20/04/2026
95comments | Jump to last
Everton 1 - 2 Liverpool
-sm.jpg)
Gana Gueye goes flying after yet another Liverpool foul
(Photo by Molly Darlington/Getty Images)
Well, the bad thing happened. And it happened in typically heartbreaking fashion — Virgil van Dijk cropping up with a header in the 100th minute to ensure Liverpool took the bragging rights from the first Merseyside derby at Hill Dickinson Stadium.
A 2-1 loss in this fashion, to them, is gut-wrenching, but here are three things we learned from Sunday’s defeat.
Everton Are Cursed
Getting this one out of the way early. While we should not wallow in self-defeatism or derby misery, it is hard not to think that this simply would not have happened against pretty much any other club in the Premier League.
Hill Dickinson Stadium was rocking in the early afternoon sunshine, and the Toffees were the better side right up until the moment Mohamed Salah opened the scoring — that goal coming only a couple of minutes after wild celebrations for Iliman Ndiaye’s goal had been cut short by a VAR check, which deemed Jake O’Brien to have been offside in the build-up.
The Toffees were not brilliant, but their performance definitely merited at least a point. They had battled hard to get back into it through Beto’s equaliser.
But when it comes to facing Liverpool, even when the respective form of the clubs seems to suggest that this might just be the Toffees’ time to shine, Everton just seem to be cursed.
Everton Need Better
Thierno Barry and Tyrique George came on to try and swing the game in Everton’s favour — albeit, the former substitution was enforced by Beto taking a knock to the head — but ultimately, neither attacking change made the desired impact.
Barry failed to provide a platform to build off, while George, fresh from a bright cameo against Brentford last week, could not get into the game, and was not swift enough to release the ball when he had it to feet.
If Everton are to get to a level where they can really take advantage when they go into games like derbies, then simply put, the club need to start being bullish in the transfer market.
Last year, Everton spent plenty of money on players to fill out the squad, but bar Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Jack Grealish, none of them have made a real impact, with Barry at least scoring some important goals. That is simply not good enough, and this coming transfer window must be different.
Branthwaite's Issues Piling Up
It looks like Jarrad Branthwaite’s season could be over.
He was having an excellent game but, as the match entered its closing stages, he went down after a bad slip while trying to muscle Cody Gakpo out of play.
The centre-back’s right hamstring appeared to pull immediately, and after receiving treatment, Branthwaite had to be taken off on a stretcher. It was in the time added on because of that lengthy stoppage that Liverpool got their winner.
But we now know for certain that Branthwaite needs fixing. If Everton are to get the best out of him, then they need to solve his injury issues. If not, he may not fulfil his immense potential, and the Toffees will be worse off for it.
Reader Comments (95)
Note: the following content is not moderated or vetted by the site owners at the time of submission. Comments are the responsibility of the poster. Disclaimer ()
Christy Ring
2 Posted 20/04/2026 at 13:17:27
2 Posted 20/04/2026 at 13:17:27
Losing Branthwaite and Beto in the game, made a huge difference to the outcome. It's devastating for Jarrad, and I just hope he'll be back for preseason. Beto put in a great shift, sadly Barry put no effort in whatsoever, even Chris Sutton remarked about his lack of effort.
Kevin Molloy
3 Posted 20/04/2026 at 13:22:02
3 Posted 20/04/2026 at 13:22:02
I don't want Barry to get another minute. Play George if we have to stick someone up front.
Dave Abrahams
4 Posted 20/04/2026 at 13:28:40
4 Posted 20/04/2026 at 13:28:40
Patric I think we have been cursed off the field by people running the club for a long time, in fact since I started watching the club in 1948 the only time the club was properly run was when John Moore’s was the owner a man who knew football and business— knew them very well indeed.
I’m waiting for the present owners to prove they want success for Everton FC so they can sell us for a few £Billion, it’s early days for them here but they seem to have a bigger interest in Roma than us.
Time will tell.
I’m waiting for the present owners to prove they want success for Everton FC so they can sell us for a few £Billion, it’s early days for them here but they seem to have a bigger interest in Roma than us.
Time will tell.
Ian Wilkins
5 Posted 20/04/2026 at 13:31:02
5 Posted 20/04/2026 at 13:31:02
We need more players of quality and character. We need both.
We were at least the equal of them yesterday but lacked the character to grab the game, seize the moments.
They have a deeper squad, that’s down to money.
Imagine a fit Richarlison instead of a pitiful Barry.
This Summer, our wheeling and dealings are so important from all angles.
We must add quality and players of the right character with a winning mentality. We have some quality but unless we add to them why would Ndiaye and Garner stay. They want to win things, why shouldn’t they.
We can’t spend £40m on players who don’t play all season. I’m not having a go at Dibling, simply those that chose to make the purchase at that price.
This Summer our dealings, with the full transfer committee in place, have to be better.
I really really don’t want to hear mentions of Soucek, Tete, etc makeweights and Moyes warhorses. No thanks. Do your job, identify talent with hunger.
We’re also going to find out more about TFG. Do they want us to be winners, or are they happy with improved financial performance.
The two go hand in hand, I hope they see it that way.
We were at least the equal of them yesterday but lacked the character to grab the game, seize the moments.
They have a deeper squad, that’s down to money.
Imagine a fit Richarlison instead of a pitiful Barry.
This Summer, our wheeling and dealings are so important from all angles.
We must add quality and players of the right character with a winning mentality. We have some quality but unless we add to them why would Ndiaye and Garner stay. They want to win things, why shouldn’t they.
We can’t spend £40m on players who don’t play all season. I’m not having a go at Dibling, simply those that chose to make the purchase at that price.
This Summer our dealings, with the full transfer committee in place, have to be better.
I really really don’t want to hear mentions of Soucek, Tete, etc makeweights and Moyes warhorses. No thanks. Do your job, identify talent with hunger.
We’re also going to find out more about TFG. Do they want us to be winners, or are they happy with improved financial performance.
The two go hand in hand, I hope they see it that way.
John Collins
6 Posted 20/04/2026 at 13:35:40
6 Posted 20/04/2026 at 13:35:40
Curse, my plums.
We simply shit ourselves when we play them.
We simply shit ourselves when we play them.
Neil Lawson
7 Posted 20/04/2026 at 13:40:28
7 Posted 20/04/2026 at 13:40:28
The fact that what happened was all too predictable is bad enough without having to pore all over it for days.
Can't we enforce a 5-day ToffeeWeb closure to help reduce our pain, disappointment and anger until just before the kick off with the Hammers?
ps: Send Barry on loan to Marine.
Can't we enforce a 5-day ToffeeWeb closure to help reduce our pain, disappointment and anger until just before the kick off with the Hammers?
ps: Send Barry on loan to Marine.
Paul Hewitt
8 Posted 20/04/2026 at 14:12:43
8 Posted 20/04/2026 at 14:12:43
Or Liverpool are just better.
It happens.
It happens.
John Collins
9 Posted 20/04/2026 at 14:14:16
9 Posted 20/04/2026 at 14:14:16
We learned we won't be playing in Europe next season.
Edward Rogers
10 Posted 20/04/2026 at 14:33:00
10 Posted 20/04/2026 at 14:33:00
What the hell have Marine done to upset you Neil?
Tony Abrahams
11 Posted 20/04/2026 at 14:48:32
11 Posted 20/04/2026 at 14:48:32
Liverpool are definitely more ruthless and a hell of a lot more ambitious than Everton, unfortunately, but I didn't think they were better than Everton out on the pitch yesterday, Paul.
Fine margins, or maybe certain players being a little bit more switched on at vital times. I doubt many Liverpudlians really fancied themselves yesterday but, by the skin of their teeth, they got the victory in the end, possibly helped by their use of substitutions in the very latter stages of the game.
Fine margins, or maybe certain players being a little bit more switched on at vital times. I doubt many Liverpudlians really fancied themselves yesterday but, by the skin of their teeth, they got the victory in the end, possibly helped by their use of substitutions in the very latter stages of the game.
Si Cooper
12 Posted 20/04/2026 at 15:20:21
12 Posted 20/04/2026 at 15:20:21
The picture with the article reminded me of a point I wanted to make.
Not only was the Dutch knob's foul on Gana thuggish, the sheer lack of respect to just continue playing as if you had cleanly taken possession should have had the referee in his face and brandishing a yellow card.
It's not ‘professionalism' when it's so obvious you've simply clattered into the opposition and shows an absence of decency that someone should be taking the lowlife to task for.
Not only was the Dutch knob's foul on Gana thuggish, the sheer lack of respect to just continue playing as if you had cleanly taken possession should have had the referee in his face and brandishing a yellow card.
It's not ‘professionalism' when it's so obvious you've simply clattered into the opposition and shows an absence of decency that someone should be taking the lowlife to task for.
