Dyche finds the best way to return to Turf Moor

By the Gods, what have we done wrong; Keane and Gibson, sorry, Godfrey!!

Three of our starting back four out, and Gana out as well!!

Could do with one more win going into a tricky Xmas series of matches, but I wouldn't be too unhappy with a point.

Mykolenko is supposed to have a minor injury, it must be more than minor if he's not playing.

Or a back three with Patterson and McNeil as wing backs?

Squad players wanting to make their mark. No worries.

Yeah... I'll have another drink, cheers! 🤪

Interesting make-up. Show's how thin the squad actually is now.

Coleman, Young and Mykolenko injured; Branthwaite and Gueye suspended; Gomes & Dele not deemed fit enough.

Have I missed anyone?

Please could you pour some of what you're having into my coffee please...

This is a must-win game to me. Typical! Everton that!!

COYB

I'm abstemious, but partial to the odd drop of brandy in a coffee, or calvados.

I do hope we do boss the game we really need the 3 points this avo.

Bournemouth and Luton abandoned as Tom Lockyer's collapsed on the pitch. Hope the lad's okay.

This game and the squad at Burnley has shown how depleted we are. Hope for the best prepare for the worst.

I've never been so sure about a game since we played West Bromwich Albion in the 1968 FA Cup Final.

Pour yourself a pint of calvados and chill, buddy!

Alan [13] Which one are you in, The Shakespeare, Bandon Arms, The Old Castle, Black Boy Inn or The Bell and Talbot..?

You multilingual devil you!! Go Blues indeed!! :-)

Do you know a short-arse called Jim Mepham? He's into (or was into) IT as a Consultant.

I stayed there at a work-mates house (Jim above) for the '99 RU World Cup final at the Millenium Stadium. We literally rocked up, dropped the bags and dossed down for the night. Then up at 7am, full English (Welsh) breakfast.

Then straight off to Cardiff for a very messy start to watching the final. That Aussie team was the best team I've seen play live. They made an excellent French team look toothless. John Eales was an excellent player, and he captained that side brilliantly!

My fave moment though was stumbling into the Stakis Hotel where the Bokkies and Kiwis were partying that night, and chatting to Thane Randall at the bar and watching what those guys get up to when they can let their hair down.

I must thank Robbie Fleck for intervening at the door to the room where they were partying, and getting me in... An out-standing night!

Now will you, for God's sake, get that bloody Calvados out.

Pleased for Keane and Godfrey. Dyche deserves a lot more credit than he's getting. He's reinstated some belief, fight, togetherness and pride.

Don't blow this, Blues!

Burnley look like they want to play out from the back but have no midfield and end up playing it out wide on both sides some of which has looked promising but led to nothing.

Earlier it seemed some of us were worried that Keane was injured and others worried he wasn't but up he pops and will soon again be touted as a possible centre-forward.

Funny old game so far.

Enjoy your night Blues. Might even watch MotD. Again.

Harrison and Garner make such a difference from what Everton had before. Fantastic performance – all down to the Dyche way.

I'm not sure what Harrison brings to the table.

Dyche is smashing it 💪🏽

Maybe there was something in those xG stats all along!!

Injuries, suspensions & we still won, still kept a clean sheet!!

I think we need 10 points taking off us every season.

Cup game will be another test. I fancy us in a one-off against most in this form.

Four clean sheets in a row? I could get used to this.

Hinchcliffe gave Keane MotM, buzzing, hope that Doucoure's injury isn't serious.

It was a solid team win, four wins on the trot, best run in over 20 years! Awesome. 10 points wiped.

He's done it through coaching, organisation, tactics and hard work on the training pitch.

I think he's relishing every second of being Everton manager.

His workrate is insane. One of the first players on the teamsheet for me. Not to mention his flair, skillful retention, an eye for a pass and the fear he puts into opponents, but hey, we all see different things, aye. . .

Delighted Keane given MotM. Thoroughly deserved.

The players look up for it every game which I cannot remember happening for a loooong time. Let's do Fulham in the week and bring on a League Cup semi-final!!

I really fancy us to go all the way this season in honour of Blue Bill.

Didn't they get the memo this week?

Dyche's system and tactics could suit him being the spare centre-back, obviously behind Big Bad Jarrad and Tarkowski.

In the Premier League, you need at least 4 centre-backs and Godfrey is not a lost cause either.

It won't last!!!!

It's testament to good coaching and getting maximum output from what he's working with. He's improved every player in the squad.

Great games for both Godfrey and Keane today; a fantastic display of togetherness from the players, management, and fans.

Happy Blue, hope Doucouré is okay.

Here ya go!

Link

La La La La La La La La La La Laaaaa Laaaaa Laaaaa

Maybe not Champions League but good enough to see us through to BMD?

I couldn't drink, my 9-year-old is with me. I couldn't relax, they had Strictly on one TV, and they were watching Survivor on iPlayer in another room.

I couldn't get a stable, or malware-free stream till the 41st minute, and I had to squeeze eating tea in the spare room too! Whilst carrying my laptop around the house to move out of the way!

The time for Calvados is when everyone has gone to bed, and I can sneak back down for a small snifter or two...

How's the beer doing, Alan?

But you could see how much it pained Jamie Redknapp to praise The Everton.

It's just a little battered and bruised, and a tad short of quality and numbers.

Dyche and his team have turned them into a solid, organised football team. Four games, four wins, four clean sheets and eight goals. The unfair deduction is wiped out, and then some.

I'll say it again for good measure, outstanding.

On to the next one, and that's a game where we could be a couple of steps from Wembley. Goodison I hope will be suitably noisy for Fulham's visit on Tuesday, perhaps our way of saying thanks to the players for recent results and hopefully that will inspire them to go through to the next round.

Still a long long way to go, but it's far more enjoyable season, even with the points deduction, than it's been for quite some time.

However, I hope you enjoyed your tean, and looking forward to your digestive in the Shakespeare.

I never had a chance to drink there. When I woke up in Cardiff on the Sunday, it was phone Jim, he was back home after he lost me. So, I got the train to Birmingham New Street, where he picked me up. A quick light lunch and a chat at his, packed and then drove back to Peterborough where I was working at the time...

Ahh, the good old days! No commitments, no worries and no money! hehe.

Tony Ev [65], What really grinds my gears, is that Kenwright and his bloody curse are still working against us from the grave!

I just hope the Club work hard enough and smart enough to keep us going as a club!!

ps: Michael K, is there any homework this weekend please? ;-)

Let's keep growing those match points and we will be fine.
A point at Spurs and a point against Man City would give the team even more confidence.

