Set pieces repeatedly expose the pitfalls of Howard's way

Gareth Cooper 25/10/2015 63comments  |  Jump to last
They say a good goalkeeper can save you 10 points a season. The concern for me is how many points, on balance, will Tim Howard cost Everton this season?

I don't want this article to turn into a scapegoating, so let me start by saying that Tim Howard is a very good shot-stopper on his day and has on many occasions saved Everton (and the USA) with fine performances. This was particularly highlighted by his display for the USA in the World Cup, which provoked superlatives from all commentators and even the attention of President Obama! It is fair to say that Tim Howard will save Everton points in certain games this season when he is on form. But, and it is a very big 'BUT', his current form and arguably the consistent flaw throughout his career of being unable to command his box, is losing Everton points and killing Everton's chances of progression.

This is no surprise to us given the outpouring of views on Tim's goalkeeping across these pages. More concerning is that this is no secret to our opposition who use this as a measured way of attacking our defense. Arsenal knew full well yesterday that the edge of our 6-yard box was an area of no-man's land. With technically gifted midfielders like Cazorla and Ozil able to place balls right on that line, we became very exposed. This in my view was why Olivier Giroud was played by Arsene Wenger.

The view of some before kick-off was that his inclusion over Walcott was in some way an underestimation of Everton as he seemed happy to rest his first team players. I think this was purely tactical as Giroud, with form for this against Everton defenses in recent seasons, was able to be a threat in those pockets of the box that Howard is unable to dominate. Both goals last night could have been snuffed out had we a goalkeeper confident to protect his box and clear out all in his path – ball and attacker.

Most dangerous, however, is that our manager doesn't seem to notice, or refuses to notice. The pedestal upon which Mr Martinez has put Tim Howard seems to have made him undroppable! The transfer policy for this position has resulted in there not being a credible alternative for many a season now. This may seem slightly harsh on Joel Robles, who actually had a very good run in the squad last season when Howard was injured, but the truth is he remains relatively untried and unproven at the top level. In the summer, there was a major U-turn over whether a new goalkeeper was on the shopping list. The resultant lack of competition leaves Howard untested and able to rest on his laurels.

Unforgivable, if true, are the rumours that our training does not include any focus on set-pieces, particularly corners. This blunts our attacking, which, with the likes of Lukaku, Funes Mori, Stones, Jagielka etc all with history of scoring with their head, removes the shine from one of our attacking options. This was evident yesterday when, on more than one occasion in the second half, we played a short corner and lost the ball rather than getting the ball in the box for a legitimate contest and direct effort at goal.

The impact is far worse at the other end of the pitch though; it is one of the weakest areas of our defending, which is criminal given the calibre of our central defenders. Our box is a shambles when corners are hooked in. I honestly cannot tell if we are playing zonal or man-marking and no-one seems to want to attack the lofted ball. Least of all likely to do this is Tim Howard, an absolute farce given he can use his hands.

The 6-yard box which should be owned by the goalkeeper is a free-for-all and poaching strikers will find the gaps, much to the disappointment of the Blues faithful. Players with no right to be winning an aerial battle, such as Danny Ings, have exposed us in recent matches which is embarrassing and frustrating in equal measure. Staying on his line should not be an option for Howard; there is little chance he will be able to react quick enough to any headers. The goalkeeper has to claim the ball and command his box.

So we are consistently conceding goals through defensive frailties linked to the lack of a strong goalkeeping presence. My internal conflict is, Who is most to blame here: Tim Howard, or Mr Martinez? Watching last night, I flitted between rage at the inept way Howard tries to defend our goal, and disbelief that Martinez allows the same weaknesses to be exposed.

My current view is that the buck really does need to stop with the manager and issues like this need to be addressed on the training ground. If something isn't working then it needs to be drilled over and over again at Finch Farm. If there is no improvement then an alternative needs to be sought. We cannot keep conceding one or two goals before half-time and trying to fight back. It looks gutsy and will sometimes yield results but slow starts to games and a dodgy goalkeeper will be the death of our tilt at the top places this season.

As I mentioned in a previous post, we have now hit a critical point in the season. Our difficult first 10 matches are over and we have a reasonably creditable 13 points; decent given the context of the Premier League table this season. This leaves us only 9 points off Arsenal in top spot (or at worst 11 off City if they win their derby) with a run of games until the New Year against opposition Everton should be superior to (or, at the very least, aspire to be). This is a great opportunity to make a serious push towards the top of the league given all teams at the top are dropping points and the disappearance of Chelsea.

There are no easy games, but the points over the next 2 months are there for the taking. The only way we will get there is if we tighten up at the back, reclaim our 6-yard box, and put the onus onto our attackers to deliver us winning goals rather than asking them to dig us out of holes we have dug for ourselves.

