23/07/2026
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Tyler Dibling’s first season at Everton did not go according to plan.
The club — and David Moyes — can dress it up however they want; so far, this signing is a massive black mark against everyone involved.
Year one — summer one — of a major squad rebuild, and Everton’s biggest signing, costing a reported £35M, hardly featured.
That raises significant questions not only over the player, and the manager, but also the entire recruitment approach last summer. Everton spent around £120M. How can a player who cost over a quarter of that entire total, feature so little?
Let’s look at the numbers.
Dibling played in just 17 games across all competitions, and made only 6 starts. He featured for 513 minutes, and his final appearance of the season came back in March, when he made a brief cameo from the bench in a 2-0 win over Burnley.
He did not score, did not assist and created only five chances.
Now, I am not laying the blame at Dibling’s door by any means. Some of Moyes’ decisions when it came to handling the 20-year-old were baffling.
Why Dibling saw so little game time from January onwards is a mystery to me — he needs those minutes to develop, he has to have a chance to show what he can do.
Yet, it is also difficult to suggest that Dibling has impressed at all in an Everton shirt, even when given those flashes.
Dibling is an excellent dribbler and is proficient at keeping possession, but where was the drive we saw from him when he first broke onto the scene at Southampton? That want to take on a man and create space and go at goal.
For all Moyes’ faults, I don’t believe he is asking Dibling not to be direct. In fact, from Moyes’ public comments, it seems as if that’s exactly what he wants to see more of from Dibling.
Perhaps Dibling was too scared of the repercussions to try and take risks? It’s a fair point, especially given Moyes seemed to cut Dibling so little slack, yet he would be happy to turn time and time again to Dwight McNeil, or to flog an underperforming Iliman Ndiaye.
However, Moyes was willing to turn to Tyrique George, who continued to take risks, who continued to drive at opponents and wasn’t content in just playing it safe. Too often, Dibling has been.
This pre-season, then, presents a clean slate. A chance for Dibling to really show what he can do. He is settled in and by all accounts, starting to come out of his shell.
He started in Everton’s first friendly, which was essentially just a run-out at the end of a tough camp in Scotland. Dibling has come under some criticism for a somewhat lackadaisical performance, but fans who are critiquing anyone this early in pre-season should take a step back.
I can’t say, though, that it didn’t worry me somewhat. Dibling will get sharper, but I do hope he really understands the reality of the situation.
This transfer has to work out, and he has to play his part. So does the manager, and so do the club, but this pre-season is a fantastic opportunity for Dibling to truly stake his claim.
As it stands, he is the only natural right winger Everton have on their books.
McNeil is better off the left, but his future lies elsewhere. Jack Grealish is not an Everton player yet. Ndiaye won’t return from his post World Cup break until the end of July, and George has always been used mainly off the left flank.
This is Dibling’s time to shine.
It doesn’t mean he has to be absolutely brilliant, or rampaging everywhere around the pitch, but he must show the desire to take risks, to be direct, to use his skill and turn of pace for more than just retaining possession. He has the quality.
If he does that, then it’s all on Moyes, then — put the onus on the manager, Tyler.
Read more - One month out - Everton's transfer clock is ticking
Reader Comments (52)
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Derek Knox
2 Posted 23/07/2026 at 10:52:40
2 Posted 23/07/2026 at 10:52:40
All speculation. Like I have said many times, we don't know what goes on behind the scenes. I find it hard to believe that a talented lad who preferred to come to us has suddenly just gone bad in one season alone.
I don't believe Moyes is the best manager to promote young talent and use it to the best possible. Again, that is my perception, which seems to be borne out by others not being given a chance.
Slightly different topic, regarding Grealish, is it his well reported off-field revelling, his fee, or his wages that seems to be a stumbling block? Or a combination of all of these?
I don't believe Moyes is the best manager to promote young talent and use it to the best possible. Again, that is my perception, which seems to be borne out by others not being given a chance.
Slightly different topic, regarding Grealish, is it his well reported off-field revelling, his fee, or his wages that seems to be a stumbling block? Or a combination of all of these?
