Season › 2024-25 › News Tottenham Hotspur vs Everton Lyndon Lloyd 23/08/2024 165comments | Jump to last Match Preview Tthe usually-dependable James Tarkowski is a doubt for this weekend's trip to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium As they look to immediately atone for last weekend’s debacle against Brighton, Everton’s first away game of 2024-25 is a difficult one at Tottenham Hotspur where the Blues won just once in 16 years. Hopes that Sean Dyche’s side could get off to a flying start were wrecked during that 3-0 reverse in the season opener and the manager’s selection problems have only worsened since the new campaign kicked off. Ashley Young, Everton’s only fit right-back, is suspended having been shown a red card against the Seagulls and now James Tarkowski, whose pre-season was disrupted by a muscle injury, is a significant doubt for the trip to North London with a recurrence of the complaint. Virtually ever-present during his first two seasons at Goodison Park, if he fails a late fitness test having not trained so far this week, the usually-dependable centre-half will be a huge miss given that, by Dyche’s admission in his pre-match press conference, Jarrad Branthwaite is still some way of making his return from hernia surgery. Article continues below video content All three of James Garner, Seamus Coleman and Nathan Patterson were already confirmed absentees leaving the team desperately short on both first-choice and auxiliary defenders for what was already a difficult assignment. “We're down to 14 recognised first-team players at the minute, so that's not perfect, but the challenge is right in front of us, as always,” said Dyche who may well need to turn to new boy Jake O’Brien in the middle and Mason Holgate as emergency full-back. Spurs will be hoping to qualify for the Champions League this season after falling away last term and eventually being edged out by Aston Villa. Though Ange Postecoglu will be without the suspended Yves Bossouma and the injured Rodrigo Bentancur while Pedro Porro is doubtful, he has a superior and deeper squad from which to draw. That, coupled with home field advantage will make Spurs massive favourites. Of key interest to Everton fans will be whether or not either the two new attacking signings, Iliman Ndiaye and Jesper Lindstrøm will be in the starting XI or whether Dyche will once again fall back on his trusted core unit of Abdoulaye Doucouré, Dwight McNeil and Jack Harrison playing behind Dominic Calvert-Lewin. Ndiaye came on in the second half against Brighton but struggled to make an impact in a team playing with only 10 men while Lindstrøm was left out entirely before getting 90 valuable minutes playing for the U21s in midweek. Kick-off: 3pm, Saturday 24 August 2024Referee: Anthony TaylorVAR: Andy MadleyLast Time: Tottenham Hotspur 2 - 1 Everton Predicted Line-up: Pickford, Holgate, Keane, O’Brien, Mykolenko, Gueye, Iroegbunam, Harrison, McNeil, Doucouré, Calvert-Lewin Live Forum Reader Comments (165) Note: the following content is not moderated or vetted by the site owners at the time of submission. Comments are the responsibility of the poster. Disclaimer () Danny O’Neill 1 Posted 22/08/2024 at 21:17:49 Over 3,000 Evertonians will be making the trip to Tottenham on Saturday. Countless others will be following in other ways. Get behind them, Blues, wherever you are. Jim Bennings 2 Posted 23/08/2024 at 06:30:34 How can a Premier League club continuously make the same old mistakes and never be fully prepared for the start of a new season?We have no right-back, one left-back, we still have Michael Keane and Mason Holgate sitting on the bench.We still have Neal Maupay on the squad list.We make signings that are never ready to go straight away; other clubs start the opening day and everything is geared up and ready.Mind boggles. Phillip Warrington 3 Posted 23/08/2024 at 06:47:59 Wow… To get a result against Spurs will be… wow. Billy Shears 4 Posted 23/08/2024 at 07:03:26 If that's our starting line-up,then we've lost already! Jack Convery 5 Posted 23/08/2024 at 07:10:33 Get ready for the Alamo.Dyches TeamPickford, Holgate, Keane, O'Brien, MykolenkoHarrison, Iroegbunam, Gueye, McNeill, Doucoure, Calvert Lewin.Team I'd pick and have a real go and give them something to think about !Pickford, Dixon rwb, O'Brien, Keane, Mykoleno, Harrison lwbGueye, Iroegbunam, Lundstrum, Ndiaye, DCL.5 3 2 Switching to 3 4 3 In Lundstrom and Ndiaye we have pace, as with Dixon,It might end up as a goal fest but what do we have to lose ? Surpise us and them Sean, Go for it man. Bring Beto on after 60 minutes to keeo the pace up front when either Lundstrom or Ndiaye tires, Paul Ferry 6 Posted 23/08/2024 at 07:24:44 Jim Bennings 1 we still have Michael Keane and Mason Holgate sitting on the bench.Don't worry JB, Holgate will be starting.Agree completely with Lyndon's team. It's all so Dychepredictable. It's why although I do my best to be realistic/reasonable when it comes down to Dyche, I just don't like having him as our manager. Danny Baily 7 Posted 23/08/2024 at 07:43:38 Move Doucoure into the midfield in place of Iroegbunam, have someone else play off DCL (perhaps Ndiaye, replaced late on by Lindstrom) and we're somewhere near our best lineup for this one. Danny O’Neill 8 Posted 23/08/2024 at 07:49:57 In we go or here we go. Whoever plays tomorrow, over 3,000 Evertonians in that stadium tomorrow. Loud and proud. And right behind you.I will see some of you there and no doubt talk to those watching from elsewhere.Everton family. Regardless of what is going on around the club, nothing can take away the spirit of the supporters. Neil Lawson 9 Posted 23/08/2024 at 07:50:10 It is so predictable and as a consequence it is difficult to get motivated as a fan. We learn to expect the worst and usually to get it. I suspect many of us will have our fingers crossed that the level of the likely loss is not too painful (what a dreadful approach) whilst our inspiring manager explains that it was a good performance in the circumstances. David Bromwell 10 Posted 23/08/2024 at 07:57:35 What a prospect, remember the 10-4 game anybody? Given the circumstances, I would beef up the midfield by playing Doucouré in his former position, and play Maupay as the Number 10. No place for McNeil who currently offers very little and, having seen Maupay play for Brentford last season in that position, he does give defenders something to think about. Jerome Shields 11 Posted 23/08/2024 at 08:02:12 We are going to need at least one of those one-off outstanding goals.I would be nervous of Keane… against Spurs a defensive line across the goal line is not much use. Mike Hayes 12 Posted 23/08/2024 at 08:16:10 For the last several years, I've had no confidence in an Everton side and Dyche hasn't changed that. Same old same old, even when we've got an almost fully fit squad the same players. Same tactics (?) – start off on the front foot, miss chances, go behind and all the hope is gone. Another season of struggle beckons… Kim Vivian 13 Posted 23/08/2024 at 08:32:53 Spurs must be licking their lips this week after a disappointing point away to Leicester. With expectations low, a decimated squad, and it being early season this may be one just to throw Sean Dyche's trademark caution to the wind and just go out and play for a win. I suppose Calvert-Lewin will need to be the centre-forward option but give him some support. Give the new fellas some game time, play the game on the grass and maybe, just maybe, the fans might get some faith back. It might not be pretty but just go for it.That sure as hell won't happen but I'm honestly starting to think this might finally be the year we succumb with the shambles we are. Kunal Desai 14 Posted 23/08/2024 at 08:33:29 I think tomorrow could be brutal. Three or four past Pickford with that defence. I wouldn't rule out a Solanke debut hat-trick. Andrew Clare 15 Posted 23/08/2024 at 08:46:58 Keep it tight (won't happen), nick one on the break (won't happen), lose 4-0 (probably will happen).Another tough season on the cards. Steve