Opinion & Articles

Deulofeu's Welcome Return

Lyndon Lloyd

Gerard Deulofeu may have spent a year away from Goodison but he never really left the hearts of many Blues fans who are delighted to see the mercurial winger back in the fold.

Tom McIntosh – Everton's First Full-Time Secretary

Stuart McIntosh and Rob Sawyer

Tom McIntosh is a significant off-pitch figure in EvertonÂ’s story, yet he seems to have fallen through the cracks of the clubÂ’s historical records and his contribution over 16 years is largely overlooked.

Tough Start Presents Opportunity for Martinez's Everton

Lyndon Lloyd

The newly-announced 2015-16 fixtures have thrown up a daunting first 10 games for Everton but within the challenge lies huge opportunity if Roberto Martinez can get his team primed to hit the ground running.

Conflicted: Thoughts On the Role of the Echo

Lyndon Lloyd

Much ire has been aimed at the Echo in recent weeks, particularly on social media, but the nature of the paper's existential realities and its ownership by Trinity Mirror put it in a Catch-22 situation.

A Mission of Disengagement: How a Local Paper Alienated Itself from Its City

Chris Feeley

The Liverpool Echo's circulation has been dropping in recent years, a trend mirrored across traditional print media. But is the paper's perceived imbalance in reporting on Red and Blue when it comes to football a contributing factor?

William H Parry, a former Captain of Everton Football Club

Tony Onslow

The story of the man who captained Everton in the season they would lift their first piece of silverware.

A Question of Style

Sam Day

Is the strongest group of players since the late 1980s being wasted by a style that doesn't play to their strengths?

My interview with Andy King

Brian Viner

Evertonian author and journalist, Brian Viner shares with us what he thinks may be the last interview with Andy King, from his book Looking For The Toffees, first published last August.

Mr Kenwright – In Quotes

Chris Feeley

Bill Kenwright is an enigmatic figure who who leads Everton Football Club from the top. This study works through a number of his published quotations in an effort to gain more insight on where the club is.... and where it is going.

Frustrating Season Ends on a Sour Note

Lyndon Lloyd

Everton lost to a Spurs side that was quicker, slicker and hungrier for three points that ensured it was they who finish in the fifth position occupied by the Blues this time last year.

Cliff Britton – A Life in Football

Rob Sawyer (EFC Heritage Society)

Cliff Britton was EvertonÂ’s first manager in the modern sense of the word, yet it is for his footballing feats at Goodison Park in the 1930s that he is most celebrated. Part I: The Player.

Poor End to a Poor Season

Paul Traill

A flat end to a flat season. For the first time in as long as I can remember, we didnÂ’t stay around for the lap of honour. We just felt a bit flat after the game...

The 2014-15 season from Roberto's viewpoint

Paul Traill

Paul Traill was among a group of independent Everton website reps invited to Finch Farm for a retrospective with manager Roberto Martinez on the ups and downs of season 2014-15. » Audio

From My Seat: Tottenham (H)

Ken Buckley

Our 15th home defeat this season and, looking at the players we have got, you have to wonder why. Today Spurs made us look ordinary.

Poor half by Blues sees Kane win it

Michael Kenrick

A game that fizzled out with Everton being denied that top-halfnish, Crystal Palace edging them out; a dismal end to a very disappointing season.

Goodison Forever

Lyndon Lloyd

In the wake of Robert Elstone's cautionary words over the proposed move to Walton Hall Park, the time has surely come to call off the search for a new home and redevelop the Grand Old Lady.

In Praise of the Midget Gems

Fran  Mitchell

Our famous Midget Gems: Osman, Pienaar and Cahill. These three lads are sorely missed from the current Everton team, and we lost them at pretty much the same time. That is a hard gap to fill, especially with our resources.

Mercurial Blues Produce Explosive Finale

Lyndon Lloyd

Romelu Lukaku's 20th goal of the season earned a dramatic late win for the second season running at Upton Park.

From My Seat – West Ham (A)

Ken Buckley

Overall a game that took a half and half of a half to ignite but when it did it got entertaining.

Lukaku grabs last-gasp winner

Michael Kenrick

After an open game in which Everton had the better of the play, Downing found the net for the home side. Everton were soon level with a very well-taken goal from Osman. In a dramatic finish, Lukaku grabbed a late win with a great close-range header.

Rotterdam Blues

Ian Hollingworth

We were going to watch Everton play in a European final.

Black Cats Get the Cream as Goodison Turns Sour

Mark Ellis

Frustration and passion dominate this recap of the Sunderland game by one Blue who is running out of patience with a perceived lack of direction at Everton.

The Man Who Coached Everton to Their First League Championship

Tony Onslow

The story of David Waugh who went from Everton player to successful club trainer.

Familiar Failings Expose Blues' Deficiencies

Lyndon Lloyd

This defeat to Sunderland may have owed as much to luck as the Blues' own inability to get their act together in the box long enough to win it, but there was an annoying air of inevitability about it.

From My Seat: Sunderland (H)

Ken Buckley

Overall I thought the better side lost but if you donÂ’t score you canÂ’t win and one or two mistakes at the back and the lesser side has won.

I Thought It Was My Lucky Day

Paul Traill

It was far from Everton's worst performance of the season but it was hardly convincing either.

Blues give up two horrible goals

Michael Kenrick

Sunderland came to defend but they plundered two goals after plenty of spirited Everton attacking with McCarthy hitting the post. A shocking result.

Just Making Do

Mark Finnegan

It's all gone very quiet at Everton and one fan says he is tired of the lack of developments regarding investment in the club or a new stadium.

The Life of a Former Everton Captain

Tony Onslow

The story of Nick Ross, the Victorian version of the present-day soccer super star who captained both Preston North End and Everton. He was described at the time as "the most brilliant back of his day, if not of all time."

Was This the Birthplace of Everton Football Club?

Tony Onslow

It was to the Midland Railway Company's goods depot on Liverpool's Victoria Street, that Tom Evans, an instrumental figure in the formation of Everton FC, was transferred from Derbyshire in 1875.

The Slumbering Giant: Part IV – Soul Searching

Lyndon Lloyd

Is finding a faceless billionaire the only way to lift Everton back to the top of the English game – and, if so, at what cost to the soul and traditions of the club? The final part of the series.

Villa's Intensity Overwhelms Dismal Everton

Lyndon Lloyd

Aston Villa ended a flat and uninspired Everton's six-match unbeaten run with a 3-2 win at Villa Park.

From My Seat: Aston Villa (A)

Ken Buckley

Overall a disappointing day out – not because we lost but the manner in which we lost. It was as though the mental state of the players was that they knew there was nothing to play for, they were safe and could not challenge for anything and put in a display that professional players should be ashamed of.

Scoreline flatters very poor Everton display

Michael Kenrick

Goals by Christian Benteke and Tom Cleverley end Everton's fine run of form on the back of a Blues performance that will only reignite the questions hanging over Roberto Martinez as Everton manager.

Our Immediate Future

James Flynn

Who is coming and who is going this summer? The only thing certain is that Roberto has his work cut out for him.

The Slumbering Giant: Part 3 - Treading Water

Lyndon Lloyd

With lagging commercial revenue relative to our peers, a new stadium is cited by the Board as the key to Everton's longer-term success. Is it the best option, how long dare we wait and what of the ownership issue in the interim?

Martinez Rediscovers His Mojo

Lyndon Lloyd

The Catalan played Louis van Gaal and his charges like a fiddle in the Merseyside sunshine today as Everton ran out 3-0 winners.