Andrew Ellams
3 Posted 23/07/2026 at 10:58:17
3 Posted 23/07/2026 at 10:58:17
Derek,
There was a story that Maresca wanted Grealish at Man City.
There was a story that Maresca wanted Grealish at Man City.
Christy Ring
4 Posted 23/07/2026 at 11:40:16
4 Posted 23/07/2026 at 11:40:16
I remember Scoles saying how brilliant Dibling was against Man Utd, and was impressed when told we'd signed him.
As with all young players, the manager has to give him a chance and support him... maybe not all managers.
As with all young players, the manager has to give him a chance and support him... maybe not all managers.
Ajay Gopal
5 Posted 23/07/2026 at 11:43:34
5 Posted 23/07/2026 at 11:43:34
It is baffling that a player that Everton paid £40M for, which means that someone high up the footballing hierarchy at the club has scouted him and sanctioned this fee, has been grossly under-utilised for a whole season is criminal and someone needs to be held accountable.
If the assessment was quickly made that he was not yet ready for Premier League action, why wasn't he sent out on loan? He has effectively lost 1 year in his footballing development, and his value must have severely eroded.
If the assessment was quickly made that he was not yet ready for Premier League action, why wasn't he sent out on loan? He has effectively lost 1 year in his footballing development, and his value must have severely eroded.
Raymond Fox
6 Posted 23/07/2026 at 11:47:07
6 Posted 23/07/2026 at 11:47:07
The lad's naturally talented, there's no doubt about that -- he goes past players like few can.
He's the sort of player that needs the freedom within reason to do what he's excellent at; he is a similar type of player to a young Grealish.
As Derek says, Moyes might not be the best manager for him; we will find out this season.
He's the sort of player that needs the freedom within reason to do what he's excellent at; he is a similar type of player to a young Grealish.
As Derek says, Moyes might not be the best manager for him; we will find out this season.
David West
7 Posted 23/07/2026 at 12:17:29
7 Posted 23/07/2026 at 12:17:29
Some blame for Moyes, some for the player.
My feelings are that he's just taken time to settle, off the pitch as much as on it.
Hopefully he's had his settling in period and can now show a bit more desire and intensity. As Patric points out, he's doesn't need to be tearing it up every game, just show you want it.
My feelings are that he's just taken time to settle, off the pitch as much as on it.
Hopefully he's had his settling in period and can now show a bit more desire and intensity. As Patric points out, he's doesn't need to be tearing it up every game, just show you want it.
Jim Bennings
8 Posted 23/07/2026 at 12:28:05
8 Posted 23/07/2026 at 12:28:05
Can't see much changing.
Dibling will need to be much improved and show more dedication and Moyes will need to start putting trust in him.
Somehow, I can't see either happening.
Dibling will need to be much improved and show more dedication and Moyes will need to start putting trust in him.
Somehow, I can't see either happening.
Mark Taylor
9 Posted 23/07/2026 at 13:22:33
9 Posted 23/07/2026 at 13:22:33
Vying for worst ever signing alongside Tosun, Bolasie, Gbamin and Maupay.
Currently edging it but hopefully there will be a fairytale ending...
Currently edging it but hopefully there will be a fairytale ending...
Mike Corcoran
10 Posted 23/07/2026 at 13:29:13
10 Posted 23/07/2026 at 13:29:13
The lad's only 19 years old, he's been homesick before. He needs a few arms round his shoulders and made to feel worthy. It's all in his head before he gets on his talented feet.
It's too easy to dismiss him as a waste of money, he needs to be properly managed, shown confidence -- and not just by Moyes but by the whole club.
It's too easy to dismiss him as a waste of money, he needs to be properly managed, shown confidence -- and not just by Moyes but by the whole club.
Ian Wilkins
11 Posted 23/07/2026 at 13:34:34
11 Posted 23/07/2026 at 13:34:34
Unless you defend first and attack second, then you won't earn favour with David Moyes.
Dibling was a strange acquisition given our limited finances, and the proportion of the budget taken up.
I think he may be sent out on loan.