I can't touch Scotch, we had a misunderstanding when I was 14 years old and since then I can't even stand the smell. Funnily enough tho, I can drink Irish?

A point would be an extra coffee, three points would probably be three fingers of Calvados (in a coffee of course!) hehe!

Bon chance mon ami, Chapeau!

We defend brilliantly, superbly marshalled by the vastly underrated James Tarkowski. If there was one thing Lampard got right, it was signing him.

Big shout tonight to Godfrey, Patterson and Keane who were all superb.

Not getting carried away because Everton have a nasty habit of bringing you crashing down to earth.

I was Dyche's biggest critic but my god what a job he has done in the face of adversity.

On to Fulham now, tough one but I fancy us.

Utft.

There's only two teams that have conceeded less goals and they are 1st and 2nd.

It wasn't pretty, some are saying –it looked fine to me. With three changes to the back four, two who have hardly played the last 3months, Patterson with another rare start, Dobbin with his first start of the season.

Wrap them up in cotton wool for the Fulham game, set them loose, then put them back in cotton wool until the Spurs game.

Well done Blue Boys proud of you all and the other important Blue Boys roaring them home take a bow the lot of you.

The only player for us I couldn't rate was Dobbin.

As for Burnley, I'd no idea what they were trying most of the time? No real shape or purpose, but a threat on occasions.

So pleased for the fans, players, management, and our late chairman Mr Kenwright. He will be dancing up there and with us in the crowd.

So nice to be calmer, happier, and cancelling the cardiologist appointment! Keep marching on together.

What a pile of crud that take is, imagine if one of their faves were down 110 points, they'd be campaigning to have them returned immediately.

We should be just behind Brighton and just ahead of West Ham in the table, but we are still in the lower half. Keep on winning, Blues, because none of the points you have won since the imposition of the points deduction has anything to do with it – they are all fresh, newly won points.

It's 10 of the 14 won prior to the outrageous decision that you've lost and won't get back unless the Premier League do a U-turn.

I thought Patterson showed a few times why the manager is a little wary of playing him, but he will become a good full-back.

What a clearance by Godfrey in the first half.

100% effort by everyone.

Highlight of the game? The fact that the 2nd half was, well, pretty much a non-event. (I know it wasn't, it was the product of an excellent half-time plan, superbly executed, with minimum drama. But it felt very comfortable.)

What a day. Grandson Sam's team took a bit of a pasting, Grandson Charlie's side won very well, on to Marine for a good 3-1 home win, progressed to my local gentleman's club for a few pints watching the Blues, listening to our fans at Turf Moor. UTFT.

As Dave A said, everyone (including Dobbin) put a shift in this evening. I'm just made up for the players, the manager and his team, all the backroom staff and of course all at the club.

Let's keep shoving these points back down the Premier League's craw!

THIS... IS... EVERTON..!!

WSNBM

In the context of the fact that Sean Dyche is managing the same team that won 8 league matches in 38, and he's achieved that tally in 17...

Well, it's special. Frankly, I'm thinking less about the points the Premier League stole from us, and more about the points we let slip early on in the season. Had we beaten Fulham, Wolves and Luton (and we really should have), and beaten Sheff Utd (again, we should have), we're in the title race.

We're seeing two things. One, that Sean Dyche is a worthy manager. Two, this squad has been badly mismanaged by a succession of chancers. Because while thin, it's a decent team and squad.

Tough fixtures ahead, but there's no reason for us not to be around 9th-12th come February.

The 'Reserves' come in and do well, it's nearly Christmas – what's not to like?

With those four results turned around and our 10 points back, we would be joint top with 37 points!

It always amazed me when people I considered pretty sensible posters used to argue it didn't matter who was manager at Everton.

It matters!

Despite the pre-match warning, there were no special searches to confiscate our A4 “Premier League corrupt” cards so no issue getting them in. Good to know that it's getting under the skin of Richard Masters and company.

Nice to finish with a full-throated “You can stick your points deduction up your arse”. Bring on Fulham.

Comfortable win. Rob Halligan needs to holiday more often.

Very, very satisfactory and professional performance. Players who have not played regularly coming in and stepping up.

Well done, Dyche; well done, Keane and Godfrey; well done, Everton.

The likes of Young and Branthwaite would have had a breather so all good for the rest of December. I honestly cannot remember a better December; four wins and no goals conceded and only half-way through. WTF! This cannot be Everton surely.

I hope all those calling for Dyche to be sacked a few short weeks ago can put that nonsense to bed.

Onwards and upwards.

It was a comfortable win in the end, and I'm just glad that I'm not a jinx! 😁😁😁

I'd love to be able to just move on and forget about the dark days of plucky little Everton punching above their weight, but there is always someone who wants to bring up the past, in honour of a man who presided over the most boring and barren spel in our history.

I wish I could just take no notice of sentences like Dave's @48 but the Kenwright era has definitely scarred me, just as I was beginning to feel positive about our chances. Reading sentiments like that, Dave, has got me thinking about that scene in A Bronx Tale when everyone instinctively started ripping up or throwing away their betting slips, when the horse they had all backed was winning, because they suddenly heard the local jinx, shouting the horse home. Needless to say, it lost.

How ironic I was talking about a real jinx, when a genuine Evertonian was shitting himself going to Turf Moor today, Rob,😂 I'm glad it wasn't you, mate!

Now, there's a lot of the sentiment you refer to on here. I understand it, because it's hard to begrudge a man who's gone.

But let's win a trophy for us. For my generation, who have never won anything. For older generations, who had periods of success. For the club, which has suffered far too much. The club is about all of us, and is, and has to be, bigger than any one person.

Well done, Keane and Godfrey today, one scored and the other prevented a near-certain goal. Have to admit to being a bit worried about missing Branthwaite and Mykolenko, both have been outstanding this season, but the replacements stepped in admirably. I would still give Tarkowski MotM though, he was immense today.

Like Peter said above, the second half was kinda boring in the best possible way. Nice to not be sweating out the win.

Dyche played a blinder today, we had everyone except our own players confused in the first half. Is it too early to give him manager of the month? Maybe after we beat Spurs.

When I think about this, I can feel the pain, the anguish, the times when your heart skips a beat, or the times when you forget to breathe because Everton have got you holding your breath again.

