Luton Town vs Everton

Dude was out cold mid-air. Let his brain rest until preseason please.

Start Chermiti the rest of the season and rest Calvert-Lewin, who has injury history, as well. Chermiti has talent and I think he shows promise. Give him a three-game run and let's see how he does.

Other than striker, it's "as you were" as I'd like to see us pip 50 points for the season without the deductions.

Let Chermiti finish the season and bring Calvert-Lewin on if he's ineffective. It would be good to see if he can put a few away in the next three games 💙

BBC website has an article headed ‘Six homegrown stars who could be sold for pure profit' and they value Jarrad Branthwaite at £43million! I reckon that bidding should start at twice that and see where it ends up.

The manager might even have a few selection headaches for change!

He is very willing but sometimes too eager, and I very much doubt whether he will ever be a Premier League quality player.

Main objective is keeping Branthwaite, any savings or sales that can help towards that must be made!

I agree we should possibly rest both him and Calvert-Lewin as Chermiti showed some promising signs against Brentford and I'd like to see more of him.

And less of Young!

You are assuming Branthwaite will want to stay? Surely given the state of our situation, somebody will step in and the club will confirm they had to sell for PSR reasons and Branthwaite will look at the choice he has – Everton or Man Utd and we've been here before!!

No matter what our plight is, no fire sales please.

Let him go to Real or Barca (who couldn't afford him anyway, allegedly).

He would probably disagree and, if he was going to stop playing, announce it during the Summer so as not to draw attention to himself. But he deserves great attention, and a Goodison send off against Sheffield Utd would be fitting.

Brian Labone was supposed to be “the last of the Corinthians”. Wrong.

Link

He's a goat in the making. Bidding starts at £100M but the reserve price is £140M. I say that because the RS offered Brighton £130M for Caicedo.

You can build a defence for the ages around Branthwaite. He will play for England a record number of times and he will be Captain sooner rather than later.

Therefore I would propose as extras £10M if the buyer wins their League within 3 seasons of his purchase. Another £5M for each domestic cup competition won in his first 3 years. Finally £5M for a Europa League win within 4 years and a £15M if the Champions League is won during his time with said club. If he is sold – 15% comes to EFC.

Oh .and one other thing. £50M up front and the remainder over next two seasons.

PS: No player swap deals. Cash only.

If Thelwell wants any help, I'll happily negotiate the deal on behalf of EFC and I'd do it for expenses only!!

Beto looks to be signed through 2027. So he's staying!

Everton have eight players out of contract in June. That's an insane number for a squad of 25 players. And looking at the names, I'd not keep a single one of them except maybe Gueye as even at his age he's a hornet of a defender. Seamus surely will retire?

Rhetorical, yet very dark question: how does a broke team sign eight new players to fill this roster?

Good Lord, we need new ownership that has pockets (not 777!) fast!

Luton took 3 points away from Goodison and we should take them back. End this nightmare of a season with energy and commitment for the best possible results.

People claim Everton fans are being unrealistic, but I kindly remind these folks that Leicester City got £75M for Wesley Fofana!!!

Branthwaite should frankly be £175M – I'm half-convinced he was engineered in a lab.

Why would you possibly want Seamus Coleman to retire? He's 35, the club captain, and can still do an important job amongst the squad even if he only starts a handful of games next season.

Certain people on this site have been calling for Seamus Coleman to retire for the last 3 or 4 years. I find it absolutely fucking maddening, especially considering our finances and how threadbare we might find ourselves come 1 September.

We should look at the remaining games to end the season on a high. Realistically, we should target 7 points. This should at least keep us 14-15 points ahead of Luton in case we are docked with 9 points for administration. However, that looks unlikely.

Next season will be our last at Goodison Park. I think Seamus should retire next year. He deserves a great farewell!

Mihir @24, I have been pretty reliably informed that any chance of administration (hoping not !) will not be till after this season is over. Running costs and wages are in place, to assure that this season is covered. It is only when a club are not paying their players, that the process gets initiated and Official Receivers are called in.

I, like everyone else, am praying for a last-minute investor to realise the potential of Everton, survival this season will go a long way towards that. Especially with the new stadium etc after next season and the 365-day benefits revenue it can generate.

We should still be aiming for at least 6 points from Luton and Sheffield United, not easy – wounded tigers spring to mind!

On Seamus, I hope he keeps going. He my not have the legs he once had, but he can still do a job and his presence around the club should not be understated.

He came back from a horrific injury and has looked after himself. He still has a lot to offer.

He has 3 years on Ashley Young who, although he divide opinion, has equally looked after himself.