Neil Lawson
13 Posted 20/04/2026 at 16:08:53
13 Posted 20/04/2026 at 16:08:53
Edward 10. As a Crosby boy, nothing. Should have added that he could warm their bench for all of their hard working and committed players and take out the oranges at half time.
Bill Hawker
14 Posted 20/04/2026 at 16:32:07
14 Posted 20/04/2026 at 16:32:07
Not shocked at the VVD winner but of course, wished we'd done better there.
That match was just another example of we aren't ready for Europe. We certainly don't have the depth in quality to fight on two fronts and need several new players (at least three by my count) this summer. Would rather we try for top six next season with additional players, a healthy Grealish (I think he stays) and a healthy Branthwaite.
Absolutely gutted for Branthwaite. Hope he gets the treatment he needs and can build himself up to start next season. Really feel for him here.
That match was just another example of we aren't ready for Europe. We certainly don't have the depth in quality to fight on two fronts and need several new players (at least three by my count) this summer. Would rather we try for top six next season with additional players, a healthy Grealish (I think he stays) and a healthy Branthwaite.
Absolutely gutted for Branthwaite. Hope he gets the treatment he needs and can build himself up to start next season. Really feel for him here.
Ian Bennett
15 Posted 20/04/2026 at 17:15:37
15 Posted 20/04/2026 at 17:15:37
How many goals have we conceded like that? How far out was it?- 2 yards top.
Our keeper is 6 ft, his arms 2 to 3 feet, how the fuck is Tarkowski, O'Brien and Pickford not sorting that out?
Where was Barry on heading away the danger like Beto.
Set pieces at home are a joke. We are meant to have lads that a physical rather than technical. Where the hell were they?
Our keeper is 6 ft, his arms 2 to 3 feet, how the fuck is Tarkowski, O'Brien and Pickford not sorting that out?
Where was Barry on heading away the danger like Beto.
Set pieces at home are a joke. We are meant to have lads that a physical rather than technical. Where the hell were they?
John Collins
16 Posted 20/04/2026 at 17:28:23
16 Posted 20/04/2026 at 17:28:23
Edge of the 6-yard box I think Ian. That's from seeing it at the game.
Your 100% correct. They know he doesn't come for crosses so should be dealing with it. A bit of wrestling would have been enough.
Your 100% correct. They know he doesn't come for crosses so should be dealing with it. A bit of wrestling would have been enough.
John Collins
17 Posted 20/04/2026 at 17:31:01
17 Posted 20/04/2026 at 17:31:01
Just watched it now, Ian.
About 4 yards out. Pickford starts to come, then stops.
About 4 yards out. Pickford starts to come, then stops.
Billy Shears
18 Posted 20/04/2026 at 19:21:40
18 Posted 20/04/2026 at 19:21:40
We must know by now that our beloved club doesn't show up and compete in the really big games that really matter since 1995.
It just plays it safe and tries to "Wing it"... sees how it pans out like! Why...? The answer lies with the management, I'm afraid... and always has to!
Pity about Branthwaite... I feel for lad, but our club could easily fill that big void with the lad from Cardiff City, his name is Dylan Lawler. Even our past centre-back and Captain, Mr Ratcliffe, thinks he is a future star in the making.
Should we.listen to him? Fuck, Yes!
It just plays it safe and tries to "Wing it"... sees how it pans out like! Why...? The answer lies with the management, I'm afraid... and always has to!
Pity about Branthwaite... I feel for lad, but our club could easily fill that big void with the lad from Cardiff City, his name is Dylan Lawler. Even our past centre-back and Captain, Mr Ratcliffe, thinks he is a future star in the making.
Should we.listen to him? Fuck, Yes!
Alastair Donaldson
19 Posted 20/04/2026 at 19:29:52
19 Posted 20/04/2026 at 19:29:52
Couldn't bear to watch it on MotD with that expert Danny Murphy, but did 11 minutes of injury time seem right?
There are some significant transfers in needed to show intent and encourage our better players to stay... probably another centre-back now and I guess Keane gets another extension.
Hopefully the investment will be there.
There are some significant transfers in needed to show intent and encourage our better players to stay... probably another centre-back now and I guess Keane gets another extension.
Hopefully the investment will be there.
Phil Roberts
20 Posted 20/04/2026 at 19:35:15
20 Posted 20/04/2026 at 19:35:15
Lots of stuff on Facebook about a conversation between Kavanah and VAR but I wonder if it is all clickbait. One link was stopped by my virus checker.
Anyone know the truth on this? Perhaps after today I should ask Kier Starmer as he knows the truth.
Anyone know the truth on this? Perhaps after today I should ask Kier Starmer as he knows the truth.
Mark Ryan
21 Posted 20/04/2026 at 19:40:54
21 Posted 20/04/2026 at 19:40:54
What we learnt was get rid of Barry asap and go and get Eddie Howe before someone else does. Thanks Dave but your time here is up.
Mid-table is where we are and that just about sums up Moyes's ambition. He'll drone on about where we were last season, of course he will... but mid-table is not where I want to be, far from it.
He needs to retire and Eddie Howe is the man we need. Operation Get Eddie is what we learnt!
Neil Cremin
22 Posted 20/04/2026 at 19:53:11
22 Posted 20/04/2026 at 19:53:11
Many are commenting about George's performance which I totally agree. However, maybe I am a conspiracy theorist but what is George's position? -- loan with an obligation to buy or just a loan where he reverts back to Chelsea?
Was the fact that, if we had won the game, we would have gone ahead of Chelsea in the table, a factor in his poor effort?
Just asking...
Was the fact that, if we had won the game, we would have gone ahead of Chelsea in the table, a factor in his poor effort?
Just asking...
Annika Herbert
23 Posted 20/04/2026 at 20:14:09
23 Posted 20/04/2026 at 20:14:09
Eddie Howe is definitely not what we need. It's the same wherever he goes. 2/3 great seasons and then a steady decline. Just like what is happening with Newcastle at the moment.
Some on TW were saying that managers like Iraola and Glasner weren't doing much to suggest they would be better at Everton than Moyes.
But Iraola has just got Bournemouth above us and Glasner isn't far behind. Plus Glasner has Palace in a European semi final.
Both would be better than Moyes but, no doubt, we will go for the mid-table mediocrity that Moyes will provide.
Some on TW were saying that managers like Iraola and Glasner weren't doing much to suggest they would be better at Everton than Moyes.
But Iraola has just got Bournemouth above us and Glasner isn't far behind. Plus Glasner has Palace in a European semi final.
Both would be better than Moyes but, no doubt, we will go for the mid-table mediocrity that Moyes will provide.
Mark Murphy
24 Posted 20/04/2026 at 20:36:57
24 Posted 20/04/2026 at 20:36:57
Ian and John
Re their winner, and Pickford not claiming the cross. Watch carefully and you'll see that Pickford was having his shirt tugged... by Jake O'Brien.
I mean, What The Absolue Fuck???
Re their winner, and Pickford not claiming the cross. Watch carefully and you'll see that Pickford was having his shirt tugged... by Jake O'Brien.
I mean, What The Absolue Fuck???
Dale Self
25 Posted 20/04/2026 at 20:52:00
25 Posted 20/04/2026 at 20:52:00
Nice, Ian @5.
Ha! Edward @10.
And ooh, Neil @22, I tried to figure that puzzle out and did not think of that explanation. It is within the realm of possibilities.
George put on a rather languid performance after being so impressive in his previous.
Ha! Edward @10.
And ooh, Neil @22, I tried to figure that puzzle out and did not think of that explanation. It is within the realm of possibilities.
George put on a rather languid performance after being so impressive in his previous.
Ian Bennett
26 Posted 20/04/2026 at 20:52:13
26 Posted 20/04/2026 at 20:52:13
Just makes my blood boil that Pickford, O'Brien, Keane, Mykolenko, Tarkowski and Barry couldn't deal with the threat of Van Dijk or Konate. There was no one else that posed an aerial threat.
One to block the space, another to challenge -- keeper to use those fucking long dangly things called fucking arms.
He got away with it vs Chelsea by saving one.
Mike Gaynes
27 Posted 20/04/2026 at 20:55:46
27 Posted 20/04/2026 at 20:55:46
Alistair #19, there were four significant injury delays in the second half, the lengthiest being Jarrad's stretchering off, so yeah, I thought 11 minutes was about right.
Neil C., George is a loan with an option to buy but no obligation. The kid is 20. And he's barely played (130 minutes over 3 months). To me, he's naturally going to be up and down, good days and not so good.
I wanted to see him at 60 minutes... think it would have given him a much better opportunity to really unwind and have an impact. 79th minute was too late.
Paul Hewitt
28 Posted 20/04/2026 at 20:59:33
28 Posted 20/04/2026 at 20:59:33
Eddie bloody Howe.
I really have heard it all now.
I really have heard it all now.