From My Seat: Man Utd (H)

Ken Buckley

A good day out in good weather, good company and a good display from the team.

Corner turned with fine Everton performance

Michael Kenrick

A truly tremendous display of determination and conviction as the team continues to recover from an absolutely dreadful spell of form mid-season.

The Slumbering Giant: Part 2 - Twenty-Year Itch

Lyndon Lloyd

As the face of English football is irrevocably changed by capital forces, Everton survives as a club with community ties and a modest long-term business plan. But can we ever compete again on this footing?

A Question of Strategy

Fran Mitchell

Outlining a short-term interim strategy to returning Everton to the big time.

Difficult to be inspired

Paul Traill

Disappointingly, Everton produced an uninspiring second half against a poor 10 man Burnley. We should have put these to the sword but just didnÂ’t do enough and left the game pretty disappointed really, despite the result. We did create a few chances, and some of the link up play around their penalty area wasnÂ’t too shabby, but our failure to put the ball in the net a few more times was particularly discouraging. I think pretty much every team above us in the league, and maybe even one or two below us, would have won this game by more goals from here.

Mini-Revival Continues With Unspectacular Win Over Burnley

Lyndon Lloyd

In hindsight, a routine win that brings the Blues' points haul from the last 15 available to 13 and pulls them to within a couple of points of the top half of the table.

From My Seat: Burnley (H)

Ken Buckley

All-in-all, a nice day out, three points but in truth there was more entertainment in the fan zone than on the pitch.

40+ points despite Barkley's penalty miss

Michael Kenrick

Mirallas's goal earned a win that finally takes Everton above the 40-point mark in a season that continues to frustrate long-suffering Blues.

The Slumbering Giant: Part I - Another False Dawn

Lyndon Lloyd

Everton's step backwards this season after a decade of incremental progress gives pause and cause for reflection on the future of the club. Part I looks at the playing side as it pertains to the Blues' immediate prospects.

The Lost Tribe of Everton

Patrick Hart

The case for a city centre stadium and Boardroom failure leaving Everton in the doldrums in their own city

Everton Pass Up Fourth Straight Win

Lyndon Lloyd

A fourth match unbeaten keeps the belated recovery alive and keeps Everton's hopes of a top-half finish alive but it was a largely uninspiring performance.

From My Seat: Swansea City (A)

Ken Buckley

A report from the Liberty Stadium where Everton dropped two more points as Jonoe Shelvey cancelled out Aaron Lennon's opener.

Silly penalty squanders a fourth win

Michael Kenrick

An unchanged Everton side saw Osman replaced inside half an hour but failed to secure full points after leading at the break and dominating the game. A good move down the left, involving sub Pienaar, saw McCarthy getting to the byeline and cutting the ball back really well to Lennon who steadied himself and picked out the bottom corner to finish very nicely. 1-0 to Everton. But a ridiculous penalty put Swansea back in it after the Blues switched off.

The Etymology of Everton

Sam Day

I am singing about wild boars in a stadium named after a sewage worker, in support of a team inspired by the patron saint of astronomy.

Spanish Impressionist 1 Dutch Master 0

Dave  Cooper

Three wins on the bounce does reflect a change in strategy by RM, although he might never admit it.

From My Seat – Southampton (H)

Ken Buckley

Overall I enjoyed the day out and I was enthralled how our style of play has evolved from early season Tikka—Takka and messing about at the back thus giving goals away to today where you could say we won ugly and won with a clean sheet.

Everton plunder a win

Paul Traill

So on we trundle and we now somehow sit in 11th position which is quite remarkable given how poorly we have performed this season.

Early Jags goal defended to the end

Michael Kenrick

Without Romelu Lukaku, and after Howard had made a remarkable save, Everton scored from a corner on 15 mins, Baines putting a good ball in that Barry clipped nicely back into the mixer and there was Phil Jagielka with the deftest of flicks to turn the angled ball across the line in a packed Southampton area, much to the delight of the assembled Blue masses. Everton held out in a somewhat scrappy second period.

The Changing of the Guard

Jamie Armstrong

From the players, management and board, we need to see a reaction this summer and we can send out a real message. ItÂ’s probably one of the biggest in our recent history.

Everton Is Nothing Without Evertonians

Lyndon Lloyd

A chat with the Toffee Lady, Elizabeth France – the better half of Dr. Everton – about Evertonians, the fine biographical efforts of some of the club's most devoted fans, and the current state of the club.

The Class of ‘65: Everton’s First FA Youth Cup Winning Team – 50 Years On

Rob Sawyer with David France

The players and the story behind Everton's 1965 Youth Cup-winning side updated with a postscript following their appearance at Goodison during the recent Spurs game.

Everton Mask Euro Hurt with Vital Victory

Lyndon Lloyd

A win that puts nine points worth of daylight between Everton and the bottom three and, with eight games still to play, which should be enough to banish fears of the relegation.

From My Seat: QPR (A)

Ken Buckley

Overall not the most entertaining of games yet a thrilling day out but only after the final whistle went confirming we had taken all the points.

How to play on the back foot and win!

Michael Kenrick

A game of very very close margins that will perhaps relieve the pressure a little on the loquacious Everton manager.

The Everton squad

Graham Holliday

An overview of the current squad and areas where Roberto Martinez needs to strengthen

Fish and Chips

Kieran Kinsella

There's an old saying that "Today's news is tomorrow's fish and chip paper." In my profession, there is a similar ethos — it doesn't matter what you did yesterday, it's all about producing today. Once upon a time, top flight footballers also believed in this concept. Hence the much quoted "You're only as good as your last game." Sadly, this is no longer the case

If it's time to go, where do we go?

Jamie Armstrong

The players' performances fall at MartinezÂ’s door and his poor performances sit at KenwrightÂ’s. ItÂ’s the million-dollar question: Who could we bring in and who could we attract? This piece providers a detailed list of potential candidates that would be attracted to the opportunity of managing our beloved football club.

Defensive nightmare ends Martinez dream

Michael Kenrick

Everton hoped to be the only British club to make it into the quarterfinals of European competition this season as they took on Dynamo Kyiv but it all went horribly wrong.

Spot On Lukaku

Rodger Armstrong

Two top-drawer performances and two confidently-taken penalties have epitomised the responsibility that Romelu Lukaku has assumed as a vital player this season.

From My Seat: Newcastle (H)

Ken Buckley

"Job done. Now for the little matter of progression in Kiev and three more points at QPR. If we show the better bits of today I am hopeful."

Barkley Seals Vital Win in Style

Michael Kenrick

A win was vital in this 'must-win' game to give Everton added breathing space, and that was delivered, with much more positive intent than seen in far too many recent games

From West Derby to New South Wales: The Footballing Odyssey of Ian Hillsdon

Rob Sawyer

Some rejected teenage footballers quietly slip out of the game, whilst others have a second chance at a lower league club. An intrepid few go further afield to fulfil their footballing dreams. A prime example of the latter category is Ian Hillsdon.

From My Seat: Dynamo Kyiv (H)

Ken Buckley

Overall after the first thirty odd minutes of dross a good game ensued thanks to the forceful demands of the faithful and the players for taking advice from the song and did it ‘My Way’.

Lukaku Stands Tall As Everton Turn Tables On Dynamo Kyiv

Lyndon Lloyd

The Europa League decor went up at Goodison Park and Everton re-emerged from the hole they've been digging for themselves in the Premier League to win in Europe again.