Cotton 16 Posted 23/08/2024 at 08:55:09 So who are the other 3 fut players? Beto? Maupay, Virginia none of the new lads?? Both injured ?? Jim Bennings 18 Posted 23/08/2024 at 08:57:53 I don't think you can actually play many games, especially away games in the modern era where you can sit back for the whole match and expect to get a 0-0.There are too many issues with that nowadays, VAR makes decisions against you, opponents are too quick or skilful for you, or a moments defensive lapse is always likely in matches that now last 99 minutes most weeks.In this day and age you need to be able to carry a significant goal threat and a very important component to that is pace. Mark Murphy 19 Posted 23/08/2024 at 09:02:46 Aaaarrrgghhhh Kunal - youve guaranteed me a sleepless night there.I may just go the bookies for the first time since getting rinsed 30 odd years ago and putting my house on Solanke! UTFT! Dave Lynch 20 Posted 23/08/2024 at 09:15:13 Spurs should of been at least 4 up against Leicester in the first 20 minutes.Only luck on Leicester's behalf and poor finishing prevented that, if they come out like that against us it will be carnage...carnage I tell ya.Not looking forward to this at all. Danny O’Neill 21 Posted 23/08/2024 at 09:15:26 Andrew, your pessimism is depressing.Mark I know if you can't be there, jumping and shouting at the screen / laptop!!Many seem to think we are beaten before the first ball has been kicked. I'm not. Any game of football is winnable.I'm concerned about getting drenched as the weather forecast suggests heavy early morning rain in London. But I should dry out by the time of kick off!! Kevin Edward 22 Posted 23/08/2024 at 09:21:12 Expectations have plummeted since last weeks let down.I suspect the usual Tottenham away scenario tomorrow, where we usually struggle to stay in the game, and with better players. It could be all over in the first 15 mins if we cannot defend.But its Everton, so along with the travelling blues Ill be hoping.Dyche really needs to be a bit smarter, do something different and try to get on the front foot. UTFT! Dave Cashen 23 Posted 23/08/2024 at 09:41:00 Some people don't seem to understand the concept of football. or any sport or that matter.In every sport. In every country. Every day. Favorites are overturned. The only sportsmen who are ever beaten before the start are those who have already surrendered. I'm so glad some of the posters on here wont be in our dressing room tomorrow. This thread is a carbon copy of the thread last time we played Here, but Spurs needed the seasons worst VAR decision to scrape their poxy win.Can we at least make Spurs (and their shite high line) sweat for a victory before we hand it to them ?DannyGod bless you son. You've been mocked and even ridiculed for your undying optimism, but if we didnt have your faith, defiance and sometimes seemingly blind optimism within the souls of many blues, We'd have long since been playing in the lower leagues. Dave Abrahams 24 Posted 23/08/2024 at 09:42:32 It wont be worth watching then will it, Jesus giving up before we start,Davie Moyes could be writing these posts, I wont be there but Ill be backing the team like the 3,000 Everton fans taking the trouble and the time and spending their money to back the eleven players plus subs. playing for us tomorrow, as long as they have a go for the duration of the game. Mark Tanton 25 Posted 23/08/2024 at 09:45:30 We'll be in a very familiar league position by Saturday night. Might we see some of the new lads? It feels doubtful. Rob Halligan 26 Posted 23/08/2024 at 09:49:01 Dave and Dave, well said. I trust all those predicting doom and gloom will be out shopping with their missus, rather than watching their predicted massacre. Danny, see you in the Redemption. Train is 8.45 so hopefully should be in there around midday. John Graham 27 Posted 23/08/2024 at 09:52:15 KunalOnly good news there is that I've got Solanke in my fantasy football team, but I've also got Pickford too.My team would be.Pickford, Harrison, Keane, O'brien, Mykolenko, McNeil (back five) Gueye, Iroegbunam (Central midfield)Doucoure, Lindstrom. (Forward midfield)Calvert Lewin In a 5221 formation. Brian Williams 28 Posted 23/08/2024 at 09:54:10 I wonder wtf some of these posters will do if we ever become successful? Denis Richardson 29 Posted 23/08/2024 at 09:55:50 Jack 5 - that team would certainly give Spurs something to think about…The ref may even take pity on us and allow the 12 players! :-) Fred Quick 30 Posted 23/08/2024 at 10:02:07 I'm amazed that there are so many optimists out there, who think that an under-strength, injury ravaged Everton might hold out at Tottenham tomorrow and bring something home. I honestly hope they are right and us pessimists are totally wrong. I'm still celebrating our last away day league success in balmy Burnley last December. Dave Lynch 31 Posted 23/08/2024 at 10:11:36 Rob...I like to think of myself as a realist; I have seen nothing to indicate we are anything but relegation scrap fodder, that's not after one game by the way.Its around our recruitment, tactics and manager. We have not progressed in any of the above, in fact we have gone backwards.If we get a result tomorrow, I will be as happy as anyone on here. I'm not a told-you-so gloater and will be as upset as anyone if we get a tonking. James Hughes 32 Posted 23/08/2024 at 10:35:19 Well Ashley is banned so we should keep 11 players on the pitch, Well if Mason behaves himself we will. Ndiaye to provide to pace and put Lindstrøm on for Doucouré and we will do well.Mark Murphy, mate get your money on a win and Fuck solanke he's had one good season. Andrew Clare 33 Posted 23/08/2024 at 10:40:45 Danny, I don't want to be pessimistic but unfortunately there is not much to be hopeful about for this Spurs game. John Raftery 34 Posted 23/08/2024 at 10:41:20 Throwing caution to the wind will not cut it tomorrow. Last week we conceded the opening goal when five, yes five, of our players were left stranded behind the oppositions final 18 yard line. We were constantly outnumbered and outpaced in midfield, leaving the back line exposed to Brightons runners. First and foremost the manager needs to make the team compact and build from there. Tarkowskis dodgy hamstring should not be risked. A relatively minor issue now can develop into a major problem and a lengthy layoff further down the road. We need him fully fit for the season ahead. Whatever the result tomorrow we all need to remember nothing is decided in August. Mark Ryan 35 Posted 23/08/2024 at 10:43:59 Dyche likes to come across as though he would be in the trenches with you but he is a dithering risk averse stuck in the mud. As for Holgate, I'm not sure there has ever been a less interested Everton player other than maybe Morgan Schneiderlin who used to infuriate me. Both had talent. Neither could be arsed to give 50% during a match. I despair that we can't offload the waster but I understand why we can't even give him away. I hope this weekend the Footballing gods are with us. We need some luck going into this Ian Bennett 36 Posted 23/08/2024 at 10:45:52 Gees the prospect of Keane & Holgate starting is horrific.Pickford Harrison KeaneObrien Mykolenko Mcneil Doucoure GanaIroegbunam Calvert Lewin Ndiaye Danny O’Neill 37 Posted 23/08/2024 at 11:00:41 Who thought we would have beaten them 2-0 last season?I was being told a couple of seasons ago, we had no chance against Brighton, but battered them 5-1.The semi final against Tottenham in what was the build up to our last trophy. We weren't given a chance. But we won.I don't go to any match thinking we can't win. We may not, but just give us a performance. Derek Knox 38 Posted 23/08/2024 at 11:08:13 Yet another match starting with 3 passengers, we will get Anaglypta'd. For those not familiar with the aforementioned wall covering, it was extremely difficult to put up and required a very heavy pasting. Which is what we will get tomorrow !Like many have said, how can we have so many injured after a light pre-season, and one game ? Of the starting 11 (8 really), none stand out as being either goal scorers or match winners.Ah well, there is always Debbie Revisits Dallas - On a Zimmer ! :-) Mark Tanton 39 Posted 23/08/2024 at 11:24:39 Danny (37) I don't recall us not being given a chance in the Spurs semi final. We had gone through the cup without conceding a goal and we're punching our way out of the bottom three of the Premier League. This team doesn't stand up to the 95 team in any measurable way. Give me Rideout and Stuart over DCL and Harrison any day. Danny O’Neill 40 Posted 23/08/2024 at 11:31:04 We ruined the media's dream final of Manchester United v Tottenham, which was predicted Mark.We almost upset the pundits and then surprised in the Final. I still wish my son would have witnessed it, but he was only 5 months old, sol he's never seen Everton lift a trophy John Jacques 41 Posted 23/08/2024 at 11:37:35 Jack Convery 5 - totally agree with your tactical team pick. But we know Dyche, so expect Ndiaye and Lindstrøm to get runs out in the last 10 minutes when we are chasing for a consolation goal with 10 men, the same as last time. Dixon probably won't even make the bench. Kevin Naylor 42 Posted 23/08/2024 at 11:40:34 Yes, Amo on the bench to come on and score twice, Anders Limpar on the wing. Even in such a low league position, that team was head and shoulders above this miserable lot. Danny O’Neill 43 Posted 23/08/2024 at 11:41:48 Bring your optimism, Derek. I know you will tomorrow.I'm up for the Doncaster match, so if you're going, I'll see you there.Safe travel to the Blues travelling from Merseyside and other places. A relatively short trip to North London, but still a tricky one.Belief, that's what I go into every match with. Peter Mills 44 Posted 23/08/2024 at 11:49:33 Injury crises have sometimes forced managers into being more creative in their team selections. I would hope to see Ndiaye and Lindstrøm given decent time on the pitch, not necessarily at the same time, to add some pace up front. Paul Hewitt 45 Posted 23/08/2024 at 11:55:07 That 1995 team struggled because Mike Walker wasn't a very good manager. Once we saw sense and replaced him with Joe Royle, we looked far better. Bit like this current team — it would improve with a better manager. Denis Richardson 46 Posted 23/08/2024 at 12:04:41 Ian @36 – that's not a bad shout for a team. Means only one of Keane or Holgate starts and the two wingbacks would (hopefully) give decent cover to the back 3.Also Ndiaye starting would give Spurs something to think about and a runner off Calvert-Lewin for the inevitable long balls. However, imagine Dyche will put out a back 4 with Holgate at right-back. Danny O’Neill 47 Posted 23/08/2024 at 12:12:01 Kevin, Amokachi was about to be hooked, but didn't follow instructions. Next thing he scores!! Kevin Naylor 48 Posted 23/08/2024 at 12:23:44 No, Danny, he came on as a sub for Rideout I think.He went on of his own accord without Joe Royle's signal. Laurie Hartley 49 Posted 23/08/2024 at 12:35:59 In Tarkowski and Branthwaite, we will be without the two main reasons we had such a good defensive record last season. So I don't think Dyche will be able to defend his way to a result tomorrow.That is why I hope Lyndon has got the starting line-up completely wrong. With what he has available, he has the potential to put out a very competitive midfield.I would go with something like Ian's team at #36 but I would go for flare in that area; however, like it or not, Michael Keane will have to start.My team would be:-PickfordKeane, O'Brien, MykolenkoNdiaye, Gueye, Doucouré, Iroegbunam, HarrisonLindstrømCalvert-LewinDyche will never have a better opportunity than this to try a different approach. If it fails, there will be little flack; if it gets a result, he will be hailed as the tactical genius that outsmarted the media's current love child, Ange Postecoglou. Danny O’Neill 50 Posted 23/08/2024 at 12:38:52 Ok Kevin. Either way, he went against the manager, fortunately as it turned out!The memory fades.I remember rocking my son in one of those cradles for babyies when the fourth goal went in. I jumped up and flipped him across the room. Fortunately he had a soft landing on the couch opposite. I got I right telling-off for that. But with a big grin on my face.Focus is on tomorrow. Christy Ring 51 Posted 23/08/2024 at 12:42:18 If Tarkowski doesn't make it, and Branthwaite is out, we're missing our strongest link from last season. Going to be tough, but considering Spurs only drew with Leicester, let's be optimistic, and back the team, instead of all the negativity. Andy Meighan 52 Posted 23/08/2024 at 12:56:13 Danny, Amokachi wasn't in the starting line up that day and wasn't about to be hooked.He wasn't meant to come on, not sure who was but on he came on, and as they say, the rest is history.As for tomorrow not a good hunting ground for us; ditto Man Utd, Chelsea, Liverpool… so not expecting anything.Be delighted with a draw. Marc Hints 53 Posted 23/08/2024 at 12:59:54 Laurie #49,Good shout on that team! Ian Bennett 54 Posted 23/08/2024 at 13:08:44 There's more chance of finding the Arteta money than Dyche dropping Dwight McNeil... Danny O’Neill 55 Posted 23/08/2024 at 13:23:30 Come on, Blues. We've got a match and team to support tomorrow. I don't care about couches or who walks on that pitch. I'll be behind them. Into matchday mode. Michael Kenrick 56 Posted 23/08/2024 at 13:33:10 Ah, Danny great memories of the classic FA Cup semi-final at Elland Road. This from Henry Winter's excellent report in The Telegraph:Within the manifold sub-plots of this 90-minute passion play, Amokachi's arrival on centre stage was a comic cameo. Rideout had limped to the far sidelines after 67 minutes but, having deemed himself fit to continue, indicated to the bench his readiness to return. By then Amokachi was on. "What a good mistake," Royle smiled.Everton were so committed to the cause, so in tune with Royle's game-plan of closing down Spurs' creative sources and bypassing the visitors' defence, that Gerry Francis's stylish side had no chance."We came out of the traps very quickly," Royle added. "Semi-finals are traditionally tense and nervous but we came out and played well." None would argue, not even the Spurs diehards.Everton, who under Royle have treated every match as a cup tie, began at whirlwind pace, Anders Limpar demanding three fine saves from Ian Walker in the opening 10 minutes. Crucially, they maintained the pressure. With Unsworth and Dave Watson shackling Klinsmann and Teddy Sheringham, and Parkinson throwing a blanket over the midfield, Everton were primed for goal.After 35 minutes of spirited pressure, they broke through, Jackson rising at the near post to head in Andy Hinchcliffe's inswinging corner. What a gift. With no one defending the upright, and emergency left-back Stuart Nethercott the wrong side of Jackson, Spurs had only themselves to blame. Lee Courtliff 57 Posted 23/08/2024 at 13:35:14 Solanke is out injured tomorrow…Should we all just bet on Richarlison to score instead? Christopher Timmins 59 Posted 23/08/2024 at 13:49:29 If we play like we did the last time we were at the Lane but get just a little more luck and are more clinical, then we can take something from the game. Brian Wilkinson 60 Posted 23/08/2024 at 13:50:34 I'm worried Doncaster Rovers might turn us over Tuesday, let alone beating Spurs away.There is not one Evertonian who would not want Everton to roll Spurs over; you never know what to expect from Everton, that's for sure.It's possible we went into the same mindset last Saturday, over 36,000 Evertonians roaring them on from the start, thousands more worldwide… It would not make a difference if 30,000 Evertonians were at Spurs roaring them on with a trumpet solo blasting out – once they cross the whitewash, it is the mindset of the players.Some have been labelled as doom merchants, others as top Evertonians, fighting the cause. At the end of the day, we all want the same result.But rather than have a go at some who are sitting on the side of caution, no matter how positive fans