Seamus is our club captain and by all accounts a top and humble person and can still contribute on the pitch. He will make the decision when he feels his body has had enough. I hope it's not too soon.

You might think Everton is a club on choppy waters but those two are completely gone as far as winning big trophies are concerned or competitive at Champions League level.

A better move would be to Real Madrid, I agree, La Liga would be his oyster and I'm sure he'd be perfect there.

That said, I don't want him being sold this summer in any way for any fee under £80M.

I'd rather we try and move Onana on for £50M or whatever is quoted on him, he's far more replaceable for the job he actually performs.

Let's be realistic. The deal would be spread over many years with not much cash up front. It would consist (probably) of caveats, ie, appearances for the new club and country. The new club winning trophies (ie, League, Europe).

Most, if not all cash up front would be swallowed up by the so called FFP debt debacle. There'd be nothing to purchase players with. Fast-forward to the proceeding seasons. same scenario.

Players + cash means we get much more bang for our buck. Desperately needed bodies through the door. Then we can sack off the ludicrous caveats that Everton so fondly agree to which are never fulfilled.

The cash will get swallowed by FFP still.

If a decent offer came in for him (£20M), then I'm sure we'd consider it but otherwise, I think we will see better from him next season. He has the raw assets of pace and size and strength that suit a Dyche forward; hopefully he continues to work hard and I think we'll see more goals from him.

I like what I've seen from Chermiti and (assuming we keep Beto and Calvert-Lewin) hope that he can get a loan to a decent Championship club next season (Swansea or Blackburn?) where he can get 20 or so starts and hopefully bag 10 goals. That would be brilliant for his development as he is still only 19.

Dyche has saved his job for now but he has very little support in changing the personnel with money being unavailable.

Changes have to be made but the question is who and where.

The team did finally get some results over the last month and the position isn't bad considering everything.

That Chelsea result is inexplicable and, for some reason, the defense was awful early on.

Tomorrow, Luton will be battling and time is running out for them. They need all 3 points and it will as usual be a stern test for Everton, who may rest one or two, if not this game then certainly the final two games.

Let's all hope that this financial situation gets resolved soon so that some positive moves can be made before next season.

The squad is already thin, Dyche was saying there were players he wanted to keep last year but couldn't and this summer we've got 8 players out of contract.

Surely even if we are in desperate stakes, they'll take on the option on Idrissa Gueye for another year, Dele Alli, Danjuma will go but?

Gomes, Young, Harrison and Coleman. I'm sure Dyche would want to keep all of them but if we are finiancially in a bad way, then that won't happen.

From a business point of view, then there are all the 1-year-on contract players to also address over the summer: Calvert-Lewin, Doucouré, Dobbin, Godfrey and what will their reaction be if we are trying to lower wages?

On top of this, if we are forced to sell any of our quality assets, then Thelwell will need to be a magician to get any kind of squad together for next season.

It depends what is meant by a dire financial position.

If we're talking dependent on a takeover for future investment, then yes. If the takeover doesn't go through, then we are cash-strapped.

The situation might change if a takeover goes through, whomever that might be. In the unlikely event 777's takeover goes through, I imagine they'll give funds for this first transfer window but then rely on sales to buy.

If MSP convert their loans to equity, achieving 51% ownership, it could go either way. MSP hasn't shown any strong interest to this point and I imagine they might prefer a silent partnership.

If it's another party, a lot depends; however, I would anticipate any new investor would want to make an impact from the start.

If the deal falls through, then we're into a whole different realm of possibilities.

Or, go after them and give them a hammering! Nice to have options, isn't it?

I was hoping they'd step up next pre-season or is that a step too far?

Since then… nothing. Neither featured in April at U18 or U21, presumably both injured but we've always been poor at providing info on injured young players.

It would have been good to see them feature for the U21s but that hasn't happened and that season is now over. There are a few U18 games left for them to play if not injured, but it's a big leap from U18 to pre-season 1st team if they haven't had good exposure to U21 games.

Like just about everyone, I love Séamus. He has had a couple of nice cameos in recent years, but he has also been targeted by the opposition, and I think we need to find a replacement for him.

Over the years we have had many fine players who have never had a proper send-off at Goodison. Some have even suffered the ire of the fans when they have gone past their best.

Séamus is one of the finest characters we have ever had, and I would like him to be saluted.

I remember quite a few getting excited about them, particularly Ebere, kinda guessed injuries were to blame.

Fully appreciate it's a big step up, but looking at what we might be left with, they might have to.

The missus was walking home from Strawberry Fields at around 16.30 this afternoon, and she saw Seamus picking his kids up from the school on the corner of our road. Funnily enough, he let on to her, asking if she was okay?

Normally, the squad travel to an away game the day before the game, unless they are travelling down early evening?