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Reader Comments (63)

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Brent Stephens
1 Posted 25/10/2015 at 16:09:59
Gareth, I think that’s a good piece you’ve written. I think it’s a good observation you make about Wenger selecting Giroud over Walcott, having identified our lack of command in the six-yard box as a focus for attack.

You say you hope people don’t get into a rant about Howard, but I suspect you’re analysis of his game actually invites that. Oh well.

John Atkinson
2 Posted 25/10/2015 at 16:31:18
I completely agree with the article. Howard has never been a good goalkeeper. He is a good shot stopper.

I said last season we needed to get a new Number One goalkeeper who commanded the 6-yard box. Howard has never done and never will. Why Martinez cannot see this is beyond me. I think Howard cost us at least a point yesterday and also against Man City when in my view he should have saved both their goals.

The second string GK we have is worse than Howard. Last year, Martinez should have gone back in the January window for John Ruddy when Norwich were still in the Championship.

If we want to press for a top 6 finish Martinez and Bill need to sort out a top GK in January.

Nick Entwistle
3 Posted 25/10/2015 at 16:47:32
Should have heard Howard co-commentating on the Manc derby - 'its terrible when the balls come out of the air like that'. Even in the stand he was scared of a deep cross. Arghhhhhhh.
Jay Harris
4 Posted 25/10/2015 at 17:12:31
Although I think it is right to criticize Howard's performance regarding crosses, as you rightly say, it is the manager’s responsibility to ensure we are defending properly.

Jags was also to blame for both those goals, allowing the Arsenal players to get in behind him.

Martinez needs to get a top drawer defensive coach in to improve this weakness of ours... or go and take his backroom staff with him.

Tony Marsh
5 Posted 25/10/2015 at 17:23:15
Fans often wonder why we are perceived by the media as a small club when we all think that not to be the case. Take Tim Howard and his crap performances; week-in & week-out, Tim is absolute shite yet nothing is said on TV or in the papers...

If Hart or Cech or De Gea played like Howard, there would be huge inquest from the media and heads would roll. The fact that Tim Howard plays for Everton means nobody gives a fuck and Tim Howard escapes the spotlight.

We are a small club now as we accept mediocrity right across the board. The chairman, the manager, and to an extent, our fans just take it on the chin and no real fuss is made.

The Red Shite owners sack Brenda when they are on the same points as us and still in the cups because they can see that he isn't good enough to take them forward. Our owner just sits there going more gormless and spouting shite like his manager. The fans turn up and all is well.

I never thought I would say this but I am jealous of the likes of West Ham and Leicester City. They play to win and they excite. I am not saying they will win anything but at least they will have a go. Martinez and his fucked-up tactics will never give us anything to cheer about. All we ever had was hope and Roberto has now taken that away.

We are finished this season and, as long as we continue on this path, there is no point to any of it. I mean, Tim Howard won't be dropped and that's where we should start first.

Mike Price
6 Posted 25/10/2015 at 17:28:07
He actually looks like he’s messing up on purpose; he’s like a goalkeeping version of Tommy Cooper but not funny at all. He must be one of the luckiest professionals ever, and the money he’s on is a sick joke but Everton do like a charity contract as we all know.

He’s a shockingly boring TV commentator as well, like a more monotone Michael Owen, with an accent, that talks crap.

Trevor Peers
7 Posted 25/10/2015 at 17:39:56
Who is this new top keeper we're going to find? Al Habsi? ... Dream on.

Which top keeper will Roberto have in mind, do you think?

Mike Price
8 Posted 25/10/2015 at 17:49:21
We don't need a top keeper to improve, we just need an average one.
Jamie Barlow
9 Posted 25/10/2015 at 18:05:16
It's probably the way they're coached. Robles doesn't command his box either. It wouldn't surprise me if they're told to stay on the line and let the defenders mop up any crosses. It's the only reason I can think of why he hasn't been dropped.

I definitely think Howard needs dropping now but not every goal we concede is his fault as some on here would have you believe. Our two centre backs and Ross Barkley have also been at fault lately.

Dave Abrahams
10 Posted 25/10/2015 at 18:21:47
Robles is 25 years of age yet he has only played 33 league matches in his career. He has never been given a sustained spell in goal by any manager and Martinez has managed him twice; I think he deserves a good few games as our first-team goalie, starting on Tuesday in the League Cup.

If I’m correct, hasn’t he played in the two previous League Cup games? If so, he’ll be in goal versus Norwich and hopefully a few matches after that.

Clive Mitchell
11 Posted 25/10/2015 at 18:26:30
Mike, 8 - exactly - Tim Howard is way below top-flight standard. He continually flaps at crosses – look at last minute away to WBA – or is rooted to his line, or both.

If you think for a moment about how strong our defence is, think how much stronger they’d be if they had, for example, Robles behind them, never mind a decent keeper like Pantilimon. Mignolet is far better than him, for god’s sake.