are, there will be some nervous and worried about no Branthwaite or Tarkowski in the heart of defence, no fit right-back, a left-back injury away from no leftback.We have seen time and again just how bad we are in defence, when we have Keane and Holgate in the same line up, not a pop by any means, but they just make mistake after mistake, when they play together.So I can see why some are less confident than others for this game, does not make them doom merchants, just using logic and probabilities for the outcome.Anyway let's hope for a result tomorrow, that's the best we can hope for. Fred Quick 61 Posted 23/08/2024 at 14:24:57 Brian @60,I wholeheartedly agree that all Evertonians would want Everton to win tomorrow, or in any other game that involves our club. Whatever the make-up of the defence, all of them will realise that one mistake by any one of them, which leads to a goal, decreases the odds of winning the game exponentially, all because we don't know how to attack. In the rare games where we do show attacking intent, we can't punish the opponents by taking those few chances that do come along.The problem today is that the mindset of players, fans and everybody connected to the club is one of caution and fear, all of us being afraid of getting relegated. That caution and fear has become part of the identity and culture of the club. It's a great pity that the business side of the club couldn't have shown similar caution before it saddled all of us with a dog's breakfast of a squad and many of us now going to games with fear rather than hope. Mark Murphy 62 Posted 23/08/2024 at 14:25:42 James, the last time I had a bet was in the late eighties early nineties. I went in the bookies at lunchtime and bet £20 on various bets. One was Everton to win the FA Cup. Another was Everton to win that days FA Cup tie (I think it was Derby County away) and by 4:50 pm I had blown £20, not an unsubstantial amount to me in those days. I've never betted since.I think the last time we beat Spurs at their ground I was down the road at Twickenham watching Saints win the Challenge Cup. At the end, as the players paraded t'coop, the blue sat next to me showed me the score from White Hart Lane. We were absolutely gutted that we'd chosen “the wrong game” to attend. Bizarrely there was an enormous Tottenham Hotspur flag in one of the Twickenham stands that day.Tomorrow, I won't be shopping with the missus or hiding behind the couch. I'll be playing my other love, cricket, hunting for 2 wickets that bring up my hundred for my club. I don't attend footy matches before September, otherwise I would be there.I will, however, be hoping for a Blues win as I always do. I'm filled with trepidation based on what we all assume to be Dyche's defensive line and approach, but I'll still be clinging on to the old belief that God is on our side and hope he's in a good mood rather than the twatty fickle mood he's been in more often than not with His team!Good luck to all going tomorrow – I hope you have a great day! UTFT Paul Hewitt 63 Posted 23/08/2024 at 14:28:43 Alan @58, If selling Branthwaite means we can bring in a right-back, left-back, right-wing and striker, then reluctantly I'd sell. Martin Farrington 64 Posted 23/08/2024 at 14:44:43 I am running a book on what minute I turn off the match tomorrow because we are being smashed. Dyche's feeble whinge about low numbers does not move me. Thelwell (and in theory, him) brought in 4 players this transfer window. Well 5 because one is Harrison. Plus 2 for the U21s. And there's the return of Maupay, plus Begovic has rejoined.But Dyche doesn't count them. He wont play them because "in his opinion" they are not good enough for the Premier League, nor fit enough. He includes Tim Iroegbunam in this observation. Which begs the question, "What are you and that clown Thelwell up to recruiting them for then?"We need a new dynamic team. Yet what have you gone and got? 5 players plus Maupay. None have pace. No goalscorers. No right- or left-back. You and Thelwell are very much to blame for this shocking state of affairs.That Holgate and Keane will start takes us back to the very realistic possibility of relegation. That Keane is chosen for the first team before Jake O'Brien, because he had a good pre-season, when the teams you picked were humiliated and awful, beggars belief.If that logic counts, why are McNeil, Calvert-Lewin and Gueye playing??? You had brought us out of despair and through the Premier League's vengeful spite and prejudice. However, you have taken huge strides backwards. Chermiti and Beto were rarely used last season and I can see the same lack of use again. Just what the fuck is going on? If we get less than a draw tomorrow, Dyche and Thelwell, that is firmly on you both. Iain Johnston 65 Posted 23/08/2024 at 14:47:45 Don't really know why there's such conjecture about the starting 11. Okay, we live in hope... eternal hope but we all know it'll be:PickfordHolgate, Keane, O'Brien, MykolenkoGana, IroegbunamHarrison, Doucouré, McNeilCalvert-Lewin.Harrison will turn inside on his left foot into every cul-de-sac. McNeil will pass back or run across the pitch in a straight line, and Calvert-Lewin will be everywhere apart from where he can do the damage... in the box.Gana will give the ball away: 1-0. Keane will be caught upfield: 2-0. Holgate will give a penalty away: 3-0.Beto will be on after 65 minutes to do... nothing.Ndaiye will appear after 75 minutes and do… nothing. Lindstrøm may as well go back home as, if he does play, it'll be on the right for Harrison rather than his preferred No 10 role.The line-up is as predictable as the tide and we know the script ad nauseam.Please, please, please prove me wrong, Blues.I wouldn't mind:Pickford.Keane, O'Brien, Mykolenko.Dixon, Doucoure, Iroegbunam, McNeil.Lindstrøm, Ndaiye.Calvert-Lewin. Fred Quick 66 Posted 23/08/2024 at 14:50:59 Paul @ 63,We all know that Branthwaite will be gone in the near future, either in this window or the next one… perhaps we'll get lucky and he'll stay for the whole of this season. A caveat to that is we don't know how he'll recover from his operation and whether he'll be able to sustain his very good form in an Everton shirt. The very worst-case scenario is that he leaves late in this transfer window, giving us no chance of adding to the squad, that's even if the money we get will be earmarked for incoming players. If he does leave late and it happens to be to our bitter rivals, none of us should be happy with that scenario, even if it's a financial necessity. I could just about accept the lad moving to Arsenal, Man City or even Man Utd; I can't stomach the idea that he might go across the park, for whatever amount of money we might get. Frank Sheppard 67 Posted 23/08/2024 at 14:51:17 I don't like to single out players in a negative way, but Keane and Holgate on the pitch at the start, against the likes of Son and Maddison, is a scary prospect. Charles Brewer 68 Posted 23/08/2024 at 14:54:12 Paul (63),If Everton got £63M for Branthwaite, they'd spend £30M on Beto's older, less skillful cousin, £20M on bringing Wayne Rooney back, and give the rest to Dele Alli so he could have some more "mental health" issues. Christine Foster 69 Posted 23/08/2024 at 14:55:18 Mark, the only time I have put a bet on was for my mum for the Grand National in 1977... Red Rum. I went into town, placed the £10 to win, then did the shopping not knowing the result. When I got back to The Wedding House (mum and dad's pub) she grabbed me when I came in asking if I placed the bet... Much joy, mum and dad went on holiday for the first time in 20 years to North Wales – a £100 went a long way then.Hate to think what the odds are after last week. Is the bus going to be big enough to park? Danny O’Neill 70 Posted 23/08/2024 at 15:04:02 Michael, it's up there with the two Villa Park semi-finals. As the final minutes approached against Luton, I was resigned, but my dad and his friend told me to behave.Sheedy steps up and slots in the equaliser. Then black-eyed Derek Mountfield heads in the winner. Edward Rogers 71 Posted 23/08/2024 at 15:07:36 Ladies & Gents,We do not currently have anyone called O'Neil in our squad!!!! If you look close enough, you might find a McNeil… although he has been difficult to spot lately. Fred Quick 72 Posted 23/08/2024 at 15:11:29 Edward @71,Danny might get onto the bench tomorrow, we are so short of first-team players. :) Edward Rogers 73 Posted 23/08/2024 at 15:15:36 Fred,Danny only on the bench?? I'd have him at right-back or centre-half. Couldn't be any worse!!By the way, I think we'll sneak a point tomorrow. 