Everton vs Wolverhampton Wanderers

24/12/2022 196comments  |  Jump to last
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Everton FC

Everton’s season resumes on Boxing Day following the unprecedented pause for the World Cup when Wolverhampton Wanderers come to Goodison Park.

The Blues pick up their Premier League programme following a six-week hiatus to accommodate Qatar 2022 with a clash against the division’s bottom side, the first of three home games between now and mid-January that offer the chance to pick up valuable points after three winless games prior to the pause in the season.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin has a chance of being involved in some capacity while Ben Godfrey is available for selection for the first time since August.

Calvert-Lewin missed the start of the campaign with a knee injury he picked up in training just three days before Everton’s first fixture against Chelsea and has only been available for six of the Blues’ 15 League matches so far, having also dislocated a shoulder and tweaked a hamstring.

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That has left Frank Lampard with just Neal Maupay and Salomon Rondon as striking options, with young Tom Cannon coming into the senior side for his debut in the most recent game against Bournemouth.

Rondon has since left Everton after his contract was terminated by mutual consent and, with the January transfer window still 11 days away and any new signings going to need time to bed in, Calvert-Lewin’s return could be pivotal.

Over the past few days, Lampard has been sounding the same caution regarding Calvert-Lewin's chances of playing as he has been for most of his time in charge for the Toffees, with the sense being that the striker is unlikely to start on Monday.

“As we sit here now, Dominic’s recovering well and he’s going to join in with us in training tomorrow so it gives us the potential that he may be available for Wolves at the minute,” Lampard told evertonfc.com on Thursday.

“But I don’t want to commit to that because he’s been out and we all know he’s had various injuries, particularly the knee was the one we want to clear up. So hopefully now he’s cleared up and it’s making sure he’s match fit and ready so we’ll have to see how that one goes.

“[He’s] massively important but some things are out of your control with injuries.

“Hopefully we can get him back fit because I’ve not really had a regularly fit Dominic and when you talk about the level of player that he is and can be, that’s a big deal. So we have to get him fit.”

In his pre-match press conference, Lampard reiterated that it the sitation with Calvert-Lewin was "tight" in terms of the Wolves game: "He going to be training over the next couple of days. [We're] trying to push him a little bit in terms of match fitness. 

"But the injury feels good and that's the best news but we don't want to go too soon for match fitness, so that's the question mark for Wolves."

Lampard confirmed, however, that while James Garner is still some weeks away and Andros Townsend has suffered a setback in his recover from a torn ACL, Ben Godfrey is fully recovered from the leg fracture he suffered on the opening day of the season. The defender has been building his fitness with outings for the Under-21s over the World Cup break and is now ready to go back into the first team.

“It’s great for Ben,” Lampard said. “He’s a frustrated lad when he’s not playing and I get that [but] he’s training well, he’s training hard and he’s now ready for selection so we’ll have to keep an eye on how he trains and, when the right opportunity comes, he can come in and take it.

“James is progressing okay. It’s a difficult injury so we’re still looking at February for him and he’s just working away.”

Lampard was asked about how the squad has been preparing for what has become an important clash with Wolves in the context of the Blues’ Premier League position and the disappointing manner in which they went into the break for World Cup in mid-November.

He said that he, his staff and the players have been able to focus without needing to worry about specific games which has allowed them to just focus on the work in training.

“I think it’s important to understand that the two games against Bournemouth, particularly, were not the level where we have to be,” Lampard explained. “It’s not a bad thing [for the players] to know that — they have to know that — but also to look forward with a positive attitude, correct things, improve, work hard, understand the small details and differences that will get us the results we want going forward.

“The best teams play with real consistency, so to go from the Palace performance to what we saw against Bournemouth… I think we have to work back and work out what changed in terms of the level and our output in the games and become more consistent with it for sure.”

Wolves travel for what will be Julen Lopetegui's first match in charge since succeeding Bruno Lage at Molineux immediately prior to the World Cup. The 56-year-old has the task of lifting the struggling Black Country club off the bottom of the table but already has a new signing in the form of Matheus Cunha to look forward to when the transfer window officially opens on the 1st of January.

Wolves came into the break having lost two of their last four of their last five games but with so much time having elapsed since the last round of Premier League fixtures, unpredictability around how each squad will react and the fact that Lopetegui could provide a new manager bounce, it's very difficult to know predict how this match will go.

Lopetegui will have Raul Jiminez back fit, something Lage couldn't count on, after the striker turned out for Mexico in Qatar and scored in Wolves's win over Gillingham in the EFL Cup last Tuesday but Pedro Neto, Chiquinho and Sasa Kalajdzi are all out injured and Jonny Otto and Boubacar Traor are doubts.

Everton, meanwhile, will be without Conor Coady who is ineligible to face his parent club. That could mean an opportunity for Yerry Mina, Mason Holgate or even Godfrey to step in. Lampard may not throw Godfrey straight back in given his lack of playing time this season and may yet have an eye on the speculation that Mina could depart in January with his contract set to expire next summer.

It's very early in the season for this to be regarded as a "six-pointer" in terms of the relegation picture but there is no doubt that where morale, self-belief and Everton's need to pick up points at home in the coming weeks, this is a massive fixture.

A victory would be huge in that context and provide a fillip for what will be an even bigger test on New Year's Eve at the Etihad Stadium against Manchester City.

Kick-off: 3pm, Monday, 26th December, 2022
Referee: Craig Pawson
VAR:
Andre Marriner
Last Time: 
Everton 0 - 1 Wolves 

Predicted Line-up: Pickford, Patterson, Mina, Tarkowski, Mykolenko, Gueye, Onana, Iwobi, Gray, Gordon, Maupay

 

 

Reader Comments (196)

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Tony Everan
1 Posted 22/12/2022 at 19:47:59
Wolves on Boxing Day is a massive game.

If Calvert-Lewin is fit enough, play him. We need the three points and it's going to be a whole lot tougher otherwise.

If so, I'd be tempted to play one winger (Gordon or Gray) and then Maupay playing off Calvert-Lewin in a free role to make a total nuisance of himself and win possession on the second ball from Calvert-Lewin's challenges and knock-ons.

I think this attacking set-up is more unpredictable and difficult to defend against. As far as Maupay goes, it's the role he was born for; trying to use him any other way doesn't work.

Robert Williams
2 Posted 22/12/2022 at 20:15:04
Tony,

What makes you think Calvert-Lewin will manage to get us 3 points?

He's done sod all so far!

John Raftery
3 Posted 22/12/2022 at 21:35:44
Robert (2),

Our best result of the season so far was the 3-0 win versus Palace when Calvert-Lewin scored the opening goal.

Tony (1),

I agree about using Maupay in a free role. We became far too predictable with two wide attackers in the 4-3-3.

Pat Kelly
4 Posted 22/12/2022 at 21:42:19
We should plan without DCL in the picture for the future. It's been a long time since we've seen anything much from him. Time to move on with someone new.
Jim Bennings
5 Posted 22/12/2022 at 21:53:23
"The potential to play against Wolves"???

What exactly is the fucking problem with Dom's injury?

He just never seems to be able to get fully fit anymore.

Colin Glassar
6 Posted 22/12/2022 at 22:06:50
I don't get the dislike some Evertonians have for DCL. If he's fit and healthy he's our best forward since the much-maligned Lukaku (remember him?).

Hope and pray DCL is ready to go as he's our best option to get us out of the shit we find ourselves in.

Steve Griffiths
7 Posted 22/12/2022 at 22:15:43
Colin, 100% agree.
Jerome Shields
8 Posted 22/12/2022 at 22:16:14
Pat#4

Totally agree

Paul Kernot
9 Posted 22/12/2022 at 22:37:42
Slightly off topic but I noticed in recent A (Australian) League games that they've adopted the World Cup idea of adding ridiculous amounts of time at the end of each half. No doubt directed by the FIFA 'how to make it even more difficult for mid table teams to compete with the elite' board.

I can just imagine a lock in meeting til some bright spark came up with 5 subs. Then in another, 'I know, let's add 15 mins to each game so top clubs can bring on super subs to kill 'em off when their average players are already knackered!'

Will it be introduced to our league as of Boxing Day, I wonder?

Robert Tressell
10 Posted 22/12/2022 at 22:44:55
Quite right Colin. Hopefully he's back now.
Tom Bowers
11 Posted 22/12/2022 at 22:52:46
If we cannot bring in a class striker in January then we are gonna have to rely on an injury-prone DCL along with Maupay unfortunately.

It's good news about Godfrey as I think Coady will be unavailable against Wolves.

Everton need to be strong on defence at the very least as Wolves who have trouble scoring themselves still may have Jimenez and that dirty sod Costa figuring in he game.

It would be nice to see Gordon and Gray show some mettle and perhaps Townsend may return soon to bolster the attacking options. We will see.

Sean Kelly
12 Posted 22/12/2022 at 23:02:31
PK 100% agree. We shouldn’t be putting all our eggs in one basket. It’s lack of planning, madness or stupidity or a combination of all three that sees us depending on an injury prone centre forward. What other premier club would do that. Btw Mopey doesn’t count as a forward imo.
I hope DCLis ok for Wolves and Thelwell get a centre forward and a creative midfielder in during January.
Si Pulford
13 Posted 22/12/2022 at 23:16:11
He's not fit and isn't starting. We need to get strikers in or this could be the year we go.
Geoff Lambert
14 Posted 22/12/2022 at 23:26:33
Is he some distant cousin of Mina??
Need to move on from players like these two and get two strikers and a creative mid in ASAP
or we are on the way down.
Mike Gaynes
15 Posted 23/12/2022 at 01:02:46
Since Coady cannot play against Wolves, it'll be interesting to see whether Godfrey jumps straight back into the 11 or Keane gets the call. I'd expect the latter, since Godfrey has been out for so long.