Ian Wilkins
29 Posted 20/04/2026 at 21:11:21
29 Posted 20/04/2026 at 21:11:21
Ian @26, completely agree, a shocking goal to concede in the last minute of stoppage time.
There's only really Van Dijk who's a threat and we've given him the run on us. He should have been sandwiched, blocked, muscled, nudged, just stopped from getting a clear header. It just shouldn't happen; mind-numbing that it did.
We've been vulnerable to corners all season. Shocking for a team with 3 centre-backs. Zonal marking? Standing still whilst those attacking have a run at it…?
There's only really Van Dijk who's a threat and we've given him the run on us. He should have been sandwiched, blocked, muscled, nudged, just stopped from getting a clear header. It just shouldn't happen; mind-numbing that it did.
We've been vulnerable to corners all season. Shocking for a team with 3 centre-backs. Zonal marking? Standing still whilst those attacking have a run at it…?
Mike Gaynes
30 Posted 20/04/2026 at 21:16:30
30 Posted 20/04/2026 at 21:16:30
Annika #23, to me Glasner and Iraola don't even belong in the same paragraph. Glasner has won the Europa League and the FA Cup, reached the Champions League knockout stage and now a Conference League semifinal, and reached a DFB-Pokal final.
Iraola has zero such accomplishments. His teams play attractive football and he's a charming guy with great hair (whereas Glasner has a reputation as something of a sourball), but I can't imagine why so many here would choose him over proven silverware winners like Glasner and Enzo Maresca. It bewilders me.
Neil Cremin
31 Posted 20/04/2026 at 21:18:02
31 Posted 20/04/2026 at 21:18:02
Mike,
I have no issue with George but did expect a little bit more impact from him. My issue with most of the players which people criticise Moyes for not using have cameos but often fail to deliver in the heat of battle.
George, a winger, looked great going forward but was a contributor to Brentford's equaliser by not tracking back.
Similarly, the calls for Anzou a defender, who I suspect is very suspect defensively but may have some value going forward. I did see him live at the Sunderland game and he did bring a fresh impetus but would like to see what he can do defensively.
However, I do remember you believed that Barry would come good, which I never saw. As I said before he is weak both physically and mentally and will never make the grade in the Premier League.
I have no issue with George but did expect a little bit more impact from him. My issue with most of the players which people criticise Moyes for not using have cameos but often fail to deliver in the heat of battle.
George, a winger, looked great going forward but was a contributor to Brentford's equaliser by not tracking back.
Similarly, the calls for Anzou a defender, who I suspect is very suspect defensively but may have some value going forward. I did see him live at the Sunderland game and he did bring a fresh impetus but would like to see what he can do defensively.
However, I do remember you believed that Barry would come good, which I never saw. As I said before he is weak both physically and mentally and will never make the grade in the Premier League.
Mike Gaynes
32 Posted 20/04/2026 at 21:28:43
32 Posted 20/04/2026 at 21:28:43
Neil, you're right, we haven't yet seen Aznou play a minute at left back. With us still in the hunt for the Europe, I doubt now that we will this season. Clearly he hasn't secured Moyes' trust defensively. Maybe next year.
I predicted in December that Barry would develop and in a year we'd be happy to have him. He made me look pretty wise for a month or so. Not so much now. Seems like he's out the door.
I predicted in December that Barry would develop and in a year we'd be happy to have him. He made me look pretty wise for a month or so. Not so much now. Seems like he's out the door.
Ian Bennett
33 Posted 20/04/2026 at 21:31:45
33 Posted 20/04/2026 at 21:31:45
Mike he was on the pitch for 22 minutes including injury time.
Let's stop pretending it was a couple of minutes here or there. It wasn't. There was plenty of time to have an impact.
In return 2 passes, lost the ball 4 times, and had 9 touches of the ball total. A really poor offside, where hes oblivious to the Liverpool offside line.
If players want more minutes, then show it on the pitch that youre worthy of them. We want points, not charity.
Mark Taylor
34 Posted 20/04/2026 at 22:09:53
34 Posted 20/04/2026 at 22:09:53
Mike,
I think that is unfair on Iraola. He has had less time in coaching than Glasner, but always over achieves with no mark clubs. He got Vallecano, a small club, promoted and got them to a cup semi final. He has got Bournemouth, maybe the poorest club in the PL into mid/upper table. He hasn't had a go with a bigger club yet. With what he has had to work with, he has over achieved.
No disrespect to Glasner who I also rate. Maresca? I think he is out of our league in more ways than one but even so, a Conference League and a pre season near exhibition tournament for a club the size of Chelsea is hardly earth shattering.
I think that is unfair on Iraola. He has had less time in coaching than Glasner, but always over achieves with no mark clubs. He got Vallecano, a small club, promoted and got them to a cup semi final. He has got Bournemouth, maybe the poorest club in the PL into mid/upper table. He hasn't had a go with a bigger club yet. With what he has had to work with, he has over achieved.
No disrespect to Glasner who I also rate. Maresca? I think he is out of our league in more ways than one but even so, a Conference League and a pre season near exhibition tournament for a club the size of Chelsea is hardly earth shattering.
Mark Taylor
35 Posted 20/04/2026 at 22:14:49
35 Posted 20/04/2026 at 22:14:49
I confess I haven't seen the whole match cos I'm on hols but from what I've seen, we gave as good as we got which we have not done on many occasions recently. I never thought we would get into Europe and certainly not CL so I'm not losing sleep over that. In fact lower Euro comps with our threadbare squad might be a curse.
What is most interesting is what happens next.We have some decent players but recent transfer business has been, shall we say, underwhelming. I don't know yet if TFG have already shot their bolt and need to sell to buy or that first stab was like Man City's first stumbles before they got a serious squad together. I think much more the former than the latter, but we'll see.
What is most interesting is what happens next.We have some decent players but recent transfer business has been, shall we say, underwhelming. I don't know yet if TFG have already shot their bolt and need to sell to buy or that first stab was like Man City's first stumbles before they got a serious squad together. I think much more the former than the latter, but we'll see.
Mike Gaynes
36 Posted 20/04/2026 at 22:58:37
36 Posted 20/04/2026 at 22:58:37
Mark #34, certainly not trying to be unfair, he's a fine young coach whose teams are fun to watch.
But if our objective is Europe and Cups (and maybe Cups in Europe?), I would definitely hire a guy who has actually done that.
BTW the latest rumor on Maresca has him maybe going to... Roma.
But if our objective is Europe and Cups (and maybe Cups in Europe?), I would definitely hire a guy who has actually done that.
BTW the latest rumor on Maresca has him maybe going to... Roma.
Eric Myles
37 Posted 21/04/2026 at 03:44:43
37 Posted 21/04/2026 at 03:44:43
Anneka #23, for once I agree with you.
Emery for me for what he's done at Villa. Might be difficult to pry away but he never seems to last long at any club so he might feel like having a change.
Or if you want some fun attacking football and don't care about results? Dick Shreuder.
Emery for me for what he's done at Villa. Might be difficult to pry away but he never seems to last long at any club so he might feel like having a change.
Or if you want some fun attacking football and don't care about results? Dick Shreuder.
Paul Griffiths
38 Posted 21/04/2026 at 05:59:39
38 Posted 21/04/2026 at 05:59:39
Emery! Emery!
He's more Real Madrid than us. Why on earth would he send his CV backwards by taking the step down from Villa to us?
He's more Real Madrid than us. Why on earth would he send his CV backwards by taking the step down from Villa to us?
Andy Meighan
39 Posted 21/04/2026 at 07:44:21
39 Posted 21/04/2026 at 07:44:21
I think all of you on here throwing managers names about are pissing in the wind.
Everton won't be replacing Moyes anytime soon, at least not until his contract is up, so forget that notion.
The one name that did make me smile though was Eddie Howe; why would anyone on here think he could better than what Moyes has done?
He's currently being hounded at Newcastle and there's not a prayer his team will be in with a shout of any of Europe's competitions next season.
Feelings are still running high after that late sickener on Sunday so talk of replacing the manager is way off the mark.
Everton won't be replacing Moyes anytime soon, at least not until his contract is up, so forget that notion.
The one name that did make me smile though was Eddie Howe; why would anyone on here think he could better than what Moyes has done?
He's currently being hounded at Newcastle and there's not a prayer his team will be in with a shout of any of Europe's competitions next season.
Feelings are still running high after that late sickener on Sunday so talk of replacing the manager is way off the mark.
Tony Abrahams
40 Posted 21/04/2026 at 07:45:43
40 Posted 21/04/2026 at 07:45:43
If any manager is now out of our reach then this means that we have owners who are not here to win things, imo.
Look at that stadium on Sunday, look at the passion, look at the pure fanaticism of the away supporters. The Evertonians, who have stood the test of time and backed their club, through so many dark times are absolutely desperate for the team to take off and if we get owners with similar ambitions, why can’t this happen?