Finally a Bit of Fight

Paul Traill

It was a fantastic effort from Everton in the second half and resulted in a thoroughly deserved win.

Blues come back after early shock

Michael Kenrick

Dynamo Kyiv scored easily from their first corner that stunned the Blues but only after the crowd rebelled against crablike pace and passing, a determined Lukaku forced the ball through to Naismith who slid the ball home perfectly, and Lukaku converted a second-half penalty to give Everton a vital lead as they came back from that early goal.

Where Has It All Gone Wrong, Roberto?

Jamie Armstrong

A harsh spotlight on Everton's failings under Roberto Martinez this season and some prescriptions for the malaise.

Alan Ball – Little Man, Big Heart

Frank Mullin

Waxing lyrical about the good old days, and in particular about a man who lived and breathed passion in a royal blue shirt.

Talking a Good Game

Rodger Armstrong

Roberto is an interviewerÂ’s dream and became, especially last season, something of a Media darling. Everyone wanted to hear his views, his analysis, his thoughts. That is all very well and good when results are going your way. However, we sit here in March 2015 with only 6 League wins all season in 14th spot on 28 points from 28 games.

The Intransigent Mr Martinez

Lyndon Lloyd

Everton's miserable fortunes on the domestic front have exhausted the currency Roberto Martinez earned in his first season at Goodson. Can he break the perplexing intransigence that has paralysed his team this season and prove that he is the man to take the club forward over the long term?

We need to keep hiring a Roberto Martinez

Robin Cannon

If we do fire Roberto Martinez then we need to go out and hire... another Roberto Martinez.

A Young Blue Down South

Sam Day

I decided to write about something that I had a great first-hand experience of and that others could relate to; being a blue down south!

Tony Cottee – My Everton Years

Rob Sawyer

Rob Sawyer in conversation with Tony Cottee

The Perils of the Final 10

Chris Feeley

An analysis of Everton's crippling malaise and some possible solutions.

An Open Letter to Roberto

Steve Stobie

A fan of 30 years addresses the manager over his team's poor form in what has been a very disappointing season

Miedo and Other Sins

Jim Potter

Whatever, ‘fear’ is most certainly in our midst and seemingly tightening its grip on a daily basis. The players, the fans and the manager are seemingly being consumed by it. And after last night’s defeat at Stoke this is probably only going to get worse.

Stick or Twist? Sink or Swim?

Dave Randles

If Premier League survival is what we want, then Roberto needs to do something and quickly, because I for one am no longer sure he knows what heÂ’s doing.

Everton Sleepwalk to Another Away Defeat

Lyndon Lloyd

A second 2-0 defeat in the space of four days, another blank on Everton's side of the scoresheet in the points column, and one more frustratingly inept performance has deepened the gloom among supporters trying to fathom how the magic of last season has turned so black.

From My Seat: Stoke (A)

Ken Buckley

Overall a frustrating game that did provide a more intense display but without ever looking as though we had the opponents on the rack or create any real goal bound efforts.

It's All About Belief

Mike Oates

Something inside me says we will survive... although not very prettily, but we have to have belief that we can do it. ItÂ’s all about belief.

From My Seat: Arsenal (A)

Ken Buckley

Arsenal is never an easy game but neither is any other game in the EPL and we are just not doing well enough against anyone at the moment to rule out a relegation fight

Normal Service Resumed At The Emirates

Lyndon Lloyd

Everton seemed resigned to their fate in a match that they controlled for long periods but again failed to do enough to win.

Blues domination but no penetration

Michael Kenrick

Everton totally dominated the home side in the first half-hour, but with no shot on goal, and it was all-too predictable when Giroud scored easily from a corner. No real attempts on goal to speak of and after the break was left for sub Rosicky to sow up the points with a shot deflected off Jagielka.

Kyiv – An Opportunity For Peacemaking

Steven Jones

We as Evertonians have the rare opportunity to set new standards in football supporter behaviour. With the upcoming fixture, we have an amazing opportunity to reach out with the hand of friendship and support.

Can We Play You Every Week?

Lyndon Lloyd

Some early unsteadiness aside, a professional and reasonably entertaining performance from Everton that ensures they breeze into the next round.

The Most Fun This Season Yet

Paul Traill

Into the last 16 we head and who knows how far we can go, especially with the golden ticket of the Champions League at the end of the rainbow.

What's the Story?

Jack Garrett

If itÂ’s the hope that kills you, thatÂ’s fine, give me some hope. Because itÂ’s better than the limbo of 2014-15.

The Enterprising Mr Sawyer

Rob Sawyer

William James Sawyer was a significant figure on the North West football landscape in the first half of the Twentieth Century.

Late Equaliser Rescues Bungling Howard

Lyndon Lloyd

The struggle goes on... Everton continue to falter where a season that many fans now just want to see the back of lurches from one frustration to the next.

Will the Misery Ever End?

Mike Oates

Was last season merely a freak occurrence and does this season's calamity risk the break-up of Roberto Martinez's squad?

From My Seat: Leicester (H)

Ken Buckley

Overall a disappointing day out as the game reflected the weather –not the best.

Change the Keeper. Simple!

Paul Traill

Fine margins define games however and had Lukaku put at least one of his great chances away we may have won

Blunders abound as Lukaku misses a hat-trick

Michael Kenrick

A game that was different task from Europe, with exception of the number of chances set up for Lukaku and Howard's blunders.

Everton Soar On Belgian Rom's Hat-Trick

Lyndon Lloyd

The Blues planted one foot in the round of 16 with an excellent display in Bern despite playing the last half hour with 10 men following John Stones's red card.

Should We Battle to Hold On to Mirallas?

David Cartlidge

Has it reached the point where the dilemma shouldnÂ’t be whether to sell the Belgian or not but instead how to command the best possible fee for him and look to rebuild?

Loose Belgian Lips Expose Everton's Harsh Reality

Lyndon Lloyd

Beyond the semantics of quotes attributed to Romelu Lukaku this week lies a more sobering reality. In order to keep our best players, Everton need to become a "top club" once more.

Another Cruel, Late Twist At The Bridge

Lyndon Lloyd

Just two minutes, plus stoppage time, were all that lay between Everton and a hugely creditable point at Stamford Bridge.

Resolute defence beaten at the death

Michael Kenrick

Barry walked near the end for a silly second yellow and, in the very next attack, on 10 man Everton, Howard punched out to Willian whose shot gets two deflections before beating Howard at the near post in the 90th minute.

It's Now Or Never For Kenwright

Steve Hogan

In the history of the game, there has never been that much money now guaranteed to clubs playing in the top flight. If Everton were ever offered a financial incentive to build a new stadium, it is now.

Rebuilding the House Roberto Built

James Martin

It has been a difficult season to defend Roberto Martinez, there is no doubt about that. I felt compelled to write something in his defense though as I believe our mid season form rather than being the end point of the Martinez experiment, the ultimate Wiganification of Everton if you like, was rather a very large bump in the road with numerous contributing factors behind it.

Yet another derby draw

Paul Traill

All square at the end then and a draw definitely the right result. Neither team did enough to win it and it was one of the poorest, if not the poorest, Merseyside derby I can remember. Nobody should be surprised by the result either. That's the fifth draw in the last six Merseyside derbies!

Caution Prevails in Lifeless Mersey Derby

Lyndon Lloyd

Everton spared their fans the agony of a Liverpool win in Steven Gerrard's last all-Merseyside clash but that was ultimately all they gave them in a torpid encounter at Goodison Park.

