Impossible Coleman strike stuns Leeds and Goodison

Maupay on his own up front does worry.

Here's hoping for a scrappy 1-0 with a set-piece goal. only way we'll win. Must Win game.

Three points so important today, I'll be behind the couch with me blindfold on. Coyb.

COYBLUES!

Hundrends of millions down the drain. I just don't see Neal Maupay doing any better isolated like Simms was. How can we have no strikers?

Please, Everton, prove me wrong!

I would have liked Simms to have been retained and play Gray alongside him. What is shown is what we all know: that we are painfully short of strikers.

Please just win.

McNeil has not been too good but improved as the half went on and finally worked out that crosses to Maupay need to be on the deck to have half a chance and perhaps Iwobi could make his way into the middle where he has always shown more as he seems a bit perplexed stuck out on the right wing.

So far so good but we really need to find the net and right now the idea of Keane up front is starting to appeal more if we continue to get men forward.

Keep winning 1-0 at home and we'll be okay.

Out of the Bottom 3, hopefully never to return.

Enjoy tonight Blues.

UTFT!

COYB!!

At first, I thought what a wonderful goal, something truly great but when it was replayed their keeper was at terrible fault, one of the basics is to make sure you cover and can reach your near post, he was nowhere and if Coleman saw it and took advantage then it was a wonderful piece of thinking and perhaps he could give Doucoure a few lessons.

We missed Onana when he went off and our movement was better throughout but again Leeds were no great shakes. It was also good to see some variation on corners and set pieces but I also thought that when we defend the same that our defence are terribly slow in coming out.

Mr Dyche still has a few problems to sort out but that was an important result and for us 2 out of 3 is progress at the very least.

Bournemouth winning, Southampton winning, Forest draw.

This relegation battle will go to the end, Leeds on 19, wWest Ham on 20, then Southampton, Bournemouth, and Everton all on 21, then Wolves on 23…

Every point will be vital.

Maupay worked hard but Simms did well when he came on. Doucoure just awful one on one... could've, should've, wrapped it up.

But 3 points is 3 points. Well done, Blues! I can go back to bed now!

Brilliant by Captain Coleman — just brilliant.

Says a lot about our striker situation relying on defenders to score the goals (again).

I would have had Simms on sooner and Gray. Still, another happy weekend for a change!

For fuck sake, Christy, give it a rest regards Coleman.

Gana was MotM by a country mile.

And whilst Southampton may have won today, they won't be able to play Chelsea every week.

Coleman did brilliantly. He saw space in front of him made a blistering run and then used his nous to try a difficult shot as he had no other option. A captain making something happen.

I thought overall we played well until we got to the final third where we over hit passes or had weak shots. Is it purely a lack of quality or is it a lack of confidence? Maybe Garner can provide some more composure?

But psychologically two wins in three under Sean gives us a massive lift and something to build on.

I found McNeil frustrating but wouldn't say he was “dog shite.” He was demanding the ball and driving forward but like everyone else he seemed to lose his head in the final third. He at least though was being brave and trying to create. He needs to improve his final pass and shooting 100 percent but it's nice to see someone actually being brave enough to do more than pass sideways or boot it away

McNeil played well and he was constantly trying to take the man on and get early crosses into the box. His corners were also very threatening.

I'm more than happy if we escape relegation with 1-0 wins.

I spent the last 15 minutes hyperventilating with the young lady next to me concerned.

I lost Brian, or he got lost. I don't remember which way around it was.

I'm doing my Arkles ritual before heading back to London and trying to calm myself.

With a proper centre forward it would have been comfortable. Even without we should have been a couple of goals up at half time.

Although McNeil and Iwobi get a lot of grief (and are not exactly Giggs and Beckham) they worked their flanks, kept getting balls in the box and kept forcing Leeds to defend.

Unfortunately Maupay was very poor indeed. Simms was definitely better with his movement and a very good pass that put Doucoure in. Probably earned a start next time around.

We've got Garner and Patterson to come into this team. Two very Dyche type players.

So well done Sean Dyche again, getting a tune out of this badly assembled group of players.

We were the better team, we could have been better as well, a bit sloppy in possession at times but fought well overall.

Again we need a goalscorer to finish games like this off. Thanks to Seamus we got the points, on another day we'd end up frustrated. I thought Simms did well when he came on, put himself about and had a nailed on assist taken from him by Doucoure who should have done much better. It will give Sean Dyche food for thought next week.

Well done to all, a massive three points, COYBLUES! Onwards and upwards.

But gloriously a way was found and a glimmer of light flickers dimly through the gloom. Peer closely and you will see Dixie, Labby, Bally and Howard together with Dave Hickson, the golden vision with the Angel Gabriel and thousands more of our departed blue family calling "come on boys we are with you".

We live to fight on because that's what we do and fight on we will.

Pleased to hear that Simms did well in his short time on the pitch. I think that lad has a future with us and we must support him.

Don't know about anyone else but I'm already a fair few bottles in.

I look at the bench and we have nothing to add value to a game. Even when the injured return, its not a whole lot better. If we can keep scraping 1-0 wins I would be happy. Its not pleasing (or relaxing) to watch though.

What man isn't self-absorbed? It's the highest of male traits! Well played Danny, keep it about you!

Ajay @ 42 -

That ball played by Simms was filthy. Those are the kinds of things you love to see in a young player. Anyone with that vision and ability to pull off that pass has potential. Great ball.

Huge three points. Massive. Was thrilled with Dyche's appointment, and thus far he's delivering. Seamus Coleman, legend, ecstatic you scored the winner.

Another game of vital importance next weekend, we need to just keep chipping away picking up points.

Only six points separate 12th place and the relegation zone! And there's still 15 games left to play! Two measly wins separate 12th and 18th. Crazy.

There's going to be some twists and turns during this run in. I wouldn't even say Palace is safe. We need to just keep picking up points and moving forward.

Man it's a tight, tight table at the bottom.

Another win needed against Villa. I can never recall such a tight relegation scrap. Anyone from Palace in 12th and below could get dragged into it.

I thought we played well in defence and midfield but then looked tense and frightened in the final third of the pitch, until Captain Fantastic took charge of matters. What a strike.

Doucoure played well. I'm a bit surprised at the criticism of McNeil, not everything came off for him but he was always looking for the ball and did some very good things.

There's a lot more work to be done, but 6 points from 3 matches is a great start for Sean Dyche.

Southampton and Bournemouth winning were real downers but we have to look to ourselves to get out of this.

Simms did well and has to start against Villa as does Gray. I know McNeil is a Dyche boy but just not on it

What a pity Coleman has never played in a decent Everton team where he can finish his career with some silverware

Newcastle imploding has put a little dampner on my weekend!

This proves just how important our home games will be. 6 points from 9 for dyche if he can stay close to that rate we will surely get safe sooner rather than later. It's worrying how other teams round us seem to be picking up though too
Going to be a long run run in was trying to grow my fingernails too after last year !

The other lot are showing the bar codes up for what they are imo.
A slightly better version of Bournemouth... the Howe bounce has diminished over the last 7 games.

He'll be a casualty of the Arabs as have many a City manager.

Well done today blues, another 3 scrappy wins with a couple of draws should see us ok.

He's a player who contributes significantly when you think he's doing nothing.

But we are so much improved already under Dyche.

I think McNeill was one of our best players today. Yes, his final ball wasn't great, but he was our main outlet, he dribbles well, and although not at top standard, he was frequently getting the ball in the box. More to come I believe.

Thought both Gana and Doucoure did well also. Was worried that maybe Adams and Mckennie could dominate the midfield, but our midfield was far superior.

Maupay did a job, although he never looked like he'd score. But he ran and hassled. Thought Simms looked decent when he came on.

Goals l, and general play in the final third will continue to be an issue for the rest of the season. But if we remain organised and disciplined, we should win more than we lose.

Now onto Villa. another home win would be priceless.

A very strange player, actually.

The other results didn't go our way but it's now in our own hands.

The shooting/finishing of our midfielders is embarrassing. Enough balls across the box today to have scored at least a couple more but no predators in the team anticipating it.

Six or so more 1-0s should do it with a combination of wonder goals and headed corners. Bring on Villa.

There are, as you pointed out, going to be a lot of twists and turns at the bottom half of the Premier League table. Everton have to not take their foot off the pedal right to the end of this season.

After that, a lot has to change before going into next season to prevent a similar experience next season.

Despite his age and clear lack of pace, there are times when he really steps up and makes the Premier League's best wingers look average.

Maupay tried and Simms looked much better and will get more minutes but probably won't start against Villa. Coady was strong and Seamus defies time.

With the Bottom 3 upping their game and pulling others into the mix, it gives us a much better chance. I think we all agree that we are a poor team who have to fight to the death just to stay in the Premier League. Our odds have improved since Lampard left.

Regarding Seamus, Oliver, and no need for the bad language. Gnonto by the way got booked after the game, wouldn't leave Coleman alone, Seamus ended up pushing him away, and the referee booked him.

Hoping Calvert-Lewin is back in contention next week, I saw him in the stand.

Listening to the radio made my blood boil. Apparently Seamus didn't mean that goal. I've been told even Leon Osman was doubtful

Be of no doubt. Seamus meant that. He took one look to see if he was onside, then he took another to see who was in support. He saw the goalie off his line and that he didn't have support.

He cut across the ball to put it in from a ridiculous angle.

If that was Haaland or Salah, Sky would be talking about that goal for year... It was fabulous.

Think I've broke me toe celebrating it though.

When was the last time we had some luck? If we can keep battling and pick up wins at home and the odd point here and there away, then we should be okay.

He didn't mean it?

Now I haven't watched it back yet and I'm still at Lime Street waiting for a train home, but from my seat in the Main Stand, he took one look and there was only one thing on his mind.

And he delivered.

Through all the shit we have put up with in recent years, Seamus Coleman has remained a constant example of effort, integrity and quality. He will know when his time is up and despite the pressure on him, that time is not yet. I share your admiration and respect for him.

What are you on about – is this your reply to what I asked you?

I don't think it was a fluke but we have been cursed for long enough. If you say we have enough to stay up, that'll do for me.

I watched the game on Premiersports (Ireland), they interviewed Seamus after the game, he said he saw the keeper off his line and definitely meant it.

Not surprised Ian Edwards said it was a fluke.

If we had a centre-forward or a midfielder willing to shoot, we would have romped that by 3 or 4. Nervous atmosphere but another great win.

Seamus was immense regardless of the goal; like Martinelli last week, he had Gnonto squarely in his pocket.

Dyche might just be a perfect fit for us but we really need Calvert-Lewin to sort himself out.

I'm not sure any of our small collection of strikers would have scored that either.

I travel with and meet with a lot of away supporters but this Leeds lot are a strange and aggressive bunch.

I got up early this morning and watched St Helens win the World Club Championship in Australia and then Everton winning this afternoon; she must have fixed it to cheer me up. Same again next week, please, love.

You can smile a bit today at least.

Whether Coleman meant it or not, it was a fluke. How often do we see a goal like that from out wide? It was a fluke.

She knew really though!!

If he meant it, then it's not a fluke. Having said that, I'm in the Upper Gwladys and I thought the shot/cross was going out the far side for a throw-in.

There's only one person who can say if it was meant or not!!

From my view in the Top Balcony, Seamus's goal looked intentional. I didn't realise he had scored at first thinking it went into the side netting. He just let fly and got the reward.

I thought Simms did very well when he came on but would still like to see him paired with Maupay who also played well.