Ian Glassey
12 Posted 25/10/2015 at 18:32:43
Get the scouts over to watch the German League, nearly every team has a great keeper.
Jamie Barlow
13 Posted 25/10/2015 at 18:34:37
Our defence isn't strong. It's all over the place and will continue to be so until Martinez works at it.
Stephen Stott
14 Posted 25/10/2015 at 19:21:39
No goalkeeper commands his six-yard box. If the German league is full of good goalkeepers, how come Neuer who is seen as best in world, flapped at a cross which cost Bayern's first goal against Arsenal.
Danny Broderick
15 Posted 25/10/2015 at 19:47:11
Jay (4),

I think you are being a bit harsh on Jags there. Certainly for the first goal, no centre half could have stopped it. It was a fantastic ball whipped in to the 6-yard box. Only a keeper could have dealt with that, unless the defenders are so deep that they are defending on the 6-yard line.

There are good keepers out there. Southampton got the big Scottish keeper from Celtic (Forster?), Begovic moved and Butland went to Stoke. Cech obviously moved as well.

I would love us to break the bank for Butland. I guess I’m dreaming, because we’ve never got any money. But you would get a good 10 years out of him, he could be the England No 1 if he keeps on improving.

Howard has been a good servant to us, but time has been catching up with him the last 18 months. I find it ridiculous that he was given a 5-year contract a little while back. I only hope for all of our sakes that he can find a move back to the USA, which might net us a few million for him. That would be the best solution for all of us. He has served us well, but he is looking more and more likely to concede every time I watch him now.

Jay Harris
16 Posted 25/10/2015 at 21:23:16
Danny, I agree with you about a new keeper and in fact have been advocating finding a new "Joe Hart" for the last year or so but Jags definitely allowed the Arsenal players to get goalside of him for both goals.

I believe there is a very good Italian keeper being groomed to take over from Buffon in the national side but I can't remember his name. There is a young Belgian keeper who is not too bad also...

Dick Fearon
17 Posted 25/10/2015 at 21:31:12
My opinion is that the two goals were not Jagielka's fault. Watching them ’live’ and on slo-mo with half-a-dozen repeats plus my own recording of them clearly show the scorers on both occasions were marked by Stones. He was left marking space when they sprinted from him.

If I recall properly, it also happened in the derby. In saying that, I am not making excuses for Howard who should have had more command over his 6-yard box.

Mike Oates
18 Posted 25/10/2015 at 21:46:35
Both 1st and 2nd goals were the fault of Stones and Howard. Stones made no attempt to attack either ball and on both occasions he was marking the goal scorers. Howard should have wiped out anyone who come into his 6-yard box, including our two centre-halves, as well as Giroud and Koscielny.

I still for the life of me can't understand why Lukaku doesn’t come back and help at set pieces. He would be far more effective than Barkley in marking one of their players.

Whilst we are at it, let's get rid of the little plumpy goal keeping coach whatever his name is... absolutely useless. He clearly trains or advises other coaches that all our keepers from 1st team to U18s should stay on their line. If you look at videos on main site, they all stay on their lines.

Trevor Peers
19 Posted 25/10/2015 at 21:49:27
It’s amusing reading the comments on TW about the GK situation at Everton, and the assumption that Roberto has identified the problem, and is searching Europe for a replacement for Howard.

I would imagine Howard will only leave, or be replaced, when Roberto leaves or is replaced. Last season, it was Kone who had to be sold; Roberto doesn’t sell his mates that’s a fact.

Colin Glassar
20 Posted 25/10/2015 at 21:52:52
Trevor, unfortunately both OFM and the present incumbent seem to have a morbid obsession with Howard. He should've been dumped years ago.
Doug Harris
21 Posted 25/10/2015 at 22:06:30
One solution, get rid of this clown, start anew. God almighty.

Something new cannot be as bad as the liability and clown Tim Howard has become. Every man and his dog can see he won't even attempt to get an incoming ball within HIS own 6- yard box .

How bad is it to let two goals in on Saturday from 3 to 4 yards out within 4 minutes of each goal? Ings scored from 2 yards out. Where the fuck was Howard...

Andy Peers
22 Posted 25/10/2015 at 22:18:53
I would just hire Southall as the Goalkeeping scout.
Eddie Dunn
23 Posted 25/10/2015 at 22:21:18
The boss likes the senior pros onside, hence his support for Howard, Barry, Ossie, Pienaar, Hibbo and perhaps even Jagielka and Baines. Now into his 3rd season, you would expect that he is less reliant on these stalwarts for support and should find it easier weeding out one or two.

We are now mid-table, as many of us predicted. It is galling after a fairly bright start in which we have had some tough games. However, we don’t have the Europa League to use as an excuse this season, so it will be very interesting seeing if we can dispose of some of the so-called weaker teams in the coming weeks.

