Fear factor driving Everton back into contention

Discipline

He is one tough mo-fo.

Or have we just stumbled on a lineup and system that works, but can be found out? Well, we've played a variety of formations and lineups. We've made first half changes to change things up.

There's enough out there to show that we are very effective right now.

Long season however and as usual need to take it one game at a time. Hopefully we can give some players a rest against Norwich before putting in a good performance against Bournemouth.

If the players are indeed 8 lbs lighter; that in itself is a damming indictment of the previous regime. It's obvious how much fitter the players are and all are fighting for their places; which is just the balance that's needed.

Koeman also apparently doesn't do the long days, which is sensible management; if you can't complete your workload in an 8 hour period then your either shit at time management or not delegating enough.

Last time I remember us beating them was when Kanchelskis scored two at Anfield. In the cup, we beat them at home!!

I also read Paul Joyce in the Express, it gives us a glimpse into what Koeman has already brought to the table. He has also according to the report reduced the amount of people in the dressing room prior to the match. He is a strict disciplinarian which was needed after the shambolic way Martinez ran the club, you only have to read what Gareth Barry said about how timekeeping and dress code and training had lapsed under the charlatan.

I also thought that the most telling part of the article was were Joyce questioned how long Koeman would be at Goodison. That for me is more important than any player signing or existing players extending their contracts. Because there is no doubt that another successful season for Koeman this season will alert the very best clubs of his quality. He is rightly ambitious and should one of the very top clubs come calling, then Moshiri and Kenwright will have to have demonstrated to Koeman that they will back him with big money so he can achieve his ambitions here at Everton.

His handling of the media is excellent as well, treats them with respect (important in terms of how the media's handling of Everton develops). No drama queen stuff, no showmanship, no histrionics, just straightforward matter-of-fact answering of questions.

All-in-all, he leads by example, which is always an inspiration to players.

Don't know about a 'fear' factor, but there are certainly factors of respect for Koeman (the players want to impress, even without fear), wanting to support each other, and perhaps a general feeling of uplift at how things are going.