From My Seat: Liverpool (H)

Ken Buckley

Overall a bit of a damp squib of a derby that for me lacked that local bragging rights intensity and never really produced a tackle that could be put down as a cruncher or game changer. We did have a few handbags near the end when Besic didnÂ’t take too kindly to a tackle and retaliated which prompted a pushing and shoving session and yellow cards for Besic and Naismith along with Henderson. This insured we won the card count 4-1.

Blues lack decisive drive upfront

Michael Kenrick

Ibe smacked the post for the visitors while Everton inexplicably reverted to their worst tendencies after the break and it ended goalless after a spirited if ultimately ineffective performance.

A Call to Arms

Dave Williams

Come on all you Blues. No matter what the team selection, regardless of whether you are for or against Roberto – shout until you have no voice left on Saturday and see if we can inspire our boys to a win.

Disciplined Everton grab the points

Paul Traill

It wasn't pretty, but it was darned effective. I like them sort of away wins myself. Grab an early goal, stay disciplined, don't give much away and put the work in. A great three points for Everton and who knows, maybe this can be a catalyst to push on with some difficult games on the horizon.

From My Seat: Crystal Palace (A)

Ken  Buckley

Not the best of games yet in many ways a thriller and to take the three points was priceless. Although we did revert to the agricultural at times some decent stuff was also played and I thought we looked better for it. The burning question now is can we kick on and what will the managers preferred style of play be. I just hope he gets it right.

Defensive Strength Underpins First Win of the Year

Lyndon Lloyd

Sometimes you just need to grind out a win and Everton successfully did that on a notoriously difficult ground. Full report on the win over Palace.

Blues hold on for precious win

Michael Kenrick

Despite not really playing well, Everton incredibly held out to not only win, but to win with a clean sheet, and hopefully reverse a dreadful run of form that had many fans fearing relegation.

Don't Mention the 'R' Word

Steve Hogan

The next four weeks will, I believe, be the defining moments of our manager's season, and will also test the resolve of the Chairman in sticking with Martinez in the hope he will pull the club through.

Why Is Such a Talented Group Playing So Badly?

Jim Hourigan

Players having off days and a run of poor form is not new and in any sport is to be expected but why, as a collective, are so many underperforming at the same time?

Why the Fans Are As Wrong As Martinez

Sean Wafer

A storm is brewing at Everton, and the quite genuine danger that 12 months of goodwill is fully eroding looks apparent.

In the Grip of Fear

Lyndon Lloyd

If the alarm bells weren't ringing before, they certainly are now.

When Will This Nightmare End?

Paul Traill

Tough times and choppy waters ahead. Who would you want to steer this ship?

Dismal Everton as Mirallas squanders spot-kick

Michael Kenrick

Roberto Martinez named his strongest available team with Kevin Mirallas coming in for the suspended Aiden McGeady. In a dreadful first half, Everton created little until Lescott gave away a soft penalty... that Mirallas missed hopelessly, and he failed to reappear after the break for an almost equally abysmal second half that ended goalless.

Let's Not Kid Ourselves

Mike Oates

We think we've turned a corner but our current form is still nowhere near good enough to get us away from the bottom three. Let’s not kid ourselves – we are in serious trouble, we can’t keep clean sheets, the way we are set up defensively is useless, and we desperately need Lukaku and Mirallas on fire – and, I suspect, a fully fit McCarthy.

Could It Be Turning?

Ian Robertson

It seems strange to talk in terms of turning the corner when we’ve just gone out of the cup, but it’s about performances as well, and a draw at home to Man City followed by an unlucky exit in a gripping FA Cup replay at least offer grounds for cautious encouragement. The fact is, just a couple of weeks ago, we would not have fought back in either of those games – least of all with ten men on the pitch.

Your Move, Roberto

Charlie Gibson

A look at the current Everton squad and where the manager should be looking to reinforce given the skewed demographics towards more veteran players

Back From the Asylum

Wayne Stamps

A cold night at the Boleyn Ground, a loss in cruel circumstances, but a performance to warm the heart

Roller-Coaster Replay Ends In Penalty Agony

Lyndon Lloyd

Everton played with 10 men for over an hour as this FA Cu0 replay went to extra time only for their spirited display to end in the agony of defeat in a penalty shootout

Drama to the end of the shoot-out

Michael Kenrick

A crazy penalty shoot-out that finished 9-8, Naismith and Robles both missing to give West Ham the tie.

Blues Rediscover Their Fight

Lyndon Lloyd

The Blues displayed defensive resilience and revived impetus to earn a deserved draw with City

From My Seat: Man City (H)

Ken Buckley

I thought that today we showed we can mix it up and play some joined up stuff as well as having no nonsense clearances when under pressure in the box. First half today we did have a bit of ‘tippy- Tappy’ in the box and got into trouble whilst second half we cut that out and looked that bit more confident and solid.

Did the Players Have a Word?

Paul Traill

Our team was getting stuck into Manchester City. Our team was mixing it about and going direct at times. It was great to see: "Quite an old fashioned game with a lot of character and grit", as Roberto Martinez put it.

Naismith header rescues a point

Michael Kenrick

City somehow scored from very little, but Everton replied quickly, Naismith glancing in an excellent Baines delivery from a set-piece. Neither side could score the winner while Everton ended their poor losing streak.

Maybe We Should Think the Unthinkable

Wayne Stamps

Should Everton offload some of their best players in order to rebuild?

Changes, Changes and More Changes!

Ged Dwyer

Making the argument that playing a settled team is more conducive to consistent results

Tactics, Selection and Squad Is Completely Unbalanced

Jim Hourigan

As I sat through the match last night, watching West Ham pick up every second ball and pass around some of our players with ease, the paucity of our tactics and selection was once again laid bare.

From My Seat: West Ham (FA Cup)

Ken Buckley

Overall a frustrating night out with the last 8 minutes being the highlight.

Lukaku's Rescue Act Provides Potential Pivot for Everton

Lyndon Lloyd

Romelu Lukaku's injury-time strike kept Everton alive in the FA Cup and came as a massive relief to a beleagured Roberto Martinez.

At Least We Stopped the Rot

Paul Traill

We're still in the cup. Let's hope that's still the case this time next week.

Who would you call?

Paul Traill

Who has the proven track record and indefatigable resilience to solve our current problems...

5 Reasons Why I Became an Evertonian

Erik Kowalker

Five reasons why a rookie Premier League fan from Portland Oregon chose to root for Everton.

'Tis the Winter of Our Discontent

Cam Matthews

That Shakespearean phrase used to describe one of the darkest periods of British Political history has been used to brand Everton's bleak and dismal festive period. That's not good.

Deep in the Doo-Dah!

Jay Wood

We are DEEP in the doo-dah... we have taken a paltry 4 points from the last 24 available, with a home draw with Hull and a win against QPR. We are currently bottom of the PL form table. It's not as though we've had a difficult fixture list in those 8 games...

New Year, Same Problems

Lyndon Lloyd

A 2-0 defeat at Hull City, a team struggling for confidence themselves who hadn't won at home since October, made it four defeats on the spin and five straight losses away from Goodison Park in the League.

