07/01/2025 164comments  |  Jump to last

The last ever 3rd Round FA Cup tie to be held at Goodison Park is set to go ahead on Thursday evening despite vehement dissatisfaction with the timing of the fixture from Everton's League One opponents, Peterborough Utd.

While the Everton FAB has expressed their solidarity on the scheduling, dissatisfaction among Evertonians ahead of the game has focussed more on the management, with Sean Dyche under the greatest pressure of his tenure after two poor displays that led to consecutive defeats in the Premier League against Nottm Forest and Bournemouth.

Injuries: Chermiti is going to be out for weeks, Broja has a chance for Thursday, Calvert-Lewin has an ankle problem and Dwight McNeil won't be available.

"Jimmy [Garner] might have a chance to join in with us properly – as in the main group – next week. Tim [Iroegbunam;'s probably a week behind that, but there are positive signs from the work they've done with the physios and sports science group."

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Dyche admitted that he has had contact with new owners TFG, who have been very straight with him, he has a clear understanding of the situation: "We need to win more games... I know the industry I am in."

He said he would not speak about other people's players, when asked about links to Jaden Philogene.

"The FA Cup game is very important, a really really big game."

Quizzed about the need to play in more of an attacking style, and in particular open-play goals, in which Everton trail substantially. When asked who takes accountability for this, Dyche replied: "I take accountability for everything."

"I know my job and my responsibility; we've got to win more games."

Dyche acknowledged that there is huge demand on him in the manager role and he continues to put everything into it. He has had knocks in this role but in two years in charge, he asserts: "So far I have handled it pretty bloody well, I think!"

He says it is up to him to "reinvent" the football side at the minute – he knows Everton need to win more games and he needs to find ways to do that. The pressure is taking its toll on the players but the buck stops with him.

Asked about the fans, Dyche observed, "The noise grows very powerful here." He says a lot of work is continuing with the players ahead of Peterborough, a game he says is of significant importance given the state of play here.

Asked if he wanted the opportunity to stay on here? — "I have worn this badge with as much pride as I can and I will continue to do so."

Guilia Bould wanted to know: "Do the fans back you?" Dyche replied:

"They can decide that, I have never questioned the fans here – if they choose to back me, that is obviously helpful."

 

Reader Comments (164)

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Mike Hayes
1 Posted 07/01/2025 at 16:35:28
Let’s hope this was his last press interview he’s ran out of credit after the crap he came out with after the weekends debacle 😡
Simon Harrison
2 Posted 07/01/2025 at 16:36:49
Shouldn't that be ""The potentially last ever 3rd Round FA Cup tie to be held at Goodison Park""

Or am I missing something something here..? Hehe 😉

Do we have any clue what has happened to Chermiti; I thought he was nearing a return to the squad and was on the bench against Forest (Wasn't he?)

Mal van Schaick
3 Posted 07/01/2025 at 16:40:04
Can he hear the noise? is he bothered? He should be?
John Pendleton
4 Posted 07/01/2025 at 16:43:28
Well, seems like he ain't going anywhere just yet.

A small part of me is pleased that TFG have not reacted to fan pressure and rushed a decision - that kind of thinking has plagued us for the last 8 years. Hopefully they'll be working to a strategy and a plan with candidates in mind.

Win, lose or draw, the FA result shouldn't enter the equation.

So how much does TFG gamble with Dyche to reinforce the squad for the second half of the season? And who of any quality would come?

Interesting times...

Michael Kenrick
5 Posted 07/01/2025 at 16:44:44
Simon,

Are you thinking "last ever cup tie"? I hope not.

But "last ever 3rd Round FA Cup tie to be held at Goodison Park"? — I believe that to be a correct statement!

Rob Halligan
6 Posted 07/01/2025 at 16:45:13
Well, that was short and sweet! Dyche thinks he's “Doing a bloody good job” as Everton manager! Ya gotta laugh!

Looks like it could be Beto up top on Thursday. Chermiti will be out for weeks, Calvert-Lewin has reported an ankle injury today, but Broja does have a chance.

Kunal Desai
7 Posted 07/01/2025 at 16:45:32
Absolute waffler. Hopefully that's his last press conference and no one has to listen to anymore of that breeze.
Brian Wilkinson
8 Posted 07/01/2025 at 16:45:35
John, whoever comes better have premier league experience, or they will be on the bench til April, or out "on the grass".

Any other good news for us, Rob, on the forward line? … Only kidding mate.

Simon Harrison
9 Posted 07/01/2025 at 16:46:27
Michael, that shows me for being the pedant I am! hehe

However, I have to say just skim reading, it looks like an 'error'.

Yet, your statement is correct.

My apologies.

Rob Halligan
10 Posted 07/01/2025 at 16:50:38
Brian, play Michael Keane and Beto!
Nigel Scowen
11 Posted 07/01/2025 at 16:54:10
One more Kunal

The Post Match presser

Michael Lynch
12 Posted 07/01/2025 at 16:56:24
Sounds like Beto is the last man standing up top. Surely one or two of the kids will make the bench this week, or maybe even get some minutes? Have we really not got any forwards ready to step up? Last one was Anthony Gordon and he broke through years ago
Nigel Scowen
13 Posted 07/01/2025 at 16:59:26
Michael @12,

Give Roman Dixon a shout with Patterson ahead of him on the right.

Wait, how ironic would that be if Dyche started trying new stuff now?

Larry O'Hara
14 Posted 07/01/2025 at 17:02:32
Yes Keane is a better finisher than DCL. Worth a punt
Jay Harris
15 Posted 07/01/2025 at 17:03:26
Beto to score a brace and then get his transfer leaving us with forwards on the grass but not ready to play.

If he (SD) is still here next week I will be shocked.

Jim Wilson
16 Posted 07/01/2025 at 17:07:03
Great shout Nigel.
Dixon with Patterson ahead of him on the right would be very exciting!
Nigel Scowen
17 Posted 07/01/2025 at 17:08:44
Jay@15

Jay if he is still here on Friday I’ll be amazed.

If he is here next Monday then he will be here for the Villa game imo.

David McMullen
18 Posted 07/01/2025 at 17:09:32
How is he still at the club.
Edward Rogers
19 Posted 07/01/2025 at 17:10:28
What's happened to young Sherif? Has he 'disappeared' like Coby Ebere? Have we ANY youngsters ready to step up? ( Armstrong excepted)
Nigel Scowen
20 Posted 07/01/2025 at 17:14:47
Edward@19

Funny you should say that Edward, very early in the season Sherif and Beto scored 3 in 10 minutes when they were partnered together up front versus Tranmere for the U21’s.

Kieran Kinsella
21 Posted 07/01/2025 at 17:16:22
"I take accountability for everything," except when we create chances and players miss them, or when I point out that Jarrad ducked and cost us a goal, or when I point out that these players have never scored enough under other managers, or when I moan about not spending enough money, or cite uncertainty around the ownership as problematic, etc etc etc.

He really doesn't take responsibility for anything. He is just the adoption of they/them pronouns to describe the club away from being Koeman 2.0 in that regard.

Mike Gaynes
22 Posted 07/01/2025 at 17:17:30
Larry, Keane is a better finisher than anybody else we have!

I pulled up the Chelsea goal the other day on YouTube just to groove on that moment again.

Steve Dowdeswell
23 Posted 07/01/2025 at 17:20:15
DCL with an ankle issue, not as if he will be missed. Put Keane up front as he has a better scoring record anyway.
Let's hope we can actually achieve something against the Posh but given the man in charge can anyone be confident?
Colin Crooks
24 Posted 07/01/2025 at 17:23:21
I would like to think people will stick to what he said rather than distort it or pretend not to understand it, but I don't think that will happen. not even on this thread where direct quotes are in black and white and right above.