PSR, financial fair play? So what. We need ambitious owners who have got a proper plan in place and it won’t take long to change things.
I hear people go on about London, I listen I take their point, but look at the new stadium, look at an area that is going to be completely regenerated on the finest waterfront in Great Britain, and let’s start realising how great Everton, could be once again.
Out of all the managers, Glasner, would be my choice Mike, and that was just on his record in this country before I read the other things that he had won, but the rumours are that David, is getting a new contract, so it sounds like it’s all about stability for your American friends?
Look at that stadium on Sunday, look at the passion, look at the pure fanaticism of the away supporters. The Evertonians, who have stood the test of time and backed their club, through so many dark times are absolutely desperate for the team to take off and if we get owners with similar ambitions, why can’t this happen?
PSR, financial fair play? So what. We need ambitious owners who have got a proper plan in place and it won’t take long to change things.
I hear people go on about London, I listen I take their point, but look at the new stadium, look at an area that is going to be completely regenerated on the finest waterfront in Great Britain, and let’s start realising how great Everton, could be once again.
Out of all the managers, Glasner, would be my choice Mike, and that was just on his record in this country before I read the other things that he had won, but the rumours are that David, is getting a new contract, so it sounds like it’s all about stability for your American friends?
Darren Hind
41 Posted 20/04/2026 at 07:52:49
41 Posted 20/04/2026 at 07:52:49
I once attended a Q&A with George Graham. He was asked how many hours he spent coaching his back four at set pieces. To everyone's amazement, he said he didnt spend a single minute. He told Adams, Bold and co - "You sort it. You are the defenders. Not me. You are on the pitch and able to influence events. Not me. The attackers have to get the ball inside the goal post. You, on the other hand, can put it anywhere. The only way opponents can score is if they show more desire than you. So don't fucking dare let that happen". VVD... showed far more desire than Tarkowski
I'm sick to death of Tarkowski's hard man routine. He charges around risking bookings shoving players before the kick is taken. Then either completely misjudges the flight of the ball or turns into a complete fanny and gets bullied out of it...... Yeah I know. He makes a few clearances off the line (usually after his own fuck up) and like Seamus, he shakes his fist a lot and talks a far better game than he actually plays.
I didnt learn much on Saturday. I've known for years that no club can afford to keep playing players who are long since past it and hope to win anything.
If its cheerleaders we want. Pay them 500 quid an hour on match days and spend the huge amount of money they earn on players fit for purpose. Or, if Moyes isn't up to motivating the players himself. Get Reidy or Big Joe in the dressing room to do team talks. People who know what it takes to win stuff...They'd do it for nothing
Ian Bennett
42 Posted 21/04/2026 at 08:22:04
42 Posted 21/04/2026 at 08:22:04
I agree Darren. What an alliance...
The issue as I see it, is Tarkowski will continue to stay in the side as Branthwaite can't stay fit.
I rate Branthwaite, but another hamstring injury is a huge, huge worry. I wanted someone else to go in the back with Branthwaite that would complement him. But that looks way off from happening.
Rather than a progressive pair of say Branthwaite and Stones, or a player like Konsa. We are going to be left with O'Brien, Keane and Tarkowski.
That totally changes the ability on the ball and how deep we play. Fingers crossed on Jarrad, but that injury has more impact than their winner.
The issue as I see it, is Tarkowski will continue to stay in the side as Branthwaite can't stay fit.
I rate Branthwaite, but another hamstring injury is a huge, huge worry. I wanted someone else to go in the back with Branthwaite that would complement him. But that looks way off from happening.
Rather than a progressive pair of say Branthwaite and Stones, or a player like Konsa. We are going to be left with O'Brien, Keane and Tarkowski.
That totally changes the ability on the ball and how deep we play. Fingers crossed on Jarrad, but that injury has more impact than their winner.
John Collins
43 Posted 21/04/2026 at 08:45:28
43 Posted 21/04/2026 at 08:45:28
Confidence in the owners seems to be drifting.
A simple test in the next transfer window. They back us by making every single penny the rules allow us to spend on transfers available.
Or, they don't.
A simple test in the next transfer window. They back us by making every single penny the rules allow us to spend on transfers available.
Or, they don't.
Eric Myles
44 Posted 21/04/2026 at 08:49:52
44 Posted 21/04/2026 at 08:49:52
Paul #38, when Emery took over Villa, they were 16th in the Premier League and 1 point from relegation.
He didn't appear to think that was a step down from Villarreal with whom he won a Europa League Final and took them to the semi-finals of the Champions League in 2 seasons?
Maybe he got confused by the similarities in name?
He didn't appear to think that was a step down from Villarreal with whom he won a Europa League Final and took them to the semi-finals of the Champions League in 2 seasons?
Maybe he got confused by the similarities in name?
Eric Myles
45 Posted 21/04/2026 at 08:50:35
45 Posted 21/04/2026 at 08:50:35
Edit's not working again.
John Collins
46 Posted 21/04/2026 at 08:53:52
46 Posted 21/04/2026 at 08:53:52
Darren.
A red turned Blue told us it was a simple game complicated by fools. He was right.
A red turned Blue told us it was a simple game complicated by fools. He was right.
Paul Griffiths
47 Posted 21/04/2026 at 09:20:35
47 Posted 21/04/2026 at 09:20:35
Eric, Villa to Everton today is a step down.
This is what we need to recognise. Forget history. We will get nowhere if we don't.
Saint Daniel-the-Absent doesn't give a shit about our history, tradition, culture, and city. His hollow and shallow and business-orientated few words from 15 months ago were the cliched words of a money magnet.
Watch what happens as we slide down his $$$$$$$$$$$$$-league as his money-only fingers grab a US 'franchise' or two.
I would fucking love to see us and Roma qualify for the same competition and see who Saint Daniel-the-Absent picks.
This is what we need to recognise. Forget history. We will get nowhere if we don't.
Saint Daniel-the-Absent doesn't give a shit about our history, tradition, culture, and city. His hollow and shallow and business-orientated few words from 15 months ago were the cliched words of a money magnet.
Watch what happens as we slide down his $$$$$$$$$$$$$-league as his money-only fingers grab a US 'franchise' or two.
I would fucking love to see us and Roma qualify for the same competition and see who Saint Daniel-the-Absent picks.
Si Cooper
48 Posted 21/04/2026 at 09:53:29
48 Posted 21/04/2026 at 09:53:29
Rewatched the game and it didn't improve my mood.
The assistant ref who kept flagging decent attacking moves as soon as they'd started needs investigating. Some were so close he couldn't possibly be sure they were offside and that means you let them get played out, doesn't it?
I hope the club compiles a dossier of the marginal calls that didn't go our way. Can't say for certain that we were cheated but, even if it was just incompetence, it's got to be aired if things are ever to improve.
The assistant ref who kept flagging decent attacking moves as soon as they'd started needs investigating. Some were so close he couldn't possibly be sure they were offside and that means you let them get played out, doesn't it?
I hope the club compiles a dossier of the marginal calls that didn't go our way. Can't say for certain that we were cheated but, even if it was just incompetence, it's got to be aired if things are ever to improve.
Dave Abrahams
49 Posted 21/04/2026 at 10:09:51
49 Posted 21/04/2026 at 10:09:51
Darren (41)
You are right to have a go at Tarkowski for the Liverpool cock-up of a goal but what were O'Brien at 6ft 5in and Keane (6ft 3in) doing at the same corner?
Keane was marking no one, just running on the spot, not sure what O'Brien was doing... and Pickford? Was he organising his defence?
No, he was helping a Liverpool player up after he had been knocked into the back of the net, he should have accidentally on purpose fell on the bastard.
O'Brien is not a full-back even though he gets plenty of praise on here for the way he has played in that position. I don't think he's very good playing in his own position but we're stuck with him, Keane and Tarkowski for the rest of the season.
Plenty on here want Keane to get another contract for next season because he's played better(?) in the last 8 months and forgetting the way he played in the last 8 bleedin' years.
Brian Harrison
50 Posted 21/04/2026 at 10:22:31
50 Posted 21/04/2026 at 10:22:31
Darren 41
Like you, I have been banging on for many months about what a liability Tarkowski is, and again despite him wanting to always be the tough guy when that was needed for their winner, he let Van Dijk just brush him off.
I was really surprised to hear your Q&A with George Graham with him saying he hardly coached his back 4. Because I have heard Adams on numerous occasions say how, after training, Graham spent another hour with his back 4, and also heard players from that team recalling how much time Graham spent coaching the back 4.
Obviously the injury to Branthwaite is a major worry as it seems at present his body won't let him play too many consecutive games and, if we do qualify for Europe, he couldn't possibly play 2 games a week.
Seeing my rage at losing to them yet again is starting to subside, what I think it highlighted is our lack of quality from the bench. Despite there being a lot of clamour for George to start, he was pretty much anonymous when he came on... so maybe that's why Moyes chose to leave him on the bench.