From My Seat: Hull City (A)

Ken Buckley

Ken's report from another miserable away day

Sorry Everton beaten far too easily

Michael Kenrick

A 'pivotal' game that sadly changed nothing for Roberto Martinez and his abysmally poor charges

Lukaku is the Problem

Martin Wallace

The problems Everton have now can all be traced back to spending way over the odds for an average player and then (in a blind attempt to justify paying silly money), repeatedly sending him out in the wrong position, whilst hiding behind the fact that heÂ’s very young and therefore needs time to develop.

Jack Earp – The Gentleman Amateur

Rob Sawyer

The story of Jack Earp who played for the Blues between 1891 and 1892 before winning the FA Cup with Sheffield Wednesday in 1896.

If You Know Your History… In Search of Royal Blue Blood

Jamie Yates

Jamie searches his family tree for Evertonian connections.

Where's the Pivot Pointing?

Paul Tran

"It looks like we have a completely different manager this season, one that is nowhere near able to do the job we want."

From My Seat: Newcastle (A)

Ken Buckley

Ken made the cold trip to the northeast to witness a debacle unfold at St James' Park

Blues In the Grip of a Crisis of Confidence

Lyndon Lloyd

Roberto Martinez's positive tenure is unravelling as Everton's slide continues.

Quo vadis, Martinez?

Michael Kidd

What does Roberto do now? Surely he has to admit that things are not going well? I assume it is not his tactics that dictate that Everton are almost always second to the ball and back off rather than pressurizing? But it is his job to work on the playersÂ’ confidence and self-belief. Other than the top few clubs and the odd season where there is a truly dire bottom team (or teams), the difference between most of the rest, I think, is in their heads. And what is in our heads at the moment is the opposite of where we were last season. Roberto needs to get that confidence back, but IÂ’m not sure if he can.

Brilliant start by Kone horribly squandered

Michael Kenrick

Everton started brilliantly, McGeady feeding a superb pass out to Coleman who crossed perfectly for Kone to slam the ball home inside 5 mins. But they tried to sit on the lead and paid the price, Cissé finally converting. Barkley came on at the break but it was McGeady who gifted the ball away for Newcastle to score again far too easily. Some absolutely dreadful defending at the back saw Barkley cushion the ball perfectly for Colback to benefit, closing in behind him to beat the yellow lummox in the Everton goal with consummate ease. Game Over... despite Mirallas scoring off a brilliant Baines through-ball.

At what point do you say ''Enough is enough''?

Paul Traill

Boos greeted the full-time whistle and rightly so. Whether you were booing our team, Roberto Martinez, Stoke City or Lee Mason or all of the above. That was woeful in every conceivable way. Over to Roberto, then. Less talk and more action required as whatever it is he does evidently isn't working... At what point do you say "Enough is enough"?

From My Seat: Stoke City (H)

Ken Buckley

Boxing Day... a home game and we turn up full of expectation after that debacle at Southampton; on receiving the team lineup, most were optimistic with the only debate being who would get the winger's job as we only had Mirallas as a recognised wide man... So who? Naismith or Barkley? By the end of the game, I donÂ’t think we got the answer as players were popping up anywhere and everywhere yet without quite knowing why... or so it seemed from the stand.

Miserable Boxing Day fare for the Blues

Michael Kenrick

The first half was marred by a succession of injuries all requiring treatment that broke up the play. There were plenty of shenanigans from Stoke and Walters as the last man should have been dismissed but wasn't, then Stoke scored on a very dubious penalty. TEN added minutes at half-time... and Howard hobbled off, having pulled something. Howard and Jagielka replaced by Robles and Alcaraz but Everton could not find a path to goal, resorting to less elegant football at times in desperation to get something out of the game.

Competition for places.... Really???

Wayne Stamps

"I'm not concerned in terms of [our] performances, I don’t think we are far away from where we were last season, and even I would say that we are better this season, in many aspects of our performances." — Roberto Martinez.

Memory Lane - Everton vs Stoke City

Patrick Murphy

The last in this series looks as Everton's history against the Potters

Dixies' day as it happened

Dave Price

....

Faith or fear; Warsaw or Wigan; atmosphere or applause

Jim Hourigan

The debacle on Saturday has for many raised questions about Martinez and the current state of play. Has the faith so many of us put in him last year that we were once more playing fast attractive attacking football begun to crumble? To be replaced by a fear that we have a side that is weak mentally and has lost the competitive edge and the refusal to get beat?

Welcome to the Asylum

Wayne Stamps

"They say the definition of insanity is 'doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result.'" Can Martinez adapt in the face of his first serious test as Everton manager?

From My Seat: Southampton (A)

Ken Buckley

Ken reports on the debacle at the St Mary's

Alius Falsus Matutinus

Lyndon Lloyd

The Martinez regime may yet prove to be the one that leads us back to the promised land but in the aftermath of another wretched defeat, it just feels like another false dawn.

Dutch Master rates higher than a Spanish Impressionist

David Cooper

For Southampton, Ronald Koeman, stretched to his limits of who he could play, came up with a very simple plan that Roberto Martinez had no answer to. It is clear that a Dutch Master rates higher than a Spanish Impressionist. Ronald Koeman – in the words of "Survivor" – outplayed, outwitted and outlasted Martinez to such an extent that, unless Roberto starts to seriously reflect on what team and tactics he is sending out, he may become a candidate for being "voted off the island".

Memory Lane - Southampton v Everton

Patrick Murphy

The recent history of Saints vs Everton.

Everton Fans' Forum

Richard Knights

Richard expresses reservations over the transparency of the recent Fans' Forum vote.

Rob Howarth – a Former Everton Captain

Tony Onslow

Everton's first captain at Goodison Park, Howarth took over as skipper from Jonny Holt after the move from Anfield

Everton's Mojo Still Missing Despite Vital Win

Lyndon Lloyd

Though far from their best, Everton won when they were expected to, seeing off QPR 3-1.

From My Seat: QPR (H)

Ken Buckley

Not the best of displays to watch and I heard many a comment about how our style of play is boring and that is after a 3-1 win.

QPR Blown Away

Paul Traill

Unlike our last home game versus Hull City, Everton were cheered off the pitch. Lets try and kick on now at Southampton...

Memory Lane - Everton v QPR

Patrick Murphy

A potted history of tonight's Everton v Queens Park Rangers fixture.

Plenty to Learn From Europa Experiment

Lyndon Lloyd

Everton narrowly lost the game that ended the Blues' unbeaten run in the competition but the boss will hopefully have gleaned plenty from what he saw.

In Search of George Brewster

Tony Onslow

The story of George "Dod" Brewster, an Everton captain who played for the club between for 18 months between 1921 and 1922.

What's Gone Wrong?

Mike Oates

WeÂ’ll all have a predominant reason why we think we are struggling, but what is certain is that unless we break out of this run of form as soon as possible weÂ’ll be dragged down into the group whoÂ’ll be fighting for survival.

Will All This Pain Pay Off?

Kevin Tully

The last three games have been absolute torture. There was a point in the Spurs game, when Baines took a throw in to Barkley, and Ross just stabbed it out of play for an opposition throw in. I swear, I nearly chewed off my own hand off, watching them both trot away without even a backward glance.

From my seat: Man City (A)

Ken Buckley

Overall, a better effort than against Hull but McCarthy and Naismith are big misses for us at the moment. The likes of Baines, Coleman, Distin, Barry and Jags plus Mirallas are just coming back from injury, not yet at their peak, and unable to help those who have to come in to cover for the injured first teamers as much as they would like.