Also, Lopetegui manages an extremely high-pressure style that will require us to pass the ball well out of the back, and Keane is a vastly superior passer to Godfrey.

So that's my prediction. FWIW.

Paul Birmingham
16 Posted 23/12/2022 at 01:32:12
Well said, Colin.

Once Upon A Time At Goodison, v Palace, 19 May 2022, night game.

History confirms, and this game kept Everton in the Premier League.

A great night to remember, is right.

UTFTs!

Ajay Gopal
17 Posted 23/12/2022 at 03:40:23
Hearing Lampard's comments, I doubt that Calvert-Lewin will start. He may come on as a late sub, if at all.

I wonder why many TWers think that Godfrey is a better defender than Holgate? Holgate was playing well as part of back 3 before he got injured. I wonder if Lampard would be tempted to revert to a Back 3 in Coady's absence?

Pickford
Holgate Tarkowski Godfrey
Patterson Gana Onana Mykolenko
Iwobi Maupay Gordon

Or maybe play a traditional 4-3-3 with Gray in in place of Godfrey?

Pickford
Patterson Holgate Tarkowski Mykolenko
Iwobi Gana Onana
Gray Maupay Gordon

Tony Abrahams
18 Posted 23/12/2022 at 06:17:15
I'd take Holgate out and put Godfrey on the right side, Ajay, and I'd bring Mykolenko onto the left side, into the position you've earmarked for Ben Godfrey!

My reasoning is that, because both of them have played fullback, then they could slide into these positions quite naturally (like the fella the Chelsea fans call 'Dave' has done quite convincingly) but is Vinagre good enough to play wingback in the Premier League?

I think this is the only system that Everton are going to find balance under Lampard (looking at what I've watched so far under his management). But I'd then play with three central midfielders and either two up front, or sometimes I'd ask either Gordon or Gray to float off Calvert-Lewin.

I'd love to go to Goodison and see Everton steamroll Wolves, but I'd honestly be happier with a dogged 1-0 victory if the Everton team closed all the spaces.

Mike Gaynes
19 Posted 23/12/2022 at 07:49:46
Holgate????

Again, Wolves' new manager will have them pressing high on our backline. We need defenders who can pass the ball quickly and accurately and not turn it over in their own end.

That ain't Holgate.

Darren Hind
20 Posted 23/12/2022 at 07:55:54
I think that team starts, Ajay. For the very reasons you give.

Jeff Armstrong
21 Posted 23/12/2022 at 08:02:53
It's pantomime season and if Holgate plays he'll no doubt be wearing those boots of his that curl up at the front.

I'd go with Mina for the first 20 minutes until the inevitable, then Keane to come on and give one of those decent performances he does every 5 games — including a goal. 😉

Danny O’Neill
22 Posted 23/12/2022 at 09:06:52
I'm not going to predict the lineup. That's the manager's job.

If he goes 3 at the back, I'd be tempted to put Mykolenko on the left side.

That's as far as I'll go. Whoever starts and whatever the formation, the players need to show up and get the 3 points.

Team talk over!!

Eddie Dunn
23 Posted 23/12/2022 at 09:36:51
I am hoping that the games in Australia and the two behind closed doors have given the team some confidence after the nadir at Bournemouth.

My worry is that Lampard is preparing us for yet another game without Calvert-Lewin in the starting eleven.

As for Godfrey, his only asset is his pace, he is a woeful footballer. I expect that Mina will start. After all, we pay him a lot of money so we might as well get another 20 minutes out of him.

Lampard reminds me of Southgate with his cautious approach. I would like to see young Cannon in if Calvert-Lewin is missing out.

However, I think we will see Maupay alone again... naturally. I just hope for Gordon to light up Christmas.

Darren Hind
24 Posted 23/12/2022 at 09:50:56
Mina entered the fray briefly and cost us two goals in two games when the chips were really down last season. An awful player who seems to get better every time he doesn't play.

I thought his horrendous error at Leicester had gotten us relegated last season. It probably would have done if Holgate hadn't come to the rescue with the winner.

It's anyone but Mina for me. The last thing this side needs is another reshuffle when he twists a shinpad.

Brian Harrison
25 Posted 23/12/2022 at 10:14:20
Eddie @23,

I totally agree about Godfrey, he has pace and that's it. I am afraid his positional sense for a Premier League player is woeful.

He doesn't win many defensive headers so, for me, it's a toss-up between Holgate and Keane. Also, Darren is right: Mina is a liability at times.

Danny O’Neill
26 Posted 23/12/2022 at 10:28:52
I'll comment on Holgate. Not an obvious one, but an observation.

First I'll talk about the frustration people often get at not clearing the first defender on corners. It's linked.

It's a deliberate tactic employed by most teams. Hit the runner at the front post to change the angle. Go deep and it's bread and butter for most decent centre-backs or a commanding keeper.

But a lot of teams will counter this by having a defender looking for and challenging for it.

To my Holgate point. When he came on for the injured Godfrey against Chelsea this season, he played that to perfection. Literally as soon as he came on, there were a barrage of corners aimed at the near post and he was there to meet just about all of them ahead of the intended target.

Robert Tressell
27 Posted 23/12/2022 at 11:02:56
Danny,

Holgate has had some very good spells for us and has many of the ingredients of an excellent player. Honestly, I think being at Everton through the turmoil, the conveyor belt of managers, constant upheaval etc has ruined what might have been a bit of a stalwart for us.

Provided Lampard organises the side well, keeps things simple etc, then Holgate should be fine. In fact, he even gives us a bit more pace than when Coady is playing.

The glaring issue remains the midfield and forward positions.

Darren Hind
28 Posted 23/12/2022 at 11:04:07
They all bring something, Danny. Holgate is the better footballer, the ball does not bounce off him like it does Mina or Keane. But let's be honest here: he does have shit for brains. That can be fatal.

Mina is error-strewn, but that could well be because he doesn't ever get to a stage where you would call him 'match-fit'. If you have a free kick in a crucial moment in the game, you want him in the opponent's box.

I have a soft spot for Keane. Perhaps that is because he would play on one leg and perhaps because of the goal he scored against Palace. But there is no refuting the criticism so many level at him.

I'm simply not impressed by Coady and Tarkowski. Both capable of incredible last-ditch blocks... but I prefer defenders who don't need to rely on throwing themselves in front of the tanks! Players who go and meet danger long before it comes knocking on our door.

I can't make me mind up about Godfrey. He has impressed and disappointed in equal measure. His positioning is questionable, but he's like shit off a shovel.

I'm hoping I wake up on Christmas Morning to find we have signed Gvardiol, Branthwaite has been recalled, and they provide a defensive partnership upon which to build a dynasty.

I'm reliably informed that Uncle Bill will cut Real Madrid off at the pass and Land the young Croatian.

So it's over to Frank.

Robert Tressell
29 Posted 23/12/2022 at 11:23:05
Excellent critique of our centre-backs, Darren.

A mix of shit for brains, shit off a shovel, shit scared of injury, and just plain old shit.

Danny O’Neill
30 Posted 23/12/2022 at 11:34:42
Darren, Robert,

Holgate is not the worst, but I do struggle to figure out his best position. Likewise Godfrey. Are they centre-backs? Full-backs? I don't think they are good enough on the ball to be holding midfielders as some suggest.

I too will forever remember Michael Keane's Brazilian like outside of the boot finish, but he concerns me. He worries me; frightens me even.

I like Coady and Tarkowski more, but agree, I want us higher up the pitch and on the front foot. I've been saying that for years and during the tenure of your nemesis Darren (Carlo Magnifico).

I'm with you on Gvardiol. Only a 20-year-old but playing like a seasoned 30-year-old. If only.

And get that Croatian keeper too. Then we can cash in on Jordan whilst his stock is high.

Peter Mills
31 Posted 23/12/2022 at 12:02:24
RIP George Cohen, an excellent full-back and man.

I don't know if anyone can produce it on here, but the photo of George, Alan Ball and Ray Wilson at Craven Cottage, prior to the first game of the 1966-67 season a couple of weeks after the World Cup win, is one of the most iconic in Everton's history.

Steve Brown
32 Posted 23/12/2022 at 12:13:54
Here you go Peter.

Link

Steve Brown
33 Posted 23/12/2022 at 12:15:17
I think Holgate's best position is on the right side of a back three.
Peter Mills
34 Posted 23/12/2022 at 12:18:09
Thank you, Steve.
Danny O’Neill
35 Posted 23/12/2022 at 12:32:25
Great picture that, Steve. Only Sir Bobby and Sir Geoff left from England's World Cup winning team of 1966.

Ray Wilson. My dad was adamant he was the best left-back he'd seen play for Everton. I'll take his word over Pat Van Den Hauwe, but for me, it has to be Leighton Baines.

John Keating
36 Posted 23/12/2022 at 12:43:45
Ball debut goal I think?

Cohen was a good full-back but without doubt not nearly as good as his oppo on the other side, Ray Wilson.

By a country mile, he was the best Everton left-back in my lifetime.

Tom Bowers
37 Posted 23/12/2022 at 12:43:53
I used to like Holgate but he has lapses in concentration which is not good for back line defenders.

He reminds me of Stones who also suffered from being error-prone but has improved.

We have some decent defenders but sadly, Seamus has seen his best days.

Tony Everan
38 Posted 23/12/2022 at 13:07:46
Thanks Steve. Great photo, strange seeing the kit with nothing on it at all, not even a club badge.
Danny O’Neill
39 Posted 23/12/2022 at 13:21:21
That's an interesting point Tony @38.

A lot of people got obsessed by the badge thing a few years ago, especially when we had the Nike version.

