Observing as a coach, the most striking quality of the Everton team is the togetherness of the players, and the discipline and the will to play as a team. That`s a credit to the management. I can`t remember any incidences of fingerpointing at team mates, or players hiding when things are going against them. I am also impressed with the level of communication between the players. They act as a unit, and that is without a doubt why they often draw or win tight games.
Another strength is the defensive organisation throughout the team, and goals conceded are at the top end of the league. This is more to do with the way Everton defend as a team, and often deep, more than the quality of the back four. It also has to do with the safety-first principles of our attacking. Like many fans I am impressed with Lescott, and I think it has been healthy for Yobo to get more responsibilities, as the natural leaders (but not so good players) Weir and Stubbs have not been playing. He still has some leadership to learn though, I must say.
Andy Johnson`s pace has been a major plus this season and his goals important, although I don`t think that he is used well enough. He has to chase too many long balls, and is not often enough released behind the opposition's back four by our midfield players after combinations or from a strike partner, which is much harder to defend against.
Now I will discuss the two major shortcomings, Everton`s ability to control and Everton`s ability to change games. When I watch Everton, I don`t think we control games well. Our attacks are often short, and too often include only 2-3 players and 2 or 3 passes. I think there are three reasons for this:
This has to change, and is what separates Everton from becoming a top 6 side. Some of it, I guess, has to do with Moyes's gritty conservatism and loyalty to his main players, while another obvious reason is that the squad does not offer that many different tactical options. But, in general, substitutions come too late, and with no real purpose. In many games I would like to see a change to a 4-4-2 earlier, and Van der Meyde used as a player to change games. He who does not dare…
Everton`s failure to change games has lasted for years, and in my book is the main reason for why the team has performed so badly in cup competitions during Moyes reign.
I still believe Moyes is the right man for the job, and I think he recognises the weaknesses of the team, and given funding gradually will improve the squad. The ability to change games also has to do with experience, and Moyes is still very much a promising manager. I want to see him blossom at Goodison and not elsewhere. I also hope the fans have the sense, patience and supportiveness to appreciate the obvious strenghts he has given the team in recent years.
Great article from Tore — I hope he writes some more in the future.
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