I suspect that it will be more of the same: the odd win, the odd draw and an inability to break down teams that park the proverbial bus. The League is taking shape, after around a quarter of the season, and we have started to slide down to the position that gives us a true reflection of our status, and likely finishing place.

Progress? I think not. The squad is unbalanced, too much deadwood, not enough pace, still no dynamic midfield maestro, no credible alternatives for Lukaku or Howard. Worst of all, Roberto is still making the same errors, in selection, subs, and tactics. I am prepared to be underwhelmed for the rest of the season.

Joe Foster
24 Posted 25/10/2015 at 22:23:58
As we gently slide down the table.
Tony Draper
25 Posted 25/10/2015 at 22:39:46
For me, Tim Howard is a conundrum.

Evidently he is an intelligent man, yet, plays football like a convert from some other sport such a basketball (obviously) or handball.

What I am entirely unable to fathom is, these traits would be inevitable in a much younger man, someone in their very early 20s or who was recently making such a transition.

But, that’s really not the case. So why is no-one, has no-one said "Tim, if the ball is in the 6-yard box, mate, there is no other player can make it theirs. Your physique and the rules ensure that. YOUR ball. And here’s a belter, the more often you do that, the more often the opposition will assume that you will".

Oh and by the way, Tim, check out some old videos of this scruffy ex-binman feller that had a couple of decent games for us some years back. Just a thought?

Tony Draper
26 Posted 25/10/2015 at 22:58:55
Right. I’ll admit that I hadn’t really read much if any of the earlier posts here..... and just wanted my pop before I buggered off to bed. BUT... Robles never gets a game; no offers flooding in for him in the transfer window.

Howard is a great shot stopper... IF the shots are of the right kind; IF!

A truly great keeper has COMMAND (Big Nev, Schmeichel, Banks) and that means that they dictate the defensive setup. Always. This creates confidence and fear in the back 4 (and other players at set pieces).

Confidence because the ’Keeper directs them with the benefit of his wider view/perspective. Fear because, you do what he fuckin' says or he berates you!

The bottom line is that a striker scores a hat-trick then he keeps the ball... not the lad who supplies him. A keeper lets one in and his clean sheet is gone, not the back 4, the ’Keeper.

Big Nev terrified his back 4 and they did things his way, Big Nev was Captain of Everton's defence. We defended close up according to Big Nev's laws. He took responsibility, thank god.

Howard is a reactive ’Keeper. He waits for things to occur, then does his best. NO defensive leadership! THAT is a world of difference.

Harold Matthews
27 Posted 25/10/2015 at 23:34:13
Yes, we know about the Howard bloomers but those situations should never have arisen.

For the first goal, Galloway raced into the centre of the pitch to pick up Oxlade-Chamberlain and left Lennon totally exposed with two men to mark. He had no chance when they received the ball and crossed to Giroud.

Okay, Oxlade-Chamberlain had sneaked into a dangerous position but youthful exuberance and inexperience caused young Brendan to leave his post and enter an area which was none of his business. Statuesque team-mates don’t help but that’s the manager’s problem.

The second goal was initiated by tippy tappy stuff between Coleman, Stones and Barry.

Liam Reilly
28 Posted 25/10/2015 at 23:45:38
How many sides challenging for Europe would have Howard in their team? Answer: None.

It’s clear he can stop a shot but put a ball at pace anywhere near him and he’ll stick to his line. Wenger played him beautifully.

He needs to be dropped; but as he’s the fucking stand-in Captain, the likelihood is he’s getting promoted.

Christ, it’s hard been an Evertonian.

Liam Reilly
29 Posted 25/10/2015 at 23:48:30
Oh and I can’t believe anyone having a go at Barry. He’s been excellent this season and only got a second yellow cause he was covering all over the park.

He should be the vice-captain for me.

Gordon Crawford
30 Posted 25/10/2015 at 23:49:40
We won't get a new keeper anytime soon and Howard will stay number one, sadly.
Tony Draper
31 Posted 25/10/2015 at 00:02:13
Harold, as so often mate you are spot on as to the early roots of the situation.

And sadly, I find myself looking back at Galloway's last few performances and wondering just "What the bloody hell is he thinking ?" when he is so frequently out of position. The lad is ALL over the show, far too often every match.

No question that he has pace. But he seems entirely devoid of common bloody sense to me. He rescues a throw-in at the expense of a corner!!! Wrong side of his man so frequently.

Yet in fairness, he is our fourth choice left-back behind Baines, Oviedo and Garbutt. But he does need to start getting some bloody basics right very soon.

Paul Ferry
32 Posted 25/10/2015 at 00:08:47
Harold (#27), very wise and thoughtful analysis as ever. But surely what you are analyzing here are the mistakes – and I absolutely agree they were mistakes – that Howard himself ought to have been watching with a fine toothcomb and readying himself to make amends for his teammates' sloppiness (that’s what playing for a team means, I think).