Soft penalty but Everton were second best

Michael Kenrick

For Sky's televised evening match at the Etihad, Ross Barkley was dropped to the bench. A soft penalty for Jagielka's mistimed challenge on Milner and Everton were behind after 23 mins to Toure's spot-kick. Barkley came on in place of Besic after 56 mins and he tried hard from his preferred central position but it was not to be, despite one fabulous strike by Lukaku that Hart saved miraculously.

Memory Lane — Man City v Everton

Patrick Murphy

From Hyde Road to the Etihad Stadium: Manchester City versus Everton

American Evertonians Feel the Pain of Howard's Struggles

Geoffrey Caveney

For an American football fan, there is nothing worse than seeing our hero, playing for our beloved club with all our proud history, in the best league in the world, letting the club down. We are so proud of Howard, for showing everyone that an American can succeed at the world's game on the highest level, for doing it for Everton, for making American Evertonians proud. When he fails, it hurts us all the worse.

From My Seat: Hull City (H)

Ken Buckley

Overall, I was disappointed with the fare on view but I will not get carried away as there is still a long way to go and some good players to get back fit.

Everton Struggle With the Burden of Expectation

Lyndon Lloyd

Echoing the draw against Swansea and some of the similar games from last season, this was an encapsulation of Martinez's lingering challenge at Everton – how to break down entrenched, well-drilled opposition

'This Is Pathetic, This'

Paul Traill

"If those around where I sit are anything to go by, I'm not the only one who is pretty fed up of our style."

Dismal performance angers Goodison faithful

Michael Kenrick

It was sluggish stuff for the most part and boos rang round Goodison at the end of a dreadful second half.

Memory Lane - Everton v Hull City

Patrick Murphy

Hull City have made more visits to Goodison Park for FA Cup ties and Second Division games than they have made for top-flight matches and todayÂ’s fixture will be only the fourth occasion that they have visited the stadium for a top-flight encounter, all of which have come in the Premier League era.

Woe in the Capital for Ponderous Everton

Lyndon Lloyd

A sluggish Everton are undone by individual errors and a general lack of tempo against a below-par Spurs side

Massive disappointment after brilliant Mirallas strike

Michael Kenrick

From a clever free kick he won, Mirallas jinked to make space before firing in a brilliant top-class strike way beyond Lloris to put the Blues ahead. But Spurs got right back in it after Eriksen finished off a parried Kane shot. Everton allowed Spurs to run at them before the break, Soldado scoring his first Premier League goal in nine months. Everton did not really even threaten to score in a second half that saw any great attacking prowess totally neutralized.

Memory Lane – Spurs v Everton

Patrick Murphy

Cup Specialists unable to Match Everton’s League record – Tottenham Hotspur versus Everton, a historical review of this fixture.

Lukaku Shines As Blues Tame Die Wölfe

Lyndon Lloyd

Everton prove that they were the team to beat in a strong Group H by completing a deserved double over Wolfsburg.

Brilliant tactics yield the perfect result

Michael Kenrick

Everton won their Europa League group after a brilliant victory in what was, on paper, their most difficult assignment yet against Wolfsburg.

What Do We Want?

Patrick Murphy

What is it that Evertonians require or expect from their team and individual players?

Well Qualified to Keep Goal for Everton

Tony Onslow

The story of Bob Smalley, the man between the posts when Everton kicked off the inaugural Football League season in 1888-89.

Do We Give Youngsters a Chance?

Mike Oates

Do we really give youngsters a chance? Is our academy fulfilling its role? Can we afford to give youngsters a chance?

I Haven't Celebrated a Goal Like That For a While

Paul Traill

Whichever way we got the win, it was an important win. We now sit just two points off fourth. Defeat or even a draw would have left us feeling a long way away. That's seven games unbeaten in all competitions (five in the league) so we are starting to see some progress.

From My Seat: West Ham Utd (H)

Ken Buckley

Overall a win with a depleted team and some good performances and a couple not so good, some good joined up moves and some not so good.

Osman Delivers the Knockout Blow In Goodison Scrap

Lyndon Lloyd

The Blues came through a physical test despite two key absentees, found a way to retake the lead and then withstand a late Allardyce bombardment

Blues win a rip-roaring encounter

Michael Kenrick

After a difficult 25 mins against a resolute Hammers blockade, Lukaku was on hand to lash the ball home for Everton's first goal. McCarthy caught Amalfitano's foot to set off an unseemly reaction from the Hammers before the break. West Ham were no pushovers, and got back in it with a deflected goal for sub Zarate. Osman got on the end of a brilliant ball from Eto'o to put the Blues back in the lead on his 400th appearance to win what was at times a rare old tussle.

Memory Lane - Everton v West Ham

Patrick Murphy

Lots of history in this fixture for students of Everton past and present.

In Search of the First Everton Stalwart

Tony Onslow

The story of George Dobson who made his Everton debut in 1885 who went on to become Everton's first captain.

Tommy Eggleston Remembered

Rob Sawyer

Beside virtually every great manager there is a great right-hand man. In Harry Catterick’s case he enjoyed the vital support of Tom “Tommy” Eggleston.

From My Seat: Sunderland (A)

Ken Buckley

Ken reports from the Stadium of Light, another draw and more injuries

Why Can We Never Capitalise?

Paul Traill

Other teams are all stuttering...somehow it always seems to be the Everton way that we don't capitalise on our rivals failures.

Attacking prowess endlessly frustrated

Michael Kenrick

A game of tremendous attacking potential for Everton was in the end another story of frustration with no goals from open play.

Memory Lane - Sunderland vs Everton

Patrick Murphy

Everton visit Sunderland for the 80th time in the top flight this weekend. Patrick looks at recent history of the fixture

Lukaku: A Corner Turned?

Paul Traill

I won't count my chickens just yet, but I really hope this is where Lukaku can turn the corner. Play like that every game and I'll be very happy indeed.

Stylish Blues Dismantle Lille

Lyndon Lloyd

Everton retained their position on top of Group H and now need just a point to guarantee their passage to the next phase

The Barkley Enigma

Rick Tarleton

Ross Barkley is a tremendous talent but he does not seem to be using many of his abilities currently for Everton. What will be Barkley's role in the Everton team? Has he the footballing intelligence to be the main man in the Everton team?

The Blacksmith of Crossmyloof

Tony Onslow

The story of John Weir, a Scottish defender who played 19 league games for Everton in 1889-90.

Blues Draw a Frustrating Blank

Lyndon Lloyd

A chance to make strides towards the top four goes begging as Everton struggle to break down Swansea who finished with 10 men

A draw was on the cards...

Paul Traill

Everton 0 - 0 Swansea City

A draw was on the cards from the outset as, almost every time Katja (my better half) decides to attend the game, she leaves having witnessed a draw... often a goalless one.

From My Seat: Swansea City (H)

Ken Buckley

Overall, a frustrating afternoon. Not a lot wrong with the build-up play but, oh, the lack of pace in that last third. It was our managerÂ’s 200th Premier League game and it left him with little to cheer about. TodayÂ’s display was fine up to a point, that point being the final third and that I am afraid is a trait that may well leave us short come May. Today was the first game this season we have failed to score and add the fact we kept a clean sheet then there is still room for optimism

No way past 10-man Swansea

Michael Kenrick

Everton started with Samuel Eto'o leading the attack with Aiden McGeady supporting Barkley and Naismith. They had been very dominant in the first half, playing possibly their best joined-up football so far this season, with much more zest and forward possession (71%) but nothing to show for it at the break. Swansea threatened in the second half until Shelvey got a second yellow but the Blues failed to lay siege and Swansea stuck it out for a point.