If you look back over history, the club crest was only really adopted on the shirt in the 90s.

Prior to that we didn't really wear the badge.

The 1970s simplistic EFC on a diagonal slant. The interpretations of Prince Rupert's Tower in the glory years of the mid 80s on the iconic Le Coq Sportif kits was hardly traditional.

Ask me? I'd go with that new, simple and very discreet tower that the club is now using on it's marketing material.

We are Everton and know who we are. We don't need badges.

Minik Hansen
40 Posted 23/12/2022 at 13:25:37
I wonder if they discuss inside the manager's office, the same antics proposed on here? I'm just happy at least we've got Tarkowski at the back for the Wolves game.

Who partnered who at the back against Villa is the question, and they will likely be used come Boxing Day.

Anthony Flack
41 Posted 23/12/2022 at 13:47:31
I'd play Mina and get him to irritate Costa.

Costa hasn't scored in the Premier League so expect that to change at Goodison…

Raymond Fox
42 Posted 23/12/2022 at 14:14:31
Wolves can play some great football but have been poor on the scoring front. If they can start putting the ball in the net they will be very difficult to beat.

Looks like Frank has a fit squad to choose from, so there will be no excuses for a poor performance.

Danny O’Neill
43 Posted 23/12/2022 at 14:15:34
We will beat Wolves.
Matthew Williams
44 Posted 23/12/2022 at 14:24:00
A real six-pointer this one, sadly I can only see us getting a point...1-1

I would have the lad Podense in a heartbeat... a very creative player.

Eddie Dunn
46 Posted 23/12/2022 at 15:10:36
Tom @37,

The difference between Holgate and Stones is partly that, since leaving us, Stones has played alongside the likes of Laporte, Dias and Walker whilst poor Holgate has played alongside Mina, Keane, Godfrey and an old Seamus.

Mike Owen
47 Posted 23/12/2022 at 15:38:45
In addition to many of the points made in previous comments, I will be watching this game with the two different pre-restart programmes in mind.

Wolves have had warm weather training in Spain, friendlies there against Empoli and Cadiz and then got back home for a League Cup game against Gillingham.

We went for a more Spartan approach, with training on the Finch Farm tundra, plus two friendlies/training games/kickabouts played under the Official Secrets Act.

The one against Villa was at Goodison, possibly to make the game seem "more real". But I liked the Leeds United approach. Two friendlies in the last week at Elland Road, against Real Sociedad and Monaco. Both games had attendances of 20,000-plus.

Of course, any club's pre-restart preparations can't be judged on one result. Time may tell though.

This page on the Premier League website lists what different clubs have done:

Club friendlies ahead of Premier League's return

Kim Vivian
48 Posted 23/12/2022 at 16:11:12
"plus two friendlies/training games/kickabouts played under the Official Secrets Act."

Best laugh I've had this Christmas so far...

Bill Gall
49 Posted 23/12/2022 at 16:20:28
Forget about who we want in January. Along with the manager and his staff, plus the supporters, we all know who or what type of player we want, getting them will be the difficulty.

We need results, starting with what we have against Wolves and the next game, and people writing off Calvert-Lewin should realize that we may not have the funds to replace what he was or what he can become once he gets over his injury. Personally, I think he was rushed back too quick.

We are starting with an advantage having a home game after having the Premier League interrupted by people who thought more about lining their own pockets than the sport we all love.

Let's take advantage of it with what we have as we don't know how quick we can get reinforcements in the positions we need, or the finances we have. We may have some money to spend but I think we will have to sell to raise enough capital to afford the type of player we will need to score goals and or assist.

Kieran Kinsella
50 Posted 23/12/2022 at 16:24:28
Jeff,

That cracked me up. On the centre-halves, it would be great if we replaced our team physician with Dr Frankenstein. Maybe he could carve them up and sew together a decent player made from the best parts of each one.

Danny Baily
51 Posted 23/12/2022 at 16:36:45
An absolute must win. Anything less and I'd jettison Lampard.
Raymond Fox
52 Posted 23/12/2022 at 16:42:55
There's only one team in the Premier League that's scored less goals than us and that's Wolves.

Goals conceded is great, it compares well with the top 8 clubs; if we can add some goals, we will be fine.

Danny O’Neill
53 Posted 23/12/2022 at 17:41:47
I feel like a silent echo.

We will beat Wolves.

And United in the cup.

And Brighton.

Then Southampton.

We might get a point at the Etihad amongst that.

Mike Gaynes
54 Posted 23/12/2022 at 17:46:27
Steve #33, agreed, Holgate is a fine defender in a back 3, particularly when instructed to simply clear the ball rather than try to pass it out of the back. But I don't see us going with a back 3 very much this season. And in the middle of a back 4 I see Holgate as a liability, particularly against a press.

Darren #28, I'm impressed with Tarkowski and Coady for exactly the reason you dismiss. We're giving up nearly a goal a game less than last season, and I think the single biggest reason is their shot-blocking (and Mykolenko's). Fewer shots getting through means fewer goals.

We'd all rather have a team capable of playing more on the front foot and higher up the pitch but, since we don't, those guys are perfect for us at the moment.

Christy Ring
55 Posted 23/12/2022 at 18:01:58
I hope Dominic is fit for Wolves, and play Maupay beside him upfront.

Regarding our defence, in my opinion, three at the back doesn't work. Godfrey has come in for a lot of flak; he has played in every position at the back, which hasn't helped him at all, he has outstanding pace, and centre-back is his only position.

Jay Harris
56 Posted 23/12/2022 at 18:13:20
Christy,

I would have agreed with you re Godfrey a couple of seasons ago but I fear injuries and poor form have hit his confidence.

He has pace to burn but, on recent performances, he has less concentration than Michael Keane and his passing is amongst the worst offenders.

Personally, I would sooner have Seamus in a back 3 with Holgate and Tarkowski although I would prefer a back 4 with a midfield 4 of Doucoure, Gana, Onana and Iwobi with Gordon, Maupay, and/or Calvert-Lewin forming a front 2.

Gerry Quinn
57 Posted 23/12/2022 at 19:17:52
Don't you just love stats???????

Premier League: What the numbers say about how teams are really doing

Looks like we are in serious shit!

Danny O’Neill
58 Posted 23/12/2022 at 19:55:34
I'm not always a fan of statistics, Gerry.

I go off instinct and blind optimism.

As the words of a song I grew up listening to courtesy of my parents, "Everton never promised me a rose garden". There's going to be a little rain sometimes.

We'll be in a better place Monday evening.

69 points and an FA Cup to play for.

Mike Gaynes
59 Posted 23/12/2022 at 20:02:47
Godfrey's biggest challenge as a center-back is in the air. He simply doesn't win contested headers. He's only 6'-0" and doesn't have the knack Jagielka (5'-11") had of using his body positioning to outjump bigger opponents.

And until he learns how to do that, he's got a problem making it in the Premier League.

Tony Abrahams
60 Posted 23/12/2022 at 20:34:16
Good point, Mike,

I think another big problem is that he plays in front of a goalkeeper who rarely comes out, and a back four that wants to defend very deep. We have definitely never played to what must be considered one of Ben Godfrey's strengths? (High line).

I would like to think that Godfrey could become a very good central defender in the Des Walker mode but football has changed and out-and-out defenders are very few and far between nowadays. This is another problem for Godfrey who, besides not being great in the air, also isn't very good with the ball at his feet, either. (Neither was Kevin Ratcliffe, I suppose.)

I'd like to bring Branthwaite back because I think he's got every single attribute required and I think this must give him a chance of becoming a top central defender.

I look at our squad and sometimes think we have got some real talent (we obviously need a bit more going forward, or Calvert-Lewin to stay fit – preferably both) but a lot of our performances and results indicate otherwise.

Darren Hind
61 Posted 23/12/2022 at 21:55:11
Mike

I don't buy the Coady/Tarkowski hype. It's generated by people who are not seeing the bigger picture.There are two ends to a pitch.
We've scored 11 goals this season. That is not enough. We do not have Richarlison to win a few games for us, nor are we getting up the pitch to create chances for others.
There is more to football than the last ditch tackles that have so impressed some. We have lost 5 of our last 7 games (should have been 6).

One of these guys couldnt get a game for the team now occupying bottom position. The other got relegated last season.
We need to smell the coffee and split these two.
This is 2022. I'm not sure a couple of seventies type center backs can take us where we want to be. In fact I know they cant

Kunal Desai
62 Posted 23/12/2022 at 21:58:57
Sorry I think yet the again the club is pinning it's hope on DCL being fit. I just don't see him ever being the player he was prior to his long term injury, the probability is that he's likely to be injured again in the next half a dozen/ dozen games.

Secondly there isn't the service from creative players to get him goals.

Digne, Sigurdsson, Rodriguez and Richarlison are all gone.

We need another forward and a quality creative midfielder and judging by Lampards press conference neither are likely. Very very difficult times lie ahead.

Jim Wilson
63 Posted 23/12/2022 at 22:41:31
How bad have things got?

We are playing the bottom club at home and no one is confident we will win.

With the players we have, we should be doing better, much better.

Play 4 at the back and play an extra man in midfield and stop the opposition from creating chances and start grinding out wins.

Everyone at the club must know the importance of the Wolves game and there should be no Christmas at Everton. Get a fucking win and let the supporters relax a bit on Boxing Day. Second Christmas Day on the run ruined by Everton.

We need 2 wins in 4 games at the very least. Lampard can talk all the sense in the world but, if he can't get the wins, he must go.

We need 9 more wins and the way to do it is win the midfield battle against most teams. A strong midfield is essential so sacrifice a forward and play the extra midfielder. Do not play 3 at the back, a stupid system that has never worked, for us.

Merry Christmas everyone!