Dibling was a strange acquisition given our limited finances, and the proportion of the budget taken up.
I think he may be sent out on loan.
Jim Bennings
12 Posted 23/07/2026 at 14:34:46
12 Posted 23/07/2026 at 14:34:46
Not sure Dibling was a Moyes signing in fairness, he probably wasn't.
But then again, the likes of Mirallas rarely tracked back in Moyes's first spell here, but he was a Moyes choice.
Who knows???
But then again, the likes of Mirallas rarely tracked back in Moyes's first spell here, but he was a Moyes choice.
Who knows???
Michael Kenrick
13 Posted 23/07/2026 at 14:36:20
13 Posted 23/07/2026 at 14:36:20
He had so much more life and drive about him when he was at Southampton.
Just watch this: Tyler Dibling first half bold moves vs Liverpool!
What has happened to that spirit? That desire?? That sheer exuberance???
There can only be one answer. Moyes has destroyed it.
Just watch this: Tyler Dibling first half bold moves vs Liverpool!
What has happened to that spirit? That desire?? That sheer exuberance???
There can only be one answer. Moyes has destroyed it.
Jim Bennings
14 Posted 23/07/2026 at 15:39:40
14 Posted 23/07/2026 at 15:39:40
Could well be right, Michael.
However, the question wants asking, why didn't Moyes destroy the character and spirit of players in his first spell here, the ones that prospered in their careers like Steven Pienaar, Leighton Baines, Mikel Arteta, Seamus Coleman, Marouane Fellaini?
I think Moyes is a cautious manager, don't get me wrong, but I also think many players need a rocket up their arse, and you either have that inner willpower and desire, hunger, want, to succeed, or you can go the way that many players seem to do in this modern era of overindulgence to the ego, and blame everyone and everything other than the player himself.
I'd suggest it is a bit of both.
However, the question wants asking, why didn't Moyes destroy the character and spirit of players in his first spell here, the ones that prospered in their careers like Steven Pienaar, Leighton Baines, Mikel Arteta, Seamus Coleman, Marouane Fellaini?
I think Moyes is a cautious manager, don't get me wrong, but I also think many players need a rocket up their arse, and you either have that inner willpower and desire, hunger, want, to succeed, or you can go the way that many players seem to do in this modern era of overindulgence to the ego, and blame everyone and everything other than the player himself.
I'd suggest it is a bit of both.
Eric Myles
15 Posted 23/07/2026 at 15:41:34
15 Posted 23/07/2026 at 15:41:34
Ajay #5,
"It is baffling that a player that Everton paid £40M for, which means that someone high up the footballing hierarchy at the club has scouted him and sanctioned this fee, "
It was all down to Moyes, he has the final say, don't you know. He deliberately targetted the signing of a young player he knew he wasn't going to play 'cos he doesn't play youngsters.
"It is baffling that a player that Everton paid £40M for, which means that someone high up the footballing hierarchy at the club has scouted him and sanctioned this fee, "
It was all down to Moyes, he has the final say, don't you know. He deliberately targetted the signing of a young player he knew he wasn't going to play 'cos he doesn't play youngsters.
Martin Berry
16 Posted 23/07/2026 at 15:46:38
16 Posted 23/07/2026 at 15:46:38
Patience, gentlemen, patience, the lad is just a lad, the talent's there, and it will be nurtured. Let's wait and see how he does in the impending season.
If we are discussing the same topic this time next year, then there could be a real problem. I just think that Dibling needs a running ball, it's so difficult if play is slow and defenders stack up against you.
I would say that Dibling could be devastating using counter-attacking football; his strengths are running at pace with the ball. I still think we have a real gem.
If we are discussing the same topic this time next year, then there could be a real problem. I just think that Dibling needs a running ball, it's so difficult if play is slow and defenders stack up against you.
I would say that Dibling could be devastating using counter-attacking football; his strengths are running at pace with the ball. I still think we have a real gem.
Mike Powell
17 Posted 23/07/2026 at 16:05:54
17 Posted 23/07/2026 at 16:05:54
It's all down to him, he has a full pre-season to prove himself, let's hope he is up to it.