When asked who was to blame for lack of goals he clearly states "I take accountability for Everything" - I also Hope that was clear enough.

The hot seat just got white hot. Sounds like the people who wanted him to see the season out are having second thoughts and have spelled out to him what he needs to do - "We need to win more games I know the industry I'm in"

We have three homes games on the bounce. He needs to win them all.

Good Luck SD

Ben King
25 Posted 07/01/2025 at 17:24:55
The guy has saved us 2 seasons in a row and deserves some respect

There’s so much unwarranted rudeness about his which is disgusting. Even if we stop the clock right now, we’re not in the bottom 3.

We are a really self entitled lot aren’t we.

Brian Wilkinson
26 Posted 07/01/2025 at 17:27:39
Rob beat me to it, stick Dixie Keane up there, love it when we launch Keane up there.

7/1 Keane to score in 90 minutes or 20/1 first goal.

Like the look of the 7/1.

Ian Wilkins
27 Posted 07/01/2025 at 17:30:23
Hopefully at this time we can ‘find the moment of truth’ and put him out to grass.
Even his press conferences are inordinate waffle and bore the pants off you.
He’s done.Thank him for his efforts. Pick the right man and move on.

By whatever means this squad needs at least a couple of additions in January, they should be the choice of a new manager.
Please no more failed cast offs from other clubs, it just continues the death spiral.
Recruitment is key, we’ve been getting it wrong for years. Scout better and raise the bar Everton.

Ged Simpson
28 Posted 07/01/2025 at 17:41:47
Ben 25: hate your post but think you make a very good point sadly.
Stephen Davies
29 Posted 07/01/2025 at 17:45:08
And Musks dad reckons Musk wants to buy Liverpool.Hahahaha.
The somersaults the faux socialists will have to do to justify that.
Marvelous
Neil Lawson
30 Posted 07/01/2025 at 17:45:42
Ben. I moan about the dreadful turgid football under Dyche and his appalling and unacceptable performance. I do so from a distance. My heart goes out to the many many thousands of fantastic dedicated supporters who spend significant amounts of money following our great club. Very few people would pay to go to the cinema or the theatre to watch a film or a play which is rubbish unless perhaps it is for a snog on the back row ( remember those wonderful days?) They are entitled to voice and share their opinions.
Dyche knows he will consistently be one bad game away from the sack. The greater majority of fans have lost faith. The suspicion is that many of the players have too.
He has to produce something different on Thursday. The usual suspects will not cut it. Injuries plainly do not help and limit his options but they also afford him the opportunity to make significant and positive changes. I will, of course, be watching and desperate for a win but also a performance. I hate to even attempt to imagine what the atmosphere may be like if we struggle to turn over a second rate lower league team. They, on the other hand, will be really up for this knowing that there will never be a better time to play us. Ultimately, I really don't think that Dyche can recover from the malaise that is very much of his own making.
Mike Hayes
31 Posted 07/01/2025 at 17:46:49
He lost that respect when he threw the fans under the bus and blames everyone but himself for the shit we are now in on the pitch. 🤷
Denis Richardson
32 Posted 07/01/2025 at 17:48:58
Well, the one main message for me from this is, if you don’t start winning you‘re out. Draws not enough.

Unfortunately I don‘t know how that translates to this weeks game, which should (on paper) be a comfortable win. TFG may have made their minds up already and Friday’s the day but I fear we‘ll win and then he‘ll still be in charge for Villa and we‘d have lost half of January.

If we don‘t change the style for the league matches I don‘t see where the goals, and hence points, are going to come from. We still have half a season so no need to panic but its the lack of attacking intent thats the worry.

He does seem to be a bit of a dead man walking.

Edward Rogers
33 Posted 07/01/2025 at 17:54:42
Might be, or might have been, a good opportunity for Dominic to get some confidence back by getting back amongst the goals, and I mean no disrespect to Peterborough. He just maybe needs one to go in anyhow, like most strikers in a drought.
Danny O'Neill
34 Posted 07/01/2025 at 17:55:34
Well, now I can forget the circus and get back to the football.

3 trips to the homeland and back in 10 days. I won't be hanging around after the night matches as with my son being away, I've got to get back for the dog and work of course!!

I'm sure I will be joined by others like the West Country Blues and Mark the Murph.

With Tottenham being a 2pm Sunday kick off, I can stay around after.

Hope to see some of you there at one of them.

Come on Everton. The FA Cup and some much needed points.

Eddie Dunn
35 Posted 07/01/2025 at 17:55:57
Calvert- Lewin doesn't want to be Cup-tied for Newcastle.
Ed Prytherch
36 Posted 07/01/2025 at 17:59:29
Good one Eddie
Sean Kelly
37 Posted 07/01/2025 at 18:01:17
Is Dyche on the grass or on the white line. This is torture.
Fred Quick
38 Posted 07/01/2025 at 18:01:20
I don't think it's self-entitled to ask for better than 3 league wins, or to ask to see some sort of attempts on goal that arrive more regularly than a rural bus service on a Sunday, to be able to be proud of saying that you're an Evertonian and wanting what's best for the club you support.

Obviously anything that is abusive towards any person, isn't welcome, but people are allowed to give their opinions on those who are responsible for first team affairs.

We're not currently in the bottom 3, but for how long will that be the case and it's in no way a thing to be celebrated, unless that's the position we occupy after the final game has been played.

If Kendall or Royle had have uttered it was the 'like this before I got here' mantra so often we'd have a few less trophies in the cabinet and would probably have suffered relegation a few times in the last few decades. I don't insist that we win trophies but I do think - even accounting for the current squad - that we could play something slightly better than nine behind the ball on the edge of our own box for long periods.

Colin Crooks
39 Posted 07/01/2025 at 18:04:02
Ben

I desperately want him to win his games because it means our team have won too.

BUT !!! Respect is a two way thing and because he felt unsackable he has hardly shown any great humility or respect to the fans. Has he ?

I highlighted the quote "I take accountability for everything" because until now he hasnt really done that has he, mate ?

I think he has been told in no uncertain terms that he is accountable for everything. Thats not something he can fudge anymore.

Still. Good luck SD

Joe McMahon
40 Posted 07/01/2025 at 18:10:03
I just hope TFG don't leave it too late like Alan Pace did. 4 league wins out of 30, and sacked mid April.
Frank Sheppard
41 Posted 07/01/2025 at 18:19:34
Dyche deserves our respect, he has had a very difficult job to do.HOWEVER, results this season are shockingly bad, and performances have also been shockingly bad, but were disguised somewhat by 3 recent draws.

So the noise about him is understandable.

I now feel more nervous and fearful than in the last two previous horrible Januarys.

The squad is better than the tune he gets out of them.

Ben King
42 Posted 07/01/2025 at 18:22:14
Mike #31

How and when did Dyche throw the fans under the bus? What are you talking about - please be specific

Nigel Scowen
43 Posted 07/01/2025 at 18:24:59
Ben@42

Didn’t he criticise the fans for leaving the game early Ben, can’t remember which shit show it was.

Colin Glassar
44 Posted 07/01/2025 at 18:28:18
I’m hoping we win on penalties and he’s sacked in the tunnel. He can’t be left to do more damage.
Jeff Spiers
45 Posted 07/01/2025 at 18:51:45
Eddie 35. An old Sunderland mate of mine rumoured DCL going to the barcodes with Gordon in a swap deal.
Jimmy Carr
46 Posted 07/01/2025 at 18:52:57
It's the personal and vindictive comments from posters that let this site down sometimes. And the dreamt up scenarios. Guess what, Dyche is right, we were shite when we got here, that's what he's saying. Yes it's his job to sort it, but his point stands. Get over it.

Dyche has been totally clear, he needs to win games or he's gone. He's told everyone in not so many words.