Then I remember the final whistle against Watford in 1984, and all I can say is that every single emotion you have ever had suddenly becomes worthwhile when you see the Everton captain going to lift up the FA Cup. 💙

It's those people who I want to see Everton win for, and nobody fucking else. 🙏

Given what he has had to contend with, Dyche is our best manager since Kendall Mk1 in my eyes, in terms of the improvement he is bringing about from what he inherited.

It's early days of course, but I believe this could turn out to be a very special season.
UTFT.

It seems like the form held but, if things go downhill, just nip off to Pontins for a few days and it should do the trick!

One game at a time.

Of course we want a win midweek but I think those in power want to do us in every way whenever they can. That being the case, before the next point deduction comes in, we need league points more than anything. The league needs to be prioritised more than anything else

He hasn't felt sorry for himself, he hasn't looked for excuses, and when his team was losing games they should have been winning, he was even slaughtered by some for going on about xG (something I genuinely don't understand) with nobody thinking for one minute that it might have been something he was going on about to try and keep some confidence in a squad of players who have had no real confidence for years.

Another very professional performance and we never looked in any trouble at all.

I've been very fortunate to have not missed a game so far this season. Can't wait for Fulham and then Spurs.

Oh, and met Psycho Pat at the end of the game too. What a cracking bloke he is.

UTFT!

"It seems like the form held but, if things go downhill, just nip off to Pontins for a few days and it should do the trick!"

As Fred used to say too… "Book Early"! :-)

I think Joe Royle would be a contender for that although what he inherited was a stronger squad than what Dychehas. Back then, guys like Stuart Ripley and Ian Selley could play in title-winning teams.

I know we had a poor start though the scores didn't reflect the performances, but it's apparent to me the difference a full pre-season has. The players look fitter, happier and more confident.

It's largely the same team we had last seas but it's a night and day difference you couldn't achieve when you take over halfway through a season.

I just hope our luck holds with injuries. We managed today with several out but we don't have a lot in reserve. In that respect, it's similar to the Moyes 2004 team when we avoided injuries and our industrious starless 11 got the job done.

We have some tough games on the horizon but we've just won two what Moshiri would call “expected losses” v Chelsea and Newcastle so we've a nice buffer going into the quick-fire double headers v Spurs and Man City.

Overall, I'm quite pleased. We've been hearing about “identity” since Martinez was here but we've never had one. Now we have and it's built in hard work, discipline, and doing simple things very well.

I'm not suggesting we don't have any flair as we do and we've seen some lovely moves and goals but the bread-and-butter base is delivering good crosses, winning second balls, and maintaining defensive shape. It sounds simple but it's difficult to execute week after week and we have been doing so.

Secondly can I go on record and say I will be happy to never hear Kenwright's name mentioned again.

Compliments to Keane who has taken dog's abuse off a lot of us but played by example today.

I was really worried when I saw the defense that was forced on us by injury and suspension but they all did us proud today.

I was deeply concerned when I realized you were going to be back in time to attend this game.

Not as worried as I was about Godfrey, but almost.

Glad I was worried for nothing. On both counts.

10 wins from 14 games and, on another day, Man Utd would also have been beaten.

A big week ahead, and to focus on Fulham.

Impressed with Godfrey and Keane, both had big impacts on the game… the whole squad played their part.

Great to see the belief and spirit in this squad.

UTFTs!

These are days that will be remembered in our history.

A manager seen by some as a dinosaur with one-dimensional tactics has demonstrated since he arrived how adept he is at making the best use of the players available to him.

Moreover, he is an excellent leader of people on and off the pitch. I still hear people saying he is the right man for now but not the man to take us forward in the long run. I disagree. I would like to see Dyche in charge for many years ahead.

We're looking up. At last.

After 8 years of utter chaos, there's reason for optimism. The "old" Everton – soft, easy to play, and mentally pathetic – seems to have been jettisoned.

Sean Dyche post match interview : Burnley 2 - 0 Everton

A bonus Everton vs Burnley 2-0 Post Match analysis;

Everton vs Burnley 2-0 Post Match analysis

Sean Dyche post-game presser: Burnley 2 - 0 Everton

Let's give players a chance, like Godfrey and Keane. And let's give players like Harrison a chance to settle in. Come on blues, that's what we're all about. You never know, it might work. And the red tide might turn blue. Christ, I've even started wearing different socks and we're still winning.

UP YOUR FUCKING ASS, PREMIER LEAGUE!

Whew. Now I feel better.

Hamstring for Duke, groin muscle for Myko. Dyche says they're waiting for reports, but it certainly seems like neither will be available Tuesday.

Tony 92 and others, you can argue about who it would be for but we now know we have enough space between us and the bottom three to really go for the cup. Hmm, let's all think about that for a moment. A cup. A fucking cup!

xG!xG!xG! UTFT!

You have said all that I would say in praise of a very good manager. 👏

Onwards and upwards. 💙

With little money spent and therefore comparison can be made, he is clearly head and shoulders in management skill above his 2 predecessors.

Right man for the right job at the right time.

I couldn't attend yesterday so watched on the tele.

I keep saying, Dyche looks to have done a great job of protecting the players and keeping them focused on the pitch despite what is going on around them. And there are a lot of young players in that squad.

Difficult to pick a stand-out player, but I'd go for Michael Keane. Great follow-up for his goal, he didn't stand still after the first shot.

Godfrey's tackle at the post to prevent a nailed-on goal was outstanding. Watching it, it was almost as if he just told Jordan Pickford to get out of the way! Great anticipation.

I know he's had his doubters, but Patterson had a solid game.

And we need more of that from Onana.

Dwight McNeil's delivery is like a weapon.

Get through to the semi-finals and then some tough fixtures. It's not done yet, but keep this up and we will ram those points up the Premier Leauge's proverbial.

Last point. The supporters. We heard you throughout. And it was great to hear the defiant "We Shall Not Be Moved"!

The key differences for me this season is that all the players look stronger and fitter even when a sub comes on they are into the game immediately.

Most of all is the pressing. Each and every player presses the opposition even though it looks a hopeless cause. This tactic, simple though it is, requires determination and fitness.

In previous times, Everton have let teams come on to them and take them apart. Thankfully no more.

Dyche is definitely the man for this moment in Everton’s history. I wouldn’t even rule him out being its future. Just lovin’ it.

This indicates, although early doors, we have at long last a squad who all sing from the same hymn sheet, and are almost interchangeable. More so we have at long last a manager who is a 'dovetail' for the enormous job he faced where other high profile predecessors failed.

Long may it last !