Howard had oodles of time to get ready for the cross for the first goal, for instance, and he utterly cocked it up, mate. I’m still staggered watching it... and Stones – as on a few times before this season – completely lost his man. The second, Harold, is pure unadulterated Howard (although again – AGAIN! – Stones lost his man).

I don’t think that pointing to errors further up the pitch absolves Howard; I don’t think that that is what you had in mind Harold... but he failed to do his job in the same way that others in his team did. Tippy-tappy led to the free-kick and an elementary Howard clanger. Howard is the one at fault there, Harold, mate.

I have been a tad worried about the Jags - Stones pairing for a while now. Funes Mori & Stones looked better. Jags and Stones have been guilty of individual and collective errors this season that have cost us – and then we need to factor in Howard (only the Bournemouth goalie has been worse this season).

For what it’s worth, I think the way ahead is a new keeper in January who can walk into Howard’s shoes straight away (Robles must be between the sticks for the Canaries) and – heresy, I know – a strong incisive sceptical eye on the Stones - Jags pairing.

I would not be unhappy if on February 3 home to Newcastle we had Marshall or Heaton between the sticks and a Stones - Funes Mori pairing in the middle of defence.

Harold Matthews
33 Posted 26/10/2015 at 02:55:28
Yes, Tony, he’s certainly all over the place. A helluva prospect with all the willingness and ability in the world but with so much to learn about discipline and positional play.
John Daley
34 Posted 26/10/2015 at 04:18:36
"I find myself looking back at Galloways last few performances and wondering just "What the bloody hell is he thinking ?" when he is so frequently out of position. The lad is ALL over the show...".

Technically, he's playing every game out of position as he's not really a left back, but he's been doing a damn fine impersonation of one up to now.

Against Arsenal he was clearly tasked with marshalling Oxlade-Chamberlain and managed it with aplomb for the most part. He went with him immediately prior to the first goal because...well, that was his job, just as it was Lennon's job to slot into the space and cover. It's not like it was harebrained chasing on Galloway's part (he couldn't really just let Oxlade-Chamberlain go and roam free in that area of the field, could he?) or that it caused a dangerous crossing opportunity to momentarily open up. From the sort of position Ozil was in, a hopeful floated ball into the box should have represented no real danger at all to central defenders and a goalkeeper who weren't dozing.

Of course, this is Everton we're talking about. Jagielka was oblivious to Giroud ghosting past him until it was too late and Howard once again reacted with all the wild eyed panic of Wile E Coyote when he realises that massive boulder he cunningly rigged up earlier is millimetres above his head and about to smash him through a cliff face. In fact, Howard may as well go the whole hog from now on and, instead of trying to punch the ball, just pull out a little wooden sign saying 'EEEK!!', 'HELP!' or 'FUCK!' every time someone slings one into the box.

As for the United game? Galloway was left hopelessly exposed time after time because of Naismith being drawn inside more often than Rolf Harris's cell mate. However, he coped with it and remained unruffled. Such composure in one so young has been a stand out quality in his appearances thus far, so where the suggestion that he is "entirely devoid of bloody common sense" comes from, I don't know.

It's not like his performances have been punctuated by avoidable errors (although he has witnessed a fair few from those senior pros who should be acting as a steadying influence) or that his inclusion has led to any noticeable weakness in comparison to when Baines plays there. In fact, I might even go so far as to suggest Galloway is the stronger defensive player of the two.

Let's be realistic; he's a raw talent who has been thrown into the action way ahead of schedule and been asked to deputise in a relatively unfamiliar position, in an unsettled defence, ofttimes with an offensive partner who spends such a short period of time playing in front of the lad he'd struggle to pick their arse out in a police line up even if someone pointed out he only had to look up to see their name and number printed on the back of their shirt, yet (apart from maybe the first 45 against Man City) he's not looked out of place at all. Not only has he done well defensively, he's also got up and down the pitch and made concerted efforts to contribute at the other end. Surely, no one could have expected more from him?

Alan Holman
35 Posted 26/10/2015 at 08:08:24
For the past five years Tim Howard has been consistently costing Everton 10 to 12 goals a season. Last season, that was up to 15; how many this season so far? ... at least seven.

He has two major faults: high crosses and going down in front of the striker who simply just puts it over his head. If in any doubt, just simply watch the videos of the games over the past five years.

Anthony Hawkins
36 Posted 26/10/2015 at 08:12:47
Tim Howard has been on the way down for at least the last four seasons. A replacement Number One should have been found three summers ago but a new striker was seen as the priority. I don’t disagree with the priority being a striker who can score goals but, when a keeper can organise the defence so the team aren’t scrabbling to claw back a goal or two, this in turn enables the team to focus on scoring rather than not conceding.

You can see the lack of command and organisation of the box by Howard. It’s my opinion that this has led to a number of goals because the back four are not being communicated to. The keeper has to dictate to the back four. He has to be the leader at the back.