As Colin has pointed out he's accepted responsibility, and he'll pay for that responsibility with his job if he doesn't turn it round right away. As I said on the other thread, I don't think he's been held to account for some time, well he's being held to account now.

Hope he pulls it off. We now know the outcome if he doesn't.

Mike Hayes
47 Posted 07/01/2025 at 18:59:33
He’s got £5m worth of respect 🤷
Denver Daniels
48 Posted 07/01/2025 at 19:01:01
What the hell did they do to Chermiti? Sounds like Delli 2.0. Seems to me TFG have had a stern word and told him it's time to shit or get off the pot.
Brendan McLaughlin
49 Posted 07/01/2025 at 19:03:05
Nigel #43

Can't help but feel that if he had thrown the fans under the bus... we'd still be hearing about it often enough on ToffeeWeb to know for sure and remember which shit show it was.

Jack Convery
50 Posted 07/01/2025 at 19:14:24
Dyche is right to say we were crap when he got here. However, in my humble opinion, we are now even more crap.

The 3 games won stat is awful, yet he doesn't even feel embarrassed about it. 2 goals in the last several games, again awful. Losing to Southampton, absolutely dreadful.

The last 10 minutes debacle against Bournemouth. 2-0 up and lose 2-3. No team should ever fall apart, the way we did that day.

He never has a Plan B, his subs are like for like 99% of the time. He has no idea how to change the pattern of a game.

Finally, why does he have to have TFG tell him he needs to win more games? He needs to go and TFG are hopefully speaking to the next manager already.

Christine Foster
51 Posted 07/01/2025 at 19:14:50
The most telling comment for me was his admittance of a conversation with TFG. It's clear they have reiterated to him that he has to win more games or he is gone. He is in the last chance saloon; win and you're okay; lose and you're gone.

I read somewhere that they have said the manager they want to succeed him is currently employed, which would eliminate Potter or Moyes, and confirm their expectations of keeping Dyche until his contract runs out. Depending of course on results.

Dropping into the relegation zone will almost certainly trigger his demise. It has to. The risk of losing a crown jewel so publically, ahead of the fanfare of the new stadium is both financially and credibility-wise disastrous for them, never mind the club.

Failure is unacceptable, win or you go, the message to Dyche.

Kieran Kinsella
52 Posted 07/01/2025 at 19:21:30
Brendan,

It was after the Brighton game when asked by MotD about some fans leaving before the end he said:

"It feels like reality at this football club. If you're not doing well, that's what happens."

A few days later, he then claimed he wasn't criticizing fans and said:

“I've never criticised the fans here, ever since I've been here. I was just making a valid point about the obvious reality.

“You're 2-0 down, you go 3-0 down, you've got 10 men in the Premier League – It's very difficult that scenario to get back from.

“So if you're a fan you're going to go ‘Well, should I get off early?' I wasn't criticising anyone. That's just a human thing, I would imagine."

The problem with that is his explanation dealt with fans of Premier League clubs in general. He didn't say anything specific about being an Everton fan in the scenario. Whereas in his initial comments, he singled out Everton by saying "It feels like reality at this football club"

If he had just said "it feels like reality," then his explanation makes sense but since he felt the need to say "at this club," he made it about Everton; therefore, his later explanation about how fans in general may leave a game in the Premier League if it looks like they are going to lose doesn't make any sense.

Paul Kossoff
53 Posted 07/01/2025 at 19:23:59
Apparently Dan Friedkin is considering appointing both Graham Potter and Dan Ashworth at Everton, according to Paul Brown.

Watch this space.

Mike Gaynes
54 Posted 07/01/2025 at 19:30:40
Ben, Nigel, Brendan... the relevant "shit-show" was the 0-3 loss to Brighton. I remember screaming obscenities at the TV when Holgate was subbed on.

Some folks here say he "blamed" the fans for leaving early. I didn't read it that way, although to be fair I didn't see his comments live, just read the transcript. I didn't consider it criticism – certainly not throwing the fans under the bus. But it may have come over differently on TV to some viewers than it did in print.

Oops, Kieran and his faster fingers beat me to it. Good keyboard quickness there, mate!

Christine Foster
55 Posted 07/01/2025 at 19:33:25
Jack, prior to a shambolic pre-season, hopes were high that we had seen improvement last season; it was the last one at Goodison, so the hopes were good: do ok and focus on a better tomorrow.

The pre-season complacency and resultant dreadful league start killed that and we never recovered. Dyche is to blame for that: unfit players, poor team selections, negative tactics and just dreadful management of games are his responsibility. So the buck should stop with him.

The ripples of complacency pre-season have become a resultant storm which we have been fighting against all season. His answer to it all has been to board up windows and fill sandbags, hunker down and wait the storm out. It didn't work at Burnley… and it isn't working here.

Edward Rogers
56 Posted 07/01/2025 at 19:33:38
Jeff @45,

Can you honestly see Gordon wanting to come back?

Brian Williams
57 Posted 07/01/2025 at 19:38:06
"It feels like reality at this football club."

What's the problem with that, it's true?

It's also true for lots of clubs.

If the truth offends you ,maybe that's your problem not his.

As for a Gordon swapwith Calvert-Lewin — for fuck's sake, at least make a rumour a tiny bit believable!

Jack Convery
58 Posted 07/01/2025 at 19:38:37
Christine – I fully agree. Let us both hope it's sorted soonest and in a positive way.

Now would be the best time, with the gap to the Villa game.

Ant Jones
59 Posted 07/01/2025 at 19:39:43
Mr Dyche takes full responsibility for the current poor results.

However, not enough responsibility to hand in his notice, admit the buck stops with him, and move on. No, he'll just sit it out and make Everton pay the full whack.

Mike Gaynes
60 Posted 07/01/2025 at 19:45:11
Christine, any idea where you read that "they have said the manager they want to succeed him is currently employed"?

I'd be shocked if anything like that had leaked out from the Sphinx-like Friedkins. In the words of an old Mafia movie I saw a while back, "Dey don't say nuttin' to nobody."

Christine Foster
61 Posted 07/01/2025 at 19:46:18
Brian, whose version of truth are you referring to?

Dyche singularly made it specifically about this club and their fans. Not a generalism. His later attempt to water down his comment as a generalism was damaged control.

Edward Rogers
62 Posted 07/01/2025 at 19:47:10
Article about Dyche on the BBC webshite (not a typo).

He seems to have a fair amount of sympathy & support, not sure they're all Everton fans though.

Brendan McLaughlin
63 Posted 07/01/2025 at 19:48:28
Thanks for that, Kieran #52 & Mike #54.

I think I'd agree with Mike that these comments don't constitute throwing fans under the bus.

I actually resorted to Google after my comment #49 to Nigel and came up with comments Dyche made after Chelsea hit us for six last season and fans left early. He couldn't blame them was basically Dyche's reply.

I think Dyche is long enough in the game to know that fans will leave games early if their team is losing heavily and he simply accepts it as part of the rough and tumble of football management.

Robert Tressell
64 Posted 07/01/2025 at 19:52:01
Edward #19

Everton U21s are currently 13th.

Sherif has 1 goal in 5 appearances

Ebere seems not to have played at all this season.

Small chance of Omari Benjamin against Peterborough perhaps. He has 5 in 10 at U21 level from the left wing or striker position.

Charlie Whitaker has 7 in 9 from attacking midfield but I suspect he is less likely.

Armstrong and Dixon remain the likely candidates from the academy by a mile. I'd like to see them start – along with Lindstrom and O'Brien.

Not sure who will play up front if Calvert-Lewin, Chermiti and Broja are injured and Beto is in Italy.

Maybe those who have wanted to see Keane as a striker will get their wish…

Christine Foster
65 Posted 07/01/2025 at 19:52:11
Mike, over the last week I have read (trawled) just about every bit of speculation from written sources trying to get a handle on what and where we are.