Jay @ 104 " Secondly can I go on record and say I will be happy to never hear Kenwright’s name mentioned again." Can I wholeheartedly endorse that ?

It does appear that a section of the fan base cannot resist singling out one of two of our players in the week leading up to every game.

Godfrey and Keane (sounds like a pop group ) have been hammered this week. Despite only starting two games between them. The talk Was all about which one of them would cost us more dearly. Fortunately, they didn't read the script. One scored the decisive goal and the other saved us with a brilliant clearance.

Injuries and suspensions are part and parcel. Dyche will surely have to call upon players who have made errors in the past. Let's get behind them, or at least wait until after the game before we criticise them. Let's make this new-found unity absolute.

Another great win. While events that are out of our control have us talking about bleak mid-winters. The manager and his players are only interested in bringing us tidings of comfort and joy.

To me, it almost feels like a curse has recently been lifted from us. A divisive, restrictive curse. Team and fans are one again.

Dyche has us playing well, as a team, fighting for everything. It’s going to take a couple of seasons to put the financial mismanagement behind us, and when we have, it’ll be interesting to see Dyche build his own team, at a club much bigger than Burnley.

I think that Hinchcliffe is one of the most annoying ex-players to commentate on our games. Always looking to put the boot in. Very satisfying to shut him up.

Hope the Luton lad recovers well.

Personally, I’m loving watching EFC again. I feel like I can actually watch us without a bitter feeling towards those running the club, who always made it about them instead of what is on the pitch!

Onwards and upwards!

And credit to Harrison. I thought he worked really hard.

Dave, on Ben Godfrey, there is a difference between ability and form. He's had a dip. It happens. Considering he hasn't played a lot recently, he stepped up to it.

BBC staged comment but on the deduction "they're roaring back at it"

12 points since the deduction.

What a run.

Not a classic by any stretch, but the first half performance showed a huge gap in quality at this level. 2nd half was all about game management in the absence of Doucoure and the pre game players, but it was another vital 3 points.

16 points with a 10 points deduction is a good return after a horrible start to the session with a threadbare squad that's been on managed decline for years.

Utft.

Link

We have found a way to win games without having the majority of possession:-

38% against 62%, V Burnley.
28% against 72% V Chelsea,
38% against 62% V Newcastle
38% against 62% V Notts Forest.

We are on a great run, let’s try and keep it going.

Given the players at his disposal, the situation he took over, the points deduction etc etc he is doing an extraordinary job.

This is a club that struggles to hang on to a manager for a full season these days. I hope Dyche is given time (and a bit of cash) to build a dynasty at the club.

On a lighter note, I've applied for Head of Academy Recruitment at the club!!!

I'm under no elusion it will fall into the file and delete category, as they will have bigger fish to consider, but worth a punt!!

Maybe one day the club will listen to me and if anything I'll get on the FAB next summer.

Fulham and Chelsea not too far away.

And that's before a successful appeal.

I would like to see Beto get more minutes in these games also.

The press seemed to be a bit higher and quicker than it has been and seemed to pay dividends. We are managing to win games even though 2 of our front men are struggling for goals namely DCL and Harrison, I think DCL in particular its a big worry. He had a guilt edge chance against Chelsea and another yesterday and failed to convert either, and if we are to keep the run going we need DCL firing. How nice to see Onana using his height and his power to score, I would love to see a bit more of that power used more often. Garner another who is growing game by game.

Finally a word on Burnley and Kompany, this was always going to be tough for a club with so many youngsters coming into the Premier league. But I have to say Kompany making these youngsters play out from the back and playing a passing game in their own box is suicidal. Yes he played in a side that did that, but that City side had top highly skilled internationals that were equipped to play that way. To ask a group of youngsters to try and play like that is why they are were they are in the league.

Winston # 125 - “To me, it almost feels like a curse has recently been lifted from us” - I think you could be right.

Singing the Blues!!!

Players are bound to find it easier to come in to a winning set up than a losing one. I bet our long suffering away support can't believe the turn around over the past couple of months.

The next couple of games will give up a good indicator as to how far we are being off a top 7 side. I expect us to be competitive in every game between now and the end of the season.

Sean Dyche will lead us into BMD and hopefully his stay at Goodision/BMD will exceed his time at Turf Moor.

The fan base, manager and players are all on board. That makes a real difference when everyone pulls in the same direction in any business or sport.

We won't be getting relegated this year. Dyche is resolutely steering us to mid-table, points deduction or not.

However I think we need to hang on to all the players we have in January and that might be difficult. Ok, if someone made an offer for Deli Ali, then yeah. But we were getting down to bare bones by the end of the game last night. Very pleased for Godfrey as I think he's a player, pleased for Keane, he will always have a mistake in him but glad he got on the scoresheet and was on the winning team, well done.

As for Dyche. Still some utter tripe being talked about him on here. At least the idiots who wanted Graham Potter in have either gone away or pretended to have never said anything in the first place. They'll come back and complain about Dyche once we have a couple of bad results. I think they're Liverpool fans.

Unfortunately there are 'fans' here with an arrogant sense of entitlement about Dyche and Everton. A 'he'll do for now' mentality. So who exactly do they think should be our manager then once Dyche has done his work? I suppose this is when we move into our new stadium is it? When somehow everything in the garden will suddenly be rosy? Guardiola is it? Maybe Bielsa? How about Unai Emery? Or maybe Dick Emery? The blunt fact is, for those in blue tinted specs, Dyche will be moving on from us rather than us moving on from him at this rate. We're financially spent and won't be going anywhere near The Champions League for years. We have an absent owner. Our next owners sound like unscrupulous venture capitalists and The Esk reckons we're heading for administration. The future is right now, this is what we are, there is no better manager for us in the forseeable future, wake up and smell the coffee for god's sake.

COYB.

I suppose it's part of Evertonian psyche. I must admit I'm a bit disorientated about where we are. Two months ago I'd be looking at our next two games and write them off; now I'm thinking we can get something from one or even both of the games.

"I can see a better time, when all our dreams come true"

But I'm man enough to eat humble pie, he's doing a superb job and long may it continue, if we finish mid table he should, after the points deduction be awarded manager of the season, but we know that won't happen.

If we had a bit of cash we could do with a Jeffers type player to vary it up a bit - but alas we don't.

On a different note, I don't think Kompany is doing a bad thing trying to get his young side playing in a sophisticated way. They are a small club trying to build something and don't mind going down as part of the evolution. It might well benefit them in the medium term.

However, he has been STELLA - absolutely brilliant for us and I’d be glad to see if he can stabilise us and then be given the chance to improve us.