Memory Lane - Swansea at Goodison

Patrick Murphy

The Swans rare opponents in the top-flight

The Costley Brothers – Was It Jim Or Was It Tom?

Tony Onslow

Profiling Tommy Costley who joined the club in 1886 and was a member of the Everton side that became founder members of the Football League in 1888

Eto'o Turns On the Style In Important Blues Win

Lyndon Lloyd

A victory under-pinned by solid defensive work and secured by superior quality in the final third.

From My Seat: Burnley (A)

Ken Buckley

Overall a good day out and the team got the job done.

Lille On Wheels

Chrissy Smith

An account from one of the Everton Disabled Supporters Association (EDSA) who travelled to Lille last Thursday.

We'll take the train next time...

Paul Traill

Overall, a decent point away from home though the result makes the reverse fixture a huge game for both sides.

Memory Lane – Burnley

Patrick Murphy

The Clarets – Vintage Opponents: Burnley v Everton

An Unspectacular Job Done

Lyndon Lloyd

An instantly forgettable affair but one which leaves Roberto Martinez's side unbeaten and top of Group H

Solid Blues defence; impotent attack

Michael Kenrick

Everton not could break down the stubborn home side while they did very well to prevent any goals against to retain their place at the top of Group H.

In the presence of greatness

Paul Traill

I was delighted to attend the book launch of the posthumous autobiography of The Cannonball Kid himself, one Dave Hickson. James Corbett had invited along some of Dave's team mates from the 1950s era, including Jimmy Harris and Derek Temple. It was a lovely book launch and it was amazing to be in the presence of such highly esteemed colleagues of Dave Hickson. The book itself is a superb read.

Professional job by the Blue boys

Paul Traill

A 3-0 win against Aston Villa when I was seriously expecting a frustrating draw or worse. What a satisfactory afternoon, especially with the return of some of our key players and at last an excellent performance from our record buy Romelu Lukaku.

Much More Like It

Lyndon Lloyd

This was much more akin to what we became accustomed to last season – calm and unflappable in possession, potent from the fullbacks and with Lukaku feeding off Barkley up front.

From My Seat: Aston Villa (H)

Ken Buckley

The win was everything and from a display that just maybe suggest better things are ahead of us with a bit of better luck on the injury front.

Barkley returns and Blues shine

Michael Kenrick

Ross Barkley was a surprise starter alongside Coleman and McCarthy. Jagielka opened the scoring after 18 mins, heading home a great Baines cross. Everton went further ahead soon after the break, as McCarthy got Barkley moving and Lukaku dug out a firm shot that squirmed past Guzan. From a quick free-kick from Osman and Baines crossed smartly for Coleman to turn in the third to put Everton back on track.

Memory Lane – Aston Villa at Goodison Park

Patrick Murphy

Villains – Oldest Rivals, Oldest Friends! Everton v Aston Villa

A Tribute to Matt Woods

Rob Sawyer

Remembering Matt Woods, a centre-half who was on the Blues' books in the 1950s, who recently passed away aged 82.

Stadium Design Questions

David Shaw

A new stadium brings with it a number of design questions and options for forging a path forward.

Mitigating Circumstances?

Alan Wilson

Martinez should not be above questioning but there are plenty of factors working against the manager this season

“Buck” – Mick Buckley Remembered

Rob Sawyer

On the one-year anniversary of his passing, Rob Sawyer of the Heritage Society looks back at the life and career of Mick Buckley who played for the Blues 135 times in the 1970s.

Faltering Blues Still Searching For Their Lost Mojo

Lyndon Lloyd

A four-game road trip ends disappointingly with two draws and two defeats and a real flat feeling heading into the international break.

From My Seat: Man Utd (A)

Ken Buckley

But for three super saves and two crucial blocks we could have won. Such are the fine margins of football, purely unpredictable.

Di Maria and Falcao do the damage

Michael Kenrick

Hibbert, Besic, Pienaar, McGeady and Naismith started for Everton who fell behind when Falcao played back Jagielka's blind clearance from Blind's good cross into Di Maria's stride and he made no mistake through a packed area. Hibbert won a penalty before the break but Baines could not beat De Gea. Baines swung in a superb second ball off Barry's return pass that Naismith headed in brilliantly to put Everton somewhat undeservedly back in the game until Falcao converted a Di Maria miskick.

A Point Plundered Keeps Blues on Course

Lyndon Lloyd

Samuel Eto'o's late goal salvaged a point that was more important than the iffy performance it was built on

Eto'o levels after sloppy goal given up

Michael Kenrick

Everton defended well in the first half but Ari broke through on a lose ball over the top with poor tracking from Jagielka and smacked it easily past Howard to give the home side the lead just before half-time. Everton brought on Lukaku but struggled to create anything of note until the final 10 mins, when Eto'o cleverly turned in an excellent Baines cross.

Barry and McCarthy

James Martin

"I just don't know. In so many ways Barry and McCarthy are great but in others they can look very very average."

Bolt From the Blue Masks Flat Derby Display

Lyndon Lloyd

Phil Jagielka's stunning equaliser lit up an otherwise wretched attacking performance but avoiding defeat is the real win.

From My Seat: Liverpool (A)

Ken Buckley

It seemed all over when the board went up with just 3 minutes shown but our captain and centre-back hit what can only be described as a ‘Screamer’. It hit the top corner with keeper helpless.

Jagielka stunner rescues a point

MIchael Kenrick

The game seemed lost until Jagielka rescued a point in added time with an absolutely brilliant strike.

Follow Europa's Lead

Nick Entwistle

Something needs to be done to revitalize he domestic cup competitions...

Let History Repeat Itself

Mike Owen

It is often said that history repeats itself. So let me take you back 50 years to September 1964...

Frustration... But It Could Be So Good!

Steve Stobie

A potted history of the season to date and the inescapable conclusion that Stones and Jagielka should be the centre-back pairing going forward to get out of the gaping hole Everton's early season defence (or lack thereof) has created.

Timothy Matthew Howard

Paul Ferry

Is Tim Howard no longer the goalkeeper he once was and a source of concern that there is nobody else on the books who could effortlessly take his place between the sticks?

The Eternal Triangle

Bob Carlton

It has always been thought that a strong spine to a team is the foundation of a team that will do well. It's obvious really; a good keeper, a strong centre-back, a playmaker/enforcer in central midfielder, and a striker who will score goals.

Everton, That...

Lyndon Lloyd

Having won so handsomely on Thursday in Europe and then seen Manchester United, Liverpool, Tottenham and Chelsea all drop points, you just knew we were going to lose today.

Nobody Blows It Quite Like Everton

Paul Traill

Individual errors will happen and obviously played a huge factor.

From My Seat: Crystal Palace (H)

Ken Buckley

3-2. Miracle is on! DidnÂ’t happen.

Errors by Howard gift key goals to Palace

Michael Kenrick

Roberto Martinez rotated some of his squad but it ended in another shocking home defeat.

Clinical Blues Tame the German Wolves

Lyndon Lloyd

Everton marked their return to European football with a superb result against Bundesliga side Wolfsburg

We Have Lift Off!

Paul Traill

It's great to return to Europe and fantastic to get off to a flyer

(Almost) Solid Blues defence wins out

Michael Kenrick

Everton withstood a barrage of shots to win a very entertaining Europa League opener.