To be honest, I'll have to dig for it but it stuck in my brain so I'll backtrack and dig again... lol

Nigel Scowen
66 Posted 07/01/2025 at 19:53:51
Brendan @49,

It was more of a question on my part because I couldn't think of anything else that could possibly be construed as him throwing the fans under the bus, as it were.

It would have helped if I had put a question mark at the end, I guess. Still sticking with the 'shit-show' bit though.

Stephen Davies
67 Posted 07/01/2025 at 19:59:16
Robert.

Beto isn't in Italy. Dyche mentioned in his presser that he trained with the team.

Paul Ferry
68 Posted 07/01/2025 at 20:03:42
Jeff Spiers (@45): Calvert-Lewinin a swap deal with Gordon!!!! That might just be the daftest transfer ever mooted on here.

Think about it. Why even post it? Gordon in a straight swap for Calvert-Lewin. Mind you, your source is impeccable: ‘an old Sunderland mate of mine'. This is an attempt to crack a joke right?

Colin Crooks (@24): So the gist of this post is that we should always trust what comes out of Dyche's mouth: ‘He clearly states "I take accountability for everything" ~ I also hope that was clear enough'.

You clearly have a deep expertise in source analysis. But then there is also the old adage: never take words at face value. Gullible, naïve, bless, are words that spring to mind. How did that ‘peace in our time' thing work out?

Ben King (@25):

‘The guy has saved us 2 seasons in a row and deserves some respect'.

Some good thoughtful analysis there, Ben. Could I just tweak it a little, if you don't mind: Last season, Dyche saved us from himself. That is, after the worst longest run of dreadful results in living memory that Dyche was directly responsible for, we managed to get some wins in April. Dyche saved us from himself.

Mike Gaynes
69 Posted 07/01/2025 at 20:03:58
Christine, it is brain-melting, isn't it? It's like these writers have nothing to do but speculate.

Oh, wait, that's what I've been doing all day! Argh...

Brian Williams
70 Posted 07/01/2025 at 20:04:07
Christine @61,

If he was just referring to Everton, he was right and it's still the truth.

Not anyone's version of the truth, just "the truth" as I personally witness every home game if we're losing by more than a goal with time running out.

Not an insult, just a fact!

Christine Foster
71 Posted 07/01/2025 at 20:09:39
Brian, I get your point.

You're right, he was having a dig at Everton fans in particular then.

Conor McCourt
72 Posted 07/01/2025 at 20:09:51
Normally he irritates me in his press conferences but today I thought he conducted himself well.

However, the big takeaway from me was that only 16 players trained. A while back, it seemed like players would bust a gut for him; it doesn't look like that's the case anymore.

Nigel Scowen
73 Posted 07/01/2025 at 20:10:31
Jeff @45,

If Gordon is coming back, then let's hope he doesn't get injured playing for Newcastle tonight. Jesus wept!

Brian Williams
74 Posted 07/01/2025 at 20:12:02
Christine #71,

No, just stating a fact.

He was asked "Does it feel disillusioning to see empty seats etc?"

He replied, "No, no it's just the reality at this club if you're not doing well."

It's true.

Christy Ring
75 Posted 07/01/2025 at 20:20:05
Dyche had no choice but to take responsibility for the position we're in, it's down to him. He did a superb job last season; even after the points deductions, we finished very respectable, but how have we gone backwards after bringing in 6/7 players and selling Onana?

He mentioned today about his 'game plan', that's the problem in my opinion, he never changed his formation and tactics since the start of the season.

Listening to Vinny O'Connor on Sky yesterday, he named our full-backs, midfield and wingers, and the chances they created in the last 10 games, and you could count them on one hand. I'm not a fan of Carragher, but he's completely correct: we don't have a game plan.

He won't drop Doucoure, or Mykolenko, keeps Ndiaye on the left, our most creative player, tracking back, and just changing Calvert-Lewin with Broja, without support… unbelievable.

He brought Armstrong on against Bournemouth; he'd only played 2 minutes all season. He had to play Dixon against Spurs earlier in the season; an accomplished performance under the circumstances but he hasn't been seen since.

Dyche is sadly dragging us down!

Paul Kernot
76 Posted 07/01/2025 at 20:25:15
Maybe it's Ranieri then, Christine!
Paul Kernot
77 Posted 07/01/2025 at 20:27:51
And next season, with him in charge, we'll do a Leicester & win the league.

Well I can dream, can't I?

Jeff Spiers
78 Posted 07/01/2025 at 20:31:17
Don't get me wrong, people, I certainly wouldn't entertain Gordon coming back.

Paul, he genuinely is an old friend of mine. Yeah, over the top. You take care.

Barry Rathbone
80 Posted 07/01/2025 at 20:39:52
Dyche knows he's gone bar a miracle and doesn't seem the sort to meekly take it on the chin – hence the barely contained prickliness.

I do wonder if Allardyce rang him and warned of the perils of upsetting the locals because it's not a battle individuals ever win. Boards, managers, chairmen – Evertonians have seen them all off and Dyche is just the next in line.

It is a results business and circumstances don't figure. When the going gets sticky, that irrational mantra of "yeh, the squad is poor but we still want good results and front foot togger" is prolific.

What a crazy situation.

Stuart Sharp
83 Posted 07/01/2025 at 21:00:56
I think Dyche's comments in the presser were pretty reasonable, just as I think what he's said in previous interviews were unreasonable.

However, I don't get too worked up about anything a player or manager says in interviews because they're almost always a charade. Do we ever really learn anything?

That's why I love Keegan's famous rant so much. Because it was so genuine.

I hope we smash Posh because I'm an Evertonian, even if that means suffering Dyche's football for longer. I just doubt it'll happen.

Ian Daniels
84 Posted 07/01/2025 at 21:04:09
I'm officially gas-lighted.

I have huge empathy coming from my despair of the last 2 games. He knows his time is up, and he knows he's made mistakes, he has got the players to do better than what he's doing, but they aren't all available, or performing.

It does start from the back and we were shocked at the start of the season against Brighton and Bournemouth. And he retreated.

He isn't going to be our manager next season… unless – no, he just isn't. So let's please get behind the bloke, who is just trying not to lose. We don't have to be so angry after 40 years of failure, we are still in the same place, Silva was hounded out, and yet I always remember that 4-0 win against Man Utd as a "We are back" moment. But zero time given; that's life, hey.

But if Dyche is staying, let's be Everton, let's get behind the boys and make sure he gets our backing no matter what… cos, if we don't, we are part of the problem.

Christine Foster
85 Posted 07/01/2025 at 21:13:00
Brian, I refer you too Kieran's post @52 at the risk of repeating it all again.

"It's not what you say, it's the way that you say it" – comes to mind, but it's all about perceived "truth" in the end. It was still a dig. Sorry.

Shaun Parker
86 Posted 07/01/2025 at 21:18:05
Dyche’s pre-match commentary has seen him turn smug in my opinion. Never blames himself, always shifts the blame onto others or other things.

Dyche for PM? 🤔

Kevin Molloy
87 Posted 07/01/2025 at 21:23:08
It's not been easy, but also at a time when every penny is precious under the last 2 years, we've spent upwards of £65M on four players who aren't even first choice in this dreadful side: Chermiti, Beto, O'Brien and Garner.

So we can bemoan the fact we have real weaknesses at full-back, but then, why did we spend nearly t£20M on a centre-back who has not kicked a ball?

Iain Johnston
88 Posted 07/01/2025 at 21:26:13
I'm beginning to have the feeling that Dyche delays bringing players back in order to cover his own inadequacies. I've never known players to be 'on the fitness table' so long under any other manager.