But he’s been a miracle worker since he’s arrived and I don’t use that terminology lightly

Being honest I thought Harrison had a poor game v Chelsea because he lost the ball far too much, but yesterday he ever stopped working throughout the game and with everyone else was part of a good team performance.

Some interesting comments on Harrison. I agree his end product is patchy, but I thought he was superb at the ugly stuff yesterday. He just never stopped.

Fun to bump into Psycho Pat at HT, and the scenes outside the ground at FT were pure joy.

All I said was that DCL didn't convert the very good chances he has had in the last couple of games, and I said if we want to keep our winning streak going that will have to change for him and Harrison.

As for Kompany doing a good job, and playing in a as you say sophisticated way, what he is doing isn't sophisticated or good. all these players are learning is playing they way they are means they get beat more than they should. This is arrogance and through his arrogance he is destroying what confidence these kids have in their own ability.

First half we were willing to transition to a 3-4-3 and push higher up the pitch. This led directly to the first goal. It also left our flanks pretty open and I feared for Patto against their left winger who looked a very tricky customer. Second half became a low block in a 5-4-1. That allowed Patto to muzzle their left winger pretty comprehensively. The danger was mainly coming from the left where McNeil's poor positional play really showed (not his fault, he's not an LB). Usually with Branthwaite and Myko there, that flank is solid defensively and the opposition seem to more target the other side.

Also clever to spot their young goalie, while a great shot stopper, lacks the physical attributes to command his 6 yard box. That yielded 1 goal and nearly another.

Hopefully we won't play this system often because I don't think it will work against better teams. But it is probably the best one if we lose either of our first choice CB's. I'd be wary of Keane or Godfrey in a 4.

I gave MoM to Onana, not for his goal but because this was the first real glimpse of the dominant player he could become. Although less visible, I thought Garner was very solid, one of our rare good value buys recently. I'm not sure either way whether Dyche is the right man if we ever aspire to higher things but it has always been apparent he has serious skill in optimising average players. Burnley's owner might have sacked him, but it was clear their fans still hold him in high regard.

Dave Abrahams, very fine point. Often in football, it is more about what you do off the ball than what you do on it. As a player, a spectator and when I was coaching, I frequently watched at what the players off the ball were doing and the space more than I do or did with those on it. Where is it going next? Anticipate and read the game. Be first to the ball and play it early. See it, play it.

I don't want to go all retro as right now we focus on this Everton squad.

However, Kevin Brock, now famous for his back pass that Adrian Heath, who I note was at Turf Moor last night, latched onto lives in our memories of turning that season around and the next few seasons are captured in history.

But when you watch the build up, it is Peter Reid pressing and harrying to force the mistake from the Oxford player without even touching the ball.

Like you say, those players worked extremely hard off the ball yesterday. Playing as a team, not individuals.

A quarter final next. Sold out for every match into the New Year. Approximately 20,000 on the season ticket waiting list as I understand.

Given the situation, you just have to admire the supporters more than ever.

Regards your pressing point. The analysis video I posted up (at 112) made a great point re the first goal.

Ozzie made the observation that it was the pressing of Patto on our RHS high up the pitch, that won the ball back. He won the ball, which pinged to Haz (Harrison), but demanded the ball back.

In the video clip you see Haz tell him, or indicate for him, to run forward, and then Haz delivered a beauty of a sand-wedge pass, right into the path of Patto.

Patto then played a beauty of an arced-cross that really DCL put waayyy too close to the keeper, when he should really have buried the ball (Bygones) However, Trafford shoveled the ball behind, and McNeill demonstrated how to deliver a corner, and Onana was just outstanding in finishing off the training-ground style set-piece. GOAL 1-0!!

All from a decent harrying press! Just as you said above.

You could argue it shouldn't have needed the corner, but that goal put Everton at the top of the table from goals scored from a set-piece (or is it just corners?)

WSNBM

THIS... IS... EVERTON..!!

I 100% take it back. He was exceptional and scored a good goal. Godfrey was good as well.

Onana scored from the resulting corner, and against Chelsea the keeper came lunging out, and Doucoure scored from the rebound, so his assists are vital.

As far as the ownership of the club is concerned, I think I would still prefer Moshiri (if that was possible) to 777 Partners, but god knows where that will end up.

But that doesn't take away all the crap games and mistakes he's made over the years. I'm still not confident with him in the side.

No 400 posts of "so 'n' so is crap" and "we deserve to be relegated" {thankfully they have stopped}. The powers that be have just handed Everton the biggest carrot ever needed and broke the stick in the process.

We will win on Tuesday – COYB

People admire Man City with the amount of work they do when they haven't got the ball. Same for us.

Fair enough Calvert-Lewin is not a natural goalscorer but the work he does off the ball is immense, allowing others to convert chances.

Football is a team game. We can go back to the '63 team, the '70 team and of course the '80s teams.

We never had the best individual players in every position but as a collective we were fantastic

Dyche is getting these players who in the past sometimes looked like strangers to each other and moulding them into a team.

Yes, they are far from a top team and we'll have a lot of heartaches along the way but the seeds are being sown, especially in the shit position we find ourselves in.

We should ask the Site mangers (LL & MK) to make a composite of those two posts, and get them to 'pin' it somewhere.

Both excellent posts, both talking common sense, and with excellent reasoning that underlines just how effective Dyche has been here since his arrival.

Indeed Brian, you mentioned how well Keane and Godfrey played. Yet, on the BBC match report, the BBC posters put Patterson above Keane (8.57 MotM to 8.44) It shows that all three stand-ins(?) performed in an outstanding fashion.

BBC Match report & HYS

Dyche deserves enormous credit for turning a 'rag-tag' lackadaisical squad, into something much more than the sum of its parts.

I have also noticed (via interviews and presser and press junkets) that he has high-lighted how important Seamus has been since his arrival. Even to the point that, whilst Seamus has been injured, he has been in the changing room, and has been travelling with the squad too (when possible)!

Seamus is definitely the epitome of 'getting Everton'.

I just hope that (and I am wondering if) all this goodwill Dyche has fostered will continue, if we start stumbling, or get the odd bad result?

Stumbling happens to every team, unless you are fortunate enough to be able to field two teams of internationals in your squad à la Man City and Liverpool.

Bad results happen, that's a given in any season. At the club's current level at least.

What is inspiring, though, is the fact that Dyche has almost at the same time as changing how the team works and performs; he too, has seemingly (to this observer at least) evolved how he works and has developed? Much to his and his team's credit. I'm wondering if Thelwell and his heads of department have had any input into this?