When Beto got injured and we had to rely on Barry, that just about sums up how poor our strikers are. Beto as always worked hard and scored but he is limited -- although he did cause Van Dijk and Konate problems; when Barry came on, they were in for a lot easier afternoon.
I hope he is sold the first day the window opens because the least he can do is put an effort in but he can't be arsed doing that.
We need 2 or 3 quality players and hopefully some goalscorers in as well. Grealish is a class act but we need more than 2 goals from one of our 3 main attackers.
Ndiaye is a brilliant player but, with 6 or 7 goals and 2 of those being penalties, he has to score more goals; that just leaves Beto and Barry... so no need to say anymore.
This team has needed more goalscorers for years. Gana has been a great player but doesn't score many, likewise Garner, great season... but not enough goals.
Like you, I have been banging on for many months about what a liability Tarkowski is, and again despite him wanting to always be the tough guy when that was needed for their winner, he let Van Dijk just brush him off.
I was really surprised to hear your Q&A with George Graham with him saying he hardly coached his back 4. Because I have heard Adams on numerous occasions say how, after training, Graham spent another hour with his back 4, and also heard players from that team recalling how much time Graham spent coaching the back 4.
Obviously the injury to Branthwaite is a major worry as it seems at present his body won't let him play too many consecutive games and, if we do qualify for Europe, he couldn't possibly play 2 games a week.
Seeing my rage at losing to them yet again is starting to subside, what I think it highlighted is our lack of quality from the bench. Despite there being a lot of clamour for George to start, he was pretty much anonymous when he came on... so maybe that's why Moyes chose to leave him on the bench.
When Beto got injured and we had to rely on Barry, that just about sums up how poor our strikers are. Beto as always worked hard and scored but he is limited -- although he did cause Van Dijk and Konate problems; when Barry came on, they were in for a lot easier afternoon.
I hope he is sold the first day the window opens because the least he can do is put an effort in but he can't be arsed doing that.
We need 2 or 3 quality players and hopefully some goalscorers in as well. Grealish is a class act but we need more than 2 goals from one of our 3 main attackers.
Ndiaye is a brilliant player but, with 6 or 7 goals and 2 of those being penalties, he has to score more goals; that just leaves Beto and Barry... so no need to say anymore.
This team has needed more goalscorers for years. Gana has been a great player but doesn't score many, likewise Garner, great season... but not enough goals.
John Collins
51 Posted 21/04/2026 at 10:25:33
51 Posted 21/04/2026 at 10:25:33
Tarkowski and Keane, both never had pace. As they get older, what pace they have will decrease and force us to drop ever deeper and deeper.
I reckon we may line our back four outside The Dominion soon...
I reckon we may line our back four outside The Dominion soon...
Dave Abrahams
52 Posted 21/04/2026 at 10:37:26
52 Posted 21/04/2026 at 10:37:26
Brian (50),
Lack of quality on the bench (?). He had Alcaraz, Rohl and Iroegbunam to strengthen the centre of midfield, which was tiring after running their legs off.
He also left Armstrong out of the squad completely.
Lack of quality on the bench (?). He had Alcaraz, Rohl and Iroegbunam to strengthen the centre of midfield, which was tiring after running their legs off.
He also left Armstrong out of the squad completely.
Brian Harrison
53 Posted 21/04/2026 at 10:50:53
53 Posted 21/04/2026 at 10:50:53
Dave,
The players you mentioned would in my view have made no impact... and seeing all the players you mention are midfield players, so who comes off for them?
They at least had the luxury of bringing on a World Cup winner whereas we don't have that quality in reserve. What I find really strange is, despite all the subs Moyes had to pick from, not one poster suggested bringing on the lesser spotted Dibling.
I hope TFG have realised that the recruitment team who brought players like Barry, Dibling, Aznou to the club should not be anywhere near any future transfers.
The players you mentioned would in my view have made no impact... and seeing all the players you mention are midfield players, so who comes off for them?
They at least had the luxury of bringing on a World Cup winner whereas we don't have that quality in reserve. What I find really strange is, despite all the subs Moyes had to pick from, not one poster suggested bringing on the lesser spotted Dibling.
I hope TFG have realised that the recruitment team who brought players like Barry, Dibling, Aznou to the club should not be anywhere near any future transfers.
Ian Bennett
54 Posted 21/04/2026 at 11:16:44
54 Posted 21/04/2026 at 11:16:44
Brian, I agree mate. Bar Dewsbury-Hall, I think nearly all the other starters were here last season or more.
That's the problem of buying potential, when you have a here-and-now problem to fix.
That's the problem of buying potential, when you have a here-and-now problem to fix.
Steve Brown
55 Posted 21/04/2026 at 12:04:13
55 Posted 21/04/2026 at 12:04:13
Brian/Ian,
Based on last summer's signings, what is the club's football strategy?
Based on last summer's signings, what is the club's football strategy?
Tony Abrahams
56 Posted 21/04/2026 at 12:07:41
56 Posted 21/04/2026 at 12:07:41
That's the standard answer, Dave, the players on the bench aren't good enough.
After the Aston Villa game, people were posting things about how James Garner had the energy to run all the way around the world (or words to that effect) and guess what? Rohl ran further. He must have run that hard, he needed a long break, because he hasn't been seen since.
Alcaraz got a run last season and my guess is that our points tally from when Moyes came in last season until the end of that season is probably a higher points average than what we have achieved this season.
Dewsbury-Hall had to leave Chelsea because he couldn't get a proper run in the team but, since he's come to Everton and played for a manager who has got confidence in him, then, he's proved how good he can be. But, if you are not getting a fair go because the manager doesn't trust you, then it can be very frustrating being a footballer.
Our midfield was tiring badly. Ndiaye went out of the game when he went to play on the right. Dewsbury-Hall started going out of the game as well because he had suddenly lost his link.
Gueye is 36, he had done a tremendous amount of running and, when the scoreboard showed 11 minutes of injury time, it definitely needed freshening up in midfield.
Liverpool made subs because it was the correct thing to do; Everton, bar George, made subs out of necessity. You could argue they have better players on the bench; they have also supposedly got better players in their starting eleven, but without even being biased, this wasn't really apparent during Sunday's game.
I hope the silent Friedkins want more than just stability.
Dave Abrahams
57 Posted 21/04/2026 at 12:10:17
57 Posted 21/04/2026 at 12:10:17
Brian (53) and Ian (54),
Gana Gueye and McNeil were both tiring, the three players I mentioned have been used by Moyes but Rohl hasn't been used since a very good game at Villa. Alcaraz came on versus Palace earlier in the season and helped to change the game.
Iroegbunam has been used a lot by Moyes — you and Ian didn't think they would have made much impact.
Barry and George proved they never made any impact.
I think Alcaraz could have taken McNeil's place on the wing even though it's not his position... is right-back O'Brien's position? No. But Moyes plays him continually there leaving McNeil to mostly play as a defensive winger.
Ndiaye was taken from his favourite position where he was constantly marked by two men when he was switched. This freed the Hungarian to go into midfield and put Liverpool inan attacking mood and changed the game as much as us losing Beto and Branthwaite.
Moyes watched this and never made any move to stop it; an extra centre midfielder or two might have changed it —- I think it might have made a big difference but, let's be honest, if the same situation happens again, it won't change Moyes's out-of-date way of thinking.
Gana Gueye and McNeil were both tiring, the three players I mentioned have been used by Moyes but Rohl hasn't been used since a very good game at Villa. Alcaraz came on versus Palace earlier in the season and helped to change the game.
Iroegbunam has been used a lot by Moyes — you and Ian didn't think they would have made much impact.
Barry and George proved they never made any impact.
I think Alcaraz could have taken McNeil's place on the wing even though it's not his position... is right-back O'Brien's position? No. But Moyes plays him continually there leaving McNeil to mostly play as a defensive winger.
Ndiaye was taken from his favourite position where he was constantly marked by two men when he was switched. This freed the Hungarian to go into midfield and put Liverpool inan attacking mood and changed the game as much as us losing Beto and Branthwaite.
Moyes watched this and never made any move to stop it; an extra centre midfielder or two might have changed it —- I think it might have made a big difference but, let's be honest, if the same situation happens again, it won't change Moyes's out-of-date way of thinking.
Ian Bennett
58 Posted 21/04/2026 at 12:25:16
58 Posted 21/04/2026 at 12:25:16
It looks like the strategy is taking punts on young players, as the financial constraints are an issue, as is the attractiveness of the club relative to the competition.
Everton simply don't have the transfer & wage budget to buy lots of quality players, and cover the volume of players that they wanted to get in.
The wage bill has increased at a modest amount, and still dwarfs other clubs. Liverpool's wage bill is nearly 2.5 times bigger. No point in our history will that disparity have been greater, nor their ability to spend what 4 times the transfer spend last summer?