Made up to get a ticket for Arsenal and Forest away before the game. We could have won very comfortably today but still over the moon with the result and day.

an #100 Utter ridiculous comment, Coleman said he saw the keeper off his line. How is it still a fluke? Try and talk sense.

Great performance full of effort and McNeil continues to improve and got stuck in too. Style doesn't matter, only points!
Well done, everyone – especially Sean Dyche!!

I don't care if he meant it or not. It flew into the net and made me nearly fall over my seat onto the person in front of me!!

I'm 51 and need to get calmer at matches or I'm going to injure myself or someone else.

Christy. Even impartial experts say it was a fluke.

Hahaha. What was the keeper thinking??? To walk that far away from the near-post, then just stand there?? Haha and thank you very much.

The "fluke" was that dumbass keeper's positioning. Seamus just took advantage of it. How many times have you ever seen a goalie do what this guy did?

All Coleman had to do was pass the ball into the net.

Overall we were industrious but poor; Leeds were even poorer though. I have a lot of mates who support Leeds and they were worried anyway before that, even more now. I might wear my Everton bobble hat on the sidelines for my lad's grass roots match in Leeds tomorrow!

Coleman and Gana were very good. Myko (who I don't think is good enough) did well too. Simms was much better than Maupay when he came on - immediately provided presence and a target worth aiming for.

However, there is a continuing lack of quality tho that will hurt us. Doucs, Iwobhi, O'Neil and Maupay cannot string a decent pass together. How can you call yourself a winger yet be unable to cross the ball consistently? Maupay is neither good in the air, nor good on the ground so I'm not sure what he can add in the run in beyond nuisance value.

I feel for Gray... he has genuine quality imo but is clearly being overlooked. I hope it changes, as we'll need his ability to change a game.

So pleased to see Dyche is getting the results. 2 out of 3 is a great start. Time to enjoy the rest of the weekend!

We've added a new potential avenue to goals. It's now set pieces and freaks.

Would be nice if someone could score a one on one or a pull back though.

Hopefully there is some momentum building now for our fight to reach mid-table mediocrity. Couldn't go today but COYB!

It may be that this is some sort of dreary prank, in which case it is mission unfulfilled.

Otherwise, some of the Jeremiahs must be at the bingo tonight.

You must be new on ToffeeWeb.

"the first instinct of some on here is to undermine or dilute our achievements." is an ever-present, absolute feature of the ToffeeWeb threads.

Long long way to go and every game is important. Villa have a decent manager and unfortunately Watkins seems to have found his shooting boots but we're at home at least.

Today was really a big game and result. Massive relief and well done to Dyche and the team. Another week to get players fit and the walking wounded back.

Was any member of the board at the game btw? Hope not!

Seamus won the man of the match award hands down without the goal whether it was a fluke, freak or a wonder goal, it won the match and that will do me.

I thought Gana Gueye had a very good game with O'Neil making a good contribution along with Doucoure, what a miss though, and the two centre backs, Maupay ran his legs off and Simms was spoiled of a very good assist.

There is some improvement, more fight and endeavour just need to take better care with those good chances that came up, nevertheless we are still standing and better placed, just, since the change of manager.

Well done boys, for we have lost to all around us at home before, I feared the worst before the kick off I can tell you.

The more I hear Dyche talk the better I like him, common sense isn't very common but he has plenty it would seem.

Apart from that, it went a long way to getting all three points and starting what I hope is a journey up the Table. Villa next will be a harder match, I watched them earlier against Arsenal, and although the score-line suggested differently, it was a hard fought game and, Arsenal were actually a goal down at half time (2-1).

I recall his cracker down the Bullens Toad side into the street v Soton, 2013, but today's was some thing else.

Fluke, well he shot into the box, and scored. He gave it his best and hopefully a few more like that to come from the rest of the squad, chipping in with a few goals,

I'll take them goals every week.

Fair credit to Sean Dyche and his coaches for getting a tune out of the squad.

Now to go again and beat Villa, this League is as tight in the bottom half as a I can remember.

Enjoy this day and celebrate well this victory..

UTFTs!

Note his quick peek before reaching the ball sussing no one is in the box and the keeper off his line. It's a shot to nothing which 9 times out of 10 won't come off but it did today, thank the lord.

Plus he said he meant it and if there's a togger player who isn't after false glory it's Seamus.

In his post-match interview with Sky Sports, he explained the goal in detail. He realised there was no-one to cross to, the keeper was off his line, he meant it. He also said if he tried that another 20 or 30 times, he probably would not strike it as well.

Well done, Captain, you really were mustard today.

Chuffed with the result and Simms did great. Put himself about and worked hard off the ball. He needs a run in the team and might be the answer!

Instead, we are having to scrape and get by with defenders scoring winning goals, sub standard forwards fighting for scraps, inexperienced youngsters expected to produce goals from nothing, and yet the board still stay away, hoping for us to reach May and still be in the Premier League, despite their absolute dereliction of duty and job description.

Hang your heads in shame, you pricks; we will stay up despite you. Stay away forever, we don't want or need you, you are a gang of cunts.

Condolences to both you and your family, Len.

Great goal — and even better was it was a winner. We really needed that. Gonna be tough to beat at home for the rest of the season. It's how we do away that could be the thing that keeps us up though.

But, rather than leap out my seat to celebrate, I was just stunned into silence to think their goalie was in such a bad position to allow it to happen. It was like he'd stopped playing because there was an offside flag or something.

Big congrats to all those people who put money on him to score due to that Saint Colman of Lindisfarne (or whatever)! Pity there's no Saint Tar of Kowski. I would be ٠.34 richer now. But 3 points today was much more welcome.

Agreed. Assuming all of us here have played the game at some level, you can easily recognize when someone looks up for options, then changes his body shape quite deliberately as a result of what he saw before he struck it.

Osman is probably just jealous that Seamus is still playing while his contract expired and he said he was evaluating contract offers elsewhere and presumably still is years later.

If it was Trent Alexander-Arnold or Reece James, no-one would question intent. But whatever – cynics can snipe all they want, it doesn't change the outcome.

Is it a measure of how far we have fallen that we can't believe that one of our own players is capable of such an outrageous goal?

Gana was my MotM and we should've had 3 at least.

Doucoure, jeez mate sort yer fuckin feet out will you.

Of course he meant it... and if he didn't, he isn't going to say. There was nothing else on, this time it came off – most times they don't. But if you don't buy a ticket, you won't win the raffle.

Kenwright gave him a new contract when he broke his leg, probably the only decent thing he's done in 25 years. Keep staying away – it's working.

How did that happen, Seamus? I've had to wait for the replay that shows the goals on the big screen many times before, but usually to see who made the pass, or to see if it took a deflection, but never in my life have I waited to see the replay, because I needed to see it again, simply because I couldn't believe what I had just seen.

When I saw it hit the net in real time, I was waiting for the ball to carry on flying into the Gwladys Street. Then I saw the crowd erupt and I thought "How has Seamus just done that??"

I always thought a fluke is something you don't mean, but our right back definitely meant that simply because of the way he struck the ball, with no Everton man waiting in the middle. He might have got lucky, but he definitely meant to try and score, and surely this means, he has just scored an absolute beauty that has completely caught the Leeds goalkeeper by surprise, because of how well he executed his shot.

Take no notice of me, Ian, I'm just glad that Everton won, mate!

Workmanlike Everton, not pretty, but very professional and effective, and this is a game I definitely don't think we would have won under Lampard.

Made up for Coleman, because I've been counting down the days waiting for Patterson to return, made up for Doucoure, who usually gets better when he gets a run of games and is asked to keep it simple, and I'm made up for McNeil, who still might not be quite there, but I definitely wished Onana would try and work as hard as Dwight did today?

Some give him stick, but if we had 3 or 4 Colemans in the team, we wouldn't be near the relegation zone. As someone texted me earlier, that goal is worth more than the 㿨k we paid for him! Have a beer tonight, Seamus, you deserve it lad!!

Seamus, you beaut. If he said he meant it, then he meant it. As honest as the day is long.

Not MotM but McNeil did the job Dyche wants him to do: to get down the wing with quick balls in – did that; and defensively to help "crunch" the play into that triangle, as Dyche calls it.

Surprised Gana is getting plaudits... he drove me barmy today, giving the ball away repeatedly or choosing the wrong option. Will have to watch it again.

ps: Great goal. Fluke? My arse!

It seems quite pally at first but then it goes on and an Everton player grabs him by the scruff and fucks him off. Just wondered what was going on.

Gana has been like that in most games since he came back: infuriating and sloppy one minute, decent tackling and nice short passing the next. The problem is he wasn't that inconsistent in his previous spell with us.

That's a big problem for me; he needs to be good all game every game and he's just not near that lately. At 33, I really doubt he will be as consistent as he used to be ever again.

I was happy he came back but I now believe it was a mistake, another one to put in the never go back box. We've had far too many of those.

McNeil, Maupay and Gana gave us the edge in their areas of the pitch. Tarkowski was a towering figure in defence. Mykolenko continues to impress as a reliable defender. Simms made his physical presence count in the closing stages.

Today was however Seamus's day. He won't score many more goals for the club but, if this proves to be his last, there have been none more important. For the win took us out of the Bottom 3 and up to the heady heights of 16th.

There is a long way to go but, in contrast to our state of mind 4 weeks ago, we now have hope. Let's beg it doesn't kill us.

I think you're being really generous to some players there. Mykolenko is a liability at times, as are the others you give plaudits to.

We are bottom 5 for a reason: shit players all over the park.

Everton in a nutshell! xxx

Always going to be a tight game, so taking 3 points is all that matters.

Well, we know the issues etc etc but why bring your shite negativity to a forum on a day when the only issue was to score more than the opposition and WIN???

I wish posters would just fuck off at a time when we only need to survive and nothing more.

When you play against an honest team, play honest, but when you play against a cynical team, play exactly the same way back.

I expect Everton and Leeds will be brought before the FA, just like Everton and Liverpool have been charged with not controlling their players properly. I hope the days of being a soft touch are slowly starting to disappear under Dyche.

Night all!

I could go on. But perhaps Mr Dyche is our savior.

Like the majority of the crowd, I try to be generous, especially when we win. We look a much better team under this manager with admittedly limited players now being required to do what they are capable of and not being asked to do things of which they are incapable. Consequently the players look better drilled, more compact as a unit and confident in themselves and each other.

To take one example, I was not the only one who thought Maupay did well today. He was given a standing ovation by the fans at Goodison when he was substituted. He had worked his socks off fighting for possession and enabling the midfield runners to get forward into attacking positions.

In the context of a relegation battle, that was a crucial win which I think we should celebrate.

Totally agree. None of this asking Tarkowski to be Franco Baresi or waiting for a Pirlo moment from Gana to set Maupay away. Just simple, direct, hard-working football.

We'd all enjoy fancier fare and these 1-0 wins are no good for the blood pressure… but needs must and we've had two very good results in three games.

He executed that shot to perfection, as another second in delay of striking the ball, I think it would have hit the near side goal nets of the Street - Bullens Road side.

Brilliant strike, Goal of the Month – and Goal of the Season, by a long way, even with over 3 months of the season to go. That goal has created hope, trust, faith and massive belief for all of Everton FC.

That goal was something unsurpassed in years, like McFadden's Goal of the Season v Charlton, for me should have been, but Rooney won it that season. All football, and that Goal of the Season result, was fixed.

But today, the finest transfer of the Premier League era, 㿨k, proved today what a footballer he is, and bleeds Blue Blood for the Everton cause.

This weekend is bestowed to Evertonians everywhere and dedicated to Seamus Coleman. Dedicated this day, and is notched in the index of many great days, and similar bad days watching EFC.

