need to have courage. You have to be able to stand there as the last line of defence and deal with the pressure that comes with that. The pressure of being watched by 40,000 in the stadium and millions on TV.

You have to deal with the criticism and fact that every mistake is highlighted on Match of the Day. You then put it behind you and put in a commanding performance in the very next game. The fact that Tim speaks to the media regularly even though he suffers with Tourette's also suggests a level of bravery. It must have been difficult dealing with Tourette's as a kid, and it takes a certain kind of person to not let such a neurological syndrome hold them back. To go on to achieve what he has is pretty courageous, and I'm sure he's a poster boy for all young children who suffer with the syndrome.

He is a very good goalkeeper who has been very consistent for many seasons. I think he has upped his level from last season and any criticism of him seems harsh. He wasn't to blame for either of the goals against West Brom, not in the slightest.

Many on here were hoping we'd be in for Ospina in the summer!! Did you watch his performance last night?!!

Maybe Tim could improve in certain areas, but he is no coward.

Like a lot of players over the years (Osman,Hibbert etc.) Howard is a whipping boy for some fans who forget his good games and appear when they decide he's slipped up. I mean, all these fantastic goalkeeping experts we have on TW! Why aren't they sorting out Arsenal's keeper problems....?

I think this comment from Brian Clough is on the money: "Shilton was the deciding factor. I'd have paid almost any price. A team with an OK goalkeeper is always looking over its shoulder. At the back of its mind, it's thinking 'it doesn't matter what we do – the fella between the posts might make a mistake'. With Shilton in goal, it gave everyone else more confidence. It spread throughout the side. We were full of ourselves."

Howard is an OK goalkeeper.

With his injury record, you would think that we would have made signing a younger, fitter replacement in the same mould a priority... but, to be fair, we have been saying the same for a good few years now.

Ultimately it's a question of priorities. I happen to agree with Clough: you strengthen the spine of the team and that starts with the goalkeeper. Not many teams win the league without a top class goalkeeper.

In the recent past it's been Ossie, Hibbo and Barkley; is it Howard now? Is he the latest whipping boy?

I don't get this obsession with picking out certain players (even when the team is doing well) and forensically examining every mistake made. Human beings make mistakes. Top athletes make mistakes. I'm not a big Tim Howard fan but he's not as bad as he's made out to be.

Enjoy the result and let's get ready for the RS game which could be the catalyst for a really good season.

Also, Marshall at Cardiff seemed to tick all the boxes and at 30 he's the right age but no-one came in for him and he's still there. Difficult when all you see is the slot on MotD to form a real opinion.

For me, he's been a great keeper certainly in the top 4 I've seen at GP and that's going back over 40 years.

No doubt he will be replaced in the next few years, finding a suitable replacement won't be easy.

What is frustrating is that these limitations could easily be countered if he just decided to leave his line every now and again.

Brian 252 "Howard puts nothing on the line", I disagree. That's his biggest problem: he puts everything on the line... the goal line — and doesn't fucking move.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Romelu_Lukaku#Career_statistics

Now you are just being mischievous.

The two quality goalkeepers that I have seen play for Everton have been Southall (by some distance) and Martyn. Howard is the best of the rest but I still think he is only an OK goalkeeper.

Might catch on at the ground...