Jamie #19

That is going to be a problem and we have Delli All with a twist..I think someone definitely got a back hander in regard to his contract.Those of the Get rid brigade are going to have no-one to get rid off.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7RiPueplxXs

Luton will press and press as desperate teams do, Everton have a good defence and will kill the game off in the first half with a couple of goals... at least that's what my head is telling me.

Someone shoot them and put the listeners out of their misery, quick!

Anyway, 3 points tomorrow's and Karl Masters can kiss my spotty ass!

1-2... Blues – could be more like, depends how we approach this one now we're safe but our superb away support this season deserve a decent showing after our nightmare showing at the Bridge.

Don't say that's bull, it's not. Keith Wyness said administration is possible and hopefully not before seasons end. After all, this is Everton.

Jamie19, fair concern but we narrowly missed out on a couple of decent candidates and Thelwell has a better view of opportunities now. Iwobi panning out had helped and I think we could get a Sulemana or Gnonto quality player in.

A couple of low price midfielders with some grot and we could get by. Other clubs' profligacy may help us with a loan or two as well. Now, we look like a decent option for some players that need a change of team for another chance and some clubs will be looking to trim their wage bill.

It's half-full maaaaan.

Good shouts re Chermiti let's see what he's got. All the Branthwaite calls are correct but no-one mentioned his pace. He is quick off the mark and fast for a lad of his size and that is priceless at this level. Another season with us will help his career and there is no rush. £100M+.

Sell Onana to get funds in; release Young, release Gomes, release Harrison, sell Maupay. He's been shouting the odds but will Brentford buy him?

Dan, caffeine ready for 4am kick-off, Osaka time. Safe journey to our fantastic away support they always shine so brightly!

You know, all the "He's a dinosaur, only knows hoofball, doesn't know what he's doing, oh, hang on, we won the derby and stayed up with 3 games to spare, I suppose he can stay a bit longer, but I'm not giving him a free pass" types.

Here's looking at you, kids.

Dyche is a rare football and man manager talent, and of great character, and we are lucky to have him. Fact!

I want us to win this game to keep the momentum going. The away support deserve a real showing after Stamford Bridge - they won't get one at the Emirates.

Pickford, Godfrey, Tarkowski, Branthwaite, Young, Harrison, Garner, Gueye, McNeil, Danjuma, Chermiti.

Give Doucoure and Beto the last 25 minutes for Chermiti and Gueye. If we are winning comfortably, give Keane a game for Tarkowski. Keep Onana on the bench as we need to sell him for PSR compliance.

Don't let Luton win. COYBs..

"Don't say that's bull, it's not. Keith Wyness said administration is possible"

Wow, Mr Kossoff, the great Wyness has spoken and believes that administration is possible. No shit, Sherlock.

I can't imagine basing a post or argument around something that Wyness said.

Derek mate (@9), I suspect that keeping Branthwaite is not an "objective" and that selling him is a high priority.

My hope is that it will be a cash-plus-players deal.

I appreciate Branthwaite's tenderness in years, but he has a very rare talent for one so young, we simply must fight tooth and nail somehow, to retain him.

To the game later, I am hopeful (again) we are not bereft of Tarkowski too. Keane worries me in defence, another drain on the wage bill, and a liability to boot!

They will take the game to us, which suits us just fine. Let's have one of those away performances from earlier in the season.

We can argue all we want about the value of Branthwaite. He may be worth north of £100M but an offer of around £50M could prove irresistible if it keeps the club afloat and the lad himself is interested in the move. It's bad enough being on the brink of financial ruin without the word and his wife knowing about it. We're sitting ducks for the vultures

Shout out for Tony Abrahams. He didn't tell us Dyche would bring us School of Science football, but he did list the qualities that he would bring and, despite a few doubters, Tony has been proven to be bang on the money.

Fans will continue to support Dyche's attempts to defy gravity. Evertonians (even the faint-hearted ones) have become really battle-hardened. We will enjoy a rest but, if we have to circle the wagons in July again, we'll circle them. The season-ticket waiting list will not shrink. Neither will the passion.

One more thing; Luton fans (who should know how difficult it is to have cowboys running your club} have been screaming for us to get even greater points deductions. Let's send them down tonight.

We owe them one from the game at Goodison, so put them to the sword, to show them that premier league experience counts.

Last 20 minutes, I would like to see some fringe players given a run out for experience.

He's grown on me following my initial doubts. He is certainly no Allardyce in my opinion.

I appreciate it's not always easy on the eye and sometimes Pickford's endless punting can frustrate, but he frequently saves us.

But, if you follow closely, we play some decent stuff.