Brian Williams
64 Posted 23/12/2022 at 23:06:37
Jim.

Even Everton can't ruin our Christmas Day when we don't play until Boxing Day. 🤔

Jim Wilson
65 Posted 23/12/2022 at 23:19:51
Brian, you might be able to relax on Christmas Day but I will be riddled with nerves about the game on Boxing Day. Truth is I have been worried sick about our position since the Bournemouth game!

Maybe I should have made it clear and said "help Everton fans relax Boxing Day night"!

Trevor Peers
66 Posted 23/12/2022 at 23:31:52
Kunal @62.

No matter what Lampard says, even if we beat Wolves, Moshiri will have to find the money for the goalscorers we need, just to stay in the Premier League.

At present, we simply haven't the goal power to survive and relegation could affect the building of the new stadium.

The real issue is will Lampard still be around to buy new players? The next three games will decide his fate.

Don Alexander
67 Posted 24/12/2022 at 00:33:20
Trevor,

Loads of TW'ers know my stance on our club re Kenwright and his puppet Moshiri and I don't for a moment challenge your opinion above, but I've lost hope that there's a manager on the planet – confined in terms of plausible rebuilding as he will be by the gross financial ineptitude of the gruesome-twosome – who can improve our lot.

Genuinely, do you have anyone at all in mind for the manager's job, with even a scintilla of hope?

Nick Page
68 Posted 24/12/2022 at 02:03:58
From Gerry @57's link

“Jordan Pickford's good form has masked how poor Everton have been defensively this season, so the Toffees need to improve or hope England's number one maintains his form for the entire season. A consistent run of games for Dominic Calvert-Lewin could improve things at the other end too.”

So selling Pickford would be a good idea according to some of the lesser lights in the fanbase? Absolutely ludicrous stuff. I sometimes wonder if our fanbase is actually just a parody.

We need a striker and quickly otherwise this club is gone. Kenwright will get some mystery illness before then, though, so don't worry, True Blue lovers, your saviour will be fine.

Mike Gaynes
69 Posted 24/12/2022 at 04:39:51
Kieran #69, his salad days are ahead.

Darren #61, no, they can't. But they can do a better job than their predecessors (Keane, Mina, Holgate) of keeping us where we are until the attacking talent we need arrives at Goodison. And it's not coming fast, or soon.

I think rebuilding our attack will take two more windows at least. So having these two guys there to keep the back door closed is comforting. And they also provide something this club has needed for years -- leadership on the pitch. They hold people to account.

Tony #60, agreed. Godfrey's pace, athleticism and tackling ability are top class, and his driving runs forward with the ball are exciting. But a center-back who can't pass is useless in the modern attack, and as we've seen several times, a center-back who can't win headers is useless against corners. I wonder what his future may be.

Danny O’Neill
70 Posted 24/12/2022 at 06:42:09
Tony, very good point about Ratcliffe. Not the greatest footballer. Not even the best defender.

Lighting quick, which gave him great powers of recovery, and he also had an ability to anticipate. I suppose I'm contradicting myself there as that made him a good defender.

At the other end of the pitch, I never rated Lineker as a footballer in the purist sense. But he could anticipate, get on the end of a ball and find the net.

It's why I used to get confused by people's criticism of Lukaku based on his touch and tracking back. He scored goals. That's what he was paid for. Not to chase corner flags like Marcus Bent.

Tony Abrahams
71 Posted 24/12/2022 at 07:36:06
My point about Ratcliffe is that I think he would have been an ordinary player if the Everton team he had played for would have wanted to defend so deep and therefore never utilised his obvious strength.

I'm waiting for modern football to change, Mike, because I can't believe the chances most teams take, constantly trying to play out from the back, when they really haven't got the players to do it!

Darren Hind
72 Posted 24/12/2022 at 08:39:16
So why are we in free-fall, Mike ?

We are simply inviting pressure every game.

Anyway, I no longer like arguing with you because we have kind of developed a history. We've mastered the art of getting two rights to make a wrong...I 'm still conscious that we stopped both Calvert-Lewin and Lukaku dead in their tracks between us – perhaps we should be the centre-back pairing?

Looking at the weather over there, it looks as if even Crowley will be digging out his jumpers over the next few days… Wrap up, you guys over there. Stay warm, fuck the heating bill, and enjoy your Holiday.

Merry (and Holy, for the believers) Christmas to Blues everywhere. Enjoy the day, but not too much. We don't want anyone reporting for duty on Boxing day drunk and incapable.

Robert Tressell
73 Posted 24/12/2022 at 08:47:38
Mike # 71,

Godfrey has had some bad luck but he's got a lot of good qualities. If we played a high line and had a tall, mature classy player alongside Godfrey I expect he could look really good as the lighting fast recovery defender.

However, we don't have that sort of player and are set up to play deep – which forces Godfrey out of the centre-back position into the full-back position.

Might he and Branthwaite hit it off as a pairing? Possibly… but only if we had a top-class holding midfielder to drop into the back line –- in the mould of Rodri or Fabinho. We don't have any holding midfielders despite attempting to buy 3 this summer.

I also can't see Coady and Tarkowski being dropped – even though they are sort of part of the problem.

So ultimately I think Godfrey will always be a wholehearted square peg in a round hole for us – instead of developing to his true potential as an excellent front-foot defender in a team which takes the game to the opposition.

Danny O’Neill
74 Posted 24/12/2022 at 09:00:22
I still remember that rare Ratcliffe "screamer" of a daisy cutter squirming under Brucey Balls Up from the Anfield Road.

Here's to Boxing Day, a Coady winner and 3 points Darren.

Have a good one, all of you.

Danny O’Neill
75 Posted 24/12/2022 at 09:05:42
I see the anti-Evertonian Chris Sutton (for whatever reason unbeknown to me), has tipped us for a win.

That kind of makes me nervous.

I see that his profile picture shows a fine set of jet black hair that gives Gareth Barry a run for his money. Fair credit for holding off the grey for so long.

Tony Everan
76 Posted 24/12/2022 at 09:08:15
Good discussion about Godfrey that is making me think about centre-back pairings and how important that is, ie, is Coady and Tarkowski a well-balanced pairing? I think they are both very good defenders but maybe the two together is not ideal.

I also would like to see one of them experienced solid experienced men next season paired with Branthwaite, who I think brings everything to the table apart from experience. If he gets some game time now, it could be invaluable to Everton next season.

Godfrey is a player I want to believe in, his desire to be successful for us is second to none. I feel he has to almost bottle it and use it more wisely, work on the mental side of his game and yes his aerial strength.

Apart from the obvious need for a striker to back up and seriously compete with Calvert-Lewin for the main goalscorer, I think the balance of the midfield is a big issue. This is something that I will be hoping Frank and his team have been working on. Gana, Onana, and Iwobi need to function better as a midfield unit; discipline is needed, their roles need be clearly defined.

With regards to this, I'm thinking a 4-2-3-1 formation with Gana and Onana the two DCM roles and Iwobi bringing all his energy and skill to a very hard-working but creative No 10 position.

Up front we are too open with our two wingers. Try one winger playing on the left ahead of Mykolenko and then Maupay playing off Calvert-Lewin. On the right, give Patterson license to play to his natural attacking instincts when there is an opportunity.

At the moment, if Calvert-Lewin is still unfit to play 90 minutes, I think Tom Cannon needs to be used in Calvert-Lewin's role within this same set-up.

Anyway, this became a ramble! Happy Christmas to Evertonians all over the world. All the best and thanks to Lyndon, Michael and the team at ToffeeWeb.

Brian Harrison
77 Posted 24/12/2022 at 09:52:20
Merry Christmas to all on T/W and Evertonians everywhere, I hope we get what we wish for regarding our beloved Blues. Thanks to our editors Lyndon and Michael for the great job they do all year round. As well as it being a happy time, for many it will be sad when we remember those who are not here to enjoy this time of year.
Terry Farrell
78 Posted 24/12/2022 at 09:54:10
Kev Rats was hard as nails and a defender who would put his body on the line. Our skipper he made sure standards didn't slip. A legend.
Danny O’Neill
79 Posted 24/12/2022 at 10:14:20
That team had standards Terry.

I'm someone who doesn't live in the past and likes to look forward. But I respect the past. We had 3 leaders in that team.

Ratcliffe. The captain.

Peter Reid. The enforcer.

When you watch the Howard's Way documentary, you realise how those 2 must have often gone toe to toe, arguing and shouting at each other. In a healthy way.

And Southall. A non-conformist who wouldn't accept sub-standards. He was and remains vocal about it.

It is no surprise to me that none are involved in Everton Football Club other than attending the odd match. The board would be shit scared of their views.

Dave Abrahams
80 Posted 24/12/2022 at 10:36:14
Danny (79), you left out Andy Gray who had a great attitude which inspired the other players to put the extra in as well as improving Graeme Sharp’s physical game, not to mention Paul Bracewell,the quiet man like John Hurst,who did his job of tackling and pressing all over the field very efficiently and keeping the team ticking.
Tony Abrahams
81 Posted 24/12/2022 at 10:46:54
Our midfield has been awful since the Liverpool game maybe; watching Everton, it's hard to believe that Frank Lampard was a top-class midfield player.

It simply looks like we don't go out intent on winning the battle. Although football has changed with regards to tackling, if you don't work hard to close down the spaces, you simply become too easy to play against.

It seems to me that Frank Lampard is accommodating players rather than concentrating on finding the players that should complement his ideology.

Danny O’Neill
82 Posted 24/12/2022 at 11:12:52
It's an old cliche, Tony, but win your personal battle and earn the right to play football. Win the midfield battle.

I confess and take a few Hail Marys for missing out the infectious influence of Andy Gray, Dave. I think, if I remember correctly, he switched numbers with Graeme Sharp and took the Number 9 shirt from him.