But hope eternal.

UTFTs!

What the fuck was he doing there in the first place???

How can, or rather why, does a full-back make a run like that onto a through ball, and then smash in Goal of the Season?

How? Perfect strike. Even by his own admission, it was one in lots for him.

The other why... Well, that's because he didn't really have any choice but to hit the ball towards the goal because, despite there being a small spell of possession in midfield, no-one else had bothered themselves to get in the final third.

He's well past his best. He just is. But he's got more bravery and determination in one toe than the rest of them.

I was in blue heaven!!

Thank you, Seamus. 60 Grand.

I think he realized no one else can shoot saw a space and thought “Fuck it. I'll do it myself then.”

Stirring times in life... the economic challenges, and for all Everton fans, to get through the challenges this season presents, on top of the last 30 years, plus, if you go back to The Catt...

Another Storey.

But Evertonians, will prevail.

“What's Our Name?”

UTFTs!

My sincere condolences for your loss, Len.

We regularly call them out for lacking bottle (myself included), so we have to acknowledge when they show some front and actually deliver

It's going to be super nervy this season. Fingers crossed, Blues!

If only some of our other players had any instinct to hit the ball hard and true like that, we would be higher up the table. The 3 late chances we had with Doucouré, Davies and Gana show exactly why we don't score many goals.

I thought McNiel tried hard and, although some of his crossing was poor, there were one or two that needed a striker with instinct to get on the end of them. At least they all had a go yesterday in what was a pretty low-quality game.

Leeds never really trouble us and that was down to hard work so Sean Dyche is getting as much out of them as possible. Villa are a different team altogether so let's hope we are building momentum to get 3 more points.

Seamus Coleman to take shooting drills at Finch Farm this week.

Then the replay: “Holy shit, he totally meant to do it.” I love you, Seamus. You, too, Sean Dyche. Thank you both for giving us hope.

There wasn't even an Everton player in the box.

I know, mate. I knew he meant it but, with the angle, I thought he'd hit the post but holy shit it went in. I'm delighted for Seamus because, while he's past his prime, his heart isn't and he's totally an Evertonian still capable of a MotM performance, as we saw today.

Deepest sympathy for your loss.

Seamus showed Onana, McNeil and Doucoure how you strike a ball and score goals.

I think Sean Dyche needs to have them all (except Seamus) on shooting drills during the week.

This could have been 3 or 4 if some players hadn't botched their chances.

Although Maupay works hard, he does nothing for me. Too slow to close down and couldn't hit a cows arse with a banjo. 1 goal in his last 26 Premier League appearances says it all.

Sorry, Neal, but you are the weakest link.

You're being a bit churlish. Christy Ring is a good lad and an Irishman so naturally he's going to have a soft spot for Seamus.

We used to have a few Nigerian lads on here back when we had Yobo who, while Evertonians, were naturally particularly happy to see compatriots do well.

For my part, as an Essex born Evertonian, I was excited to see Frank come on board with his white van and “barrow” as Darren would say.

Granted it didn't work out but we all have our biases based on heritage, family etc. Nothing wrong with that as we are all Evertonians first and foremost.

As you know, my time as an Evertonian has been relatively short, and in that time there's clearly only one legend of the club I've been able to cheer for, given Baines was at the end when I really blooded in.

To see him roll back the years, to play the defense he's played against Martinelli and Gnonto, to see him tell Gnonto to fuck off, to drag us forward through the shitty mess we're in – it's a thing of beauty.

I've also always appreciated a cracking strike from a fullback for a goal, there's just something special about a defender making that kind of smart run and finishing it with class.

It's amazing how much our fortunes would have been improved by the literal bare minimum up to this point – just holding on to a point against Wolves and seeing out a win against Southampton would have us sitting comfortably 13th right now. Unbelievable.

But... all we can do is soldier on with the remaining matches we have.

Absolutely. Also, full-back or not, I just love the audacity of the guy to Rob Halligan's earlier point. He's just like “Fuck this. No-one else has the nerve — I'll do it myself.” That's why he's the captain.

Following on from Scott of the Antarctic, Captain Cook, Captain Kirk of Star Trek, Michael Caine in Escape to Victory, Bill Beaumont on Question of Sport, Lionel Blair on Give us a Clue — a leader who leads by example.

I've now listened to the interview. Seamus tells us he meant it, but was honest enough to admit that 19 out of 20 times it doesn't go in. I remember Alan Shearer (against us) and Marco Van Basten saying similar things.

I've loved Seamus, but I admit to being worried that his legacy was in very real danger of being tarnished by a bunch of journeymen simply because they are now faster than he is. I was also really dismayed to see that after well over a decade in the game. He still hasn't become cynical enough to have ended both of Liverpool's counter-attacks at source the other night. After all this time. He still plays "fair"... but that's Seamus. He won't be changing his approach to the game at this stage of his career.

When Catterick called Labone 'the last of the Corinthians', he clearly wasn't expecting Seamus to rock up 40 years later.

I spoke to a lot of people before the game and there was a lot of head-shaking going on as we discussed Seamus's play-it-fair-and-square attitude the other night. But when he scored what I believe to be the goal which will spark the most unlikely of revivals, I felt he was going around his critics and gently pushing a six-word note into our top pockets. It simply says "Paid in full, the Seamus way."

I feel sorry for those who saw a fluke. They are the real losers here. The rest of us enjoyed the sort of goal we only ever see other teams scoring. It was a fabulous strike.

So pleased for him to score that stunning goal yesterday. You can see how much he loves the club.

And having eventually had the opportunity to watch it back, he absolutely had one thing on his mind. He spotted the keeper off his line and went for it.

Any goal could be called a fluke. That wasn't. I don't know why we're having the discussion. He scored a beauty and we took the 3 points as well as dominating for most of the match. Why are we bemoaning an alleged fluke is beyond me.

Your comparison with Van Basten. Now I'm only going to have to watch that one on YouTube. Classic goal. Seamus Van Basten. That has a ring to it.

Seamus won't lose his legacy. Let's remember that all Evertonians and what he's done for us in relatively average teams.

He's a fighter. And the footage of him and his daughters after the Palace game reminded me of the Alex Young Golden Vision film from the 60s. Who do you support?

As the legs wain, let's not hound him like I witnessed Everton fans doing to Peter Reid who had almost won the lot for us.

He is still fighting and his presence must be influencing those around him. They can learn off a lad who came through the hard way and had to prove himself more than most who were considered ready made superstars.

You made my night, Seamus. It's always worth the trip, but that was a special goal that sent me home happy.

㿨 Grand.

Is there a striker or attacking midfielder currently in our academy set up that can somehow come in and score 4 goals for us before the end if the season?

I don't know about a striker or attacking midfielder. I think that is Simms.

But I think the important thing is that, whoever is upfront needs supply.

So academy wise, from what I've seen, I'd get Lewis Warrington back and involved in the first team squad.

Great range of passing and lots of potential.

Agreed on Lewis Warrington. From what I saw pre-season, he looked an excellent prospect.

We take chances signing certain players who are unproven, yet fail to promote home grown talent. It's a senseless policy. Warrington and Branthwaite should have long since been first-team regulars.

I hope that when Seamus eventually loses his superpowers that people give him slack and don't go all Peter Reid on him when he makes a mistake.

Best transfer this club ever made and has recently replaced big Nev as my favourite ever Evertonian. God Bless Seamus Coleman!

Lack of confidence or fear of missing? One for Dyche to figure out.

I'm fed up at watching their passive movement and lack of real endeavour and one who goes missing for large parts of the game.

Never mentioned it yesterday because we won and every win should be celebrated on the day. Bravo Seamus, a good genuine man, a good player and an inspiration and role model for any young footballer coming through, he's worth twenty of the other lazy players I'm talking about on this post — as Brian Labone might have said.

Hate these 1-0 wins but I'll take 5 or 6 more. Not sure if my nerves can take it though.

For a minute, I thought we should slot Doucoure or Onana up top, but then the two of them put on an absolutely terrible shooting display, so I lost that thought quickly.

Then Simms came on. He played very well. A genuine centre-forward.

Apart from Simms, no. One of the academy's stars, Lewis Dobbin, has managed 2 in 29 in the third tier for Derby. Puts it into context what a big step up it is from academy football.

As for the Coleman goal, it is like the Maicon goal v North Korea. Also a bit like Roberto Carlos v Tenerife.

Definitely intentional. It will go down in Everton history as a phenomenal strike.

We absolutely deserved it too. Under Dyche, we've carved out a lot of decent chances from open play and set pieces. Just need to convert them.

We have to have a striker in there who has some movement who can anticipate and attack crosses. A natural goalscorer striker yesterday would have had one or two goals for certain and the game would be 2-0 or 3-0. Going forward, it will make a difference between winning and drawing, and drawing or losing tough matches.

Maupay has the nuisance factor but he's not a goalscorer at this level. 1 goal in his last 29 Premier League matches tells you that. Yesterday, it was clear he in an auxiliary striker, best used off a big man or from the bench to annoy and frustrate the opposition.

I think after yesterday, Sean Dyche has to promote Ellis Simms to first choice after Dominic. He may have less experience than Maupay but will be more likely to bag some important goals.

I read what the Leeds caretaker manager said, and I thought "If you are still in charge next Saturday, then your team have got big problems."

We have got a big coaching week ahead he said, but just like the Everton players have found out to their benefit, when you are on such a bad run, the most important thing required is to simplify things. Let the real coaching wait!!!

Despite being I think the oldest on the park, it certainly didn't show, as you always give 100% in every game and never ever hide, even when you haven't been at your best. You are always honest in your play and in your love of this club.

Last week, you were up against a winger in Martinelli who had given most fullbacks a torrid time this season but last week you hardly gave him a kick.

This week, I am sure most of us were worried about how we would handle Gnonto who like Martinelli had been given full backs real headaches, but just as you did with Martinelli ,you didn't give Gnonto a chance to shine.

Our lack of a goal-scorer or any goal-scorers in the team is a huge problem. Yesterday, we created enough chances to have won very comfortably but, in the end, we struggled to beat a very poor Leeds side.

Somebody posted a stat about Iwobi in yesterday's game, about dribbles and passes and even suggested he got an assist for Seamus's goal – surely they are having a laugh?

Yes, I know he wast the last player to touch the ball before Seamus scored but if this counts as an assist then so should me shouting "Shoot!" just before it ended in the net.

I am afraid Iwobi and Onana offer nothing to this side, and of late I would include Coady. Maybe Gray, Garner and Mina or Keane might serve us better than these 3.

2 wins in Dyche,s first 3 games and given those fixtures not many would have seen us pick up 6 points. Its not pretty but that's irrelevant given our position, and I will take hard working effort that picks up points rather than Lampard's losing style of football.

Great strike… great win… end of discussion.

Onward to Villa and continuing the momentum

Simms is a tidy footballer and with match time will improve. Maupay does put a lot of work in but we need more effective forward play, which Simms seems to have. Some of his lay-off play is better than Calvert-Lewins. Even against Liverpool, he looked as if he knew what he was at.

Onano another potential player, shows his age. His wild shooting needs brought under control.He could be more effective in midfield, but imo it is difficult for him in a struggling side, in a style of play he is not use to.I just hope Dave Abraham's sees something in him sooner rather than later, since it is badly needed.

It's probably obvious if I thought about it but – just for the sake of clarity – will you share who those two players are? Or are we meant to guess?