Chermiti had toe surgery before the season started and hasn't even kicked a ball yet 5 months later.

Ben King
89 Posted 07/01/2025 at 21:28:56
Someone posted on X the 3rd goal we scored last season when smashing Newcastle 3-0 at home. Over 20 passes and a surprisingly brilliant finish from Beto.

Of course we all hoped we’d kick on from last season and repeat that type of goal regularly.

Sadly it hasn’t happened. In fact we have become worse. As Evertonians we do need to take responsibility: we undervalue our players so often it’s nuts: clearly Onana was more important than we credited him for. But we do this regularly: Lukaku attracted stick. We chased Gordon away. We don’t give DCL much credit. In the past we booed Barkley, Hibbo & Osman.

We’re a funny lot: the coach welcomes were incredible and played a massive part in keeping us up under Frank. But in general games we groan and moan and get annoyed and frustrated and put the players under pressure so a point it’s almost impossible to play with freedom.

Dyche saved us from an impossible situation: zero confidence, no striker and no functioning board - he kept us up.

Last season we lost 8 points and still finished in a comfortable position (and for those criticising the football last season you have short memories of just how tough it was under those incredible circumstances with the EPL clearly out to get us. Hardly any pens or decisions going our way etc).

This season, we have been sh1t. I make no bones about that. But we’ve had 2 or our more creative able players in Garner & Tim injured. We have 3 1 paced midfielders in Gana, Magala & Doucs - how can we be expansive with them?

Harrison has STUNK the place out.

Lindstrom has been completely ineffective.

DCL’s head is elsewhere (if he didn’t want to sign a new contract and if no one wanted to buy then we’re in a stalemate position).

Beto is crap but all we could afford. Broja & Chermiti have been injured (the former has played as soon as Dyche could get him in).

Myko has been even worse offensively than last season. JB has made numerous mistakes.

Some of the above is on the manager but some of it is just circumstance. The fact we as fans can’t critically analyse this and draw a reasoned conclusion is just sad.

When we were 2-0 against Bournemouth and lost that’s on the players on the pitch. Why couldn’t captain Tarks go down at 2-1 up and take a breather and bring the players in and tell them to sit? Why couldn’t Pickford or DCL do the same? They’re experienced enough.

Instead the truth is we blame everything on Dyche because his face doesn’t fit, we don’t like his style, his voice or him as a bloke.

The truth is much much more nuanced than that but it’s easier to blame the bald gravel voice fella that plays sh1t football

Ian Daniels
90 Posted 07/01/2025 at 21:30:03
But Christine @85, it was the truth. I was there. That's the pressure of managing/supporting a gargantuan yet constant under-performer. (There's enough truth seekers being eliminated in the world.)

But when does it become non-accountable? He was accountable for not making the changes (against Bournemouth) when we could all see the midfield had ran out of legs at 2-0 up. Has he learned from that? Probably not… but, if he wants to stay in the game, he needs too.

He keeps on with Harrison even tho he dithers more than a soap extra. He believes in the lads and they keep on letting him, and us, down.

And honestly I was clamouring that we dug up Jimmy Savile as manager on Saturday at full-time, but obviously Jimmy Savile is a kopite so that weren't happening. So what have we got to lose just to say "Fuck it, let's get behind this shite a bit more"?

Liam Mogan
91 Posted 07/01/2025 at 21:31:30
It was toe-curling to watch Dyche try to turn Spit the Dogs '90s throwback' criticism into a description of 'when football was wonderful and for real men and pints of gravy' today.
Christy Ring
92 Posted 07/01/2025 at 21:34:29
Sky reporting Potter close to agreement with West Ham, Everton in the background.

I know it didn't work out at Chelsea but, for me, their new owner jumped too quick, too many superstars with egos, he hadn't a chance… a bit like Moyes at Man Utd.

Worth a shout, I can't forget his time at Brighton.

Craig Walker
93 Posted 07/01/2025 at 21:36:50
Ben King. Agree with every word of that. Dyche probably does need to go but the problems run deeper. Hope it's not a case of being careful what you wish for. I've yet to be convinced that Potter would hack it at Everton.

If this season couldn't get any worse, it could well be a Skunks v RS Carabao Final. I would struggle to be happy with any outcome in that.

Ian Daniels
94 Posted 07/01/2025 at 21:40:11
Potter grafting off the nouse of Bloom at Brighton. Fans had seen enough before Chelsea 'Poached' him. They couldn't believe their luck.

Although we might see more than two players in the opposition half, we might still be upset at being beaten every week.

Colin Malone
95 Posted 07/01/2025 at 21:41:46
I remember Dyche on Monday Night Football, before he came to Everton. His philosophy of coaching was to get the ball up top asap. Enough said.

Has he gone yet?

Liam Mogan
96 Posted 07/01/2025 at 21:44:48
He didn't mention it coming straight back twice as quick, Colin?
Anthony Flack
97 Posted 07/01/2025 at 21:46:11
I want him out but can’t really fault what he said today, to be fair.
Shane Corcoran
98 Posted 07/01/2025 at 21:53:41
Ben #89, I wish I was skilled and bothered enough to type a post like that. Pretty much reflects exactly what I think.

I might pop in more often if you can keep that level up.

Christy Ring
100 Posted 07/01/2025 at 22:13:58
Ben#89 Some very good points, and you've summed up this season perfectly, but I agree we miss Garner and Tim's skill and pace, but when Garner was fit, he picked him at fullback, which didn't work, and Tim who started the season so well, Dyche ended up putting him on the bench, before he got injured, and Gordon has a lot to answer for, in my opinion?
Fred Quick
101 Posted 07/01/2025 at 22:34:31
I don't think anybody is thinking that all of Everton's current issues are Dyche's fault, and I also don't believe that Evertonians are always out to get the manager or the team, nor do I believe that the fans are happy to use their very limited powers to oust those within the club at the first sign of trouble or because it gives them some sort of strange satisfaction when employees of the club are given their marching orders.

Failure is failure no matter how you dress it up, no matter what mitigating circumstances there may be. Not many fans of a club of our size would be happy with what has happened in the last five years, not many would accept that a dozen or so first team players were so bad that they are unable to show any footballing skills at all, and are reduced to playing like a third tier side away to the best in the country, not just in one fixture, but in nearly every game that they participate in.

Speaking purely for myself, I'm quite aware of the limitations of the players, and don't expect a miraculous turn around in the way that we play, but I do wish to see some semblance of progression in the way we set about our fixtures, currently I can't bear to watch Everton on TV when they're away from home and find it increasingly difficult to get excited before a game at Goodison, even though I attend every first team game that Everton play there.

I've been a regular at Goodison for over five decades, and this last few years have been torturous for us all, but we keep turning up to watch the same rubbish week after week. I'd prefer to see this as the positive that it is, rather than subscribe to the constant complaints that Evertonians are somehow a strange breed and are far too demanding and over critical of the players and staff in comparison to other fans at other clubs.

At what point is it alright for fans to complain or show dissatisfaction with a manager or the team, or should we all just act like a 40k cheer-leading squad regardless of the level of performance given by the players and the manager.


Paul Ferry
102 Posted 07/01/2025 at 22:39:46
Ben (King) 89: "We" did not chase Gordon away. Nor did "We" boo Barkley, Hibbo, and Osman. And it is not "We" who do not give DCL a great deal of credit.

Did you perhaps mean "some"?