Paul Bracewell. An understated player. What a shame injury prevented him going on to be a great.

Between him and Kevin Sheedy, never a hair out of place.

Trevor Peers
83 Posted 24/12/2022 at 11:24:06
Don @67.

I agree with your thinking that it will be almost impossible this time to avoid another real relegation scrap this season. Also, you're right in saying the people in charge of our club have little or no idea of how or who could guide us to safety.

But I still feel that Lampard is so far out of his depth tactically, that he only has three games left to turn things round before we hit the panic button. TW is once again split between the wild optimists and deep pessimists, a very familiar situation on here.

I've no idea who might replace him; logically, it would have to be a good tactical organiser with lots of experience. We need someone who will bring in his own goalscorers with him, which might just be enough to save us.

Rob Halligan
84 Posted 24/12/2022 at 11:24:15
Danny #74.

I'm sure it's just a mistake by you, but Coady cannot play on Monday.

Danny O’Neill
85 Posted 24/12/2022 at 11:51:26
I stand corrected Rob. You are correct.

I'll go for Tarkowski then!

Raymond Fox
86 Posted 24/12/2022 at 12:25:45
When we sold Richarlison, we were asking to get relegated. We only just stayed up last season, so without him, where does that leave us?

I understand the problem of when a player is adamant he wants to leave, but it left us in a real bad spot.

I mentioned earlier about our Goals For being very poor and Goals Against being good, that can obviously come from being more concerned about defending than going upfield and attempting to score.

Martinez had that in reverse.

Geoff Lambert
87 Posted 24/12/2022 at 12:31:03
Raymond,

Maybe get Bobby in as an attacking coach and Big Sam as our defensive coach and leave Frank to do the media work.

Simples...

Barry Rathbone
88 Posted 24/12/2022 at 12:53:21
Ray @86,

I think the essential problem remains that neither Frank nor Roberto have nor had the funds to tackle the problems properly. One was manager before Moshiri opened the cheque book; the other after.

We're stuffed without a new owner who can absorb the BMD millstone and provide colossal amounts of loot for proper footballers.

Raymond Fox
90 Posted 24/12/2022 at 13:59:01
Yeah, I think our biggest problem all along is that our players (with a few exceptions) are good players without being quite good enough.
Ed Prytherch
91 Posted 24/12/2022 at 14:08:22
Raymond, we had little choice but to sell Richarlison.

We were out of compliance with FFP rules and we tried to sell a cock-and-bull story related to COVID.

Selling Richarlison appears to be part of a deal to avoid a points deduction. We bought another season to stay in the Premier League.

Danny O’Neill
92 Posted 24/12/2022 at 14:56:59
I know this is going to come across as pedantic and splitting of hairs, but Everton are not subject to FFP in my understanding. That is applicable to clubs involved in European competition, which we haven't been.

We have been subject to the Premier League's Profitability and Sustainability rules, which you could argue are one and the same thing. And we have been in open dialogue with the Premier League in lifting our skirt to show them the books.

I also read an article yesterday that we are no longer required to speak to them, so the shackles could be off come January having balanced the books, however creative that may have been.

Paul Hewitt
93 Posted 24/12/2022 at 15:51:24
I'm dreading Boxing Day and Everton returning. It's been absolutely brilliant not having that bunch of overpaid wasters ruining my weekends.
Dave Lynch
94 Posted 24/12/2022 at 16:06:47
Yup... only 2 more sleeps till Everton ruin Xmas!
Colin Glassar
96 Posted 24/12/2022 at 16:52:10
Post of the year, Dave.

Take a bow, mate!

Joe McMahon
97 Posted 24/12/2022 at 16:57:06
Paul and Dave, I couldn't agree more! I've noticed, even though it's winter, weekends have been feeling much better.

I've also come to the conclusion this club will never compete again with the big boys, so my expectations have also changed. I know I keep saying it but we needed Kings Dock and then Bill to piss off.

Mike Gaynes
98 Posted 24/12/2022 at 17:28:29
Darren,

We're in free-fall because we're not scoring enough goals. And if you don't enjoy engaging with me, don't engage. It's fine.

Robert #73, you've hit on my concern about Godfrey as well -- who and what will he be for us?

Tony #71, me too. Footballing styles go in and out of fashion. Remember sweepers? Catenaccio? The "magical quadrilateral"? Inside left (my first position in school)? They all came and went. I think playing out of the back is already starting to fade as the high-octane pressure systems force turnovers and goals even against top teams.

I just wonder what will be next.

Mike Dolan
99 Posted 24/12/2022 at 18:34:40
I'm sure that I am not alone in fully expecting us to rip Wolves to shreds on Monday even though there is no logical reason to think that a team bereft of both strikers and creative attacking midfielders will defy ll reason to produce any satisfying result.

But lads, fear not – we are at only the second step of the new 5-year plan. The cavalry will get here in January, the new deadwood will be discarded. A forward like Sarr, a midfielder to pull the strings behind the forwards, and stitch it all together

We start moving the other way and we would have a very good foundation to build on. My guess is Cannon will start this game with Maupay playing off him and maybe Dom getting a run out later.

Wishing you all a beautiful Christmas and an even better Boxing Day.

Allan Board
100 Posted 24/12/2022 at 18:42:17
If I may, I would just like to wish everyone on TW a very Happy Christmas and New Year.

Thanks, Allan.

Now... can Everton turn up please for the next few months because it's doing my head in!!!

Tony Abrahams
101 Posted 24/12/2022 at 19:05:03
“Playing with energy should be only the mantra” for any Everton manager, Mike, especially at Goodison, with our passionate crowd so close to the pitch just willing to get behind the team.

I went past Bramley-Moore Dock before on the train, and if we can just get over these next few months, then things might finally begin to look up, especially after reading what Danny, said @92.

Hurry up and sell, Farhad, there's a football club waiting to wake-up, but first you have got to get rid of the curse. 🙏

Sean Kelly
102 Posted 24/12/2022 at 19:11:40
I want to take this opportunity to wish all Evertonians wherever you are a happy 3 points on Monday and a very Merry Christmas and a happier New Year. Maybe Frank and the lads can contribute to this.

For all our differences, we are joined in one common aim. Make Everton great again. Cheers folks.

Mike Gaynes
103 Posted 24/12/2022 at 19:28:44
And from this mixed non-Christmas family to all of yours, Happy Hanukkah and a peaceful Bodhi Day.
Darren Hind
104 Posted 24/12/2022 at 19:38:23
Mike,

My post was tongue-in-cheek.

Read it again.

Kevin Molloy
105 Posted 24/12/2022 at 20:38:48
We live or die by our fullbacks this season. If we can get them properly involved in the final third, we will score the goals to keep us up. That's where it will be won and lost in my view.
Phillip Warrington
106 Posted 24/12/2022 at 20:59:09
It's a tricky game: Wolves will be up for it, to impress their new manager. If we can go the first half without conceding, we should at least get a point.
Michael Kenrick
107 Posted 24/12/2022 at 22:03:52
Danny @92,

Good post – and you're spot-on regarding FFP.

Bereft of European competition, we only come under the Premier League's Profitability and Sustainability Rules – not FFP.

Paul the Esk gave us a lesson on this back in January: Profitability and Sustainability Rules – Everton's Position – although his subsequent analysis and application of the rules, based on his projected numbers, was not confirmed but many believed that the club had to submit, agree and adhere to a budget that severely limited activity in the transfer market.

Which article did you read that suggested the shackles could come off? I strongly doubt that as I believe we are still constrained by the Profitability and Sustainability Rules, although the losses should hopefully be less for 2021-22.

Laurie Hartley
108 Posted 24/12/2022 at 23:19:30
Peace be to all ToffeeWebbers and the editors on this Christmas day.

We desperately need to win this one.


Mike Gaynes
109 Posted 24/12/2022 at 23:20:14
Darren, I just did, and I still missed it. Sorry about that, although in my own defense I long ago learned (the hard way) that irony often doesn't come over online. I think that's why the "wink" emoji is so popular.
Robert Tressell
110 Posted 24/12/2022 at 23:24:12
Happy Christmas All - and Hanukkah too Mike (and whatever else people are celebrating).
Paul Birmingham
111 Posted 24/12/2022 at 23:28:55
Happy Hanukkah, and to All our TW Friends!
Mike Gaynes
112 Posted 24/12/2022 at 00:03:15
We'll be lighting the Hanukkah candles here in about 20 minutes.

I have named the tall one in the middle Dominic, and the rest are Seamus, Idrissa, Demarai, Andre, Myko, Alex and James.

After lighting they will be sung to, in three languages.

And if that doesn't do it, nothing will.

A peaceful holiday, everyone. See you Monday.

Neil Copeland
113 Posted 25/12/2022 at 00:08:49
Mike 112, very good 😊 All the best to you and your family.

Merry Christmas to all on TW

Neil Copeland
114 Posted 25/12/2022 at 00:16:59
Oh and for all the non believers; we have scored at least once in every game during the mid season break, remain unbeaten across 4 games, conceded no more than one goal in any of the games, kept one clean sheet, scored 9 goals!!!!!!, Maupay looked good as did Gordon and all without the services of DCL.

UTFT!

Danny O’Neill
116 Posted 25/12/2022 at 05:33:40
Here you go Michael.

Sent courtesy of a fellow poster.

The website is reporting a report that originated from the Echo.