It may be controversial saying this but, considering the costs maybe slimlining the academy set-up could be an option for the future? I dunno, it's just over the years, very few young men are Premier League standard. The Chelsea model of loans and let someone else develop them often worked.

In football, the word ‘dirty' has a couple of meanings. One is followed by bastard but the other one is followed by work.

Doing the dirty work doesn't come naturally to everyone but, if you are to fulfil your talents, then this is something that you must learn; otherwise, you will always be at best a player who can be good on his day but lacks the consistency to be anything more.

Iwobi works hard but never – and I mean “never” – anticipates that sometimes you have got to make a tackle in this game. He ran yesterday, never anticipated, the Leeds defender got it wrong. Iwobi realized that, if he would have kept running with the intention of making a tackle, then he would have nicked the ball and been through but, because he never, all he could do was put his hands on his head and look at the sky instead.

I'm only guessing, Michael, but knowing Dave, I'm certain I've just picked out the two players…

I tend to agree. My enthusiasm for his return dwindles with each game. But I guess now isn't the time to dwell on that. Not unless we think Garner can come in and do a better job.

As for Maupay, I think confidence is a massive issue. He works hard, but isn't backing himself when balls come into the box. That said, it still seems daft putting a little bloke on his own up front.

Simms made a big difference, and in my view didn't do much wrong in the derby. Maupay should be a sub, or partnered with Simms if we ever play 2 up top.

I enjoy the more direct football and some quick movement of the ball too. There's no more over-playing.

What a captain we have! Defending he's been doing so well already. Didn't expect he can score such a beauty!

I think Maupay did a lot of running and pressing even though he didn't got a chance to shoot. Sometimes you have to rely on your teammate to pass you that ball. I can see those passes were pass to others today perhaps he's drawn markers. Simms might have a few more brighter moments but he's never run or pressed like that. So it depends on the phase of the game.

COYB

Rob Halligan, exactly what I thought: What on earth was our ancient full-back doing so far up the pitch??

A fantastic goal, and in these dark times, why do posters on here try to lessen the beauty of what happened by claiming that Seamus didn't mean it?

We have little enough to cheer us at the moment so why not actually enjoy the goal and acknowledge it as a moment of genius which has given so many of us a great weekend?

Thank you, Sean, for coming and taking on the gig, for not making a fuss when we lost Gordon and did not replace him and for fast-tracking the attributes that existed during your time at Burnley to our club.

We deserved to win the game, Leeds did not have a shot on target, that has got to say something very positive about the defensive side of things.

Scoring will always be a problem but we don't need to score that many if we keep clean sheets.

Villa next, a step up, no, a significant step on yesterday's opponents but we will be competitive and give it a right go.

Danny, the train journeys back to London after home games must be getting more enjoyable?

I agree. Pity there was no fan protest against him at the time.

I think you are right, Dyche has identified what Onano needs to improve. Against Arsenal, he was allowed to play, there was no-one on to him to put a foot in to spoil his play. At Anfield, you will get plenty of that, mouthing in your ear and breathing down your next.

Iowbi has always been a player who is shocked he is tackled and seems to think the same when he should tackle. Though in the game, he did make some very good playmaker moves.

Although the young lady, who has the doubtful pleasure of sitting next to me told me she thinks Onana is Everton's best player, my son (214) took an educated guess with the two players.

We all know we don't have a creative midfielder in the team but we are creating chances. McNeil for one is putting in some great balls but there is nobody getting into the 6 yard box

Villa will be far harder than Leeds and we really need to take advantage of any openings. Dyche has to get players to get into the box; unfortunately, we don't have a natural striker so we need to compensate with numbers.

It's going to be an interesting week at Finch Farm to set ourselves up for another home 6-pointer.

Coleman is entitled to file that goal under All-my-own-work but, without Iwobi's pass, he doesnt score it. I get the criticism, but Iwobi is a must start for me.

I enjoyed yesterday. Yes, it was mainly huff and puff, but I thought we at least played with a bit more purpose. Our players were trying to create chances – it's been a while.

I liked the balls McNeil was putting in, loved the Bracewellesque pass over the shoulder from Ellis, and I could have sworn I saw the tackling machine burst down the wing, banjax the full back with an exquisite nutmeg before laying a very good chance on for Onana?

Okay, I accept I may have dreamed the last bit, but it didn't half look good.

Len,

Sincere condolences.

I've got to answer that one about Iwobi making the pass: he couldn't have made the pass without Seamus making the run, something Iwobi should be doing throughout the match but fails to do consistently.

So you are correct, Darren, Seamus is fully entitled to file that goal with All my own work, while Iwobi's trademark is: doesn't work hard enough or put enough effort into the work he does do which is mostly half-hearted.

Imagine being a player reading some of the shite written on ToffeeWeb, the place where all us great players come to criticize!

Hope that may have silenced his detractors that he was well passed it etc, although being the Devil's Advocate he can't go on forever, and I think Nathan Patterson having had a successful run-out for the U-21s on Friday, will be gradually shoehorned in, possibly starting with Villa next game. I watched the Villa v Arsenal game and they look a lot better than Leeds, and probably quicker too.

Surprised that the Dychemeister brought Davies on, who again was absolute garbage, looks the part with Grealish-look type, socks round ankles etc, but plays and looks like Harpo Marx, and about as welcome as skid marks! :-)

The fella behind me was giving it to Davies, but agreed with me when I turned around and said that the pass that Gueye had just given him was equally just as bad. He agreed with me, but still...

Tom Davies would have got absolutely slaughtered yesterday, even if it was his more experienced teammate who had just properly put him in the shit with such a ridiculous pass.

Onana looks to be absorbing the distributor role that Iwobi covets. If Dyche can keep him happy and engaged we get some dynamics in the final third pushing Onana up with the striker and Iwobi able to drift to middle

Patterson healthy could relieve Iwobi of our need for wing threats and delivery but Dyche is focused on organisation at the back first and foremost. As the system solidifies, Dyche will take chances on those with less defence skill.

Absolutely agree with you on the Patterson issue; when he is ready to play, he should be brought back in. However, it's a comfort to have Seamus as back-up.

At the start of the campaign, I was hoping that Seamus would only have to play 10 or so games all season, he must have exceeded that number at this stage.

A warrior!

Seamus? What's to add. Simply stunning – superb and intended strike that yesterday. I wonder what the Premier League record is for a player scoring under different managers for the same club.

I have to disagree about there being a player in Iwobi, he has been here long enough to have showed us, if that was the case. He has improved his work rate in the last 12 months, but no other part of his game has improved.

I am sure under no pressure at Finch Farm he looks great, and a while back many of our players voted him the most skilful. To use an analogy from golf, he is what is commonly known as a great range golfer, he can play all the shots on the range, but can't repeat it on the course. That sums up Iwobi for me.

Darren, in your post 224, you said you may have dreamed that the tackling machine burst down the wing banjaxed the full-back with an exquisite nutmeg before laying on a good chance for Anonymous. Well, you didnt dream it, but I have to ask what have you got against tackling midfield players?

You called Allan a tackling machine… now Gana, I guess you must have hated Peter Reid and just as well you weren't old enough to see Tony Kay.

Iwobi is definitely frustrating, particularly with all that twitching on the ball. But, he creates goals in a team that scored its first goal from open play yesterday since 22nd October. He now has 7 assists this season, compared to 6 for the rest of the squad. That's why he continues to get picked.

What is completely false, however, is to claim Iwobi doesn't work hard enough.

When I last saw the numbers in late November, he was ranked 4th for most distance covered . in the premier league!

It really frustrates me when fans don't judge a player's performance fairly on his contribution to the game. Some posters claimed McNeil was 'shite' yesterday, which makes me wonder what game they were watching?

As an aside why wasn't Iwobi making the runs, as I alluded to in an earlier post, with Seamus putting the ball through for Iwobi to make use of? One answer is Iwobi hasn't got the bottle to make use of those runs.

Steve, stats are stats they can be used to prove anything, my eyes will always tell me the truth about players and they tell me Iwobi can do a lot better than he does and it's down to not pulling his weight where it counts.

Some good views on Iwobi. Like a lot of players, he divides opinion.

I'm in the camp that there is a player there. He needs confidence, consistency and most importantly, runners in front of him.

Over the years I have been very very supportive of Coleman the Evertonian, the player and the man so I don't need any lectures from anyone , I could say more but a wise man on here once gave me some great advice and told me to say nothing about stuff I may know.
Hope that keeps you happy Kieran, by the way I'm also Irish and from Donegal.

Steve 233
Totally agree. Iwobi is frustrating but definitely not a slacker. Not a fan of football stats, but his assists are hard to argue with (relative to the rest of our squad). And McNeil is fully earning his place at the mo.

I don't say that about Seamus as a detractor of his but successful forward passing isn't really his game. When he's on the ball it's normally one of the two things. He's either busting forward all effort and commitment and taking players on or he's turning backwards towards our goal and sometimes putting himself and the team in trouble.

As for Iwobi himself, yes he's careless and sloppy on occasion but at least he tries to create stuff. He's the top assister in a goal-shy team and we'd struggle even more to create anything if he wasn't in the side.

Here is what you said:

‘Iwobi's trademark is: doesn't work hard enough or put enough effort into the work he does do which is mostly half hearted.'

Now, if Iwobi is the fourth player in the entire premier league for distance covered, then he is definitely working hard enough. To suggest otherwise is nonsense.

Effectiveness might be another matter. But, compared to the rest of the squad (a low bar), he is the most effective. He has contributed to 8 of the 16 goals we have scored in the league this season.

Equally, if Iwobi was to make the runs for Coleman, then his starting position would have to be deeper than the fullback? It was obviously a tactical plan the team worked on.

Here is my prediction - Dyche will pick him for every game this season unless he gets injured.As did Lampard, Benitez and Ancelotti.

A couple of points I don't agree with in the thread.
Iwobi found another assist and must be the first name on the team sheet, its a good job we have him. If he was perfect he wouldn't be playing for us.
Also Dyche wont pick Patterson ahead of Coleman for the next game, maybe he will for the Arsenal fixture but I wouldn't even be sure about that.

Looking at the fixture list we have a hell of a lot of very difficult fixtures to come, those losses at home to teams at the bottom of the league could come back to haunt us.
We probably need another 4 or 5 wins and a couple of draws to stay up and it aint going to be easy.

Thats not like you at all mate. You are normally a credit where its due man.

Passing and moving are the chicken and the egg of football. You cant get one without the other. Yes Seamus made a great run and the finish was incredible, but Iwobi's pass was weighted beautifully. Without it, Seamus does not score.

I'm not a stat lover myself as you probably know, but occasionally they do reveal what actually happened. I get so wound up by Iwobi, but I can remember at least five assists from him off the top and could probably remember the other two if I gave it a bit more thought.

Come on Dave Just a little ripple. You know it makes sense.

Brian

You are back to putting words in my mouth. Peter Reid was one of my favorite players. I love a midfield player who can tackle, but I expect them to be able to do a bit more.

Quite how you manage to put Gueye and and Allan in the same bracket as Reid is a complete mystery to me. He could play

Yes that ball from Gueye to Davies was appalling. Can you imagine the outcry on here if He had missed that chance Doucourie squandered near the end. The obsessives would have been crimson with rage As it wasnt him, the sitter passes by with barely a mention.

I have stated on many occasions that I hate stats, but one stat makes me laugh out loud. Tom's 25 minutes yesterday meant he was appearing for the 148th EPL game in a blue shirt. We have avoided defeat in 100 of them.

It must drive them fucking nuts tryng to figure out why the worst player in the world has the best record at the club.