Chris Woods
103 Posted 07/01/2025 at 22:40:30
Ben king @89
Words fail me after reading your post,
Unbelievably 3 people actually agree with you. After 50 years of going the game this is the worst football I’ve ever seen played by any manager we’ve had, it’s actually a chore to go the game unfortunately it’s a hard habit to break. He needs to go now
Ed Prytherch
104 Posted 07/01/2025 at 22:51:02
Everton will buy Craig Dawson and then loan him for free to each team that we play next. With 2 og's he is our top scorer in the past 10 games.
Brian Williams
105 Posted 07/01/2025 at 23:25:29
Christine#85.
Christine, there's nothing "percieved" about what he said. He spoke the truth and I, and others, see that truth happen when we're losing by more than the odd goal with time running out. That actually happens!
Goodison starts to empty out. The more goals we are behind the earlier that happens.
That can't be argued with because it's actually happened time and time again.
The fact that you believe it was a dig is immaterial it was, and remains, an incontravertible fact. I have no problem with somebody stating true facts. You, however, don't seem to be able to handle him merely stating that fact when asked a question.
Only he knows if he was having a dig. You don't, that's merely your opinion, but what he said wasn't an opinion.
Your opinion could be totally wrong. What Dyche said wasn't.

Don Alexander
106 Posted 07/01/2025 at 23:26:07
Every manager since Kendall Mk 1 has failed to meaningfully compete for any trophy, '95 excepted - and that was a miracle.

Every "professional" football employee, player or otherwise, wants the best possible contract, regardless of performance.

In my opinion the wider world of football agents and "not-quite" players have for decades zeroed in on Everton as a chump club repeatedly given to issuing lavish contracts, regardless of performance.

We call it "dead wood" and have done for decades and yet, right now, the dead forest has expanded right into our current squad and, for all I know, into our next one and the one after that.

The poison is that deep. I see no grounds for optimism, under Dyche's management or anyone else's.

Friedkin has had many months to assess what his latest "acquisition" can render to him but thus far, probably massively financially hamstrung by the hideous incompetence of Moshiri and his chosen bozo as he is, his silence is still deafening.

Billionaire yes, but successful football entrepreneur in the Premier League with a basket case of a club?

Hmm?

Kevin Edward
107 Posted 07/01/2025 at 00:04:00
Dyche likes all the stats and Xg nonsense so he surely knows how poor things have been looking, and also by saying that he’s accountable it seems he is confident that he’s still pulling the strings, regardless of fans ‘feedback’ to his efforts so far.

It’s a perfect storm, stick with Dyche and hope that the turgid football will keep us up, or bring in a new face with 19 games to do something different and move us out of the danger zone. Both options with max pressure applied as the games begin to run out.

TFG need to decide soon which way we are all going, lose on Thursday (which normally would be unthinkable, but I am a bit worried) and Dyche may be a goner. Win comfortably and with style and probably Dyche will have some more time for digging in.

Probably the lack of available candidates is the determining factor, if Dyche gets to the end of January with any upturn in results then likely we are stuck with him to the bitter end.

What a mess. One thing I do agree with is that Dyche is unlikely to fold under the pressure, he’ll keep doing it his way until the final whistle on the last day.

Mike Gaynes
108 Posted 08/01/2025 at 00:12:33
Ben and Fred, thoughtful posts both.
Christine Foster
109 Posted 08/01/2025 at 04:10:52
Brian, 105# Don't get your knickers in a twist. The fact that the crowd left before the end is Fact, not contesting that, its the reasoning they left, was it because they had seen enough of what was being served up to them hardly matters because it is the context of Dyche comment that is at question. He wasn't talking of any football club or its supporters, he referred to the exodus as THIS football club, that it was the norm, that was it expected BECAUSE of the supporters of THIS club.

After years and I do mean years of put downs of fans from the management of our club one can be forgiven if not seeing this as another one. Thats how it was perceived, not just by me I might add. If he meant it happens in football generally no problem, he is right, it does, but he made the point of it being this club in particular.

Splitting hairs perhaps? Not debating the fact people walked out Brian, never was, just the take on it by our manager. Thats my opinion. You can have yours.. its called debate.

BTW, it was exactly reported as such in the media:

https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/1937360/Everton-news-Sean-Dyche-Brighton-Premier-League

Or Toffeetv..

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q2o3Kl0-j6c

Even the interview on FB was viewed as a direct dig at the fans..

https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=481329734661502

Sam Hoare
110 Posted 08/01/2025 at 06:30:06
A better press conference from Dyche who has has come across poorly at times this season when under pressure.

He's had a few unfortunate injuries and such to deal with but all managers do and the results and performances have been unacceptable, even with this limited bunch.

A win against Peterborough would be irrelevant other than as some respite and confidence building for the players. If he is still in charge for Villa and Tottenham then he surely will need to win at least one of those to stay the hand of TFG who I'm sure would prefer not to act while their feet are only just under the table.

Les Moorcroft
111 Posted 08/01/2025 at 07:56:40
Chris 103
Maybe not everyone who posts
Bother to sit through this boring stuff. I do. And agree with you. In my opinion.
Andrew Ellams
112 Posted 08/01/2025 at 08:42:22
West Ham have cancelled Lopategui's press conference for this week so looks like Potter is off the table now.
Derek Knox
113 Posted 08/01/2025 at 09:47:11
Andrew, forgive me, but shouldn't that have read, Potter is off the Wheel now ? :-)
Andrew Ellams
114 Posted 08/01/2025 at 09:54:15
Well if he's going to West Ham, Derek, he's still on the wheel.
Jay Harris
115 Posted 08/01/2025 at 10:29:24
Dyche has totally lost the dupport of the fans and therefore is there any surprise they start to leave before full time. How much of to is turgid non performance are we expected to endure.

The only answer is the optimism and inspiration a change will bring about which should be enough to see us safely through this season but it will at least get the crowd back on board.

Steve Brown
116 Posted 08/01/2025 at 10:52:20
The “it’s the players to blame.. no it’s the manager” debate is reductive. And pointless.

Nothing about Everton’s failings over the last 5 years is binary - it was a perfect storm of global events, a pandemic, PSR and financial mismanagement, executive leadership failure, DoF and managerial failings, disgraceful playing standards and general incompetence at most levels of the club.

One constituency who are NOT to blame are the fans. If anyone thinks fan opinion has been a major factor in decisions made within the club in recent years they are in cloud cuckoo land.

No-one at the club has played any notice of the fans since 2020, unless it was to find an easy scapegoat for their own massive failings.

And if the fans who paid their money decide to leave the game early, it is entirely their choice and, frankly, who can blame them?

All we want is inspiration, commitment, hard-work, some simple pride and basic, minimum standards. That isn’t too much to ask.

Brendan McLaughlin
117 Posted 08/01/2025 at 11:12:07
Steve #116

"And if the fans who paid their money decide to leave the game early, it is entirely their choice and, frankly, who can blame them?"

Basically what Sean Dyche said.

Brian Harrison
118 Posted 08/01/2025 at 11:18:52
Sean Dyche is paid something in the region of £5m a year, yet when asked about lack of goals he trots out that has happened for the last 4 seasons. But you have been paid this enormous some of money to sort it out. He says he told everybody at the beginning of the season we would struggle, I must have missed that press conference. Yesterdays press conference was listening to a man who knew his time was quickly coming to an end, and could offer no alternatives of how he solves the many problems that are there, because if he had he would have tried them by now. All he has done is stick to the same style and formation that clearly isn't working, and his alternative is just to swap like for like players, rather than admit his systems don't work with this set of players.
For God sake Friedkin get over here and tell us what your plans are because we have heard very little of your plans. And your first statement must be Sean Dyche has been relieved of his position.
Steve Brown
119 Posted 08/01/2025 at 11:20:25
To be honest Brendan, I have not had much issue generally with what Sean Dyche has said in his interviews and news conferences in the last 2 seasons.

Last season, he was the only person representing the club’s point of view week in and week out as we battled 2 PSR investigations. But I do recognise his words seem to be triggering some of our supporters.

The issue for me has always been the performances and results produced on the pitch. Up until December 2023, the manager was doing a very efficient job but 2024 was more challenging.