🤞 Jay Harris 74 Posted 23/08/2024 at 15:15:46 Bloody hell!I was concerned and depressed before I came on ToffeeWeb. Now I'm suicidal.I can't fault anyone‘s comments from Danny's never say surrender to Fred Quick's logical massacre.I remain hopeful for a result but anticipating a massacre.Although Leicester got a draw, they should have been 5 or 6 down by half-time. That they weren't gives us hope for tomorrow but we are no Leicester, especially with the injuries we're carrying. They at least have a cutting edge; we do not.Stay strong, Blues, we need the constitution of an army for this one. P Ron Wells 75 Posted 23/08/2024 at 15:27:15 Everton's last victory at Tottenham before the 2020 win (behind closed doors during Covid) came on 30 November 2008. The match ended 1-0 with Steven Pienaar scoring the only goal. Here is the Everton team that played in that match:Tim Howard Tony Hibbert Joleon Lescott Joseph Yobo Phil Jagielka Mikel Arteta Phil Neville Marouane Fellaini Leon Osman Steven Pienaar Ayegbeni Yakubu Compare this team then with the present. Perhaps only Pickford would make it in. Which is why I am expecting nothing tomorrow. Brian Williams 76 Posted 23/08/2024 at 15:38:51 Solanke's out, so the poster tipping him for a hat-trick can .... [Answers here please!] James Marshall 77 Posted 23/08/2024 at 15:42:42 The best news on a personal note is that I won't be able to see the game tomorrow.Being realistic, we're going to lose, aren't we? Brian Wilkinson 78 Posted 23/08/2024 at 15:55:53 Jay, I am sat on the fence looking at both sides of the Evertonian points of view.I can see the positivity of those rallying the never-say-die attitude and belief, I really can.I can also see the other side, where caution is thrown, where time and again poor team selection and lateness of subs coming on has killed our hopes.Both sides of the fence have valid beliefs; the whole point of having a fans forum is for fans to have their own personal views. People's views should not be treated as a 'happy clapper', or a 'doom merchant' – fans can have differing views.But, at the end of the day, we are all Evertonians who will be here long after players and managers have come and gone. Whether we qualify for Europe, win a cup, or the unthinkable relegation, we will still be here as Evertonians, following our football club. Mark Murphy 79 Posted 23/08/2024 at 16:05:24 Hey, so we've not done so bad at theirs, it turns out!The match I'm thinking of was 26 August 2006 and we won 2-0 at White Hart Lane with an oggy and an Andy Johnson goal. 26 August is also my wife's birthday, which just goes to show how brave I was in those days. As I recall, my wife said “You'd better not be going to Everton on my birthday!” So I went to watch Saints instead. You can imagine my confusion when she still didn't talk to me for days…26 August is on Monday, so nearly Saturday, hopefully a sign… UTFT Danny O’Neill 80 Posted 23/08/2024 at 16:28:54 Absolutely, Brian @78.Mark, I used to get messages from my wife asking me if I had run away to watch Everton!!My argument was that she put up with me being away for 6 months or more multiple times over the years. But go to watch Everton for a day? I was often consigned to the couch and sleeping with the dogs!! Rob Halligan 81 Posted 23/08/2024 at 16:31:55 Brian # 76… .”Shove his prediction where the sun don't shine”! Derek Powell 82 Posted 23/08/2024 at 16:32:10 Same line up but with Holgate at right-back.Tim Iroegbunam will be dropped once James Garner is fit — it's all so predictable with Dyche. Andy Crooks 83 Posted 23/08/2024 at 16:37:59 Why on earth can anyone be bothered coming on and predicting a thrashing for us? What do you get from it, other than some sad desperation to say you called it? For fuck's sake, anyone can call it; Spurs have better players, we are hit by injuries, Spurs are long odds-on favourites.However, it's never that easy. We will get chances in the game, we might take one. Keeping it tight, which we will and must, can frustrate Spurs. We have players with much to prove and we are away from home to Spurs, not Real Madrid. This is winnable and I expect the coach and the players to believe it. We are "supporters" we are meant to be biased, we are meant to believe.If was lucky enough to be travelling on the same coach as Rob Halligan, I'd be expecting the best. Brent Stephens 84 Posted 23/08/2024 at 16:38:42 Derek #82,What's the full line-up for tomorrow? Rob Halligan 85 Posted 23/08/2024 at 16:42:01 Derek # 82…It can't be the same line up because Young is suspended! Brian Harrison 86 Posted 23/08/2024 at 16:44:06 Tomorrow will be a tough ask, and I think it's just become harder hearing Richarlison will start for them instead of Solanke. I presume Dyche will start with Holgate, Keane, O'Brien and Mykolenko at the back; I can't see him going to a back 3 or starting Dixon, it's not his style. I think most Blues will be very interested to see who will be his front 3 and Number 10, as I imagine Tim and Gana will be the central midfield. Brian Williams 87 Posted 23/08/2024 at 16:45:10 Rob #81.You never let me down, mate! Danny O’Neill 88 Posted 23/08/2024 at 16:49:42 Andy, be sure to get yourself over soon.I'm looking forward to tomorrow and catching up with Neil, Rob and his mates, Dave and Steve.Brian, we'll be fine against Doncaster. I'm travelling up for a night match, so we had better be!Fred, Edward, I'm available!! Derek Knox 89 Posted 23/08/2024 at 16:55:22 Why do most people pin hopes on Doucouré? He is about as much use as an ashtray on a Harley-Davidson. Although he does pop up once a year, and scores a goal, gets hailed a hero, then sits back and counts his ill-gotten gains. Let's hope it's tomorrow! Tony Abrahams 90 Posted 23/08/2024 at 17:23:00 I was reading the other thread before asking if Dyche was part of the problem, and was going to post but thought fuck it youre on holiday, and then I got to the match day thread.An injury crisis already? Surely most premier league teams have got loads of good players injured if theyve got an injury crisis, but not Everton, who are only missing two, nailed on starters, unless you include James Garner, in that bracket.Its the managers fault, hes shite, but even if he his, then countless managers have been getting sacked since Farhad Moshiri, was blagged into Bill Kenwrights beautiful dream.The club, is an embarrassment with regards the way the assets of the playing squad have been slowly getting stripped, every time another manager gets the sack, but still the manager gets the blame.I hope what Peter Mills suggests happens tomorrow, because one thing about ToffeeWeb, is that a positive pre match thread usually results in a bad result, although I havent seen the fuckn team for tomorrow, and even if we start with the new signings, I think we might get overrun in midfield.Fight Everton, then fight some more, but whatever happens I think instead of slaughtering the manager, I think the fans need to start concentrating on driving Moshiri out of our club before its too late. Hopefully the travelling blue army have a good day tomorrow, because they are simply amazing supporters.