Well-Tailored to Keep Goal for Everton

Tony Onslow

A signing from local rivals Bootle, David Jardine was in goal for Everton's first match at Goodison Park.

Positive Signs As Everton Pick Up First Win

Lyndon Lloyd

A clean sheet, a first goal for Romelu Lukaku and a return to better form of the McCarthy-Barry axis in this 2-0 win at the Hawthorns augurs well for the immediate future.

Where's The Pub?

Paul Traill

A good day all round, an important win and clean sheet with several big games coming up over the next three weeks.

From My Seat: WBA (A)

Ken Buckley

Ken reports on a ‘boss’ day in the West Midlands

Blues win with two fortuitous goals

Michael Kenrick

A great away win for Everton, two goals from their strikers, three points, a clean sheet, no embarrassing defensive lapses punished... but a poor performance overall.

Charlie Gee: Stockport, Everton and England

Rob Sawyer

The story of Charlie Gee, whom Everton signed from Stockport in 1930 and who played a key role in the Everton career of one Harry Catterick.

Alex ‘Sandy’ Young Grave Ceremony

Tony I'Anson

Tony visited the ceremony to commemorate Alex Sandy Young and unveil the new headstone at his grave in Edinburgh.

The Legacy of Pre-Season

Jim Knightley

Did Everton's poor pre-season performances foretell of a disappointing start?

Three Key Positions Unaddressed

Wayne Stamps

We have three crucial positions in the team that decide the future of all football teams, yet they now have massive question marks over them, and that gives me room to have concerns about the forthcoming season.

I Fell In Love

Paul Traill

Many will have expected a Chelsea win – though not in a nine-goal thriller. Scoring three at home and losing is rather criminal and, with 10 goals conceded already this season, it's certainly a real problem for Roberto Martinez. How he handles that with three competitions to play in and some big, big fixtures to come in September will be fascinating.

Defensive Frailties Leave Martinez Searching for Answers

Lyndon Lloyd

Everton's defensive frailties were ruthlessly exposed in a mesmerising game of football at Goodison Park that yielded nine goals.

From My Seat: Chelsea (H)

Ken Buckley

An unexpected experience that saw us shipping two goals in the first three minutes and then witnessing a humdinger of a game that thrills neutrals and fans of the winners yet, at the same time, leaving the losers to still have some optimism after a thrashing to the tune of ‘ship 6 – score 3’.

Jagielka & Distin: The Dilemma

Paul Ferry

A lot of the talk tonight is about serious issues for Everton and Roberto Martinez regarding the pivotal centre-back pairing in defence.

Dreadful start sees fightback become a whitewash

MIchael Kenrick

Astounding stuff at GoodisonPark as Chelsea inflict Everton's first defeat of the new season.

Memory Lane - Chelsea (H)

Patrick Murphy

Two Glamour Clubs and their Fluctuating Fortunes: Everton v Chelsea

The Ghost of David Moyes

Paul Traill

A performance that was again much more David Moyes-like than Roberto-Martinez-esque sees the Blues throw away a 2-0 lead against Arsenal.

Another Draw Snatched From the Jaws of Victory

Lyndon Lloyd

Everton let a priceless two-goal advantage slip as Arsenal equalise at the death.

From My Seat: Arsenal (H)

Ken Buckley

We all saw it coming but what a downer as a draw felt like a loss. Final whistle and no ‘Grand Old Team’ as the fans filed silently out of the ground.

Two more points thrown away

Michael Kenrick

Everton once again allowed their opponents too much time and space in the second half, and paid the price again, for the second week running, gifting Arsenal two late goals in place of a solid thumping.

The Last Act of the Cannonball Kid

James Corbett

An abridged version of James CorbettÂ’s introduction to The Cannonball Kid, his biography of Everton hero Dave Hickson, out now and published by deCoubertin Books.

Memory Lane - Arsenal (H)

Patrick Murphy

Famous Old Foes and Modern Day Nemesis: Everton v Arsenal

Memory Lane - Leicester City (A)

Patrick Murphy

Details of the matches that Everton have been involved in with Leicester City on their patch 10, 20 and 30 years ago.

Will Everton Ever Change Their Season Habits?

Paul Traill

Old habits die hard for Everton and it seems like it's only Everton capable of defending so loosely in the opening day of the season. We seem to do the hard work with scoring good goals and then slack off at the back by gifting soft ones.

Blues Still Searching For That Vital Killer Instinct

Lyndon Lloyd

Everton, as clearly the superior team should have won this match comfortably but eased off too quickly and for too long, paying the price by conceding a late equaliser.

From My Seat: Leicester City (A)

Ken Buckley

Overall, a good day out but you wonder how we could perform so differently first half to second...

Blues squander a fine lead at the death

Michael Kenrick

McGeady scored an excellent opening goal on 20 mins, but Leicester came right back with a soft goal off a corner. A nice build-up before the break saw Naismith sweep home a lovely shot to give Everton the lead. But Everton struggled more and more in the second half and gave up a soft equalizer. But Everton tired visibly in a poor second half and allowed the home side back in near the end, squandering two vital points,

Diamonds Are For Everton - The Story of Umbro and Everton

Rob  Sawyer

Charting the history of Everton's association with kit manufacturer, Umbro, the past half-century

2014-15 Season Preview

Lyndon Lloyd

The curtain will soon be raised on Roberto Martinez's second season in charge at Goodison Park, the latest page in a new chapter of the club's history waiting to be written.

Pre–Season... So what have we learned?

Wayne Stamps

it is hard for us to judge exactly what Roberto wanted from the friendly games although it's safe to assume the results were not a high priority. Only in the second half did against Celta Vigo did we start to look sharper and the Paderborn game and a further closed door match should help towards fitness for the Leicester fixture.

Billy Kenny – Football's No. 1 Wasted Talent

Dick Brady

Billy Kenny's highly promising Everton career sadly ended with just 17 league appearances, 4 cup appearances, one goal and a wonderful man-of-the-match performance against Liverpool.

I Have Been a Wild Rover (And an Everton Blue)

Tony Onslow

John Henry Kirwen, born appropriately in 1878, is possibly the first Irishman to play for Everton.

Second-Season Syndrome

Trevor Powell

Many more seasoned fans are approaching Roberto Martinez's second season with some trepidation.

Is the End Nigh for a Patient Courtship?

Lyndon Lloyd

Are the various noises coming out of Goodison Park from manager, players and recruitment staff alike a signal that the chase for Lukaku is approaching a successful conclusion?

Does It Always Have to Be This Way?

Sid  Logan

Unease is growing among some supporters as the summer drags on with no obvious signs of significant signings at Everton.

Robert and Roberto Q&A at IFB 2014

Jamie Rowlands

A report from the International Festival of Business forum yesterday where Everton CEO Robert Elstone and manager Roberto Martinez were among the speakers.

Snods and a Little Bit of Big Dunc!

Paul Traill

Paul Traill was ToffeeWeb's press representative covering the club's surprise tour for 10 lucky season ticket holders.

The Tale of a Former Everton Full Back

Tony Onslow

Profiling George Molyneux who played for Everton over two spells at the end of the 19th century.

The Story of Jacob Lewin: Everton's First Foreign Player?

Rob Sawyer

EFC Heritage society attempt to pick up the trail of Swede, Jacob Lewin, whose appearances for Everton's A team just before WWI perhaps make him the club's first Jewish and foreign player.

Don't Panic, Captain Mainwaring!

Wayne Stamps

With Roberto Martinez back home, we can expect some progress on transfers in the near future.