Brian Williams
120 Posted 08/01/2025 at 11:31:04
Christine#109

Christine, not getting my knickers in a twist at all.

Just merely opposing your opinion and quoting facts.

Many different people can have many different opinions but the facts are the facts.

Dyche was talking about, among others, me!

He was right, when we're shite and when we're getting beaten with time running out lots leave early.

I leave early because doing so allows me to minimize the negatives of the day by getting a quick dart and reducing travel time from Goodison to home by about half an hour. Cutting my losses if you like.

It means I don't have to sit stewing and angry in heavy traffic and prolonging the pain!

Thousands of others do it for what reasons I can only assume.

I have no problem whatsoever with the man making a truthful, correct statement about me.

If he was lying, or incorrect, I may feel differently.

I don't see the point in "was it a dig, wasn't it a dig" as only he knows.

I don't know how long it's been since you've been at Goodison but the "crowd" has changed A LOT.

Not without cause but Goodison is a very difficult crowd.

Bob Parrington
121 Posted 08/01/2025 at 11:34:58
We need a play maker. This probably means Dyche is out of a job.
Brian Harrison
122 Posted 08/01/2025 at 11:51:07
Brian 120

Look if someone wants to leave early for whatever reason its his prerogative and I have no issue with it and I have seen many many games were supporters of other clubs have left early if their team is losing.

I don't believe the crowd at Goodison has changed, I have been going to Goodison for 70 years, I have seen the cushion throwing in the 70s, not something I liked to see but the words of the best chairmen this club ever had said Evertonians will let you know when their not happy and its my job to make them happy. Pity that same sentiment isn't prevalent now. So I don't see any great difference from when I started going in the 50s fans come to be entertained and if there not being scousers they will let you know. Now if you cant handle that then don't play or manage Everton.

James Marshall
123 Posted 08/01/2025 at 12:00:39
We can all complain and wring our hands as much as we like - history (and Gawd know we love our istory) tells us that as soon as there's some discontent reported in the media, the manager starts defending himself and supporters get all wound up, that the writing is on the wall.

It's only a matter of time before he's gone now I'll wager.

Re the Goodison crowd - there appears to be more unrest now because, well, it's now. It feels like the crowd has changed for some people, which I guess is confirmation bias to some degree.

The crowd get restless because we're shit to watch. We don't score goals, we don't excite anyone, and we play dire football. It's really that simple. Everyone goes to the game expecting us to be shit, but hoping we won't be.

We are shit.

Eddie Dunn
124 Posted 08/01/2025 at 12:04:43
I appreciate that on the whole Dyche has done a decent job.

What annoys me is the way he talks like a modern politician. His mangerspeak and the repetition of his stock phrases. "On the grass, noise" etc.

I think he is a proud man and he is attempting to lead his group but he has criticised his players on various occasions but has (until now) been reluctant to accept responsibility himself.

He has been very stubborn from the start with players rewarded for poor performances by being picked every week.

Doucoure is a good example, stinking the place out with his awful passing.

There has clearly been a problem between him and Thirlwell as why would we buy Obrien to sit behind Keane on the bench?

I was calling for his head but actually don't see the point of putting Baines in the hot seat.

The problem we have is that Dyche knows he is out on his arse in the summer but still has a reputation to protect, but half of the squad are out of contract and will probably be gone next season.

I am relieved that Potter looks to be going to West Ham as I think his turgid football would be even more dull than Dyche's.

I don't see any alternative other than getting behind the lads in blue and hoping for the best, unless Moyes fancies it till the end of the season.

Stephen Davies
125 Posted 08/01/2025 at 12:12:13
Mourinho now Odds on favourite with the bookies
Geoff Williams
126 Posted 08/01/2025 at 12:24:49
My personal belief is that Dyche should leave but I am taken aback by the lack of direction by the new owner and his team. If they are backing Dyche then they should come out and say so as they're leaving him out to dry at the moment. He appears to be a dead man walking and his relationship with the the team will only deteriorate while all the speculation about his future continues. If he has lost the owners backing then action be taken immediately. Results will not improve whilst there is this continued uncertainty. There can't.be a sensible transfer policy in the current climate, who would to sign for a manager whose future is constantly being questioned.
Time is quickly running out and relegation is becoming more likely with each passing day. The owner cannot continue to procrastinate, he must either back the manager or do what the majority of supporters want and sack him.
Andrew Ellams
127 Posted 08/01/2025 at 12:34:08
Geoff, we have no idea what's been said in private. Somebody like Dyche is wise enough to ignore media tittle tattle if he's had personal reassurance internally.
Barry Lightfoot
128 Posted 08/01/2025 at 12:35:46
I leave early, first and foremost this is supposed to be entertainment if there's rubbish on the telly I turn it off if I don't like a film I'll walk out, why should football be any different.
I go to enjoy the match and currently Everton are abysmal, if the players can't even pass to each other never mind get the ball upfield and have a shot then what is the point in staying to watch. The pubs are open and the beer is chilled.
They make no effort for me after I've paid and made the effort to get there and watch.
Clive Rogers
129 Posted 08/01/2025 at 12:41:05
Geoff, owners saying they are backing the manager is usually the kiss of death. I agree with all the rest of your excellent post. Dyche has had long enough in the job to have improved some sections of the team, but it hasn’t happened. For me the writing was on the wall when Dyche brought Young and Harrison back in the summer after they had both been dreadful last season. A completely incompetent and incomprehensible decision.
Bill Watson
130 Posted 08/01/2025 at 12:49:10
Clive # 129

Agreed but to be fair to Young, he's been very good this season.

Christy Ring
131 Posted 08/01/2025 at 12:51:18
It’s hard to ignore the fact that we’re offering absolutely nothing offensively with Dyche’s tactics and formation, and he still sticks to his rigid game plan, and still picking certain players who are playing crap, our fans having watched this away and at home are saints, and deserve a lot better, and Dyche has to go now. We need a fresh manager, who’ll let the team play, and for me Potter would be a good bet, if it’s not to late.
Ray Roche
132 Posted 08/01/2025 at 12:53:29
Eddie@124
Regarding O’Brien, I believe Dyche wanted Greaves who went to Ipswich, O’Brien wasn’t his choice so, in my opinion, he’s seen his arse and won’t use O’Brien because he’s got a sulk on.
Jimmy Carr
133 Posted 08/01/2025 at 12:53:41
Brian Williams, agreed. Dyche got asked a question and gave a response, there was nothing controversial about what he said.

Posters with an agenda against Dyche because of the results and standard of football, fair enough.

Those with an agenda due to non-existent slights against the fans and comments about players need to have a look at themselves. Or better still, stop listening to him and stick to posting about the football instead.

Brian Wilkinson
134 Posted 08/01/2025 at 13:02:39
For me there is only two people that can dig us out of the shit we are in and whether you like it or not, it has to be David Moyes, with Lee Carsley as his number two for the longer term.

I do not give a flying hoot what went on in the past, I care about now, I know for sure he knows our club inside out and he will get a tune out of this squad of players, anyone else is a huge risk to hit the ground running, we can focus on that in the Summer.

Anyway that’s my thoughts on the here and now situation.

I will even stick my neck out and say if Potter goes to West Ham, and Moyes to us, that Moyes will pick up more points than Potter.

Mal van Schaick
135 Posted 08/01/2025 at 13:06:57
Signing Igamane from Rangerswould be a good start to the TFG era…a goals scorer.
Bill Watson
136 Posted 08/01/2025 at 13:09:41
Immediately before another game isn't the ideal time to sack a manager so the likelihood is that, win or lose, he'll be sacked after the Peterborough game.

If the Friedkins are minded to keep him on if we win then I'd be prepared to take the short term pain of another dreadful result. Either way we certainly won't win the FA with Dyche in charge.