🤞 Shane Corcoran 91 Posted 23/08/2024 at 17:32:37 I find it a bit strange that some get worked up about predicting a beating, if that's what they think will happen. Andy, you say we're supposed to be biased, but surely we can look at the game as a neutral might and assess it as we see it? Barry Rathbone 92 Posted 23/08/2024 at 17:37:30 Andy @83,I take your point but, personally speaking, I never think we will win. Years of disappointment have sucked the optimism and fantasy right out of me.If we manage a win, it's a pleasant surprise; if we don't, then the depths of despair no longer beckon. Should fans air such views on a club forum? Possibly not. If the fantasy of the game still beats strong, the last thing you want is doom and gloom – no matter the reality… but does that promote interest? I'm not sure. Mihir Ambardekar 93 Posted 23/08/2024 at 17:42:14 We are really struck with injuries which has made us weak. Last weekend, we got the tactics wrong and paid the price. Last week's horror show must drive this team to perform and give all in this game. I still feel we will battle well and may be just grind out a draw. I'm hopeful we will sign at least a couple of players at the end of the window which will be accompanied by exits mainly Holgate, Maupay and Keane making way for the new signings. We will also have full squad strength restored after the international break. Staying positive! COYB Lee Courtliff 94 Posted 23/08/2024 at 17:54:58 Don't know if it's been mentioned on here already, but the Doncaster game is on Sky on Tuesday night. Rob Halligan 95 Posted 23/08/2024 at 18:17:24 Lee, according to the schedule, Sky are showing Birmingham v Fulham, unless its on the red button, which will probably show all games. Liam Mogan 96 Posted 23/08/2024 at 18:18:35 If we lose, it's all Dyche's fault, despite losing more than every other game for 6 long years. The squad is horrendously unbalanced. Bet he wishes he had the likes of Richarlison, Iwobi, Digne, Sigurdsson, Mina and Gordon to select. All of whom were in the squad that only just stayed up in 2021-22. That squad should never have been there but was badly mismanaged by the Spanish waiter and Lampard. The squads have been decimated since with few improvements, especially in the attacking areas. I don't think Dyche would have been anywhere near the relegation places with the 2021-22 squad.Admittedly the style of football may not have been to everyone's taste. But ultimately that's what the anti-Dyche criticism comes down to. A dislike of his methods and his perceived lack of style.I also find the football awful to watch at times, but having seen manager after manager fail with more resources, worry that any change will just make our chances of survival slimmer. Brian Williams 97 Posted 23/08/2024 at 18:27:39 There's a big difference between forecasting a defeat (I mean I think we'll probably get beat tbh) and continuously posting negative, misery arsed, avoid me like the plague in the pub, end of the world, moaning bastardly, suicide inducing, did I say misery arsed? posts week in & week outIts almost taking some sort of perverse pleasure in dragging everybody else into your negative misery arsed (did I mention that?) world.I'll be honest, I just don't understand why someone make the effort and go out of their way to post in such a way.If something pisses you off so much, why continue taking part? Rob Halligan 98 Posted 23/08/2024 at 18:31:35 Brian, if all the misery arses done one, there would be about six of us left! Rob Halligan 99 Posted 23/08/2024 at 18:34:17 Probably right. I've amended it. Can't be doing with all the hassle. Wonder if he can still see it anywhere? 😂😂😂 Brian Williams 100 Posted 23/08/2024 at 18:34:36 True Rob, true! Brian Williams 101 Posted 23/08/2024 at 18:35:22 True for post 98.I'm not getting banned ffs! Rob Halligan 102 Posted 23/08/2024 at 18:41:00 Amended # 99. 😁😁😁 Brian Williams 103 Posted 23/08/2024 at 18:45:59 Just deny everything mate. 🙊 Rob Halligan 104 Posted 23/08/2024 at 18:52:01 https://media1.tenor.com/m/f816Oe_Tk5IAAAAC/fawlty-towers.gif Raymond Fox 105 Posted 23/08/2024 at 19:24:37 Charles @ 68, thanks for the laugh, mate.We are only 5/1 to win tomorrow, that seems very skinny.I'll be extremely delighted if we win, but at the same time surprised.We are all over the shop team-wise, you have to be a rampant optimist to convince yourself we will win. Danny O’Neill 106 Posted 23/08/2024 at 19:34:57 Barry, try some positive blue juice and get into George McKane's grooves.Rob, I'll see you at the place you sent me. I'll be leaving early once I've got the Ridgebacks out. I'm meeting Neil at the stadium.Looking forward to it. Paul Ferry 107 Posted 23/08/2024 at 19:38:23 Danny Baily 7: "Move Doucoure into the midfield in place of Iroegbunam".Why on earth would we drop our best player in July and August? Why would you do that to accommodate someone who himself should have been dropped after his fecking woeful display last weekend where he was offside more times than goals he will score this season?Why would we not just drop Doucoure and bring in someone for him? Lindstrøm? Ndiaye? Bobby Mallon 108 Posted 23/08/2024 at 20:04:33 We came very close last season at the soon to be 2nd best ground in the Premier League. I predict a 0-1 shitty but very pleasing win for us. I would play niggling Maupay with Beto up top tomorrow and leave Calvert-Lewin on the bench. His goals per game ratio is 1 in 6, for fuck's sake. Ndiaye and Lindstrøm to play also. Stuart Sharp 109 Posted 23/08/2024 at 20:10:52 Doucouré, my arse. Worst passer in that position in the Premier League. Great energy, a few good goals, crap footballer by Premier League standards. Just my opinion, of course. Denver Daniels 110 Posted 23/08/2024 at 20:39:04 I thought Sean Dyche got his tactics spot on in both games last season. We were particularly unlucky in the away game with Danjuma crashing one off the underside of the bar but ruled out by goal-line technology. If I remember correctly Gomes was excellent in that game. Spurs will give you chances as their game vs Leicester showed. I'd like Dyche to try that same formation with Ndiaye and Lindstrøm coming in for McNeil and Doucouré and Harrison switching to his natural left. I think we can get something from this game. Mark Murphy 111 Posted 23/08/2024 at 20:39:33 Looks like my cricket is off due to rain. If anyone has a last-minute spare I'd be interested. Collect at the ground. (Spurs that is!) Paul Birmingham 112 Posted 23/08/2024 at 21:13:41 Believe, and Everton can peel the Spuds apart tomorrow.It's early doors, the season is a week old. Spurs didn't look too good at the back v Leicester on Monday night. Believe, and Everton can turn up tomorrow and tuck them up.I remember in 2006, it could have been, Killer's last Everton game, but Everton took them apart. No one fancied Everton to win that day.It was the start of our best away form, at Spurs those next 3 seasons. Tomorrow...it can be again. Andy Meighan 113 Posted 23/08/2024 at 21:36:27 Spot on from Martin and Iain (@64 and 65 respectively).I couldn't agree more but you're called pessimists, doom and gloom merchants, miserable as sin etc if you see what's in front of you every week.Count me in, I'm one of them. Michael McGrath 114 Posted 23/08/2024 at 22:16:50 Latest news, Solanki out!So we should only be beaten 5-0 now, Hurrah! Brian Wilkinson 115 Posted 23/08/2024 at 22:19:24 Lee @94, yes, I noticed Sky sniffed the Doncaster game out as an upset to televise.We gave Doncaster the Upper and Lower Bullens; after going on open sale today, they have 396 tickets remaining out of 2,976, I think their fans can sniff an upset as well.Play with a strong team and Everton win but, like I said before, Rovers been playing some good football – Molyneux, Ironside and Billy Sharp are players that can cause huge problems if we do not shut them down. It will not be a walk in the park on Tuesday.Anyway, back to Saturday, we can only hope we can at least get some pride back, no Solanke could mean Richarlison coming in.I will wait for the lineup first but have a feeling O'Brien in for Tarkowski and Holgate for Young with Doucoure and McNeil somehow keeping their places – both those two owe the fans a performance; you never know – both might click tomorrow. Colin Malone 116 Posted 23/08/2024 at 22:26:51 Who bought Ndiaye? It definitely was not Dyche. Ndiaye is a good tricky footballer who likes the ball on the ground, with