Let's see if professional pride or freedom to play can carry them through. Points mean places, places mean money (and maybe attractiveness to potential signings).

However, the one person who will be desperate to win is Dyche. His job is not yet certain, but a couple more wins and decent performances will likely secure it.

Hence, if I were wagering my 50p, I would place it on the same line-up as started on Saturday, but with Calvert-Lewin if fit. Mr Dyche is not one for change unless forced upon him. That, perhaps, is his most obvious shortcoming.

Luton will be desperate for the win and under enormous pressure, so we should take advantage of that. COYBs.

And let's keep it going ‘til the end of the season and give Arsenal and their fans a surprise they won't forget in a hurry.

We can win this.

We can feasibly finish on 41 points. It can be 43 subject to the appeal and could have been 51 without the 8 points deduction.

The team and manager have done well against the circumstances they have been dropped into.

I'm due a win at Arsenal, Dave!!

Without knowing what fate the powers that be or the Gods might be waiting to throw at the club before the season end, I just hope the players don't get laid back about where we are just because we are mathematically safe as it stands.

More points, every place up the table means more prize money and a flourishing run to the end of the season will add any shine to the limited appeal the
club is appearing to have to any potential suitors for ownership.

3 points tonight lads, another clean sheet and let's just get our mojo back where it belongs.

A win and a clean sheet please.

Thought their Appeal decision was due this week, what games are being played now...?

Didn't even realize it was today! Let's do this!

Haha. I'm going to be traveling to Georgia today and it's perfect - it'll make the drive fly by. No Live Forum for me, only down side. 😢

UTFT! Chermiti brace.

I doubt anyone ever feels like you do!

I laughed out loud regarding your comment about Demis Roussos. Wasn't he in a band with Vangelis?

Why would anyone want Seamus to retire? he's still capable of playing first-team football. once they don't keep playing him in every game, that's the problem.

To say Seamus has been targeted by the opposition is wide of the mark, in my opinion. There's not too many players who still think it's an easy job facing Seamus.

Roussos was with Aphrodite's Child.

A large number of players reach contract expiry next month (plus another group enter their final 12 months). We'll be looking to retain several of these - and Seamus would be one I would hope will extend.

As you say, he shouldn't be expected to play 2 games a week, but used sensibly, I think he's still a valuable resource.

I'm one of those who expect next season to be tougher than this and players with the character of Seamus and Tarkowski will be essential.

It is no surprise that they have struggled in the league since then as he has been out injured. So I'm disappointed to see he's back in their squad for tonight.

So you are more in tune than an ex-ceo of Everton and Villa to say we are not in danger of administration? Do you think we are not in danger, and if so, why?

After all that's been thrown at Everton this season, anything is possible. In my opinion, we aren't safe until the season's finished.

Here's one for you P F, the Rabbi says to the farmer's daughter, "Those aren't matzha balls!" 😀

To all the travelling Toffees tonight — enjoy, lads, you have been just as pivotal as Dyche and the players for us staying up, so whatever happens – and I am expecting a win – all the nerves and anxieties are with Luton and Forest supporters.

Well, whose were they? :-)

Also he wrote the fabulous Blade Runner soundtrack.

The Gunners game depends on whether they are still up for the title and therefore one expects Everton to put out another strong line-up.

No point in risking Beto in this game unless of course the doctors give the okay which is a given.

Chermiti does need more game time but looks a little unsuited to the Premier League as yet.

I really liked what I saw from the kid last game and I would love to see him chalk one up.

Sorry, Paul, the nature of sources are basic stuff for the job I do, and so I felt a need to chip in.

Agree Mike G, that would be a sight for sore eyes and something to revel in.

If we sell him because we need the money now surely is when we get the least. What club has ever been improved by selling their best players?

It has been raining and I can see people outside with umbrellas.

Glad I have my trusted hoody sweatshirt!!

COYB. let's keep the winning run going, eh lads!

First of all we have not played for 144 hours so we are out of condition
Second this is a game we had to win back when we were still in the 23/24 tax year and now we don't.
Third, who would we prefer staying up - Luton or Forest. Who would everyone else prefer to stay up? Normally we want to stuff if up the media (sorry to spoil your cup final lads - 1995) but can we be bothered now?

Can just see a 2-1 win to them. Surprise me lads.
Only upside is we are better on the counter so they will be pouring forward, RB will be kicking lumps out of us, but we can hit them on the break.

And I have £5 on Tony Hibbert being the 1st scorer.

Can feel a 3 1 win coming up, Doucoure been on the bashing list lately so expecting him to bang one in along with whichever centre forward starts with Harrison getting the other goal, their goal coming off a deflected shot off one of our players :-)