Link

Kim Vivian
117 Posted 25/12/2022 at 07:44:34
Happy Christmas ToffeeWebbers. Thanks for all the entertainment, banter and puns this year!
Eddie Dunn
118 Posted 25/12/2022 at 08:06:37
Happy festivus one and all!
John Raftery
119 Posted 25/12/2022 at 09:28:22
This is indeed a massive fixture. Most of the fans I have spoken to in recent days are fearful about our prospects against a team bottom of the league table. Taking a leaf out of the England cricket team’s book, our team and their manager need to embrace the fear. They need to view this game as a great opportunity to put three points on the board. If not now, when?
Andrew Clare
120 Posted 25/12/2022 at 10:35:48
Happy Christmas to everyone. Hopefully by tomorrow it will be a very happy Christmas.
Derek Knox
121 Posted 25/12/2022 at 10:56:55
Hope the World Cup, as we didn't have many involved has given them time to work on much needed improvements in mostly all areas. Hoping and praying for all 3 points plus a decent performance throughout.

COYB 💙💙

Jamie Crowley
122 Posted 25/12/2022 at 13:21:21
So glad the season is about to ramp back up. The World Cup is great, but shouldn't ever break up the domestic season.

World Cup = summer only please moving forward forever.

Merry Christmas to one and all.

David Connor
123 Posted 25/12/2022 at 14:24:04
6-pointer for certain. If we don't win this one, we may as well wave the white flag and say, "Bye-bye, Frank..."

Meanwhile, my cousin is in a pub in London on Christmas Day full of Chelsea. Spurs and Arsenal fans.With his Everton shirt on. Fucking 'Av it!

COYB

Colin Malone
124 Posted 25/12/2022 at 14:24:25
Happy Christmas to all ToffeeWebers.

Is Harry Tyrer ready? If so, We can get £60M for Pickford, which can buy a top centre-forward.

If we can get £50M for Gordon, wow. Happy days.

Paul Kossoff
125 Posted 25/12/2022 at 14:54:15
To all my fellow Blue Boys and Girls, Happy Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, 3 points in the bagle bag, all the best of health to you and your families.

I've asked Santa for a clean sheet as I've already wet myself thinking of relegation. God bless we don't get thrown to the wolves. 🎅🎅🎄👮✝️

Oliver Molloy
126 Posted 25/12/2022 at 15:53:08
I laugh at all these pundits and reporters who say the likes of "If Everton don't get their act together – they will find themselves in another relegation battle"!

We are in a relegation battle right now and I will be surprised if this is not the case coming to the end of the season.
Lampard might have had no luck with injuries but the fact is we are in a worse position with him in charge.

Only a few "better than we have" signings in January may make a difference, in my opinion; how we do this with no money will be difficult.

Goals, goals, goals is what we need.

I forget how many fucking times I have said this these last few years – tomorrow is a must-win game for Everton.

Merry Christmas everyone.

Paul Tran
127 Posted 25/12/2022 at 16:26:12
Merry Christmas ToffeeWebbers!

Let's hope that the Finch Farm staff have spent six weeks convincing the players to play in the opposition's half. And shoot. Often.

Let's hope that Thelwell has earmarked some options for players who can score goals, something we've studiously avoided since selling Lukaku.

Let's hope for 11+ players who are desperate to win and run their socks off.

All three should be a given, shouldn't they?

Jay Harris
129 Posted 25/12/2022 at 17:05:54
I have nothing to add to some excellent posts except to wish all ToffeeWebbers and Evertonians a Very Merry Xmas and an even happier Boxing Day and New Year.
Sean Roe
130 Posted 25/12/2022 at 18:24:59
Merry Christmas all & a merry 3 points tomorrow.
Olalekan Taofik
131 Posted 25/12/2022 at 18:51:23
Dominic Calvert-Lewin's injury situation is becoming too worrisome to me, I believe the 6-week break should be enough for him to have recovered well.

Rondon leaving is good news and the management should always think before buying players that are not relevant to the team.

I wish the team well against Wolves and in subsequent games. I hope we end up in mid-table, 7th or 8th position will be a decent finish for us.

Good luck to my countryman Iwobi and other Africans there.
Thanks.

Bobby Mallon
132 Posted 25/12/2022 at 19:05:57
Lyndon, why hasn't your team got any youngsters in the starting 11? You have once again, like lots of others left out Mills and Cannon as starters.

Our first 11, the ones you have written down, have got us in the Premier League position we are in. It's time to put out the old ideas and bring in the new ideas. Play some youngsters and play Ben Godfrey. Cannon up front with Maupay, and Mills on the wing please.

Bobby Mallon
133 Posted 25/12/2022 at 19:14:17
Oh and Onana and Gueye in midfield doesn't work.
Dennis Stevens
134 Posted 25/12/2022 at 19:17:12
Bobby,

It's not Lyndon's team of choice, it's what he predicts the manager will select. Maybe we'll get one or two surprises along the lines you've mentioned, but I would doubt it.

Danny Baily
135 Posted 25/12/2022 at 19:49:00
Oliver, we are indeed in a relegation battle. And if we fail to win tomorrow, I'd be in favour of changing the manager.
Kevin Molloy
136 Posted 25/12/2022 at 20:29:36
Wolves have just signed a striker for nearly fifty million quid. Just in time for us to run the rule over him tomorrow. How handy is that?
Paul Hewitt
137 Posted 25/12/2022 at 21:03:27
Kevin @136.

He can't play tomorrow. Only signs on January 1st.

Brian Williams
138 Posted 25/12/2022 at 21:10:52
He'll get badly injured jumping through that yet-to-open transfer window, so I wouldn't worry about Cunha just yet. 🤣
Kevin Molloy
139 Posted 25/12/2022 at 22:21:32
finally, a bit of luck!
Pete Lloyd
140 Posted 25/12/2022 at 22:53:40
50 years ago tonight, I had my first date with my future wife, but to seal the deal I asked her if she wanted to go, the next day,on the special down to, spookily enough, are opponents tomorrow. Not a good result, a brick through the window leaving the station, but she’s still here! Hates footy though!
Don Alexander
141 Posted 25/12/2022 at 23:06:10
Pete, you old romantic fool!
Ryan Tyrrell
142 Posted 25/12/2022 at 23:32:47
I think we should go for something usual and play this team:

Pickford
Patterson Godfrey Tarkowski Mykolenko
Onana Gueye Iwobi
Gordon Keane Gray

I think we should play Michael Keane up front as he can win the ball in the air and score headers and isn't too bad with his finishing — we might finally get good use out of him!

Mike Gaynes
143 Posted 25/12/2022 at 23:37:04
Pete #140, can you blame her? Look what you've inflicted on her!

We've added one more candle for tonight's Hanukkah menorah, the eighth night. It's kind of a short candle, so I have named it Neal.

Mike Gaynes
144 Posted 25/12/2022 at 23:49:52
I'm stunned at the Wolves signing of Cunha. If £44 million is the price for a guy with 7 goals in 54 club games, then we will be bidding for strikers in an absolutely insane market. How the hell can we afford anybody even half-decent?

I've never seen Tom Cannon play, just a few highlights on the club site, but he may in fact be our only hope for goals up top.

Bill Gall
145 Posted 26/12/2022 at 00:08:31
Mike #144.

Maybe they spoke to B.K about it, as he said lots of clubs ask him for advice.

Kieran Kinsella
146 Posted 26/12/2022 at 00:27:26
Mike

It’s baffling. The same fee Arsenal paid for Jesus and roughly what we sold Richarlison for. It seems struggling clubs like if they pay over the odds for a player somehow he will turn good. Haller, Joelinton, most Everton signings in the last 20 years. I can’t think of an occasion when it’s worked out that way.

Mike Gaynes
147 Posted 26/12/2022 at 00:41:00
Kieran, Spurs fans think they're in that boat with Richarlison. All that money and he hasn't scored a single league goal for them yet.
Kieran Kinsella
148 Posted 26/12/2022 at 03:02:58
Mike

They have a point although with Son, Kane, and Kulusevski I really couldn’t see why Spurs felt the need to sign him

Steve Brown
149 Posted 26/12/2022 at 03:12:07
Spending big in January seldom works well.

I was looking back with festive nostalgia at the signing of Walcott and Tosun for £47 million in January 2018. Imagine giving Allardyce that amount of money to spend.

Danny O’Neill
150 Posted 26/12/2022 at 06:15:26
What a treat and first impression Pete. It obviously done the trick!!

Well, whoever we are or are not going to sign in January, they won't be available today, won't be available against City, not likely against Brighton and I doubt for the FA Cup against United. Knowing Everton, not even for Southampton.

So heads up, let's get behind what we've got and get the points. Curious who the manager goes with at centre back today. I'm assuming Calvert-Lewin will feature, but I don't think he will start. Godfrey on the bench?

Tony Everan
151 Posted 26/12/2022 at 07:47:24
Good article from Andy Hunter in the Guardian today.

Frank….“It is not easy but it is our job and it is recruitment’s job to find the right players to help us now. Do we need help at the top end of the pitch? Yes. We are fully aware of that. But it is not easy to do because it is a hard market in January. I think we can do loans and buys – we will look at both – but I want players to improve us now, not just to come in and be squad players. They have to come and help us.”

He talked about Cunha being effectively overpriced and it wasn’t a gamble for us. Or maybe we couldn’t afford that? Time will tell but £44m buy clause seems over the top.

Interesting he says ‘loans and buys’ with the word loans coming first. More importantly for me he is sending a clear message saying forget signing squad players. Any signings have to immediately improve the first team, so thank the sweet baby Jesus for that.

I’m expecting two forwards who can score goals if we buy one and loan one well who cares? Get the best achievable and available. A direct and goalscoring wide man, Kudus, Ismailia Sarr would do the job.

Then a physically strong mobile goalscorer who can also hold the ball up and win us some possession to seriously challenge Calvert-Lewin for top spot. Beto of Udinese has been repeatedly rumoured .