a team that keeps possession of the ball, a team that plays through the middle of the park. That's not Everton under Dyche. Karl Masters 117 Posted 23/08/2024 at 23:29:39 Mark Murphy - 79.We have played Spurs on exactly this date in the recent past - a 0-0 draw back on 24 August 1996 at White Hart Lane. From what I remember, we were quite unfortunate not to win. Ben King 118 Posted 24/08/2024 at 01:07:41 Colin #116,Do you really think that Everton with their sparse transfer kitty would have sanctioned a move for a player without the current manager's blessing?So they have literally fuck-all to spend but they decide to impose a player on the manager, irrespective of his feelings on the matter?Are you a complete utter numpty without any thoughts, brains or consideration whatsoever???Have a think before you post, eh? Bob Parrington 119 Posted 24/08/2024 at 02:37:30 Ouch!!!!! No need for that, Ben! Bob Parrington 120 Posted 24/08/2024 at 04:15:04 Looks like Solanke and Bentancur are out of todays game. Lee Courtliff 121 Posted 24/08/2024 at 05:40:16 Karl Masters 117, I was at that game as it was my 15th birthday so my parents took me to White Hart Lane, a ground I'd always wanted to go to. We'd started the season in excellent form with Duncan looking like he would finally fulfill all that potential that we had only seen glimpses of. We had a couple of chances but I remember thinking 0-0 was a fair result. I'm 43 today, hopefully the Blues can give me a better birthday present this time around. I'd probably be much happier with a nil-nil today than I was all those years ago. Safe travels to all those going to the match today, COYB. Lee Courtliff 122 Posted 24/08/2024 at 05:58:14 Karl, I've just watched the highlights on YouTube and you're right, we should have won. Graham Stuart hit the bar and Craig Short missed an absolute sitter with a downward header!28 years ago, my God! I was so optimistic back then having seen us recently win the FA Cup and my Dad bending my ear with all the tales from the 80s Glory Years. I would never, ever have believed you if you'd told me back then that I'd still be waiting for another trophy on my 43rd birthday... it was impossible to comprehend. Danny O’Neill 123 Posted 24/08/2024 at 06:03:19 Dark sky over London. The ground is wet and more rain on its way. The Ridgebacks aren't too keen, but they're going out whether they like it or not.I haven't looked it up, but didn't we beat Tottenham at their place a few seasons ago?Safe travels, Blues. I hope those players bring the belief that we have. I'll see some of you there. Jimmy Cormack 124 Posted 24/08/2024 at 06:18:10 I will be up at midnight, hoping for a Blues win! Hopefully not going back to bed by quarter to one!! Paul Ferry 125 Posted 24/08/2024 at 06:48:46 COYB Have a great day, Danny. Say hi to Rob for me.Spurs 1 (66 per cent possession) – Us 2 at my sunniest mate, drinking a lovely dry white. But I fear the XI, please no: Pickford, Holgate, Keane, OBrien, Mykolenko, Gueye, Iroegbunam, Harrison, McNeil, Doucouré, Calvert-Lewin .Hope you're doing okay, mate, after losing your wife. Still feel for you. I hope the match/mates and up and down to home helps.Up to bed soon and my march down Goodison Road is going downstairs. Rob Hooton 126 Posted 24/08/2024 at 07:41:23 If I could get a ticket for the game today, then I'd march there with my head held high and back the Bblues to the hilt (if anybody can't make it, then I'll happily buy your ticket!). It's what we do, as supporters.As it's impossible to buy away tickets, thanks to our incredible, loyal support, I usually try and watch the match by hook or by crook. I'll try to avoid watching a stream today though, as this fixture annoys the hell out of me and I don't want my weekend ruined early.My plan is to be very pleasantly surprised to see that we won and to be pissed off that I didn't watch the match, a rare watch of Match of the Day beckons…Dyche needs pace up top to get behind the Spurs high line. Anything can happen. Rob Hooton 127 Posted 24/08/2024 at 07:43:44 Happy Birthday Lee C, hope the Blues give you reasons to be cheerful! Paul Ferry 128 Posted 24/08/2024 at 08:08:13 Happy Birthday, Lee, mate. Have a lovely day and a 3-point present from the XI. Lee Courtliff 129 Posted 24/08/2024 at 08:16:55 Thanks, lads, let's hope they do it for us. Sam Hoare 130 Posted 24/08/2024 at 08:17:08 Can't imagine today will be a pleasant watch from an Everton perspective and, if Tarkowski is out, then I fear even more for our back line… but who knows?It's early days and, win, lose or draw, there will be 36 more games to play. I hope we will improve after the break when Branthwaite is (hopefully) back and if we have an upgrade at right-back, that would be nice too.It was always going to be another slog this season with resources stretched and Everton near the bottom of the spending tables again. The biggest victory would be a new owner to clear up Moshiri's mess but who knows how long that will take??? Martin Farrington 131 Posted 24/08/2024 at 08:20:15 Have a safe and pleasant journey to Spurs all you superb supporters of our once great club. Truly incredible fans.The way back, I hope, will be even more joyous celebrating our fantastic victory. COYB Derek Knox 132 Posted 24/08/2024 at 08:46:35 Happy Birthday, Lee C!Hoping for a win, but you can't make a Silk Purse from a Pig's Scrotum!Even if you have the Balls to do it! Mark Murphy 133 Posted 24/08/2024 at 08:54:18 As our intrepid band of incredible supporters try to find a suitable pre-match watering hole only to be met with stoney-faced bouncers and "Home Supporters Only" signs, I was wondering if any of our pubs do the same? I've never noticed any such signs, nor even bouncers, in the Harlech, Brick etc? Are we the only club that don't treat away supporters with contempt? Are Liverpool FC the same?By the way, is the Antwerp Arms still open to aways near Spurs?? Frank Fearns 134 Posted 24/08/2024 at 08:57:56 Same birthday, Lee, but I've been very fortunate in seeing a few (not many) more trophies and some great players grace the Goodison turf. Hope to be there next year towards the end of the season to celebrate my 80th and my first day at Goodison in 1955.My granddaughter just asked me if I'm happy with my birthday present of 4 beer glasses. I said "I will be happy to have all 4 filled at 4:45 pm-ish to celebrate a win and then a lie down!!"COYB Mark Murphy 135 Posted 24/08/2024 at 08:58:10 “To the regiment!I wish I was there”UTFT Derek Knox 136 Posted 24/08/2024 at 09:04:46 Mark, Someone has to stay behind to do the paperwork! :-) Danny O’Neill 137 Posted 24/08/2024 at 09:05:05 I wouldn't put anything past you nautical types, Derek. I have first-hand experience of what you lot get up to!!! Brian Williams 138 Posted 24/08/2024 at 09:20:09 Martin #64,If we get less than a draw tomorrow, Dyche and Thelwell, that is firmly on you both.Does that mean if we win Dyche and Thelwell take the plaudits? Or does that not fit into the overall theme of your rant at post 64?I have a suggestion for the book you're running with regard to what minute you'll switch off: Don't watch at all. Martin, I have to say your post , IMHO, sums up what's wrong with TW posters in that some have us beaten before we kick off and just want to rant, and more so want someone to blame before the game's even kicked off.And I'd be willing to bet on the book you're keeping that, if we do lose, you'll take great satisfaction from "being right"! Jonathan Tasker 139 Posted 24/08/2024 at 09:24:40 I saw us win at Spurs. It was the match where Neville Southall made that extraordinary save from Falco. Dave Cashen 140 Posted 23/08/2024 at 09:27:13 Holgate is very talented. He went through the young England ranks as if his future was mapped out or him. Carlo gave him a massive contract to stave off the big boys (who were sniffing). He described him as Evertons future captain. I just don't know what happened. (I'd be a rich man if I did.) He came back after a lengthy injury a different player. He seemed to have recovered