One of the centre backs might be captain but when the ball comes in, the keeper is the owner of that part of the pitch and HE is the boss.We need someone who is going to do that.

Liam Reilly
37 Posted 26/10/2015 at 08:36:40
I just don’t think Howard is willing to take the knocks required to be a top keeper these days. He should be clearing everything in front of him at crosses so Giroud and co will be afraid to put their heads on the next one, for fear if being clattered.

Late second half, I think Giroud went in on Howard who tackled him in the area with his feet when he should’ve went with his hands. It was the same against Man City earlier in the season when he’s come out twice with his feet.

Huge decision for Martinez. Robles has to play until January.

Peter McHugh
38 Posted 26/10/2015 at 08:38:54
I don’t understand the reaction against Howard. He has always been awful at crosses. He is also awful at kicking and dealing with strikes from long distance. He also fails to set up a wall properly. Nothing new.

Personally, I keep seeing Barry give hospital passes, West Brom obviously, a number of times in the Man Utd game and then Arsenal’s second (when playing back to Stones) on Saturday. He made loads of mistakes which should have led to goals against Spurs; ironically, Howard making some good saves.

I’m not having a massive go at Barry, he releases the forwards well but, against the tops sides and better players, he’s making too many mistakes and needs to be dropped.

On a separate note, I fail to understand why people rate Barkley as our No 10. He’s so much better from deep. He should be part of a centre midfield 3 (and coached to try an be part of a midfield 2).

Colin Glassar
39 Posted 26/10/2015 at 08:59:34
Peter, Howard does all the goalkeeping basics badly. He doesn’t have a football brain as he was previously a basketball player (Harlem Globetrotters?) I believe and this lack of "instinct" is a major hindrance when it comes to Tim.

He can’t kick, throw or dominate his area. Yes, he’s a good shot stopper but there’s far more to being a goalie than just being an OTT acrobatic flapper.

Phil Sammon
40 Posted 26/10/2015 at 08:59:34
Giroud has made just 4 starts so far this season. It wasn't by accident that Wenger selected him against us. He's decent aerially and has a knack for ghosting between centre backs. Our weaknesses our well known.
Jim Lloyd
41 Posted 26/10/2015 at 09:29:34
Yep, we definitely have an Achilles heel with Tim. He does some wonderful shot stopping saves and is very atheletic but the the term is "Goal keeper" not just shot stopper.

We were spoilt soft with a world No 1 Goalie with Big Nev and Nigel Martyn was a top class goalie as well; they both dominated their 6-yard box and even the penalty area was their territory as well.

But for ages we have had average goalies. I’d love to see us get a top class goalie but the restrictions on cash that our managers have had, have seen us have to make do.

We seem to have enough cash for one top(ish) class player per season and that’s it. If he is going for Yarmalenko, I can’t see us getting enough loot together for a goalkeeper.

Rick Tarleton
42 Posted 26/10/2015 at 09:47:19
We’re all repeating Gareth Cooper’s basic point: Howard on his day is a good shot-stopper, a keeper he is not and never will be . Crosses and set pieces have always caused him problems, he looks like a rabbit caught in the headlights in these situations, and at best flaps unconvincingly at these moments.

The question is: When will Martinez do something about this situation? Both he and Moyes have allowed Howard to go unchallenged. He’s a poor keeper and needs and has needed to be replaced for a very long time. That’s why Manchester United moved him on. It’s not rocket science.

Sam Hoare
43 Posted 26/10/2015 at 09:58:44
I don’t think Howard is as bad as some people are making out but equally he’s not good. Or more precisely, good enough.

His stats have been pretty dreadful for the last year and a half I think (half way through last season I think he had worst save ratio in Europes top leagues) and, whilst I think a nlot of teams give stick to their keepers as their mistakes are often more crucial, it’s hard in any way to see that Howard is near the best 6 or even 10 keepers in the Premier League.

I hope Martinez for once recognises the damage of playing out-of-form players and gives Robles a little run; if he proves not quite up to it (which I suspect will be the case) then please go out in January and buy a really high-class keeper. I’m not sure who would be available but in Europe the likes of Perrin, Zoet, Leno, Ruffier and Yann Sommer seem to have done well. Ideally someone strong on crosses and quick to come off the line and clean out balls in behind which is a particular weakness of ours.

The weak link cannot be allowed to continue.

Andrew Ellams
44 Posted 26/10/2015 at 10:39:41
Peter McHugh, Gareth Barry gets his fair share of stick on these pages for all of the points you made plus more.

But you also said you don't understand the reaction against Howard but then listed four things he's consistently bad at. With that and his shocking failure to even come close to claiming two crosses that should have been his on Saturday, why don't you understand the fan's reaction?