Both players will not be cheap options , but immediate first team improvements often do not come cheap . Can we get some creative deals done or get some sales or even wages off our own books to facilitate this? Another big window for Kevin Thelwell.

Done well, spending money is an investment not a spunking exercise. Spending well on these two essential players will see big returns.

https://www.theguardian.com/football/2022/dec/25/trust-in-frank-lampard-hangs-by-thread-before-evertons-boxing-d-day

Danny Baily
152 Posted 26/12/2022 at 08:02:28
Mike @144,

Wolves are desperate. Just like we were when we signed Dele on loan with an obligation to buy (of sorts) last season. It's a big gamble in their part.

Got a feeling Gordon will come good today and we'll pick up the 3 points we need.

I still think that, if we fail to win today then we should act swiftly and remove Lampard. We need 7 or so wins, and this is one of 7 or so winnable games left. Fail to win today and it's difficult to see how we survive this season.

Sam Hoare
153 Posted 26/12/2022 at 08:05:28
I think people may have to temper their expectations for the likes of Cannon and Price.

They are decent young players who may have a future at the club but currently they are League One level, maybe a mid-table Championship team if lucky. Expecting them to come in and regularly contribute as starters for us is very optimistic.

Keep in mind Maupay scored 25 goals in the Championship a few seasons back. The jump to this level is considerable and, though it's nice for them and the fans to see youngsters get a few minutes here and there, I'm not sure any of them are close to the Rooney (or even Barkley, Jeffers) type level who can come in and start a series of matches whilst contributing regularly.

Jonathan Oppenheimer
154 Posted 26/12/2022 at 08:08:30
Just signing in to send positive vibes out into the TW universe. However this plays out in the coming months, we'll need each other, and after last season I'm making no predictions.

Either we go on the run to mid-table mediocrity that we all crave right now, and somehow we've solved the goal-scoring problem, in which case we'll be ecstatic.

Or we hang on for dear life like last season and, in some twisted way, it makes us stronger together as we hopefully begin to see light at the end of this dark tunnel. We all know the third option, so I won't speak it out loud, but we'll sure as hell need each other then.

First job is recreating the magic from the Palace match earlier this season and getting 3 points. I don't know how it will be done, but I'm counting on Coady giving us all the dirty secrets we need to pull this one out, and being the Man of the Match even though he can't play.

Happy holidays to the believers, non-believers, Jews, gentiles, and every Blue in between.

Steve Shave
155 Posted 26/12/2022 at 08:15:08
Seasonal greetings fellow ToffeeWebbers!

I am trepidatious about today, though I should add that I feel that way about most of our games lately. Win and we provide a platform from which to build. Lose and Frank will be under serious pressure and those trigger happy Evertonians will come out of the woodwork lambasting the missed opportunity not to have got someone in before the World Cup.

I am expecting at least a spirited performance, we will learn a lot about how the players feel about Frank today; he will be desperate for the 3 points. Are they with him or are do they really not have the balls?

I will keep my magic Danny optimism pants on and go for a 2-1 victory with the crowd getting us over the line and papering over the cracks for one more week.

Where are the blues of those Palace and Liverpool games? That's who I want to see! For a short period, we had a glimpse of a direction that Frank wants to take us in. All too short-lived, of course… but this is Everton! COYB.

Danny O’Neill
156 Posted 26/12/2022 at 08:47:50
Very well said, Sam.

The Wayne Rooneys of this world are freaks of footballing nature.

Most take time to develop, establish themselves, and will have inevitable dips in form as they do so. Patience is needed with the majority of young players.

On Rooney, for those who like interviews and documentaries, there is a good one on YouTube courtesy of Toffee TV. Rooney talking to Barry Cass.

Link

There is another documentary on Amazon, more about his life and family.

A bit of a random one, but I watch a lot of football films and documentaries. There's a good one on Sky on demand right now. "Der Kaiser". The story of Beckenbauer, one of the best sweepers (Libero) of all time, who could also play on the front foot and attack. In German (well a lot of it Austro-Bavarian dialect actually), but there are English subtitles. I recommend it.

Back to Rooney. Saying he was gutted that he got called up for the England U17s when he wanted to play for Everton against Blackburn. Getting clocked by Colin Harvey carrying a bottle of cider as he headed off to hang with his mates after a match. Claiming at 16 years old he was better than all of the Everton players. Some of them not good enough to play for Everton – his words.

Time is a healer, but in light of his recent statement on the background of how his move to Man Utd came about, really interesting to hear him talk about Everton. Despite what he achieved, there is no doubt where his heart belongs.

Ray Roche
157 Posted 26/12/2022 at 09:16:04
Danny, regarding Rooney and his feelings for Everton, I have always said that, in life, you can change your job, your house, even your wife, but you can't change your football team. It'll always be there.

Somewhere hidden inside, will remain that flickering flame. Like the one you keep for your first love, it never goes out.

.

.

.

Just don't let your missus know.

Derek Knox
158 Posted 26/12/2022 at 09:21:36
Sam @ 153,

I always take on board your views and generally agree, it's a difficult one, as you say, with expectations from the promising youngsters we have. I don't think many of us are that naive to believe they should start and play 90 minutes, but what is frustrating is to see their senior counterparts just do the same old, same old, without seemingly any sense of urgency or commitment.

At least give them a decent 20-minute run-out when Plan A or B is failing miserably; you never know – they may just surprise us. Admittedly the Wayne Rooneys of this World don't come along very often, and not with us, but at least give them a go.

Paul Tran
159 Posted 26/12/2022 at 09:28:23
I'd be keen on trying one or two of the younger players, at the very least for keeping up the intensity levels.

Younger players don't have to be superstars. It's perfectly fine for them to be good, consistent players at this level. We won't know until they get games.

Today, we need to play in the opposition's half, push them back, move ourselves and the ball quickly.

Peter Hodgson
160 Posted 26/12/2022 at 09:49:23
Olalekan @131 has a good point and I agree. Everyone should agree.

Or is it the case that nobody believes a word of what Lampard says about Calvert-Lewin and his injuries any more? I'm in that camp I'm afraid.

Sad to say that many on here, having been behind him (even when he brought in Maupay as a backup), are awakening to the reality of the Calvert-Lewin situation and the implications for the club of our goal-scoring dilemma should we fail to do anything about it in January.

What has been said prior to the match suggests further caution on his part which points to a further non-appearance on Boxing Day citing match fitness or the danger of further injury. When will it end?

Dave Abrahams
161 Posted 26/12/2022 at 09:58:42
Today's game will be like many we will approach with apprehension in the coming months. I don't care how we play today as long as we win

I am currently watching a great film “Great Expectations"... There is nobody connected to Everton who has anything to do with it!!

Tony Abrahams
162 Posted 26/12/2022 at 10:03:36
I expected Rooney's side of the story to create a bit of uproar considering the man who obviously took part in engineering his sale is still our fucking chairman, Danny, but people just don't seem to be that bothered.

We might have actually had some good times if we had kept hold of the kid but we got lumbered with the curse instead and have suffered ever since.

I love Everton but I hate what we have become and I just hope the players can put some smiles on the faces of our long-suffering fans today. 🤞

Clive Rogers
163 Posted 26/12/2022 at 10:06:27
The predicted line-up looks like a relegation team to me.
Jeff Armstrong
164 Posted 26/12/2022 at 10:28:59
Clive 163, ever the optimist, full of the joys of the season 🎅🎅
Dave Abrahams
165 Posted 26/12/2022 at 10:34:33
Clive (163),

Well, it is practically the same eleven that was producing nothing before the shutdown for the World Cup – except if brittle bones turns out, then it is liable to be a lot worse… especially if Frank's plans are the same.

Brian Harrison
166 Posted 26/12/2022 at 10:56:27
I have no idea how today's game will pan out; has the unusual break in the season allowed Frank and his coaches to reset our style of football?

I really hope so. Because I really don't want to see another season end like last season where we avoided relegation by the skin of our teeth.

I got the feeling from our last few games that the crowd was beginning to let Frank and his players know that the constant inter-passing between defenders was not what we came to see.

This reminds me a lot of the last few weeks of Martinez when he was more obsessed with possession than scoring goals or defending set-pieces; in the end, the crowd decided his time and tactics had run its course. I think, if Frank continues with the same style as before the break, then he will come to the same end as Martinez.

I mean, can the results be any worse if we do adopt a more attacking approach than we have showed so far this season?

I have very rarely seen a manager change his ethos about football. Some like their teams to play on the front foot and are a bit more cavalier and some are more cautious; sadly, I think Frank falls into that category. Which – considering the type of player he was – makes it even more puzzling.

Trevor Peers
167 Posted 26/12/2022 at 11:01:41
Clive #163,

You're just telling it how it is, mate. After the Bournemouth debacles, Lampard should've been sacked, he's way out of his depth and hasn't got a clue tactically, but Moshiri and Co must think they know something we don't.

Even a win today, although it would be much welcomed, won't disguise the appalling lack of quality in this squad that will ultimately catch us out over the remainder of the season, again and again.

Kevin Molloy
168 Posted 26/12/2022 at 11:08:56
Today is one of those days which will 'define our season'. But this one feels like it could be.

Not getting a win puts Frank right behind the 8-ball. But get that win and we could be away.

If we get beat, I wouldn't necessarily be booting him tonight, but we would need to start lining up the next guy.

One thing that must not happen: If we aren't improving, he shouldn't be given the money to spend. Either he gets the results with these, or he goes and the new chap gets the money.

Worst-case scenario is Frank stays to spend even more money on tosh.