physically, but his focus and application seemed to stay on the sick bed. Even when he is playing well – he often does – you can't relax because those lapses of concentration he is prone to can happen when you least expect it. I believe Holgate and Keane are actually better footballers than Tarkowski. Unfortnately, Keane suffers the same lapses as Holgate. Tarkowski is generally steady as a rock (ignoring last week) whereas his two understudies can destroy a good team performance in a heartbeat. We're all aware of the holes and inconsistencies in Holgates's and Keane's game, but it's important to remember these two have given some great moments and great performances. I see it as a choice: you can torture yourself catastrophizing about the game days in advance, or you can buckle up for the ride hoping the wayward duo put in the sort performances which earned them their lucrative contracts in the first place. It's also worth pointing that the game does not hinge on the performances of two players. Dave Abrahams 141 Posted 24/08/2024 at 09:57:38 Jonathon (139), We've won since then, when Yobo got injured and wanted to go off – Alan Stubbs told him to run the injury off, he did and we won 3-1 at Spurs' ground.We can do the same today — if we want to and concentrate on doing so. Paul Kossoff 142 Posted 24/08/2024 at 09:58:40 This game has a nil nil written all over it. Easy win against Doncaster then three points against Bournemouth. We will be sitting easy on 4 points before the international break; don't worry, we will be okay. Paul Birmingham 143 Posted 24/08/2024 at 10:07:03 Hi Mark, the Antwerp is still going. I used to go there with a few decent Spurs fans in the day.But I'd say to all, be careful whatever station or coach park you're transitioning from to go to the ground, and if coming in at Northumberland Park station, be very careful.All going the game today, take care and enjoy the day and see Everton beat Spurs. UTFTs! Dave Williams 144 Posted 24/08/2024 at 10:12:46 Firstly Happy Birthday to Lee – hope you have a good one with at least a decent performance to watch!I can't see Sean picking Dixon with Son up against him and with noTarkowski to guide him along. Holgate is capable of playing well and the away support is more likely to encourage him than the often toxic home crowd.We were way too slack and wide open last week – akin to a pre-season friendly in the second half. Sean will rally and send them out to play tight and deep. I think half the problem last week was that we tried to play more football and Gueye was all over the place so, once Tim tired around the hour mark, we had no central midfield.There's always hope and a long way to go for Sean to get them playing the way he wants. Keep the faith and get behind the manager, team and club. Robert Tressell 145 Posted 24/08/2024 at 10:15:32 Spurs are in a different league to us altogether now. Of our first XI, only Pickford, Branthwaite and Mykolenko would get in Spurs' second XI.It is going to be an even more difficult game than usual given our injury crisis. We have little choice but to be ultra-defensive and hope to pick up a goal from a set piece – and with Keane, O'Brien and Calvert-Lewin, we should at least cause them problems. Alan McGuffog 146 Posted 24/08/2024 at 10:22:30 Paul...D'you do children's parties? Mike Corcoran 147 Posted 24/08/2024 at 10:30:29 Skybet have Holgate at 28/1 to be sent off……He should have a stormer then 😂 Jack Convery 148 Posted 24/08/2024 at 10:33:00 I reckon Tarkowski played with the injured glute last week. Probably had a pain-killing injection to see him through. However, he's made it worse. So that means Keane and O'Brien as the centre-backs, Mykolenko and Holgate as the full-backs.Does anyone know anything about Mario Hermoso? Released by Athletico Madrid. 29 years old. Played over 70 games, in the last two seasons. The reason I ask is he's left-footed and has played 53 games as a left-back, to go with his 249 games as centre-back. Just what we need once Keane and Holgate leave. Danny Baily 149 Posted 24/08/2024 at 10:39:50 Looks more like a 3rd Round FA Cup tie than a Premier League match. All we can do is set up defensively and hope for the best. The Bournemouth game should be what we're building towards. Derek Knox 150 Posted 24/08/2024 at 10:44:01 Dave @ 140, "Holgate is very talented."Where did that come from? His agent or his mum? Edward Rogers 151 Posted 24/08/2024 at 11:26:43 Jesus H Christ, I thought we were playing Tottenham, judging by the comments it seems we're playing a mix of Brazil 1970 & Barcelona,incl. Messi, Xavi, Iniesta etc.Get a grip people........ Stephen Davies 152 Posted 24/08/2024 at 11:27:11 Tarkowski is playing — and don't be surprised to see Dixon in the team. Neil Copeland 153 Posted 24/08/2024 at 11:31:26 Danny #123, the roads are very wet on the way down too mate. See you later.Looking forward to a good performance, 3pts and good journey back. UTFT! Mark Taylor 154 Posted 24/08/2024 at 11:57:50 The age old conflict between hope and realism.To cheer Danny up, there is of course always a chance of a win even in unlikely circumstances. The FA Cup could not exist otherwise.On an even more optimistic note, expectation can bear heavily, especially for Everton. That was the problem with last week, at least a draw was seen as within reach. Here, that burden is relieved and great things can happen when sportsmen can perform worry free about consequences (Bazball?).Now I'm off before realism gets its look in Sean O’Hanlon 155 Posted 24/08/2024 at 12:15:31 Reality 4 Optimism 0 Robert Tressell 156 Posted 24/08/2024 at 12:24:17 Ed # 151, it's not so much about Spurs (although they are certainly more expensively assembled than the likes of Atletico Madrid, Juve, Inter, AC Milan, Dortmund etc) – it's more that, due to injuries, we might field the worst team in the Premier League this weekend, worse than a few Championship sides.Hard work, good organisation and a good attitude can help us be competitive but it's going to be tough going. In attack, Calvert-Lewin is going to have to be at his physical best – and the not very inspiring trio of McNeil, Doucoure and Harrison will need to be much, much better than they were against Brighton.Then there's the makeshift defence... Derek Knox 157 Posted 24/08/2024 at 12:49:14 Stephen @ 152, Dixon ?Roman or 'of Dock Green' ? Either is better alternative to you know who Sch ! Dale Self 158 Posted 24/08/2024 at 12:56:48 The Lagunitas Maximus I was drinking last night said we have a good chance to frustrate Spurs and force some mistakes in midfield. It seems wiser than some of the panty wetting here. Easy, easy, that was the Maximus talking. Colin Malone 159 Posted 24/08/2024 at 12:59:53 Ben #118.Only time will tell if I'm a utter numpty. Colin Malone 160 Posted 24/08/2024 at 13:00:37 https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/transfer-news-signings-managers-unwanted-32746911 Derek Knox 161 Posted 24/08/2024 at 13:00:58 Nappy New Year Dale when it comes, or bladder gives in ! :-) Dave Cashen 162 Posted 24/08/2024 at 13:20:02 DerekIt came from Carlo Ancelotti but given some of the gems you post, I'm sure he'll bow to your superior knowledge.Sean 155That scoreline will get you 150 quid or a tenner with Skybet. Dale Self 163 Posted 24/08/2024 at 13:43:16 Derek, I bought one of those piss through a tube into a bottle contraptions for the beginning of this season. Derek Knox 164 Posted 24/08/2024 at 13:54:04 Dale @ 164, that must be the ultimate piss take ! Mark Ryan 165 Posted 24/08/2024 at 14:02:43 Lee @ 167 spot on. Brent Stephens 166 Posted 24/08/2024 at 14:04:46 Me too, Sam! Dale Self 167 Posted 24/08/2024 at 14:08:02 Derek 166, the accessories are fabulous! Add Your Comments In order to post a comment, you need to be logged in as a registered user of the site. » Log in now Or Sign up as a ToffeeWeb Member — it's free, takes just a few minutes and will allow you to post your comments on articles and Talking Points submissions across the site. How to get rid of these ads and support TW © ToffeeWeb