Moyes has talked around bringing in a £60M striker, vs bringing in 3 players of say £30M, £20M and £10M each. They've gone with the latter. It is easy to be critical of that decision, but it is the type of decision that has paid off for Brighton, Brentford etc in time.
Everton simply don't have the transfer & wage budget to buy lots of quality players, and cover the volume of players that they wanted to get in.
The wage bill has increased at a modest amount, and still dwarfs other clubs. Liverpool's wage bill is nearly 2.5 times bigger. No point in our history will that disparity have been greater, nor their ability to spend what 4 times the transfer spend last summer?
Moyes has talked around bringing in a £60M striker, vs bringing in 3 players of say £30M, £20M and £10M each. They've gone with the latter. It is easy to be critical of that decision, but it is the type of decision that has paid off for Brighton, Brentford etc in time.
Paul Murray
59 Posted 21/04/2026 at 12:41:59
59 Posted 21/04/2026 at 12:41:59
Annika,
I don't agree with Iraola. Nice football and nice guy but not a proven CV to me. Glasner is very good but will he really want to join us?
Moyes does what it says on the tin: he's a very good manager and we will have Premier League football, year-in & year-out with him but he will never get you that extra yard needed and throw the dice.
I'd thank Dave for the great job he's done in providing us with the stability and position in the Premier League and let his contract run down. I'd have no problem giving Dave a job within the club in some capacity and try to get Cesc Fabregas in before someone else does.
He does throw the dice and entertains... he might even put his boots back on now and then too, lol.
Someone mentioned Emery... wow! Come on, we Evertonians are very optimistic... but leaving Villa now for us??? He's more chance of going to Madrid than us.
I don't agree with Iraola. Nice football and nice guy but not a proven CV to me. Glasner is very good but will he really want to join us?
Moyes does what it says on the tin: he's a very good manager and we will have Premier League football, year-in & year-out with him but he will never get you that extra yard needed and throw the dice.
I'd thank Dave for the great job he's done in providing us with the stability and position in the Premier League and let his contract run down. I'd have no problem giving Dave a job within the club in some capacity and try to get Cesc Fabregas in before someone else does.
He does throw the dice and entertains... he might even put his boots back on now and then too, lol.
Someone mentioned Emery... wow! Come on, we Evertonians are very optimistic... but leaving Villa now for us??? He's more chance of going to Madrid than us.
Tony Abrahams
60 Posted 21/04/2026 at 12:42:33
60 Posted 21/04/2026 at 12:42:33
Of £40M, for a kid to sit on the bench, Ian.
I think one thing that is noticeable about the last summer window is that we signed some experienced players and we also signed some young players.
Only the experienced players have made the breakthrough so do Everton continue with this strategy or are they going to abandon it because it's clear that the manager prefers experience?
Wages is usually the number one priority for most footballers who are directed by agents, then Europa, and then the size of the club and what type of plans they have got.
It looks like our profile has already been lifted so let's see what happens in the summer.
I think one thing that is noticeable about the last summer window is that we signed some experienced players and we also signed some young players.
Only the experienced players have made the breakthrough so do Everton continue with this strategy or are they going to abandon it because it's clear that the manager prefers experience?
Wages is usually the number one priority for most footballers who are directed by agents, then Europa, and then the size of the club and what type of plans they have got.
It looks like our profile has already been lifted so let's see what happens in the summer.
Brian Harrison
61 Posted 21/04/2026 at 12:49:51
61 Posted 21/04/2026 at 12:49:51
Steve 55
I think the TFG strategy is very similar to Chelsea who also have American owners: buy young potential and sign them on long contracts.
The problem being that, as Alan Hanson famously said "You win nothing with kids" and I know that he was constantly reminded of this when Man Utd's class of 96 came along.
But, apart from that team of youngsters and the Busby Babes (I was lucky enough to see both teams), what Hanson said is basically true.
Also it depends on the type of quality you can afford to buy; we splashed £40M on Dibling, I am struggling to think of a club's record buy having so few minutes unless injured.
Now it's inconceivable that Moyes would have signed him and given him so few minutes, also the same story with Aznou and Rohl.
Moyes throughout his managerial term has usually bought tried and trusted players, not young untried kids.
I think the TFG strategy is very similar to Chelsea who also have American owners: buy young potential and sign them on long contracts.
The problem being that, as Alan Hanson famously said "You win nothing with kids" and I know that he was constantly reminded of this when Man Utd's class of 96 came along.
But, apart from that team of youngsters and the Busby Babes (I was lucky enough to see both teams), what Hanson said is basically true.
Also it depends on the type of quality you can afford to buy; we splashed £40M on Dibling, I am struggling to think of a club's record buy having so few minutes unless injured.
Now it's inconceivable that Moyes would have signed him and given him so few minutes, also the same story with Aznou and Rohl.
Moyes throughout his managerial term has usually bought tried and trusted players, not young untried kids.
Raymond Fox
62 Posted 21/04/2026 at 12:52:21
62 Posted 21/04/2026 at 12:52:21
We more than matched them and didn't deserve to lose the game.
We need to retain our best players and add 3 or 4 more top class players, then we have a good chance of a Top 6 position -- that is if we are allowed to spend the money.
We need to retain our best players and add 3 or 4 more top class players, then we have a good chance of a Top 6 position -- that is if we are allowed to spend the money.
John Collins
63 Posted 21/04/2026 at 12:54:11
63 Posted 21/04/2026 at 12:54:11
Brian,
You're not having Moyes as the person who had the final say on Dibling transfer?
Was Davey fibbing when he made a public statement that he controls all transfers in and out?
You're not having Moyes as the person who had the final say on Dibling transfer?
Was Davey fibbing when he made a public statement that he controls all transfers in and out?
Brian Harrison
64 Posted 21/04/2026 at 13:00:22
64 Posted 21/04/2026 at 13:00:22
John 63
Well, do you believe Moyes agreed to spend in excess of £40M on Dibbling then not play him? That is just unbelievable.
Maybe, when it came apparent to TFG that none of the youngsters the recruitment team signed were up to scratch, maybe they asked Moyes to say he was involved in the transfers to take pressure off the recruitment team.
Well, do you believe Moyes agreed to spend in excess of £40M on Dibbling then not play him? That is just unbelievable.
Maybe, when it came apparent to TFG that none of the youngsters the recruitment team signed were up to scratch, maybe they asked Moyes to say he was involved in the transfers to take pressure off the recruitment team.
Darren Hind
65 Posted 21/04/2026 at 13:14:20
65 Posted 21/04/2026 at 13:14:20
Dave A,
I knew when I was pointing the finger at Tarkowski you would be back to criticise Keane. We must have had the same conversation half a dozen times this season. You are consistent in your view, Dave. I will give you that,
I don't know what instructions Keane or O'Brien were under or what their job was, so I can't tell you that you're wrong, but I do know what Tarkowski's job was and he came a very bad second in a two-horse race. Whether he was spent and had nothing left to give or simply didn't match the RS captain's desire, the outcome was the same.
I can accept Keane has never been top class, but he didn't fall off the same cliff Tarkowski went over 2 years ago. If Tarkowski wins that header, we don't lose.
I think it's time the manager (and a huge proportion of our fan base) stops this relentless stream of excuses for what is clearly our weakest link. Claiming it's always somebody else's fault simply prolongs the agony.
Brian,
I won't be getting into an argument with you over a point you clearly don't understand.
I knew when I was pointing the finger at Tarkowski you would be back to criticise Keane. We must have had the same conversation half a dozen times this season. You are consistent in your view, Dave. I will give you that,
I don't know what instructions Keane or O'Brien were under or what their job was, so I can't tell you that you're wrong, but I do know what Tarkowski's job was and he came a very bad second in a two-horse race. Whether he was spent and had nothing left to give or simply didn't match the RS captain's desire, the outcome was the same.
I can accept Keane has never been top class, but he didn't fall off the same cliff Tarkowski went over 2 years ago. If Tarkowski wins that header, we don't lose.
I think it's time the manager (and a huge proportion of our fan base) stops this relentless stream of excuses for what is clearly our weakest link. Claiming it's always somebody else's fault simply prolongs the agony.
Brian,
I won't be getting into an argument with you over a point you clearly don't understand.
Tony Abrahams
66 Posted 21/04/2026 at 13:18:08
66 Posted 21/04/2026 at 13:18:08
The lengths that people will go to to protect the manager sometimes. Wouldn't it just be better to go and get rid of the recruitment people instead, especially if their plans don't really align with the manager's?
Or, dare I say it, the other way around, even if it sounds like Moyes has won everything on a regular basis, the lengths some people will go to protect him.
Or, dare I say it, the other way around, even if it sounds like Moyes has won everything on a regular basis, the lengths some people will go to protect him.