Gueye played very well yesterday and Tom didn't do a lot wrong when he came one. As always, showed for the ball.

Football is a game of mistakes as much as it is ability. We played as a unit yesterday.

Gueye was industrious and Tom done nothing wrong. All of us who have played have lost possession and then shouted at a team mate for putting us in the position to do so. Then we get on with it.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=acegeR5A7Zo

Simply because 10 others have carried him !

Stan, I'm of the opinion that it doesn't matter where a player comes from.

We've all said it many times. Most of our heroes didn't come from Liverpool, let alone Merseyside.

I judge them on football ability and performances. Which, obviously, is subjective and opinion based.

Ok that makes better sense. The highlights edited it to make it seem friendly

Simple question would you renew his contract on the wages he is getting now, although being honest that is a question you could ask of most present Everton players.

And yet I've thought from the start that he is gifted with football intelligence. I found myself watching clips of our goals and better moments (God knows they've been few and far between) when Iwobi was getting murdered on here about 18 months ago and I was surprised to see how often he featured.

It's nothing startling but he frequently somehow seems to be involved with a canny pass or a telling intervention.

I suspect a lot of people get irritated by him because they see what he could be like if he had some steel and concentration. Nevertheless, we have no-one else who's producing chances to the same extent - despite the obvious shortcomings.

So I understand, but I disagree.

But now you have brought it up Kieran, who would you have blamed (a word I hate) if Leeds had scored.

I watched Man Utd and Leicester this morning. Although Leicester were thrashed in the end, they looked very dangerous in the first half. Their front five, Tete, Barnes Ianacho, Maddison and Dewsbury-Hall were a constant threat, with great movement and control.

I would love to have something equivalent in an Everton team, combined with the defensive capabilities that Dyche can deliver.

Meanwhile, come on Tottenham.

The board retain their recent 100% record. No show and we win. Maybe if they no showed for work, off field performance might improve too.

"I could hit it 20 more times, 30 more times and I wouldn't hit it as sweet."

Every single point is crucial, so getting six out of the last nine, is absolutely brilliant, especially when you look at Lampard's last twelve matches, and see we only claimed five points out of thirty six? That's one stat that I take seriously and is something I read earlier.

Yes come on Spurs definitely, hopefully Richie will help his old club out but it was largely a midfield battle in the first half.

Love it!

You should know better than to defend a player who has been great and still is just not as frequently. You're only allowed to relentlessly defend players who've been crap, are crap and always will be crap

Anyway, if he meant it, fair play to him.

TD's official EPL record. Goes a bit like this.

Played 148

Won 62

Drew38

lost 48

224 points from 150 games - 1.65 points per game.

In Toms long periods of absence through injury during the past two seasons. The players who have "carried" him have averaged around 1 point per game.

You cant help but sit up and take notice of these two. While everyone else thinks Kenwright is the root of our problems. These two footballing egg heads have put their brains together and Identified where the REAL problems lie.

Hammer TD, Before, during and after every game (whether he plays or not). Its what the truly informed do.

"Colostomy bags" ... Yep. as worn between the ears.

"Seamus just said he meant it! Pity all the Coleman begrudgers who said his legs were gone years ago. You can't beat class!"

Is the word begrudgers there Christy ? - I will answer for you - yes iit is indeed - YOU mentioned it first not me.
You did indeed praise Coleman and then you had a dig at anyone who dared questioned his performances as you have admitted in your last post.
Now as I think I have already explained several times, me or anyone else for that matter are not begrudgers because of a different opinion to you, that's the whole fucking point.

And what would I be paranoid about, having an opinion ?
How do you think Coleman played on Monday night Christy ?

By the way I truly hope that you get to praise Coleman a lot more on here, for that would be great for Everton and Evertonians.

I didn't even mention his pathetic possibly relegation costing mistake yesterday until you started bigging up his record of losing a third of every game he “plays” in while missing easy chances and giving away goals. But to quote yourself “I've never said he's good” “He's slow and unusually weak” he can't score or pass. So why do you keep bringing him up? Clearly despite your protestations he is your favorite player. Perhaps physically he's a kindred spirit? You see him out there and think “but for the zilmerframe that could be me.”

And you can "beef up" a record ??? who knew that ?

I always thought official records were simply official records

BTW your altercation with Kirkland Laing wasn't in Hackney in 2003 by any chance?

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kirkland_Laing

I know you like chucking things from balconies

On Tom, he made a mistake. Tell me a player that didn't in that match. The two players I rated highly, Tarkowski and Gueye made mistakes.

Criticise when they do, praise when they do well. Its football. Mistakes happen. Ask Gerrard.

Tom is never going to a world beater, but he's good enough to have in our current squad.

And several managers of different flavours have thought the same.

On Seamus, we often mention the years and age but forget that horrific injury he had to recover from.

It speaks even more about the man and the character.

That lung busting run at Goodison on his first game back not long after having his leg snapped in half.

I simply assume there's two Dazza's, both bizarrely afflicted with the same preposterous fixations!

Fortunately they're both hilarious when talking bollocks to fellow fans.

Strangely, I agree with the one today who lays so much responsibility of our decades long-demise at the feet of Kenwright, rather than one last week who categorically stated Carlo was the sole instigator of the club's predicament.

You and I are good enough for our current squad. That's the problem.

Don

I can't remember which Dazza admitted to previously being a Kenwright fan. The one who lauds Tom or the one who says he's crap. I think the former was the one who was enamored with Rafa last year after Carlo went off to Madrid. He was right about Dunc and Unsie though. Both of them are killing it as managers.

I'm a fan of TD's because I put up his record to make a mockery of incessant false claims.

I had an "altercation" with Kirkland Laing.

I claimed Carlo was "solely" to blame for the clubs predicament.

I don't know whether its because I hate the boss I don't have. or if its all that "blood on my hands" for the bets I didnt place on boxing, or even if its all that Bushmills I have never drank.

But I'm so glad Axe and Smash are about to tell me about myself.

No doubt one day they will talk about footy too...

Oh and apparently I have admitted to being a Kenwright fan too....Hahahaha

Kenwright IN !

.

I thought Gueye put him completely in the shit, and I honestly used to prefer my opponent trying to go right through me, rather than playing with players who were prepared to pass the buck, the way I thought Gana did yesterday.

So two players made a mistake, but thankfully for Davies, it didn't cost Everton in the end.

Tom Davies would be a fool to stay at Everton, (good fucking riddance, will be the most popular shout) and I think this is exactly what Darren has been pointing out for years.

Why come on after a rare win and start pulling indivuals to pieces, I don't get it.

Strange isn't it that there are usually twice as many posts when we lose than when we win.

Good of you to admit you were incorrect. As for me asking you how you thought Coleman played on Monday, I was a genuinely interested.

I'm not picking him out am I, the discussion you and I and your mucker Kieran have been having is about Seamus Coleman, should I not be entitled to ask this question?

You are of course correct, that as a team we once again failed to turn up, quite a few were not at it - Pickford for the first - nightmare which we all know is prone to. and in my opinion Seamus was guilty of switching off on a few occasions, the second goal was terrible and very poor from his point of view is enough said.

Here is another opinion i have ,If Everton offer Seamus a new one year contract it should reflect if he is going to keep on playing for Ireland which I'm sure he will do - he's a little Brazilian when it comes to playing for his country , but for me Everton come first and Coleman will end up at Finch Farm if he really wants to i suspect.

Danny @ 291.

That was a fantastic night for Seamus and his family against Leicester.

A mighty return with Goodison going mental with his energy - I remember Allardyce saying after the game he wanted to take him but Coleman told him to fuck off, new signing Walcott scored twice another false dawn !

I saw it as both made a mistake. However, Tom doesn't offset his mistakes with positives. He had a chance at the end and hit it a defender. He missed an easy one last time. So cumulatively in my view he impacts the game by doing something bad or nothing at all. Gueye did create an opening in the first half, he also did some good tackles. He's not good enough in my view and has underwhelmed but Tom offers nothing except errors. If we survive I hope they are both replaced along with Doucoure who's like Tom but on bigger wages.

Jeez you must be the only one, apart from his Mum and his Dad. What a Jodrell Banker (TD) !

Currently on 21 points, we need 6 wins for safety. Surely 39 points keeps you up?

Villa, Forest, Fulham, Palace, Wolves, Bournemouth.

Games that don't look pretty on paper remaining are Arsenal, Brentford, Chelsea, Spurs, Man U, Newcastle, Leicester, Brighton, Man City. We could get points from a few of those games to be sure. But if we simply win those very winnable six games listed above, we'll be fine. Starts this upcoming weekend. Those would be my targeted games for 3 full points and safety.

I'm in regular touch with Pete regarding Marine, and recently Marine memorabilia. Plus I'm a "brick" donor to the club as well. So I'll definitely be over, hopefully this fall (after the family immigration ordeal is completed). Just you make sure I'm gonna be watching the Blues play Spurs or Brentford instead of Millwall or Preston!!

Regarding Tom Davies, I feel certain he's off this summer if both he and the club are wise. Since starting in the 0-0 derby last September, he's played only 163 minutes. Once Garner returns, he's done, and he must know it. The young man has lots of football to play somewhere. It won't be at Everton.

Of course you're right. Everton will probably shit out of two "must win" games and win two against Arsenal in London and Man City, or some such wacky thing.

But man those 6 games I'll be watching very closely!

And yes, last season's survival and the Palace game was, bar none, my best moments and memories. I'd throw in Iwobi's goal against Newcastle, and the game where "Pink Sweater Guy" was killing time when the ball went into the stands, stuffing it under his sweater and then was all like, "Where'd it go? Anyone see it? Ball? What ball?" Absolutely hilarious.

But Andy, I do NOT want us ANYWHERE near that precarious place ever again!

Dennis -

Yes, 36 points usually is safe. 40 is the gold standard, and making math easy I went with 39, as it's a simple 18 more points, 6 wins, putting us on 39 total.

It's really my American coming out. I always look forward to games, try to figure out where things will ultimately shake out, etc.

Cheers to all.

6 wins seems like a stretch.

The main thing is to avoid defeats (especially heavy defeats - since GD could come into it).

Obviously the sooner we get those 4 wins the better but there will be a few bumps in the road yet. No need to panic when they come though.

We will get the points.

I'm not going down. It would break my heart.

That board might be shying away but we aren't and the team won't and this manager won't let them.

6 points from the last 9 with the inevitable defeat on our trip to Lucifer's Den. We beat the league leaders and a team who some predicted we wouldn't because apparently they're really energetic.

We will do this.

But then change. Real change. For now it's about the team aside from ranting about the establishment in-between match days.

A problem this season is that all the teams below us can and will pick up points too. Nobody is really adrift at the bottom.

Who expected Southampton and Bournemouth to win on Saturday?
West Ham were never really out of it today, especially first half.

As usual, odd points will come unexpectedly and games we have a good chance in, we will do our usual.

I'm going on record as predicting we will not return to the relegation zone this season. We're out of there for good.

Of course, I could look really stupid by breakfast time on Saturday, but that's part of the fun.

I vividly remember the game at already relegated Watford last season when we expected to win but got a nervy draw.

I'm predicting we'll need to beat Bournemouth on the last day. OMG – as the kids say!

In recent weeks, I have walked out of Goodison in happiness after Arsenal. I left Anfield very upset and was a shaking wreck after Saturday against Leeds, but brimming with joy..

We will ride the roller-coaster but we will do this.

When Saturday comes, we rise again and get behind that team of ours. Our club, our team and we'll all be there for them.

"I'm a fan of Tom Davies because I put up his record to make a mockery of incessant false claims."