Sean Mitchell
18 Posted 23/07/2026 at 16:09:46
18 Posted 23/07/2026 at 16:09:46
First season is usually the hardest for young players (unless you're Rooney).
He's got lads the same age around him, been at the club for a year.
I reckon he'll come good.
He's got lads the same age around him, been at the club for a year.
I reckon he'll come good.
James Flynn
19 Posted 23/07/2026 at 16:10:05
19 Posted 23/07/2026 at 16:10:05
"He had so much more life and drive about him when he was at Southampton."
Yeah, playing for a club that didn't give a shit.
What about Dibling at Chelsea, genius? Pulled that "homesick" move on them first. So they sent him back.
Now, several years later, he's "homesick". . . again?
Yeah, all Moyes's management.
"He needs to pull his finger out." All the years Moyes managed Everton, name another player Moyes spoke about like that publicly.
It's the kid. And he needs to pull his finger out.
Yeah, playing for a club that didn't give a shit.
What about Dibling at Chelsea, genius? Pulled that "homesick" move on them first. So they sent him back.
Now, several years later, he's "homesick". . . again?
Yeah, all Moyes's management.
"He needs to pull his finger out." All the years Moyes managed Everton, name another player Moyes spoke about like that publicly.
It's the kid. And he needs to pull his finger out.
Tom Bowers
20 Posted 23/07/2026 at 16:49:59
20 Posted 23/07/2026 at 16:49:59
Southampton has been a goldmine of players for teams to plunder over the last 20 seasons or and it's hard to explain why they have become a springboard for so much talent. However, it wouldn't surprise me at all if Everton got the one dud.
Dibling may still be special and people may argue it's because of Moyes that he hasn't impressed yet but, unless he gets a move on in a blue shirt soon, then he will be surplus to requirements, if not already.
Dibling may still be special and people may argue it's because of Moyes that he hasn't impressed yet but, unless he gets a move on in a blue shirt soon, then he will be surplus to requirements, if not already.
Steve Brown
21 Posted 23/07/2026 at 16:51:53
21 Posted 23/07/2026 at 16:51:53
It's all down to Diblng, Aznou, Patterson, George, Alcaraz, Iroegbunam and Armstrong that none of them got regular starts last season.
They were told by David Moyes, our great nurturer of young talent, that they needed to pull their fingers out.
The same high bar didn't seem to apply to Tarkowski, Mykolenko or McNeil, who were diabolical last season. Towards the end of the season, I would add Keane, Dewsbury-Hall, O'Brien, Garner and Beto to that list due to their dross displays. But they were still starters in most games.
In 2025-26, Everton were 3rd in the table for playing minutes given to post-peak players (over 29 years old) and 14th for minutes given to pre-peak players (24 years old and below). But the issue is the attitude and application of the youngsters rather than our manager's dogma?
You spend 6 months watching and learning from the bench, you get 4-5 games playing out of position, and you are dropped if you have a poor game or make one mistake. Then it's rinse and repeat. Talent development under Moyes. He has always been the same and he will never change.
Brighton & Hove Albion topped the 2025-26 Premier League pre-peak minutes table, allocating 46% of their total minutes to players aged 23 and under. They finished 8th and qualified for Europe. Brighton buy young players, play them under a progressive manager, and sell them for huge profits.
The interesting question is why TFG continue to employ a man whose managerial approach is the polar opposite of their stated football plan to buy young talent and develop an Academy pipeline?
They were told by David Moyes, our great nurturer of young talent, that they needed to pull their fingers out.
The same high bar didn't seem to apply to Tarkowski, Mykolenko or McNeil, who were diabolical last season. Towards the end of the season, I would add Keane, Dewsbury-Hall, O'Brien, Garner and Beto to that list due to their dross displays. But they were still starters in most games.
In 2025-26, Everton were 3rd in the table for playing minutes given to post-peak players (over 29 years old) and 14th for minutes given to pre-peak players (24 years old and below). But the issue is the attitude and application of the youngsters rather than our manager's dogma?