Ian Bennett
67 Posted 21/04/2026 at 13:25:28
67 Posted 21/04/2026 at 13:25:28
Tony,
I said all last summer that I thought Dibling was an unnecessary risk, and that we needed a right winger to play in the here and now.
I really don't understand why it is a shock that the situation has played out. They all need to take it on the chin, that it was a poor signing.
I said all last summer that I thought Dibling was an unnecessary risk, and that we needed a right winger to play in the here and now.
I really don't understand why it is a shock that the situation has played out. They all need to take it on the chin, that it was a poor signing.
John Collins
68 Posted 21/04/2026 at 13:43:44
68 Posted 21/04/2026 at 13:43:44
Brian 64.
Possibly.
David has history with keeping his mouth shut in return for top wages in his previous stint.
Possibly.
David has history with keeping his mouth shut in return for top wages in his previous stint.
Darren Hind
69 Posted 21/04/2026 at 14:00:28
69 Posted 21/04/2026 at 14:00:28
Tony
The current members of the recruitment team were not even all in place when Moyes was making the signings he himself has insisted were his. The ones who were here hadnt even had time to get their coats off yet.
The evidence before the court is incontrovertible
There's no need for the jury to retire
In all my years of judging, I have never heard before
Of someone more deserving of the full penalty of law...
Tony Abrahams
70 Posted 21/04/2026 at 14:04:08
70 Posted 21/04/2026 at 14:04:08
I watched him playing in the final game at Goodison, Ian, he never played that well but he looked like a kid who wanted to get involved. Other than that game at Forest, every single time I've watched Dibling play, he looks disheartened and disinterested.
You will already know that it doesn't matter what any of us think though, the important thing is that everyone is aligned when it comes to recruiting players, and I don't think this looks like it is the case.
Some people think he will become a great player but it was a huge amount of money for a young footballer, simply because our current manager hasn't got much of a track record for playing young footballers on a regular basis.
You will already know that it doesn't matter what any of us think though, the important thing is that everyone is aligned when it comes to recruiting players, and I don't think this looks like it is the case.
Some people think he will become a great player but it was a huge amount of money for a young footballer, simply because our current manager hasn't got much of a track record for playing young footballers on a regular basis.
Tony Abrahams
71 Posted 21/04/2026 at 14:22:20
71 Posted 21/04/2026 at 14:22:20
Either way someone is telling lies, Darren!
Was it David, who should have been more honest and told his bosses that he doesn't really like young players? Or was it the recruitment team, “the one's that were here” who have fucked up and got the owners to blame the manager, so as to keep the pressure off themselves!
We have had enough of people not being on the same page for years. We have had enough of people behind the scenes not being unaccountable for years. But it's still going on because it's clear that some important people aren't aligned with each other.
Was it David, who should have been more honest and told his bosses that he doesn't really like young players? Or was it the recruitment team, “the one's that were here” who have fucked up and got the owners to blame the manager, so as to keep the pressure off themselves!
We have had enough of people not being on the same page for years. We have had enough of people behind the scenes not being unaccountable for years. But it's still going on because it's clear that some important people aren't aligned with each other.
Ian Wilkins
72 Posted 21/04/2026 at 15:19:26
72 Posted 21/04/2026 at 15:19:26
I don't believe Dibbling is a Moyes style player. Doesn't do his defensive duties, doesn't work hard enough, loses possession too easily.
He signed off on all our signings because, as our relatively new manager, with new owners, he had to. Moyes would always go for proven pros. TFG want younger talent that increase in value. We went for a balance.
The latter only works if you buy the right talent at the right price, with the right recruitment team. We didn't have, nor did any of those things.
£40M for a player, young or old, who doesn't play, with a transfer budget the size of ours, is pretty catastrophic. I would love to know who was truly driving this, not least for fear they repeat it.
He signed off on all our signings because, as our relatively new manager, with new owners, he had to. Moyes would always go for proven pros. TFG want younger talent that increase in value. We went for a balance.
The latter only works if you buy the right talent at the right price, with the right recruitment team. We didn't have, nor did any of those things.
£40M for a player, young or old, who doesn't play, with a transfer budget the size of ours, is pretty catastrophic. I would love to know who was truly driving this, not least for fear they repeat it.
Kevin Molloy
74 Posted 21/04/2026 at 15:37:56
74 Posted 21/04/2026 at 15:37:56
It might be an idea to loan him to Spurs for a year, let him get some games, and he can come back and have another stab at the top level.
Steve Brown
75 Posted 21/04/2026 at 16:09:13
75 Posted 21/04/2026 at 16:09:13
Ian / Brian @ 61, you are correct about the strategy.
TFG spent the £110 million plus summer transfer fund on mainly young players who can only improve by being played. Their long-term plan is to buy and develop young players and build pathways from the academy to the first team squad.
They hired David Moyes to help us avoid relegation and stablise the club. Unfortunately, he does not select the young players purchased. Dibling, Rohl, Aznou, Patterson, Alcaraz, Iroegbunam and Armstrong are losing market value month by month by the manager’s refusal to give them game time.
We have spent 5 years unpicking the crazy transfer fees and high salaries for experienced players that Moshiri and Kenwright signed. It nearly bankrupted us.
We have a new strategy. But it is only a strategy if you actually follow it, and any blockage to implementation needs to be removed.
John Collins
76 Posted 21/04/2026 at 16:20:48
76 Posted 21/04/2026 at 16:20:48
Good post, Steve.
I agree that he's not the right manager if that is the strategy.
I agree that he's not the right manager if that is the strategy.
Steve Brown
77 Posted 21/04/2026 at 16:26:37
77 Posted 21/04/2026 at 16:26:37
John @ 75, we either write off the £100M invested in these young players or we hire a manager who can develop them.
If we give Moyes a new contract, then TFG will need to bin their long-term plan after one season.
John Collins
78 Posted 21/04/2026 at 16:56:28
78 Posted 21/04/2026 at 16:56:28
A younger manager with an open mind, Steve. Someone who will give us the only chance we have to get back in the big time.
Get a youngish squad together and develop them over 2 - 3 years.
Get a youngish squad together and develop them over 2 - 3 years.
Dave Abrahams
79 Posted 21/04/2026 at 18:45:31
79 Posted 21/04/2026 at 18:45:31
Darren (65),
I admitted Tarkowski was partly to blame for that goal but so were the other centre-backs.
It's a constant with Keane that he is marking nobody a lot of the time. And have a good look at O'Brien: for such a big lad, he's not a great leaper... but plenty of fans think he going to be a very good centre-back.
I beg to differ on that but I hope I'm wrong and the others are right.
As for Pickford, he's got form, and plenty of it, for dealing with centres and corners, and this cock-up won't be his last.
I admitted Tarkowski was partly to blame for that goal but so were the other centre-backs.
It's a constant with Keane that he is marking nobody a lot of the time. And have a good look at O'Brien: for such a big lad, he's not a great leaper... but plenty of fans think he going to be a very good centre-back.
I beg to differ on that but I hope I'm wrong and the others are right.
As for Pickford, he's got form, and plenty of it, for dealing with centres and corners, and this cock-up won't be his last.
Brian Harrison
80 Posted 21/04/2026 at 18:54:59
80 Posted 21/04/2026 at 18:54:59
Yet another post about getting an unknown young manager in to work with the younger group of players.
Well, look at that template Chelsea are using: young team, young manager... it's going well, isn't it?
Remember, we have tried a few younger managers: Unsworth, Ferguson and Lampard all failed. Yes, Lampard has got Coventry promoted; let's see how he does back in the Premier League.
It's like the cry when teams are struggling and the muppets shout "Play the kids!" Guardiola -- vastly experienced; Arteta -- learnt a lot from working with Guardiola; Emery -- had won European trophies before joining Villa.
Young managers are very rarely the answer, just like getting a group of youngsters together isn't the answer either. Could you imagine if we start next season with Dibling, George and Barry up front? Give them a year or two and they will have found their level as we would be in the Championship.
Well, look at that template Chelsea are using: young team, young manager... it's going well, isn't it?
Remember, we have tried a few younger managers: Unsworth, Ferguson and Lampard all failed. Yes, Lampard has got Coventry promoted; let's see how he does back in the Premier League.
It's like the cry when teams are struggling and the muppets shout "Play the kids!" Guardiola -- vastly experienced; Arteta -- learnt a lot from working with Guardiola; Emery -- had won European trophies before joining Villa.
Young managers are very rarely the answer, just like getting a group of youngsters together isn't the answer either. Could you imagine if we start next season with Dibling, George and Barry up front? Give them a year or two and they will have found their level as we would be in the Championship.
Dale Self
81 Posted 21/04/2026 at 19:34:59
81 Posted 21/04/2026 at 19:34:59
Not to butt in, but Glasner would be a good transition from Moyes. Likely, this club would be a good transition for him too.