Michael Penley
45 Posted 26/10/2015 at 12:17:52
"Tim Howard is a good shot stopper"

Not according to this:
http://www.espnfc.com/barclays-premier-league/23/blog/post/2547865/tim-howard-worst-of-premier-league-keepers-joe-hart-in-best

Only 61% of shots saved. How can we be all be under such an illusion that he's a good shot stopper? How can Martinez?

Bill Belekas
46 Posted 26/10/2015 at 12:38:51
Ings... Dawson... Giroud... Kosceilny... What two things do all four players have in common? Well, one reason is they are all counting the day when they next have to play against Everton. That day can't come quick enough for them. Second reason is they all scored headed goals from 3 yards out while our Number One goalie was doing the Dixie shuffle on his goal line.

For those defending Howard, you are well and truly in the minority and I for one would play Robles instead. At least if the lad made a mistake, I could put it down to inexperience... What excuse does Howard have? Show some real managerial skills, Roberto, and drop him..

Jim Lloyd
47 Posted 26/10/2015 at 12:46:18
Perhaps then, Michael, we should say, his better aspect is shot-stopping. As for the stats, I've not seen them. All I would go by is the evidence of watching him and there’s been games where he’s kept us in the match almost single-handedly.

So if people say "He’s a good shot-stopper" including me, he is as we see him. Mind you, I’ve seen Tim beaten by shots as well; both from distance and from not covering his near post, but he is a good shot-stopper, though maybe not as consistently as some others.

The point about Martinez playing him, well Moyes did as well, so they both must think he is the best keeper in the club.

Personally, I’d like to see him wave us a fond farewell and for us to thank him for some marvellous moments and replace him. However, who does he replace him with and how much would it cost, if we could persuade anyone to come?

As for Joel Robles, I’d like to see him be given the gloves but then, if he doesn’t make it, what then... back to Tim?

Scott Hall
48 Posted 26/10/2015 at 12:56:56
I’m not a fan of Tim Howard but I decided to read his autobiography whilst on holiday recently because I was interested in reading about life at Everton over the last 10 years.

There’s a comment in his book that astounded me. He talks about being coached as a youngster growing up in the soccer (ahem) metropolis that is the USA. He received what Tim deems to be a vital piece of advice from his coach which was:

"Let the ball come to you."

So, ladies and gentlemen, our goalkeeper believes in a philosophy of goalkeeping that demands he does not go to the ball, but the ball comes to him. And that is why our six-yard box is an all you can eat buffet for opposing players.

Denis Richardson
49 Posted 26/10/2015 at 13:08:36
No matter what we say about Howard, simple fact is that the manager rates him. If the handover of the armband last match means anything, then it looks like Howard will not only still play going forward but he’ll be the captain until the New Year!

Don’t blame the player, blame the manager that regularly picks him (and doesn’t sign a decent replacement). Also blame the manager who presented him with a 5-year contract..... when he was already 34 years old and past his best!

He could be our ’keeper for another 3.5 years until he’s 39... assuming Brown Shoes is still around.

Sean Patton
50 Posted 26/10/2015 at 14:19:27
Nick is right: he is scared of getting hurt and avoids any possible situation where he might get a knock. This is why he has suddenly started tackling attackers with his feet instead of using his hands as he is frightened of getting a kick in the head.

His card was marked years ago at Fulham away when there was a free kick which was curled in and he looks like he will collide with the post so he pulls out mid dive to avoid the upright and the ball rolls in.

Dave Pritchard
51 Posted 26/10/2015 at 16:14:18
See that Everton have announced that Robles plays tomorrow. Let's hope he has a stormer.
Jake Prendergast
52 Posted 26/10/2015 at 16:30:55
Totally agree and was thinking this over the weekend. Howard rarely leaves his line on set pieces or crosses. Danny Ings scoring a headed goal from 3 yards is a joke.
Peter McHugh
53 Posted 26/10/2015 at 16:33:56
Andrew Ellams, 44, because he has ALWAYS been bad at the points I list. For Danny Ings substitute Durk Kuyt etc.

The whole of our defence except Gallloway and Mori are airy fairy. Hibbert isn't but I don't count him as he hasn't played for years.

Alan Freese
54 Posted 26/10/2015 at 18:21:08
The problem now is? Howard is just not good enough. Roberto knows this but we don’t have a No 2 good enough to replace him. Therefore I blame Martinez for Howard's mistakes.
John Keating
55 Posted 26/10/2015 at 20:19:26
I see we are still getting posters blaming everyone but Howard for the goals we shipped in against Arsenal. The same excuses we got for the Ings goal. Same excuses we will be getting almost every week Howard plays for the rest of the season.

Yes, the cross should never have come in. Yes, we shouldn’t have played tippy tappy and given a free kick away because of it. Yes, Stones lost his man. Yes, Barkley should have stayed with his man.

If the outfielders were perfect we wouldn’t need a goalkeeper. The simple fact is that, regardless of all the above, once that ball comes sailing into the middle of the 6-yard box it should be the goalies to deal with. No doubt, no discussion and no maybe.