Contrast today's mad Dazza claim with what he wrote just five days ago about Tom Davies:

"I've never been a fan of his. I am an admirer of Tom's courage, I think he's better than the likes of Doucoure and offers more to the team, but I have never claimed he was a good player."

Classic Hind double-speak.

Davies has already hit his very modest peak. He will not improve because his core "gifts" are mediocre, but that's not his fault.

The fault is that we still employ such bog-standard players, and we all know who's responsible for that.

Hell, even Dazza agrees with that .... on a good day!

The Villa, the history of this fixture... The fine lines, and significant games between both clubs, in all domestic competitions at Goodison and Villa Park.

Beat Villa, this next game, is massive.

UTFTs!

He does whatever he is asked to do in several different roles in the team. In my opinion, he has been one of our best players in what has been a very poor team this season.

Howard Kendall used to say he preferred to focus on what a player can do rather than what he can't. Without Iwobi I believe our results would have been even worse than they have been. As it is sometimes said, we should not let the perfect be the enemy of the good.

What went unnoticed is Iwobi's patience in the build up. Maupay's hold up play. Gueye chasing the ball to win it and give it to Iwobi, and then that pass into space for Seamus to electrify Goodison.

Great team play.

Competent entertaining football is the bog-standard minimum required of folk who draw £millions per season off the backs of comparatively penniless dedicated fans and supporters.

Right now, after decades of faffing about being routinely hammered by so-called better countries, the England cricket team have made "entertaining" their mantra and, surprise, surprise, they're now No 1 in the world – hammering everyone.

Of course it takes good players to do this but, with our hierarchy, we're miles away being able to do this.

Hopefully Dyche can well outlast the muppets who appointed him and then produce a squad who understand as he does the fundamental basics of entertaining professional football.

A waste of a player pushed out wide though but he has got on with it because our wide options have not been great. Plays wide because the squad balance is all wrong.

I would hate to be a Midfielder in this Everton team, the movement is generally garbage and very rarely adequate let alone impressive. I have said it before, I look forward to the day when we have 10 outfield players better than Alex Iwobi because it ain't gonna happen!

I put the false claims of Alexander and his partner up in the middle of a very obvious sarcastic list of the things they have told me about myself in post 296.

Just when you think DK is the only one who doesn't understand its sarcasm, Alexander jumps in to use the list to "catch me out".

Tom Davies and Kenwright IN!!!

We've won 5 out of our first 23... I can't see us winning 5 or 6 in 15. Maybe Dyche improves things but he's got less at his disposal than Lampard did.

I think the Arsenal win has just given us a fighting chance. It's made the Villa game huge because the fixtures after it are tough. Fulham and Brentford at home look decent chances but both are good sides whereas we're not.

Of course we'll pick up some unexpected points somewhere, maybe even shock a big boy along the way. But I can't see us scraping enough points to get clear.

If right now I could settle for needing a win at home to Bournemouth on the last day I'd take it.

In order to get straight answers do we need to send an SAE to you, like Biddy Baxter, your contemporary?

Simple questions: Is Tom good or bad? If the latter, why did you post stats that in your opinion proved the former? You've talked about throwing pillows off balconies. Did you throw Laing?

As for his "mistakes" I find this just drivel. For every attack that a goal isn't scored, the ball is lost by a mistake and this isn't necessarily a mistake down to any individual. When you have such a totally irrational down on one of our own players, then you will see nothing but mistakes and such nonsense is even spouted about Pickford's mistakes and weaknesses.

Give Tom your support, he is not a bad player and he knows which way is forward. He has weaknesses but who hasn't? He's a great professional on very low wages and most aren't.

It's how that praise or criticism is delivered. I agree with you, it should be done in a certain way, and if criticism, not abusive. Any criticism should be constructive to allow people to learn and progress.

It should be based on observation of the game, albeit that is subject to different opinions, which I don't have issue with personally. We all see it different.

Just don't be the "you're shite Everton" person that regualy gives me ear ache 2 minutes in because we haven't scored. We've all sat near them throughout the years following Everton, even when we were good.

The game lasts 90 minutes. 115 minutes when we play Liverpool. The season ends in May. Tom has 10 years ahead of him. Long way to go for Everton this season and Tom in his career. We're not toast yet and Tom will play his part.

On minutes. I looked at the clock at 88 minutes on Saturday. I checked again on what felt like 5 minutes later. It still hadn't moved on to 89. I just wanted it to end and take the points. We did, but my word that felt like an eternity and time seem to move very slowly.

I have a little go a him no less than I do any other player when they give the ball away but there are plenty of proper soft-arse mercenaries in our squad that drain millions from us every year that I'm more concerned about.

In those 19 minutes, he also stood on the ball and fell over, lost the ball from Gana, and committed a foul on an opposition player on the edge of our box.

He's out of contract in the summer. If we are still in the Premier League, I'd expect he moves on.

It was an interesting insight and Roy spoke of his time at Villa. He mentioned two players in particular that annoyed him with a poor attitude. Rude to staff members and late for training, not trying hard enough if they came off the bench because they were miffed at not starting.

He mentioned that they are now pundits. He said he knew that these players would never win anything or make really good careers. Now one is in the media (I guess it's Gabby Agbonlahor).

Keane mentioned how some guys get managerial posts really easily and others just get one chance. He doesn't do "networking" but would like to get back in it. Gary Neville said it helps if you have friends in the media and "play the game".

It reminded me of our friend Lampard.

Coaches inherit these squads and it's such a difficult task weeding out the lazy ones, keeping everyone interested and working hard. Lots of the modern players are set-up for life and only the totally committed ones (with talent) will reach the top.

It's worth a look.

Alex Iwobi — 3 goals, 8 assists
Demarai Gray — 8 goals, 5 assists.

It's an absolute disgrace how we have ended up with such a limited number of forward thinking players. Incredible negligence, very frustrating, and the people in charge have definitely gambled with Everton's premier league future.

How did it get to this, and when are we going to replace such ineptness with real forward thinking professional people?

So I guess the real question is what sort of owners do fans want. They obviously want owners with deep pockets to buy the best players and were applicable improve facilities or build a new ground. Also they want to win trophies, but the Premier league is awash with owners and nation states, so even competing for a Champions league spot is becoming much harder.

I was a doubter after his showing in the derby but was impressed with Simms cameo against Leeds. I am hoping to see McNeill and Gray start wide with Simms up top against Villa

Would you, John, offer him another contract with the same wages he is now getting?
Would you be disappointed if we don't offer him a new one?

I cant have that statement that all players are subject to criticism. Its suggests they are all treated equally.

As Tony and others have indicated The angry mob were ready to tear into Davies after he failed to control what was - lets be fair - a c**t of a ball from Gana. Not many players would have been able to do anything with it...Yet Gana who makes these sort of passes routinely escapes the abuse.

Tom Davies may not be A top class player, but I would take him all day long over the abusers. At least he puts the interest of the club first. While he gives his best for the cause. They focus entirely on his errors. What they do is intentional and concerted and it is absolutely to the detriment of the team. While he demonstrates true Evertonian qualities. They abandon theirs in order to abuse him.

I honestly don't know what goes on in the heads of these morons. Do they actually believe that by trying to destroy the confidence of a man who is likely to be called upon anytime is in any way useful to the team they claim to support ? That its a good idea to ensure your substitute comes on gripped by fear knowing that every minor mistake is going to be magnified and exaggerated beyond measure ?

I'm so glad Stuart and Tony posted the reaction to that so called "mistake". They are giving reliable testament to the environment one of OUR players is expected to perform in.

I'm all for criticism of players, that's what its all about, but there has never been a player who took this much abuse from his own fans. Fans who will claim they only do it because they "don't think he is good enough" Thats just bollocks.

In the past 10 years you could count on one hand the players who were actually was good enough.. None of them were abused to this degree

I've long since wished a speedy departure for this lad, but I wonder who EFC would miss most, him or the abusers ?

He may not contribute massively...But they don't contribute at all.

That's all the point I was trying to make, They play badly we criticise. They play well, we idolise. But we always support them when they are on the pitch. As we will do on Saturday.

We all do it.

Tom didn't do a lot wrong on Saturday when he came on. No more or better than any other player on the pitch from what I saw from my seat.

In honesty, I was more anxious about that never ending clock.

Onto Saturday and then Wednesday.

Maybe not 10 years (brain fog kicking in), but I remember Earl Barrett seemingly never be able to do anything right according to the supporters I sat next to. Leon Osman and Tony Hibbert were targeted..

Garteth Farrelly only remembered for that strike but mostly berated.

There will be many others who have been targeted.

Darren, those who watch Tom Davies regulaly can see what he tries to do. We understand the turbulent circumstances he's had to grow up in. It doesn't underestimate his commitment or his ability.He'll have a long career in football. But it doesn't mean he can't be called out for criticism or praise just like any player.

I hope his caareer is with Everton. He's one of us.

My main challenge was on your point that he's not hard working. He works his arse off, although not always effectively. I spend a lot of matches screaming 'for god's sake Iwobi', but just a little less than I shout it at the rest of the team.

I would definitely renew his contract on the money we've got him on now. Here's why - he is creative, technically good, can dribble, pass and cross a ball. He made the pass for Coleman's goal and he also made the pass to Simms, whose great through ball put Doucoure in 1-2-1 with the keeper. Our two main goal chances in open play during the game.

We simply do not have enough players who score goal and create assists in this squad. They have all been sold or released, never replaced. We can't afford to lose another one.

Of course I criticise the players and managers. As I say in the sixth paragrah of my last posts. Thats what it is all about.

criticising a manager or players for poor play or boring tactics after a game is quite a leap from abusing somebody before he even gets on the pitch, or doesnt play at all.

Managers are part of Every game and set the tone...Tom Davies has been injured for long periods during the past two season and has barely started a game. Yet he still the most criticised player on the books You don't even need to leave these pages to know that.

Anybody who believes that is simply because he is not good enough, couldnt have seen the rest of our players during the past ten years.

If You still cant see the difference. Then I certainly wont be trying to change your mind

Have a good week and let's batter the Villa.

"It doesnt mean he cant be called out just like any other player"

Is that what you really think ?????... He is "called out just like any other player" ?????

There is another thing I will not try to convince you of,

I know the difference between getting called out and getting singled out. I see it every week and so do thousands of others

Historically, local lads, home grown players are the first to get it in the neck from the crowd when results are going badly. For some reason, if a player has come to the club with a big price tag, he is awarded much greater sympathy, regardless of his form. We have an endless list of big money flops over many years.

I was in Gladys St the day a young boy by the name of Tom Davies tore 'all conquering' Manchester City apart, scoring a goal which he started and finished in the process. He seemed blessed with enough talent and endeavour to dare me to believe I'd witnessed the coming of another Alan Ball. That's how good he looked 5 or 6 years ago.It baffles me why Tom has failed to consistently deliver his early promise. It may well be that a succession of new managers with differing tactics has meant his appearances have been restricted to bit part cameos.Nobody has been able to resurrect his early promise. Most haven't seemed inclined to attempt to.Faltering sharpness and lack of pace have been evident in his game. But to be fair to him, they are generally attributes which come to any player only after a prolonged run in the team.

I think the writing has been on the wall for Tom Davies for quite some time. In these dark survival mode days, he will need to work twice as hard than any other player in order to keep the crowd off his back. He is an easy target for those looking for a scapegoat.

Davies is still only 24. I believe he needs to leave Everton to turn his career around and establish himself at a club where he will be able to bring his talents to fruition.