He isn't happy at Palace, or wasn't, so it shouldn't be hard to sound him out for a stint. Do it, TFG.
He isn't happy at Palace, or wasn't, so it shouldn't be hard to sound him out for a stint. Do it, TFG.
Jimmy Carr
82 Posted 21/04/2026 at 20:02:50
82 Posted 21/04/2026 at 20:02:50
I think the derby means too much to us. The desperation to beat them translates to the players in an unfavourable way.
For me, the most important point about Sunday is that it's damaged our chances of Europe, they've beaten us so many times in so many different ways, I'm almost numb to it.
Moyes needs to look forward and rally the troops for one last push; it won't be easy. If we qualify for Europe, the derby will be quickly forgotten about.
For me, the most important point about Sunday is that it's damaged our chances of Europe, they've beaten us so many times in so many different ways, I'm almost numb to it.
Moyes needs to look forward and rally the troops for one last push; it won't be easy. If we qualify for Europe, the derby will be quickly forgotten about.
Ged Simpson
83 Posted 21/04/2026 at 20:41:32
83 Posted 21/04/2026 at 20:41:32
Jimmy. Agree but... shit man, why do they keep doing that?
I suspect because they often have other ambitions on their mind. Perhaps we should have done too and tried to see it as a game with max 3 points available.
But when I return to Merseyside and youth, realise that is easier said than done.
Moyes's weak point after so many losses that somehow passes on to players?
I suspect because they often have other ambitions on their mind. Perhaps we should have done too and tried to see it as a game with max 3 points available.
But when I return to Merseyside and youth, realise that is easier said than done.
Moyes's weak point after so many losses that somehow passes on to players?
Eric Myles
84 Posted 21/04/2026 at 00:53:21
84 Posted 21/04/2026 at 00:53:21
Paul #47, I'm not the historian here!
Just look at Villa when Emery took them over and where we are now. Not as big a step down as from the Real Villa to Aston Villa.
Just look at Villa when Emery took them over and where we are now. Not as big a step down as from the Real Villa to Aston Villa.
Eric Myles
85 Posted 21/04/2026 at 01:06:45
85 Posted 21/04/2026 at 01:06:45
Steve #55, buy youngsters 'cos they're cheap wages and transfer fees (Dibling being an exception) while letting more expensive experienced players go to keep within PSR restraints.
If the youngsters prove to be good sell, them at a profit and buy more cheaper ones, again improving PSR. Pay yourself a divident for being smart enough to figure this out.
Easy this club ownership lark.
If the youngsters prove to be good sell, them at a profit and buy more cheaper ones, again improving PSR. Pay yourself a divident for being smart enough to figure this out.
Easy this club ownership lark.
Eric Myles
86 Posted 22/04/2026 at 02:19:57
86 Posted 22/04/2026 at 02:19:57
Paul #59, aim high…
Or be content with more journeyman managers taking us nowhere.
Or be content with more journeyman managers taking us nowhere.
Mark Murphy
87 Posted 22/04/2026 at 10:28:39
87 Posted 22/04/2026 at 10:28:39
I agree with John Collins at 78.
Until then, I would like to see Moyes give Dibling a run on the right and give Rohl, Armstrong, Iroegbunam and Alcaraz more time to show what they can bring to next season's Everton.
O'Brien and Keane in the middle for now -- let Jimmy Garner baby-sit the right-back position, allowing one of the above to get some time in the team.
Then all out in summer for a first-choice right-back and a striker to replace Barry. Maybe a right-winger too if Dibling doesn't work out -- but, if he doesn't play, how will we know?
Goodbye to McNeil, Barry, Barry and Barry, Gana, Tarkowski and, takes a deep breath, Coleman, in the summer.
My preference would be Iraola or Glasner to come in but, if Moyes is to stay, then instructions to give the youth some time in the team rather than just play for mid-table money.
Build a new team... and get rid of Barry.
Until then, I would like to see Moyes give Dibling a run on the right and give Rohl, Armstrong, Iroegbunam and Alcaraz more time to show what they can bring to next season's Everton.
O'Brien and Keane in the middle for now -- let Jimmy Garner baby-sit the right-back position, allowing one of the above to get some time in the team.
Then all out in summer for a first-choice right-back and a striker to replace Barry. Maybe a right-winger too if Dibling doesn't work out -- but, if he doesn't play, how will we know?
Goodbye to McNeil, Barry, Barry and Barry, Gana, Tarkowski and, takes a deep breath, Coleman, in the summer.
My preference would be Iraola or Glasner to come in but, if Moyes is to stay, then instructions to give the youth some time in the team rather than just play for mid-table money.
Build a new team... and get rid of Barry.
Paul Murray
88 Posted 22/04/2026 at 11:20:06
88 Posted 22/04/2026 at 11:20:06
Eric @86,
Journeymen managers? I mentioned Glasner and my choice Cesc Fabregas -- Journeymen???
Fabregas is just starting out and got Como up to Serie A and this season up to 5th in his first job -- how's he a journeyman???
Journeymen managers? I mentioned Glasner and my choice Cesc Fabregas -- Journeymen???
Fabregas is just starting out and got Como up to Serie A and this season up to 5th in his first job -- how's he a journeyman???
Mark Murphy
89 Posted 22/04/2026 at 16:12:12
89 Posted 22/04/2026 at 16:12:12
I've heard talk of some bother at the game? Anything serious?
John Collins
90 Posted 22/04/2026 at 16:14:40
90 Posted 22/04/2026 at 16:14:40
The Derby game Mark?
Ian Bennett
91 Posted 22/04/2026 at 16:22:36
91 Posted 22/04/2026 at 16:22:36
There was hand bags in the toilets between anti Moyes and some other fella in my stand.
Some Liverpool fans got kicked out of West stand when they celebrated.
Some Liverpool fans got kicked out of West stand when they celebrated.
Raymond Fox
92 Posted 22/04/2026 at 17:02:23
92 Posted 22/04/2026 at 17:02:23
So is Dibling a good player or not?
A few people must have thought so to pay £40m for him, Moyes said he has the last say on transfers, but I would guess the lad was strongly recommended by our 'fantastic scouts'.
He still gets picked for England under 21s, so I think he is well capable of better form than he has shown so far.
The Prem. is a very hard comp. to introduce young players to, lose a couple of games and it makes a world of difference. Its easy for us to say play so and so, but we are not carrying the can if we start losing.
I am not going to criticise Moyes at this stage, our crunch season will be the next one and you can bet your bottom dollar he will be in charge for it.
Considering Branthwaite has been missing a big chunk of the season plus our most expensive player has also missed plenty of games, I think Moyes has done as well as anyone could expect.
A few people must have thought so to pay £40m for him, Moyes said he has the last say on transfers, but I would guess the lad was strongly recommended by our 'fantastic scouts'.
He still gets picked for England under 21s, so I think he is well capable of better form than he has shown so far.
The Prem. is a very hard comp. to introduce young players to, lose a couple of games and it makes a world of difference. Its easy for us to say play so and so, but we are not carrying the can if we start losing.
I am not going to criticise Moyes at this stage, our crunch season will be the next one and you can bet your bottom dollar he will be in charge for it.
Considering Branthwaite has been missing a big chunk of the season plus our most expensive player has also missed plenty of games, I think Moyes has done as well as anyone could expect.
John Collins
93 Posted 22/04/2026 at 17:15:43
93 Posted 22/04/2026 at 17:15:43
He got himself in a very good position to challenge for the top prize and caved as usual Raymond.
It remains to be seen if he caves in competing for the lesser European competitions.
It remains to be seen if he caves in competing for the lesser European competitions.
Mark Murphy
94 Posted 22/04/2026 at 21:43:36
94 Posted 22/04/2026 at 21:43:36
I heard both sets of fans were let out at the same time so was there a “coming together”??
Tony Abrahams
95 Posted 22/04/2026 at 21:48:09
95 Posted 22/04/2026 at 21:48:09
The only coming together was when Jones clipped Ndiaye, according to the referee, Mark.
Mark Murphy
96 Posted 23/04/2026 at 07:57:27
96 Posted 23/04/2026 at 07:57:27
Or Dewsbury Hall as he’s usually known, Tony?
Add Your Comments
In order to post a comment, you need to be logged in as a registered user of the site.
Or Sign up as a ToffeeWeb Member — it's free, takes just a few minutes and will allow you to post your comments on articles and Talking Points submissions across the site.
How to get rid of these ads and support TW
© ToffeeWeb
-sm.jpg)
1 Posted 20/04/2026 at 12:50:52
We definitely need to be better and we also need the manager to be a lot braver because rather than feeling cursed, we should instead remember that old adage about making your own luck.
You simply can't have enough good players so, if Branthwaite is out of the team, we are definitely going to miss him, even though we haven't really had him fit all season.
He needs to get himself right because it's clear that we need to build our team around players like Jarrad Branthwaite and James Garner