I'm not sure if this is a Dyche-revolution, or if it is a more subtle (and very welcome) evolution?

Regardless, long may it continue, and not only continue, but keep improving.

THIS... IS... EVERTON..!!

WSNBM

Most players wouldn't have even reached that ball yesterday. He not only reached it, he got enough height to be able to get in a powerful downward header. The keeper made a top class save.

We were very fortunate to escape the drop in the last two seasons through not being able to get him on the pitch. We are ten times better with him now. Just check the before and after.

Carlo Ancelotti got the best "striker" out of Calvert-Lewin when he encouraged him to get into the box and strike early. Dyche is asking him to do something different. He is more interested in what he can do for the team. Creating space for others. Getting us into attacking positions and bringing team mates into the game. I think most Evertonians understand that.

Even if Calvert-Lewin was asked to be selfish again, he is not an out-and-out striker. He doesn't have the clinical finish in him to score 25 goals, but he brings something else to the team.

If we are going to class his very brave slide tackle on the Chelsea keeper, or his header yesterday, as great chances, then I would point out that Haaland (the best) has missed at least five easier chances in recent weeks.

Man City didn't score as a direct result of his efforts though.

It was funny watching Sky yesterday, where Redknapp et al where forced to recognise our progress through gritted teeth. Sky, TalkSport and the printed media in particular feel they have a pass to condescend to us, denigrate us and generally look down on us. The wider footballing world recognises that the 10-point penalty deduction was excessive and have pivoted to supporting us.

The only way to gain the media's respect and shut them up is to win. We are now confident, have a clear way of playing that suits the squad and the stability to rotate the team. Less highs and lows and more steady progress with a young team.

Long may it continue.

Dominic done everything right and it was only a great save that stopped it.

But from the resulting corner, Onana almost puts everyone in close proximity into the back of the net!

But it started from pressing, as you say.

McNeil's and Harrison's final balls can be lacking at times, but they must go in at the end of games dead on their feet, their workrate is incredible.

And that goes for the whole team. A few on the Live Forum last night were calling out Calvert-Lewin but I thought the amount of graft he got through was exceptional.

Yes, the service into him wasn't great and the one chance he had was brilliantly saved.

That's all most sensible match-going Evertonians ask for, for the players to put a shift in, and my god don't every single one of them.

On to Tuesday now, tough ask but a win there and a point at Spurs or a win and I will be having one Happy Xmas.

UTFT.

"I just hope (and am wondering if) that all this goodwill Dyche has fostered will continue, if we start stumbling, or get the odd bad result?"

Not a chance – "X out" merchants (insert incumbent manager for X) lurk scowling in the undergrowth – it is their reason for living.

I realise (when I re-read) that my comments sounded arsey when I was trying to agree and add a few thoughts re Calvert-Lewin. Not trying to pick a fight or find fault!

I do think Kompany might be on to something longer term or at least that's the club's plan – but time will tell. He may yet get sacked before they can see the results longer term.

As it is, he's been what many of us hoped for: a motivator, a leader, a man who would give the players confidence but who would take no shit and would not tolerate anything than less than complete buy-in and effort.

This squad have underperformed for years, given that they're really not bad players. They just needed a manager who would play to their strengths rather than play to a fucking philosophy.

I'm enjoying the watch. It's good, hard, direct football, not the ugly Allardyce ball which many of Dyche's most unimaginative detractors suggested we'd be watching.

Come Sunday, we'll hopefully be in a cup semi, and on the other side of another positive result in London.

But I was prepared to put my head above the parapet and state that I had 100% faith in them. They were both excellent so I will save my eating of humble pie for another day — unlike some other ToffeeWebbers!

Sorry, couldn't resist.

I think this team and management look to have the togetherness and toughness to bounce back quickly rather than to go into the sort of slump we have seen with all of our recent managers.

I've always liked Keane and Godfrey, and I was a big advocate of bringing in Dyche. Not as a stop-gap. But because I rate him as a manager and as a person.

Godfrey's struggles with his health and playing out of position led to him needing time out. But the manager always spoke well of him. Keane has errors in his game, but didn't become an international centre-back by accident.

I also feel that with some imagination, our centre-forward issue of recent seasons could have been eased by moving him forward. He is a better finisher than a few we've signed over the years (Brett Angell anyone?) and would put himself about.

Before I get slagged off for that, remember that Chris Sutton was a centre-back as was Paul Warhurst. Both made careers as strikers.

I really enjoyed my 'Crow pie' washed down with copious amounts of coffee. (Despite Alan McGuffog's attempts to get me on the Calvados!)

I was one of those who, being very hypocritical after calling for universal support, publically worried about their inclusion.

Also, I couldn't see anywhere the Mykolenko injury story, so I made an ass of myself by stating that I thought he'd play... talk about keep digging!

Mind you, hindsight is 20/20 isn't it.

I hope you never have to eat humble pie, Geoff...

There was a 100-point deduction hanging on the wall
10-point deduction hanging on the wall
Then Dwight McNeil he only went and scored

It was a 7-point deduction hanging on the wall
7-point deduction hanging on the wall
Them Geordie bastards
They left with Fuck All

It was a 4-point deduction hanging on the wall
4-point deduction hanging on the wall
The Chelsea R boys
They couldn't kick a ball

It was a 1-point deduction hanging on the wall
1-point deduction hanging on the wall
Then the toffees went to Burnley
And Michael Keane scored

There was a no-points deduction hanging on the wall
No points deduction counted for fuck all
Cos Dyche's toffees
Are going to win it all

There's no points deduction hanging on the wall!!

And the hugely underrated Fred Pickering started as a full-back, I believe, before we signed him after he'd scored a hat-trick against us as a make-shift centre-forward for Blackburn.

He went on to score 56 goals in 97 games. His career suffered after a cartilage injury and he was moved on.

On that basis, we could still need another 30 points or so from our remaining 22 games. Perfectly doable on our recent form but that's got to be our mindset.

I didn't find Redknapp condescending, in fact almost the opposite, over praising. In discussing Burnley's prospects, they showed the table to see who others might be dragged into a relegation scrap. When it came to Everton, he said 'oh, forget about them, they're going to be top half'.

Wish I could be as confident!

UTFTs!

I will continue reading the rest of the comments, so apologies if I write something similar to any other posters.

First of all, Dyche deserves a huge amount of credit for getting the players ready to step in when needed.