Colin Malone
137 Posted 08/01/2025 at 13:13:22
Liam # 96.
So true.
Brian Williams
138 Posted 08/01/2025 at 13:15:25
Well it's not Potter as he's agreed terms with WHU!
Anthony Hawkins
139 Posted 08/01/2025 at 13:17:07
Assuming TFG has a plan, I don't think replacing Dyche featured in their immediate timeframes. I imagine the plan was to get to the end of the season and replace Dyche with a fan fare alongside the move to the new stadium.

I like everyone else hoped Dyche would be gone before Christmas, but the reality is a new incoming manager in the Summer was more likely, with the end of Dyche's contract.

If Dyche is replaced now, will TFG get the person they want or will they need an interim to the end of the season? It doesn't have quite the same effect. Equally, has Sean convinced the interim board that he can still do a job and to give him more time?

Rennie Smith
140 Posted 08/01/2025 at 13:19:09
Quite alright with that Brian, I don't see him as the right man for our situation
Colin Malone
141 Posted 08/01/2025 at 13:19:37
Brian # 138.
Personally, I'm glad we won't get Potter. Brighton, are still doing well without him.
Clive Rogers
142 Posted 08/01/2025 at 13:23:13
Bill, 130, I don’t agree. He’s been poor recently, having no effect on games. He’s crafty, just keeping it simple.
Mike Hayes
143 Posted 08/01/2025 at 13:23:44
Knowing Everton the board backing Dyche isn’t the kiss of death it’s the kiss of life 🙄
Paul Hewitt
144 Posted 08/01/2025 at 13:24:30
Mourinho's odds have fallen to 8/11 in last 24 hours. Interesting.
Mark Daley
145 Posted 08/01/2025 at 13:28:26
Surely Duncan is at least part of the answer?
Derek Taylor
146 Posted 08/01/2025 at 13:32:24
Brian @134. I agree with every word. I'm no Moyes fan but can't think of anybody who is more likely to get us out of the shit than him. Every game they leave Dyche in charge will see us nearer to bottom three and certain relegation.


TFG have procrastinated too long already and that bodes ill for the future !

Robert Tressell
147 Posted 08/01/2025 at 13:33:10
Mourinho is not what he once was but he would certainly get everyone excited if nothing else.

I'm sceptical as to whether he'd take over now and risk relegation on his CV - but who knows. We got Ancelotti after all...

Barry R will be delighted too (which is rarely seen on these pages)

Brendan McLaughlin
148 Posted 08/01/2025 at 13:33:56
Mark #145

Only if doughnuts is the other part!

Dave Abrahams
149 Posted 08/01/2025 at 13:34:26
Mark (145), What was the question?
Joe McMahon
150 Posted 08/01/2025 at 13:38:08
Mourinho. Is earning lot more at Fenerbache than Dyche is at Everton. If I could cherry pick, it would be Thomas Frank.
Robert Tressell
151 Posted 08/01/2025 at 13:40:31
I think Thomas Frank is most likely to go to Spurs in summer.
Mark Daley
152 Posted 08/01/2025 at 13:41:20
Yes all right, zbut look: he’d have the crowd behind him, no nonsense in the dressing room, he wears the number nine shirt in the shower, and he’s available and would do it. Not saying he’s the total package, but as part of it. When I read people suggesting journeymen and has-beens (Mourinho???) I have to say - why not a Goodison legend almost on a par with Dixie Dean?
Jimmy Carr
153 Posted 08/01/2025 at 13:47:05
Listening to the press conference, it's now down to Dyche getting some wins, and I would imagine that particularly means in the league, and though I can't imagine that anything but a win against Peterborough will do, I think the game against Villa is the real crux.

Unless something dramatic happens, Dyche is here for that Villa game, but he's been put on notice and I think that's a good thing as he might have to try something tactically different.

Better late than never.

Personally I'm glad the Friedkins haven't jumped the gun this week, that was the sort of knee jerk response characterized by Moshiri, and that worked out well didn't it? It means they have a longer term strategy and another managerial target in mind, that can only be a good thing after the merry-go round of the last few years.

They've heard the mood music that stability and avoiding relegation are the watchwords and they're trying to play along. Good.

But being honest, it's likely to only be a temporary stay of execution for our current manager.

Jimmy Carr
154 Posted 08/01/2025 at 13:49:41
Mark Daley I thought you initial post was a joke, but you're serious?
Christy Ring
155 Posted 08/01/2025 at 13:50:14
Mourinho's best days are behind him, and how would it make sense that the people who sacked him at Roma now want him at Everton??
Andrew Ellams
156 Posted 08/01/2025 at 13:58:23
Colin @ 141. Odd comment, I'm sure Potter has to get a fair amount of praise for how Brighton are now because he did a huge chunk of the groundwork.
Joe McMahon
157 Posted 08/01/2025 at 14:15:46
Mark, Duncans only management roles have been. 1 win for Everton, Inverness Caledonian Thistle and Forrest Green. Surely the days of Little Everton are over.
Robert Tressell
158 Posted 08/01/2025 at 14:16:45
Andrew # 156, I'm not sure Potter does take much credit. The visionary owner's approach to recruitment / player development takes most of the credit. Potter was not involved in any of this. He just coached the high quality players he was provided with by a very well run club.

Potter's record in the Championship is much inferior to the likes of Steve Cooper - and he obviously bombed under pressure at Chelsea.

I think he's only highly regarded because he's associated with the successful Brighton project - but I'm not sure he really takes much credit for that success.

Andrew Ellams
159 Posted 08/01/2025 at 14:20:00
All the parts need to come together though Robert.

Our own squad is not the best but it's better than Dyche makes it look.

Christopher Timmins
160 Posted 08/01/2025 at 14:30:37
Christy # 155

If he was appointed after being sacked by Roma we would have to be very worried about the future of the club.

I am trusting that Mike G will be proven correct and the owners will prove themselves to be competent and and in the short to medium term they will get it right.

Without hope there is not a lot else out there at the moment.

Robert Tressell
161 Posted 08/01/2025 at 14:38:49
Indeed Andrew, but Chris Hughton deserves at least as much credit as Potter in my opinion. And without Bloom and his data analytics technologies they would still be in the lower leagues whoever their manager was. That's where the real credit lies.
Jay Harris
162 Posted 08/01/2025 at 14:40:00
It worries the life out of me that Gareth Soutgate is being touted as the manager TFG will turn to.

There can be no doubt that SD has lost the majority of supporters and therefore anxiety from the crowd will have an effect on the players.
What we need beteeen now and the end of the season is some inspiration and determination. IMO Dyche is incapable of this now and therefore change is needed urgently.

As for who we can all speculate who might be able to sort it out but there can be no doubt we need an experienced pair of hands in the short term.

I hate to say this as if the circumstances were different would have a different opinion but Moyes or Mourhino would be my picks on a 12 month rolling contract.

Paul Hewitt
163 Posted 08/01/2025 at 14:41:40
Short term I'd go for Moyes. Long term I'd get Danny Rohl from Sheffield Wednesday.
Jay Harris
164 Posted 08/01/2025 at 14:44:57
Good shout Paul
Nigel Scowen
165 Posted 08/01/2025 at 14:54:11
Paul@163

Sarri, Sarri, Sarri Paul

Paul Hewitt
166 Posted 08/01/2025 at 14:57:39
Not a chance Nigel.
Nigel Scowen
167 Posted 08/01/2025 at 14:59:30
Why’s that then mate
Paul Hewitt
168 Posted 08/01/2025 at 15:07:54
I just don't see a mid sixty year old wanting to come to England and get involved in a relegation fight. Probably stay in Italy and wait for a job there. Doesn't mean I wouldn't take him though.

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