Andrew Clare
169 Posted 26/12/2022 at 11:13:50
Wolves have a new manager with great experience managing in the most competitive league in the world- La Liga.
So I expect them to be very organised tactically, something that we lack. I just hope our boys will show more passion backed by a sell out Goodison crowd to get the vital 3 points.
If we don't win this one I think Lampard will be gone quite soon.
These are tough times to be an Evertonian.
Tony Abrahams
170 Posted 26/12/2022 at 11:16:38
Martinez is the only manager I’ve ever seen take off a very hardworking midfielder and replace him with a centre forward, whilst his team was down to ten men, but winning 2-0, and I’ve been watching football since January 1975!

No prizes for guessing what the score ended up and no prizes for guessing how his Everton tenure ended up, even if it’s easy with hindsight.

Hindsight is a great thing, but it’s definitely better to have foresight, and that’s why my message to Frank Lampard is, sort out your midfield or you’re going to be out of a job very soon?

Good luck Frank, I just hope you get it right, mate💙

Will Mabon
171 Posted 26/12/2022 at 11:18:19
I think we'll be OK - Chris Sutton has us to win 1-0.
Danny O’Neill
172 Posted 26/12/2022 at 11:20:57
There's a part 2 interview that I haven't watched yet Tony.

He's honest about the move and feeling let down by the club. Not only did they agree to sell him to Chelsea, but the receiving club planned to loan him straight out to Middlesbrough.

So he took things into his own hands.

He was gutted, his dad was gutted and he wanted to stay. At least for another season or two to see how things went at Everton.

I guess you can only take him at his word and that is his version of events.

I'm going to try and focus on today. Let's get those much needed points.

Kunal Desai
173 Posted 26/12/2022 at 11:21:47
When was the last time we won a boxing day fixture. Was Wigan at home 2-1 in 2012?
Matthew Williams
174 Posted 26/12/2022 at 11:25:55
I can only see a draw at best, wouldn't surprise me if most teams look a big sluggish...1-1 methinks and we just plod on.
Will Mabon
175 Posted 26/12/2022 at 11:28:27
Kunal - easy with the realities, if you don't mind!

And anyway statistically, the longer it was since, then the more likely it is to happen.

Dave Abrahams
176 Posted 26/12/2022 at 11:29:59
Tony (170),Tony if hindsight was foresight we’d all be billionaires!!
Michael Kenrick
177 Posted 26/12/2022 at 11:36:03
I must admit to being shocked, not only at the time, by how much instant hatred was generated toward Rooney when he was sold, clearly against his wishes after having continuous battles with that idiot Moyes, but how the hatred set solid against him amongst so many of his fellow Evertonians when it was obvious throughout his time at Man Utd that he was and would always be an Evertonian.

But I suppose it was no different to the treatment the club gave Gary Speed when he left, making sure that another Evertonian would be labelled a 'shithouse' by the... erm... Goodison 'Faithful'.

Eddie Dunn
178 Posted 26/12/2022 at 11:41:33
Kevin @168. Frank is surly on thin ice and it will only take a poor result today followed by a meek and mild display at City and our world will be looking very dark.
Any organisation in this position would already have earmarked his successor. Only a total shambles of a club, run by idiots and amatures would not have a plan...oh wait!
There is little to suggest that he can turn things round or find anything decent in the window despite his bullshit at the last presser, where he said that we needed the right type of player. So far his picks have been very ordinary...Maupay and Mc Neil spring to mind.
I hope Gordon can light the touchpaper and we can blow Wolves away but a draw is more likely.
I have enjoyed the break from my usual angst but I have a feeling of De Ja Vu.
Kunal Desai
179 Posted 26/12/2022 at 11:42:14
#175- Will. I genuinely couldn't remember but actually it was two seasons ago. We beat Sheff.Utd 1-0.
That was in the midst of a great run of six victories on the spin I think.
Will Mabon
180 Posted 26/12/2022 at 11:45:47
Kunal, I didn't look it up but felt we had won since then. Was a good period under Carlo.

I'm just going to try to relax and enjoy the game today, see if I can recapture that old festive football feeling of yore, felt both at the ground or watching on screen. Loved it.

With the "quality" of our football and usual predicament in recent times it's been mostly absent. Would appreciate a nice, simple, committed and positive performance today.

Dave Williams
181 Posted 26/12/2022 at 11:48:21
On paper the team doesn’t look bad provided DCL is fit. Whoever replaces Coady needs to have a solid game and we need Gordon to play at his best to fire up the front players.
More than anything hopefully Frank has used the break to sort out how he will use his midfield. Onana doesn’t seem to know where or how to play- give him a permanent position and give the lad a proper chance to influence the game. Gana has to stop passing to the opposition which he has always done, and Iwobi should be given the ball as much as possible. With decent organisation this team is good enough to be mid table - higher if we can start to score some goals. As for the youngsters they may not look first team players when surrounded by ordinary under 21 players but stick them in with first team players and they just might rise to the occasion. Unless Frank has sorted things we could do a lot worse that give Cannon/ Mills/ Price half an hour rather than hope that the likes of Doucoure can come on and change the game.
Worrying times with City next up- Frank needs a win today to keep the critics at bay. Hopefully the crowd will rediscover their passion from last season as there have been signs of resignation over the last few games at Goodison.
The score?? We have the ability to win but it all depends on getting the midfield structured and the crowd to make one hell of a noise.
I’m an optimist so 2-0 to us!!!???
Danny Baily
182 Posted 26/12/2022 at 11:49:00
Eddie 178, hopefully a successor has already been identified. Most likely it'll be Dyche.

Win today and it's a completely different picture though.

Will Mabon
183 Posted 26/12/2022 at 11:50:35
Michael @ 177,

I think those events are pretty standard across football with perceived transgressions of loyalty - as is the eventual crossing of the threshold of forgiveness after a certain time, and "respectful" applause.

We have had one or two instances of it being a little much though. Alas the real story behind things only surfaces much later - or never.

Will Mabon
184 Posted 26/12/2022 at 11:53:53
Danny - mention of Dyche = regurgitated mince pie.
Kevin Molloy
185 Posted 26/12/2022 at 12:07:48
Eddie

controversial, but I'd be watching events at West Ham very closely. I think they could well boot Moyes in the next couple of weeks. Astonishing really given the work he's done on them since he arrived. I'd bring him back and let him spend the money. I'm at the point now of not really caring about how we play against the top four away, I just want to sign some good players and stabilise.

Will Mabon
186 Posted 26/12/2022 at 12:14:55
Kevin - first, mention of Dyche, and now Moyes :-o

You guys are killing Santa. Feel like taking me tree down.

The players part I can go with.

Pat Kelly
187 Posted 26/12/2022 at 12:21:29
There's still more life in my turkey than I expect to see from us today.
Raymond Fox
188 Posted 26/12/2022 at 12:21:52
The bettings saying a draw is likely, I cant disagree because it looks a game that anything could happen.

They score few goals like us, so how about 0-0. I like their goalie and Pickford is playing out of his skin which again points towards a 0-0.
I'm hoping for a win like the rest of you, but with this lot I cant muster much confidence.
I'm not in the blame it on Frank brigade because I cant see what he could have done much differently. I think if DCL had been available we would be in better shape now, he can only pick from who's fit.

I would love to want to watch MOTD tonight for a change.

Mike Doyle
189 Posted 26/12/2022 at 12:28:38
Tony #170] As, I think, the only regular TW poster to have played at a high level, I’d be interested to know how you’d set out the team for today?
Ray Roche
190 Posted 26/12/2022 at 12:37:20
Despite the betting allegations Ivan Toney is playing for Brentford today. 🤷🏼‍♂️
David McMullen
191 Posted 26/12/2022 at 12:41:29
Hope the only turkey today is my leftovers. Need a good win today
Kunal Desai
192 Posted 26/12/2022 at 12:49:15
Gyokeres deal edging closer so it would appear.
Danny O’Neill
193 Posted 26/12/2022 at 12:51:02
Sacrificial lambs Michael,hung out to dry. Players and managers alike, whilst the smiling Cheshire Cats look down from the stands safe in their self protected environment despite not setting the conditions for managers and players to succeed for years. Why not shift the blame elsewhere in an act of self preservation?

3 points today please Everton.

Ray Roche
194 Posted 26/12/2022 at 12:56:36
Why do you say that Kunal?
Kunal Desai
195 Posted 26/12/2022 at 12:59:28
Ray, just picking up on media reports and Coventry are desperate for funds.

That said i'm i've not seen Gyokeres play. Is he any good? Is he what what we need for rumoured figures of around £15 million. Maybe better value elsewhere.

Dave Abrahams
196 Posted 26/12/2022 at 13:31:58
Kunal (195) I’ve never heard Victor Gyökeres so I googled him, he has been with Brighton for a few years but loaned out with various clubs for most of that time before finally joining Coventry for £1.2M, he is now valued at£5M on Transfermarket so he could be a bargain at that price or maybe a waste of money at any price,like a few we have signed in the last few years.
David Midgley
197 Posted 26/12/2022 at 13:37:19
Dave #161
Have you got to the bit where the bitter, jilted bride ( Bill in full makeup )
sets fire to the house ?
Kunal Desai
198 Posted 26/12/2022 at 13:40:01
Dave, agreed an unknown quantity. I suspect if we buy then it will be through players leaving perhaps Doucoure and maybe Mina moving on.

I think someone who could help us would be the lad at Burnley out on loan now. Had a good world cup Weghorst.

Mike Keating
199 Posted 26/12/2022 at 13:48:20
Just heard of a bad accident in town which may affect traffic going to the game - anyone know anything about this?
Paul Tran
200 Posted 26/12/2022 at 13:48:23
Whoever we buy up front is going to be a gambled-on unknown quantity. Can't see an established proven scorer coming to us.
Dave Abrahams
201 Posted 26/12/2022 at 13:50:03
David (197),

Well, there was a happy ending to the film so it's very unlikely that Billy Boy could have had any part in it!!


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