I like most was thinking how we would get on, with so much of the defence changed, those coming in did an absolute tremendous job. Keane steady as a rock and adding to my crazy previous suggestion of Keane as an emergency striker last season, he came in and I doubt if anyone of us had not given the guy a bit of stick and fear of a mistake in the past, but I would never blast a player before kick-off.

Godfrey likewise came in and did an equally good job, with one hell of a goal-saving clearance. Patterson getting a rare start. That defence could have crumbled with Branthwaite and Mykolenko both missing, and both being our best players on form this season. Those coming in had a tough ask to fill that void in the defence, but they were superb, Onana slotted into midfield like he had never missed a few games.

Last season we were dreading a few injuries or suspensions, it seems now, Dyche and the coaching squad has got the fringe players training and waiting for their chances, and when they have come in, have slotted in well.

This squad is looking much better, going forward We have the makings of one of the best squads and overall team togetherness since the Moyes era, they are finally gelling as a squad, working for their teammates, and the passing is the best I've seen for a long long time.

We are in good hands with Dyche and this set of players.

Up the Toffees.

Despite their reliance on the Premier League, and serial redshite bias in the case of Redknapp, Sky are now being forced to change their narrative recognise Everton because of one thing – we are winning.

Unlike the Premier League social media page which published a league table of the Top 6 form teams last week and cut Everton. Even those tossers were forced to delete the post.

Two tough games ahead, but let's take that confidence into the matches.

The thing that amused me, was the obvious distaste Redknapp showed (or rather tried to hide), when he was 'praising' Everton thru gritted teeth (Well, that's how I perceived it...)

The other thing which stood out like a sore-thumb, is the fact that the Sky coverage continuously pedalled the theory that we only started playing well, because of the 10-point deduction. That was in the commentary, half-time and post-match shows...

To which, both Dyche and Keane in their post-match interviews, disputed and kindly pointed out we were getting results before the 10-point deduction!

It's amazing isn't it, that both the Sky and the Premier League aligned media, have started pedalling this myth about the points deduction actually benefitting us..?

Which, on that basis then surely deduct everyone 10 points and make everyone play better! Maybe give the Scabby Six a 20-point deduction..?

Makes for much better viewing figures wouldn't it... (sic!!)

Try Crow Pie with some lovely fava beans and a nice chianti (as the good Doctor said!) Hehe

I don't get to matches much these days but have managed to drag my wife up to Liverpool for a few days (she's never seen the city) and wanted to know, after the match, how easy / difficult it is to get a taxi from Goodison back to our hotel about 3 miles away? I've no problem in waiting a bit.

Thanks!

If our form continues deep into the season, the only clubs that will have benefited from our points deduction will be those who end up in the European places, which sort of suits the Premier League's agenda.

What we as fans mustn't do, because of the size of our squad, is to relinquish those 'stolen' points too soon, and it's quite obvious that the media narrative is one of "well it fired them up, didn't it?" "They're doing well because of the deduction" – making it seem as if the punishment was fair and proportionate.

There's still a heck of a long way to go in the season and, whilst we've been in good form, that will be difficult to maintain. It's if things start to go awry, that the points deduction will really start to bite.

Although these fellow, possibly drunk, Evertonians sing in celebration of recent events. Caution, some bad language, and possibly offensive terminology contained in the link.

Ten points deduction song

I don't know your travel plans to the ground but my advice would be, pre-book a private hire taxi for both legs with the same company, from and back to the hotel.

You can arrange with the first driver dropping you off, the time and meeting place for collection later. A realistic cash tip after the first leg is not a bad idea.

Ask the hotel for a recommended company and book early in the day. If the hotel book one for you, don't forget to ask for and save the company number in your phone (or get it from the car door/driver) in case it is delayed for the return journey.

There will be hackneys and street taxis to hail around the ground after but it can be a battle and a wait to get one when it's busy.

I read that far and thought "why would you book a taxi for only one of your legs, unless one was a false leg and...

Somebody, please complete the mystery as to why a taxi might be needed for only one of a person's legs?

Stop it! You've been good lately!

some modern taxis are quite small and if you have massive legs, it can be a problem. Always best to check.

The reason I was fuming is because of something you said in your post, Dale, and it's been making me angry for about 20 years whenever I think about how plucky little Everton still never went after the cups – even though they were never ever in danger of being relegated.

"How many leagues have Liverpool won in the last 35 years?" I kept asking them. But at least the bastards remained competitive in the cups. I'm absolutely certain those Liverpool fans would have never put up with Moyes & Kenwright for long.

Now is the time for us Evertonians to get our club back, and especially those younger fans, who have definitely stood the test of time. Come on you blue boys, Tuesday's game is absolutely massive.

Exactly my thoughts too. Too many believe we are above too many things etc etc. I agree 100% with your comments.

Those comments from Dyche regards the need to change mentality need to be taken on board by fans too.

no, that would be, "for both legs for the second leg", where applicable.

Here's hoping Dyche is given at least as long here, as he was at Burnley. I suspect we will have our pride fully restored. Massive thanks to him and his staff and all the players for their excellent efforts since they took over the reins.

Onwards and upwards. COYB.
UTFT.

“...somebody please complete the mystery as to why a taxi might be needed for only one of a person's legs.”

Wooden you like to know.

It will help Vince get a head after full-time…

I was young and mesmerised by the crowd but at that end in the corner. I could see it was handball from my high vantage point so how the officials missed it still irritates me.

We couldn't believe the penalty was not given. It was early in the game, and we believed the ref bottled it.

Early or late in the game, should not make any difference – it was a nailed-on penalty. After the game, Hansen became know as Alan Hand-sen by Blues supporters!

When you add that to the winning run we're on and the team spirit and mentality the manager has created, Dyche is doing very well. Certainly the right man for the job for me and the best manager we've had in a long time.

What a great song!

Maybe "Chelsea scumbags" or "Chelsea no-marks" or the like.

I personally don't believe in individuals' rights to protest as long as it is kept sensible. No-one is offending anyone, just voicing an opinion.

The days of singing Munich songs are long gone.

What next, further suppression? We chant "murderers" in reference to Heysel. A lot of the chants aimed at Liverpool are not targeted at Hillsborough, but they've painted that narrative.

Sunderland fans singing about the Hartlepool Monkey Hangers.

Tottenham chanting Kids.

Where do you stop? Outside of football, do we stop people marching and protesting because they shout about the Government they disagree with?

We are simply having a voice that self-regulates.