He seems a likeable lad. I will be the first to applaud if he does so.

But I haven't been since Lockdown and won't attend again until narcissistic blubber tears leaves. I still get very frustrated but no "You're shite" blasting behind me.

Darren, I gave Earl Barrett as and example. He wasn't from Kirkdale. And more recently, Iwobi has probably come into just as much criticism. You could add the Mackem Goalkeeper to that. Not everyone's favourite even though he has improved. Richarlison had his critics.

People judge footballers on their football ability and what they see. I try to anyway. Tom Davies is a good footballer. Not special, just good. I've said that countless times in his defence Darren.

To add to your point Phil, what many of have said. You can never really tell when those young players burst on the scene. But in Tom's defence, look at the club he's had to grow up in. Like many others, he will have suffered from the disfunctional nature of having to be subject to several very different managers.

Fast forward 13 years, I'd come home from Portsmouth Poly, then later come home while living in London.

'Oh you think you're great cos' you're doing a degree, eh?'

'Yer think yer better than us cos' you live in London, eh?'

I recognise the bollocks, the bile, the envy (Christ knows why in my case!)

Young, local Everton players tend to get instantly over-hyped because we all want another Rooney. When they're not another Rooney, the bile starts.

Tom Davies' biggest crime is to be a local, half-decent player. Every year, when we get a new manager, he relies on the expensive experience of the underachievers, who tend to let them down again. Tom gets a couple of games and gets benched, because each manager thinks/hopes he can get something out of the 㿀m+ failures.

Tom would make a good squad player for us, maybe even better if got a definitive role and a passage of games, rather than willingly filling in for his expensive team-mates.

I hope he stays. Wouldn't blame him if he left.

We've got much bigger criticism fish to fry than Tom Davies.

It wasnt long ago when you entered a Davies bashing thread (even though he wasnt playing) You weighed in as well. You announced You had not forgiven TD for two stray passes which both lead to two Leicester goals.

I was at the game and knew that hadnt happened. I challenged you to go back and look at You tube. You were forced to admit neither goal game from a Davies stray pass.

I know why you are defending this.

I also know you are aware that Pickford. Iwobi and indeed Earl Barrett were (unlike TD) Actually in the team and playing and therefore open to legitimate criticsm.

I've flogged this particular dead horse for long enough. You can never make people see what they choose not to.see

I would like Tom to stay but I think for his career his probably needs to move on. I guess that depends on what his 18th manager thinks (I made that number up).

Tony, Joe,

If he and they don't want their seats, then I would take them gladly and know people who would also. We see it on here every week fans requesting tickets because we sell out without fail.

Honesty? Let's not go there.

I'm off today and watching one of my favourite films, Kelly's Heroes.

As well as being a great tune, Burning Bridges seems very apt right now.

I criticise players like you. I defend them and praise them like you do.

That game you refer to, I thought Tom cost us. I'm sure you've accused other players of doing so in other matches.

It doesn't mean I don't think he's a decent player. I think I stated that enough.

I have accused players of costing us the game. Not often because I believe a team loses. I will make exceptions like Pickford last minute howler at Anfield but I have never made stuff up, like those two stray passes you later admitted didnt happen - Still on you tube BTW

I have never felt any great need to sail with the prevailing wind.

They think they are that clever, they even end up kidding themselves. I'm sure there are loads of people who could give Kenwright counseling for this one true illness, that he's carried throughout his Everton tenure.

I'm not a psychiatrist, but I'll do it for free, just as long as you release those seats to some very deserving Evertonians, William!

Richardson went on to win the league with Arsenal and a trophy with Villa.

Makes me a bit sad that a player of that standard wasn't good enough for our starting eleven.Shows how good we were.

Chelsea have been underwhelming all season, have scored a grand total of six more goals than us, and just got shocked at home by Southampton. There's no reason we should be quavering at the thought of a trip to Stamford Bridge. Newcastle are starting to buckle a bit under the pressure of a Champion's League push - we might just catch them at precisely the right time. Leicester City are all over the place - no reason we can't get a road result against them (as we did last season). And Manchester City have been dropping points left and right (including to us, for God's sake), so targeting at least a draw at Goodison is hardly far-fetched.

The point is, it's going to be a grind, but there aren't many fixtures I'm writing off as a genuine lost cause.

A great strike by Seamus from every angle too and the home faithful were magnificent yet again!

This what you posted on 17/1/23;

"I'm not getting into another debate about this free-loading piss-taker Ancelotti, but the facts and the records prove beyond argument that the free-fall we are in now started on his watch."

And no, no Kenwright critic other than you has ever sought to mitigate our decades-long demise under him.

Once again, you were talking bollocks.

Again. If you're so worried about Tom then why draw ridicule by bringing him up on a thread when no one was even talking about him and produce very unimpressive stats to provoke his critics? Also on any match thread any time he's mentioned you go into a tirade defending him thus dragging out the discussion of his obvious weaknesses. If jumped on the regular bashers of any other player then the page would be filled with their name instead of his. As for your supposed fair minded comments, when have you ever said anything positive about Mina, Allan etc? You also tend to emphasize their nationality which seems South Americans and indeed Italians since you rarely mentioned Carlo in your tirades without reference to his nationality. I personally couldn't care less if Tom is local or Martian. As Danny just reminded me I couldn't stand Barrett and have no clue where he's from. You're the one obsessed with peoples birth places due to whatever the prejudice you have and you're the one who turned this into a Tom thread. With supporters like you he doesn't need enemies.

I used to see Alan most days in the paper shop I used to call into in Aigburth, when I was on day shift at Fiddler's Ferry Power Station, always polite and never spoke much about Football but more about other 'local matters'. Same paper shop that Billy Liddell, used to go to as well, what a lovely fella too, with no edge to him, like Alan, at all. They both lived up or off Barkhill Road, when I lived in Horringford Road.

So where this calling out players because they are local, doesn't quite register with me. I call them out, as I'm sure others do, because they are shite, and usually wage thieves, not their fault entirely as they didn't write the Contracts they shouldn't have been given in the first place. Again, as an adopted Scouser, I am not born and bred in Liverpool, but have been here on and off early days since 1969, and lived here or close by since.

My advice for our Dazza, those Bob Martins, you are taking were supposed to be for the dog!

Also TB was more or less medically eradicated in the early '60s, a terrible disease, but Dazza you must be suffering a new variant called TD!

In my lifetime, Andy King was born in Luton. Duncan McKenzie in Grimsby. Bob Latchford in Birmingham. Graeme Sharp somewhere in Scotland. Our captain was Welsh. Our iconic left-back a weird mix of London and Belgium descent who played for Wales.

Peter Reid, a kopite from Huyton.

The great one; born in Wales and played in Ireland.

I really don't care who they are or where they come from. I'll judge them on football, not where they come from. I'm hardly an expert. Who is? We all call it different and as we see it. But always about the football, not the place of origin.

My instinctive answer to your first question is ‘yes' but dependent on the size of his current salary. There were rumours in early November that Iwobi was about to be offered a new 5-year contract. I am guessing the club did not actually follow through with a formal offer owing to the dire financial position or the offer failed to meet the player's expectations.

Would I be disappointed if we don't offer Iwobi a new contract? Again my instinct is to answer ‘yes'. The reality though is we cannot afford for him or anyone else in the squad the sort of unsustainable 𧴜k plus per week salaries we were reported to be handing out five/six years ago. That probably means we will end up this summer selling all of those out of contract in 2024, assuming there is a club interested in buying them.

It will then be up to Thelwell and Dyche to identify replacements of at least comparable talent and character and with some prospect of a resale value. Our recent track record in replenishing the squad has not been great. Perhaps the new regime will prove more capable.

Either way, I think the club accounts will dictate the way forward for Iwobi and the others, notably Pickford and Gray, approaching the last year of their contracts.

Spot on there, we have had players from far and wide, as well as local lads, and most have adopted the club and badge with pride, but things were different back then.

Decent wages but not megamoney like today's spoilt brats. agents were virtually unheard of, I wish they still were, there was no Sky, another contributor to greed and spiralling costs, while feathering their own fat nest.

Oh and a proper football, not the beachball they play with now.

Axe n Smash are back again

One thinks that because I state the teams current decline is down to Carlo. I am exonerating a chairman for the clubs long term decline...I guess it is a little too much for the one trick pony to understand....

The other thinks I brought Tom Davies into this thread even thought the evidence is up there, He also suggests I threw a world champion boxer over a balcony because he has just found out about it and it must have been me, because I put Tom Davies's stats up......And they wonder why I never answer them.

Derek Knox.

This was a celebration thread until you came on spouting your usual malice about Sean Dyche bringing on Tom Davies. You always do. You are the one who would rather attack your own player than the Liverpool players on the morning of a derby You simply couldnt enjoy the win.

You do realise that says a lot more about you than the player.?

Curly, Larry and Mo

Something like Carlo did A then B happened which led to C and obviously connects back to Carlo – not Moshiri's contract setting.

We should approach every game with the expectation we can get something from it.

On paper, the toughest remaining games are away at Arsenal and Manchester United but those which concern me most are the home matches against Villa, Fulham and Brentford. Both players and fans need to approach all those games as though we are playing one of the so-called elite.

https://twitter.com/ThePeoplesGroup/status/1627324102150168578?s=20

Forza Everton

To your point as to abuse and where they're from. How about Dutch players?

AVDM, Drenthe, Atteveld, Klaassen and even Heitinga. The first three rightly or wrongly got tremendous abuse. The latter two got as many sighs and groans as Barkley and Stones combined. I don't think it had anything to do with being Dutch any more than criticism of local players is because they're local.

Good answers, John, because these ridiculous wages are one reason we are in a financial mess. Another reason was the contracts were too long; and the third reason – they were mostly for mediocre players – not just Iwobi, I must stress.

I think it will take a few seasons for Everton to be in the running for Top 6 placing. That is why it is vital we stay up this season and start improving the club all round from then on, a thorough clean out from top to bottom.

The last appointments by the club have increased our chances of staying up and hopefully Sean Dyche and his coaches can help us to get the necessary points to assure that. Thanks for your reply, John.

I had almost got used to the Axe and Smash references with myself being either 'Axe' or 'Smash' (not the mashed potato mix that Aliens were allegedly fond of either btw) but then you proceed to reference Curly, Larry and Mo. I can only deduce that in addition to the misappropriation of Bob Martin's, you are also dabbling in Magic Mushrooms, which brings on these hallucinations. I suggest you get a new Appointment with your Vet who will no doubt recommend a Physician or a Trick Cyclist ! :-)

I've just click the link you sent, how embarrassing and cringeworthy is it possible to get? That People's Club slogan needs putting in the mincer along with the horrendous Grand Old Team and, while we are at it, Z-Cars.

I need some Good Times, now where is the Magnificent Seventh DVD, so I can "Give it Some" to Kopites with their 6 European Cups and 19 League titles…?

I pointed out that across the park they have a replica of everything they have ever won on display. She had no answer, the poor lass.

The reason some unspectacular players get picked (like Neville years ago) is because they follow instructions.

This will often mean the hard work you do without the ball. In Dyche's strict system designed to condense play into certain areas, this is extremely important. Disciplined positioning is as important a part of defending as Tarkowski heading crosses away.

Hard to detect by fans in the thick of the action but it's obviously appreciated by managers.

All we see are misplaced passes and shots off target etc, but we don't always value what these unspectacular performances are delivering by cutting off passing lanes etc and forcing errors or sideways passing by the opposition.