The goalkeeper should command his area, if he can’t then ship him out.

Eddie Dunn
56 Posted 26/10/2015 at 23:07:46
Remember little Wright-Phillips out-jumping Lescott at the far post at Chelsea in a League Cup semi? It was virtually on the goal line; where was Howard?

The man can catch, and rarely spills the ball, but he fails to command his area, and even fails to dominate his 6-yard box. He fails to set up his walls correctly and is dodgy on long shots, and his kicking is way off the mark – hence all of his 5-a-side bowl-outs. All-in-all, sorry Tim, time to go.

Unfortunately Robles is even worse, and we will all be clamouring for Tim to get back between the sticks after we play the Canaries! We need to sign a decent keeper in the January window.

Harold Matthews
57 Posted 27/10/2015 at 14:09:32
Your right Paul #32. I'm not trying to deflect things away from Howard. He was dreadful and every coach in the land will bomb us with high crosses.

Bit sick about Jags missing so many games but Galloway seems to play well with Funes Mori behind him. Young Brendan is supposed to be a centre back but I think he's far too young and inexperienced to know what his best position is.

Jim Harrison
58 Posted 27/10/2015 at 14:50:22
Howard is probably past his sell by date, but I do think people have bypassed the fact that both goals came from very good balls into dangerous areas. Would be nice to see our players play those sort of balls into the area. Of the two, I would expect one to go in and one to be saved under normal circumstances.

Not seen too much of Roubles, but what I have hasnt really inspired me. I have said before that reserve keepers rarely make the step up to first choice.

Not sure who else is out there. For me, Valdes would be worth a punt. Used to using his feet, bags of experience and a winners mentality. Aside from that, keepers are going at premium rates for anyone half decent. Begovic cost 8 million, not sure he would be that much of an upgrade, Cech something like 12? And yes, for a club of Evertons means 8 million is still a big fee!

Have to say, I agree regarding Galloway. I feel he is a bit of a target for the opposition, particularly utd. Young and doing well given the circumstances, but cant wait for Baines to come back.

Tony McNulty
59 Posted 27/10/2015 at 16:11:18
Jim (58). Reluctantly, many of us will find ourselves agreeing with the first eight words of your post.

I fear the events of Saturday will have wider ramifications. Opposition managers will have spotted a huge weakness in our goalkeeper. I have already heard the term "Coward Howard" being used.

He allows opposition strikers to hurl themselves into the six-yard box unchallenged. Can anyone recollect if he has ever flattened anyone in the six-yard box? I can't offhand and I think strikers will now be instructed to get stuck in there as their team launches balls in Howard's direction. Can anyone imagine Big Nev allowing opposition strikers to get that close to him with impunity?

Incidentally I only partially agree with the "great shot stopper" accolade. Yes, on his day, but he can also be caught flat footed. The best keepers often seem to get onto the balls of their feet so they are ready to spring at the right moment. I don't think Howard always does this. SAF certainly saw something in Howard he didn't like.

Winston Williamson
60 Posted 27/10/2015 at 16:22:08
Victor Valdes would be a good signing. He'd provide competition and (IMO) take the gloves off Howard. He'd be a couple of steps up the goalkeeping ladder.

If he was seriously considering Newcastle Utd, then he should consider us as well.

And he'd be free...ish.

Jim Harrison
61 Posted 27/10/2015 at 16:57:29
Tony (#59), only today I was talking with a parent whilst watching a school side and pointed out that our keeper needed a bit of Big Nev in his game, alas! Every keeper we have will be compared with him, few if any will make the grade

Until now I have been pretty defensive of Tim. I happen to think he has been a very good keeper for us. But I think you are right, teams know he can't deal with balls in the six yard box. Then again, this is also true of many other keepers. Someone pointed out that Cech took a high ball some 12 yards out against us. You wont see many keeper do that anymore

The time has come for an upgrade. We will have to make do until at least January though. I am actually quite excited to see what the two centre backs look like playing together. Jags has been immense, but seems to me is in best form when he has been away from England duties. His distribution has been poor these last two games. Stones and Funes Mori seem better so far at bringing the ball out on the floor

Tony McNulty
62 Posted 27/10/2015 at 17:47:04
Jim,

Big Nev came to the Everton Supporters in London meeting in the Summer. He said the keeper he rated in the Premier League was the one playing for Spurs. He didn’t really comment on Howard other than to say that this would be a big season for him (implying, as I recall, he had something to prove after last season).

As for Robles he thought that until he had a run in the side we wouldn’t really know if he would be good enough; he hadn’t really had enough of a chance as yet.

The best keepers dominate with their presence: Shilton; Nev; Schmeichel. And they give the defence confidence, not the willies.

Geoff Evans
63 Posted 28/10/2015 at 17:46:55
Top managers know how important a keeper is to a team. I rest my case.

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