I was also at that game and believe me the officials did see the handball but he was wearing a red shirt so play on. If Ratcliffe had done the same, it would have been a penalty.

They wanted them to win, just like in 1977 when Clive Thomas denied us because he wanted them to win. Bent as Fuck!!

I'm not sure if your pun was intended, but the ref bottling it for the Milk Cup Final gave me a chuckle.

Read the Echo, more shame because Man Utd fans were singing "feed the scousers" and "always the victims" (which has been turned into a song about Hillsborough but was first sang when Liverpool backed Suarez in his racism row with Patrice Evra).

Tthis is made to sound worse than a bottle being thrown at the United coach, from a set of fans with previous for this type of juvenile or shithouse behavior.

I honestly can't believe that scousers are taking offence at the "feed the scousers" song, when it's apparent that this has now become a national problem unfortunately. Maybe this is winding a few journalists up, but I don't believe for one minute that it's bothering the average match-going fan.

My own opinion is that people who want to just live and let live are not easily offended but I do worry about those caring people who get really outraged and offended when people don't agree with them.

#Live and let live, because we are all going in a fucking box one day. 💙

I don't take offence. I just engage in banter and conversation.

But I look at fans' behaviour from their point of view rather than that of who it offends.

I cannot get on the “banter” bus. If banter was harmless, there wouldn't be segregation at football matches. We'd all sit together splitting our sides at those witty chants.

Why would someone find “feed the scousers” funny? Why stop there? A bit of casual racism or homophobia never hurt anyone.

What has any of it got to do with football and how many of these fans are actually from the area they're singing about?

As absolutely brutally bad as “your support is fuckin shit” is (and it is atrocious), at least it's related to the actual sport.

When the talk is all snowflake, and cancel culture then goes to the other end seemingly without memory, it lacks authenticity. At least it doesn't convince me of good faith manners, banter on. It's just when your banter is better that you are asked to settle down.

What an era, an absolute genuinely fucking disgrace of an era,imo, I’m just glad that it’s about to end for good.

I saw a news release from Burnley indicating some of our fans were hostile and out of line?

I'm not objective, but I can't see that happening? Takes a brave soul to stir the shit pot surrounded by "the enemy".

I hope this is nonsense. Our fans should conduct themselves with dignity and politeness at all times, especially away.

Anyone know of this / heard anything?

Jamie, I saw a video on Facebook but it was inconclusive. I wonder did they go as far as to celebrate a goal.

Most of the comments did seem to be about how Burnley fans couldn’t get tickets rather than any naughty behaviour. But there was bad feelings.

I try and make the best of every day, and great to see Everton FC, in the ascendancy.

Tomorrow night is a massive test but the game is winnable for Everton, and I think, Everton will beat Fulham.

UTFTs!

It’s a different age, I grew up playing out on the street and although it could be brutal, it was definitely character building, and it’s probably why I’ve never minded taking a bit of stick. I find modern life different, the kids can’t move so they play outside their houses, and when they fall out, the parents end up getting involved and fighting the battles, that helped make us mentally stronger. I’m aware not everyone will see it this way.

They were struggling badly once, and speaking to a very good Liverpudlian, I could feel the pain and anguish that is very common amongst us blues, but it was the first time I'd ever seen it coming from a red.

It's why I believe that most of them couldn't handle getting beat off Everton, in a really big game, and the day it happens you will see they are not only very bitter, they are amongst the most self-entitled people on the planet. I'll have my day with them, it's kept me going through many a dark period - singing WE SHALL NOT BE FUCKING MOVED!

I read an article a couple of days ago about this but can't remember where. The article indicated Burnley have been having the same problem at several matches in the past.

Seems suspicious to me that they and the press need to bring this up now.

The trouble started in the James Hargreaves Stand where the back two rows were occupied by Everton fans. Either the tickets went on general sale or were corporate hospitality overspill.

My best mate, a Burnley season ticket holder, sits in that stand. He has frequently got me tickets there among the home supporters (but not on this occasion) and was in front of the rumpus.

He blames the trouble on drunken fans, poor stewarding and greed on the part of the club who sell these tickets in an uncontrolled manner. I believe these tickets are made available months in advance and it's not the first time away supporters have collared the seats.

I think Everton fans are the best in the world but let's not deny we have a fair share of knobheads who can cause trouble. Having been to over 100 away games in my time, I've seen quite a few instances of “antisocial” behaviour.

I think a quite few of the Burnley fans were genuinely fearful in that stand on Saturday.

Christine, I appreciate the context of your youth. I'm just not sure why it applies in modern day football stands.

Anyway, it keeps me in laughs if nothing else.

My cousins are a mixed family. One brother-in-law is a huge Evertonian as is his wife (my cousin). Another brother-in-law and his son are huge Liverpudlians who were season ticket holder for years and followed them all over Europe.

My sister is an Everton supporter on the side (she's never really followed intensely). Her husband is a Liverpool supporter from Somerset who has lived in Liverpool since the 90s. Two of their sons are Kopites, the other an Everton season ticket holder. Some of those on here met him outside the Harlech a few matches back.

My other sister, again, is married to a Kopite, this time from Northern Ireland! They have one of each with her two children.

My immediate family are all blue.

We have debates and plenty of banter at family gatherings. It's all I've ever known. It can get heated but never goes over the top.

Yes, I'll criticise them as a collective and remind them of Heysels, but if I'm allowed, I do feel for the local support in a weird kind of way. I know from first hand, as my sister works at Anfield. They struggle to get in the ground, so the dynamic has changed.

There's my good Christmas deed in showing empathy to Lucifer's Children. And yes I call them that to their face when they call me a bitter Blue amongst other things and then we have a drink together!!!

I got really well looked after by the Manchester United supporters, sat amongst them last season and taken to the Railway Club. The only Evertonian in the place, but no bother and lots of, yes, banter, but good conversation.

I just think football fans have gotten a bit precious. Asking stewards to remove people for being guilty of nothing more than supporting another team? When did that start? I'd liked to have seen them try that on the Kop in the 80s or even the Gwladys Street when they used to congregate at the lower end if the memory serves.

I would never promote abusive behaviour, but if you can't take a bit of stick, don't go to a football match because it will happen both ways.

You should try my train journeys to the homeland when we're playing a London club. Brutal until you talk to them!

I don't know if you have ever attended a Merseyside derby, Shane, but it always makes me smile when both sets of fans give each other the Scouse let on.

It might be hard to believe, but I'm sure the banter can be better than the game for some people, even if the opposition are irrelevant!