Anyway, I expect Tom will leave in summer whatever our fate. He needs a fresh start – and it may be time to give the likes of Price or Warrington the chances Tom currently gets. It will then be their turn to be labelled utter crap (both are well behind Davies in their development at the same age).

I have the utmost respect for the fact that you were serving your country for many years. I also love your passion, but there is clearly stuff you don't know about the club you love.

Read Phil Lewis @351. Take it in...Then read The Shark's post @355.

These guys are not looking to score points or get involved in an argument... They're imparting their knowledge.

Listen to them.

Derek,

You are neither Axe or Smash. Sorry to disappoint, but as you are so keen to get involved and the tag team is now three, you. My old china plate. Get first dibs.

You can be Curly, Larry, or Mo.

You wrote;

"I'm not getting into another debate about this free loading piss taker Ancelotti, but the facts and the records prove beyond argument that the the free-fall we are in now started on his watch."

Where in that entire piece did you apportion any blame to anyone else?

I know you like to be the malcontent contrarian on here but how does Don's post cross a line when it's in response to Darren calling people moronic and worse? Also Don actually quotes Darren's own words asking for an explanation to his contradictions. Whereas Darren drops smug insults and refuses to explain how he is one miniute pro BK then not. Says TD is useless then defends him. Says all our problems began with Carlo then denies it. Darren is the serial abuser of people on here using all kinds of names be they abusive (moron, prat) or just dispatching (mo etc) and yet you react to Don coming near to his low level?

In fact I'll tell you what. I can't remember the pub Rob Halligan referenced when he got annoyed. But if you Darren, Dave Cashen, David Cash, Tom Davies, Graeme Sharp, Kenwright, Metal Mickey, Cilla Blacks ghost or anyone else want to have a face to face conversation to discuss our conflicting views any time after late April then send me the time and place and I will be delighted to trash out our differences.

In fairness to Mr Alexandre. His extensive research trawling back through months of posting have proved fruitful.

He and his tag team partner (Kinsella) are right. I blame Carlo for Everything. Ring fenced money. Lies to the fans, Trying to drag us to Kirkby, Cocking up the kings dock. The lot..... Sigh.

These two men regularly make fools of themselves in their desperation to catch me out. Not even sure how it began. but it has been a regular feature for years. Others have pointed it out to them,

I posted on here years ago that an ex boxer turned up in error for an interview. Kinsella not only researched me. He researched the bloody boxer..... Apparently I drove down to Hackney and pushed him off a balcony.

The latest nasty slur is that I referenced Ancelotti's nationality regularly.Total bollocks of course, but not bollocks which needs to be defended - I suspect others would have noticed if I did it even once.

I do get concerned that their personal attacks ruin so many threads for others which is why I rarely ever address either of them, but from a personal point of view it doesnt really bother me. I find it incredible that they put so much importance on everything I say.

Most regular poster will be too intelligent not to see through the abject stupidity of their ridiculous claims.

Pinch of Salt

Re my post 391 regarding previous posts, can you oblige me on how to recover previous posts ( mine in particular) ?
TIA

Darren @ 390, " Derek,

You are neither Axe or Smash. Sorry to disappoint, but as you are so keen to get involved and the tag team is now three, you. My old china plate. Get first dibs.

You can be Curly, Larry, or Mo."

You are too generous, and I am spoilt for choice there, but having knowledge of the Comedy Trio, and also having hair too, I guess it would have to be Mo. :-)

I believe alls fair in love, war...And footy debate.

I see people trying to settle old scores on every website, every day. I have no doubt that I have pissed people off enough with historic posts...Especially throughout Carlos reign.

I'm not complaining about the situation. Just pointing it out. In fairness. Some of the mud being slung makes me quite literally laugh out loud. I too have been banned and I found it horrible not being able to comment on games. I dont want it again and I dont wish it on anybody else.

I am more than happy to leave it there.

Ray 406

I don't know a short cut. I think you can only do it by painstakingly going through historic threads.

I responded to Phil on here, Darren, and think I agreed with most of what he said.

I'll keep it short. I like Tom Davies. He's a good player who I've criticised and praised for how I see it. I do that with most players. Who doesn't?

Onto Saturday and, if Tom scores the winner, I will be ecstatic and singing his praises.

It's about Everton though, not individuals.

By the way, I return the compliment about your passion for Everton.

The Army was just a job. Everton is for life!!

We are all passionate Blues who all want our team to be back competing for trophies and we all have differing views at how that's achieved and that's fine and what this website is all about.

But can we just leave the name-calling and personal abuse to one side? It doesn't enhance anybody's argument and just spoils the informative and interesting debate it should be about.

Many thanks.
I thought it might be 😂😂😂

It took less than a minute for me to find Dazza's stupid "it's-all-Carlo's-fault" quote, and the date he posted it a month ago.

I have repeatedly gone on record on here agreeing with some of what Dazza says when talking football (even though he's too juvenile to accept this, and effectively says so!) but when he goes on the attack on a personal basis to fellow Toffees I feel it right to call him out, as dozens of others have down the years.

We're one family, but in any family worth its salt it's always a good thing to try to stymy errant offensiveness (and made-up bullshit responses).

Two questions

Who did I abuse ? and other than an excuse to storm into the conversation What did Carlo Ancelotti or the board have to do with this thread ?

Those with a modicum of intelligence will know I was talking about Ancelotti's team. not the decades of boardroom mismanagement of the club which went went before him.
Those who don't possess a modicum of intelligence can draw their own conclusions.

Trying very hard to find a post from a certain individual which doesnt start or lead up to the name of "Dazza"

I'll leave the obsessives to obsess

I am giving up Dazza and Davies for lent so the dance foot should be clear for a bit

We will all be there. We will argue and debate like all good families do in-between. Keep coming and posting.

Then we'll agree with each other over what we've been disagreeing about.

We will be at Goodison in person or spirit on Saturday. Likewise at the Emirates on 1st March.

We will cat fight inbetween and debate over the politics of the club.

But we will all be there. Its what we know and do.

If they don't want those seats, they should donate them to local kids who don't have but want the opportunity to watch Everton live. Everton in the Community right? Live by your morals.

Sorry, it winds me up. Still four days until Saturday.

Try to twist it any way you want but a month ago you slaughtered Carlo alone as the instigator of our current demise. To me that's ludicrous, but it's wholly in keeping with so much of what you say (TD, in your words this last month not having you as a fan "because he's not a good player", but a few days later having you as a fan - in your own words lad, again!). It's silly.

Yes, you and I and plenty of others have rightly denigrated Kenwright for years but such is your bombast you even deny agreeing with me on that!

Bizarre.

I am not giving up Everton for Lent, just trying to give up discussing Dazza and Davies. I am hoping Sean will make it easy for me with Garner hopefully usurping Tom's spot on the bench. If not, I may be in for a few rounds of Station of the Cross.

You can't give Everton up. They are for life.

See you or speak to you on here Saturday.

He'll be even more proud of the fact that I resisted the urge to respond to a guy who has submitted half a dozen posts insisting I was exonerating Kenwright, whilst repeatedly insisting that he and I had agreed about him for years.

This is why, when you come onto a footy website, you should do it with the intention of talking about footy.

Goodison is massive, always has been, it's kept us up a few times, imo, so hopefully we can turn in another professional and workmanlike performance on Saturday, in front of a crowd that is slowly gaining in confidence, and starting to believe that we can beat the dreaded drop🤞

When Dyche came we need seven wins and a snooker. Two down five to go.

The crowd at the Old Lady will have a major part to play as we pursue those wins. I want to believe they can give us that very slender edge which can see us over the line.

An away win or two would be a massive, Massive bonus,

Ticket arrived today. I have to see us win at Arsenal at home point.

I didnt see Carlo's win until I saw the recording later on. The last time I saw us win at Arsenal was at Highbury when Reidy got the only goal.

I Was at the emirates when Cahill gave us the lead only for Van Percy to blast the equalizer from a free kick and I was there when Pienaar put us ahead late on in the snow only for them to equalize with a stoppage time deflection.

I hope you have more luck than I had.

Only you though went on about Carlo alone being responsible for our demise, not to mention your "I am a fan/not a fan" of the "not a very good player" (and there we agree, again, and they're your words) that is Tom Davies.

By publishing such shite you demean yourself IMO, and that's a shame because when you talk "football" rather than your incessant denigration of fellow Toffees you and I agree on much.

How do you feel when so many fellow Toffees have so personally and publicly taken you to task regarding your abhorrent conduct towards them?

You're right about the goals, of course, but Dyche has the 1-0 talent to mask that problem, at least for some of the time.

Every game's a strain.

Beat them and there is a 4 point difference and very similar goal difference.

It's all very tight and a bit wide open with still a lot of points to play for.

I keep saying, just focus on our results and it will take care of itself.

Villa won't go down. I don't believe we will either. But we can beat them at Goodison.

Goals win games, but we haven't got any real goalscorers, and having someone to play it up to, and into, giving us that crucial second phase play, is also missing without the physical threat of DCL.

The players are working harder though, and looking at the title of the podcast on another thread, then the longer we “stay in the game”, the more chance we will have of hopefully nicking a hat trick of one - nil wins this Saturday🤞

At least we are starting to feel a bit more positive, because I couldn't bring myself to look forward not so long ago, simply because there was nothing to look forward to.

Interesting that a national newspaper was suggesting Dyche should bring Stanley Mills into the squad.

I'd have to listen to the likes of Michael, Dave and Brent, because I don't believe he's a striker. But from what I have seen, he could give us more attacking options.

But is he ready to make the step up?

I just found it interesting that a national was suggesting it.

Or have you elevated the local rag to ‘national' status now, Danny?

I've liked what limited I've seen of the young lad, so would like others' opinion who have seen him more.

I can't read the Echo. Firstly because it pissed me off years ago so I stopped.

And because I do all my media reading online these days, I can't stand their website. It got irritating.

It borders on the Daily Mail for distracting pop ups and adware. Although the Mail is annoying for different reasons. It's like being lectured by your Aunty who is in the Women's Institute.

As for the Express, when did that go right wing? My Grandad read that all his life and he was mostly a Labour man.

I'm personally middle ground.

Anyway. Stanley Mills? Can he do a job?

One of the better ones in his "school year" but no guarantee at all that he can step up to the "sixth form". Gordon stepped up, eventually, though some would argue he then stepped back somewhat.

We won't know until we try him – proper minutes, when it's safe to do so. So not yet this season!

I've not considered Mills to be an out-and-out forward, maybe that Iwobi role in wide midfield would suit him? He has that rare quality of having a great shot from around the penalty area. He gets his shot in that split second quicker and it makes all the difference in the ability the goalkeeper to react to it.

This natural instinctive ability makes me think that he can translate his U21 form to a higher level. He's just turned 19 so maybe a bit more physical development required before he can do it on a week-by-week basis for he first team.

We've got to be a bit careful about bigging up these youngsters before they have done anything for the first team. But still, I'm excited about Mills and look forward to watching him progress with us. I think he has all the potential to deliver more end-product than Gordon did.

Tony, I agree, we've done the over-expectation too much in the past only to end up over-relying on and crucifying the youngsters before they are ready and overused rather than being introduced gradually.

One of the most recent perfect examples of how to manage an emerging young player has been how Guadiola brought Foden into the frame, ignoring the media clamour to play him every game. I suppose they have more headroom than us to do that.

Rather than a more realistic, gradual and step-by-step development which would give lasting results in performances. I think a period of managerial stability will help too.

If you give a kid a chance, he generally doesn't stop running. I can see anyone who is prepared to run hard for 90 minutes getter a fair chance under this new regime.