You spend 6 months watching and learning from the bench, you get 4-5 games playing out of position, and you are dropped if you have a poor game or make one mistake. Then it's rinse and repeat. Talent development under Moyes. He has always been the same and he will never change.
Brighton & Hove Albion topped the 2025-26 Premier League pre-peak minutes table, allocating 46% of their total minutes to players aged 23 and under. They finished 8th and qualified for Europe. Brighton buy young players, play them under a progressive manager, and sell them for huge profits.
The interesting question is why TFG continue to employ a man whose managerial approach is the polar opposite of their stated football plan to buy young talent and develop an Academy pipeline?
John Williams
22 Posted 23/07/2026 at 17:21:37
22 Posted 23/07/2026 at 17:21:37
Everton were the only club prepared to pay the exorbant fee for Dibling; if he was that good, the top six clubs would have been interested... they were not; that tells you something.
If you look at his career at Southampton, it does not fill you with joy. He had the odd couple of decent games, that was it.
Everton should never have bought him, the money should have gone on a player or players we needed for a particular position, eg, full-back.
If you look at his career at Southampton, it does not fill you with joy. He had the odd couple of decent games, that was it.
Everton should never have bought him, the money should have gone on a player or players we needed for a particular position, eg, full-back.
Annika Herbert
23 Posted 23/07/2026 at 20:12:48
23 Posted 23/07/2026 at 20:12:48
James @19, Dibling should be fine at Everton then. Another club that don't give a shot under the current management.
But we can look forward to continued mid-table mediocrity under Dinosaur Dave, along with our usual early cup exits.
But he will give us stability and we will make further progress no doubt. As we climb to the lofty heights of 12th.
Buoyed by another season of backs-to-the-wall, defend-for-our-lives football.
But we can look forward to continued mid-table mediocrity under Dinosaur Dave, along with our usual early cup exits.
But he will give us stability and we will make further progress no doubt. As we climb to the lofty heights of 12th.
Buoyed by another season of backs-to-the-wall, defend-for-our-lives football.
Joe McMahon
24 Posted 23/07/2026 at 20:18:38
24 Posted 23/07/2026 at 20:18:38
Annika, I'm slightly concerned next season will be evens worse. I can see Leeds doing better and certainly Nottm Forest.
To add to our usual early cup exits, can I add the 2 easy wins for Liverpool and the heavily negative goal difference?
To add to our usual early cup exits, can I add the 2 easy wins for Liverpool and the heavily negative goal difference?
James Flynn
25 Posted 23/07/2026 at 20:43:47
25 Posted 23/07/2026 at 20:43:47
"But we can look forward to continued mid-table mediocrity under Dinosaur Dave, along with our usual early cup exits.
But he will give us stability and we will make further progress no doubt. As we climb to the lofty heights of 12th.
Buoyed by another season of backs-to-the-wall, defend-for-our-lives football."
Loser talk.
I don't quit before the season starts, I leave that to you. So, aim horseshit like that in someone else's direction.
The season starts, the games get played, then we see; Moyes or no.
But he will give us stability and we will make further progress no doubt. As we climb to the lofty heights of 12th.
Buoyed by another season of backs-to-the-wall, defend-for-our-lives football."
Loser talk.
I don't quit before the season starts, I leave that to you. So, aim horseshit like that in someone else's direction.
The season starts, the games get played, then we see; Moyes or no.
Mike Gaynes
26 Posted 23/07/2026 at 21:24:22
26 Posted 23/07/2026 at 21:24:22
James #19 and #25, amen and amen.
MOTM on this thread. 9 out of 10 from me.
MOTM on this thread. 9 out of 10 from me.
Jay Lewis
27 Posted 23/07/2026 at 21:33:46
27 Posted 23/07/2026 at 21:33:46
I know I'm clutching at straws here like, but just a piece on TalkSport where Alan Brazil is talking about the new Scotland manager and he reckons Moyes is still in their sights.
I'm not religious but if me praying helps, please let it be fucking true! Amen!!
I'm not religious but if me praying helps, please let it be fucking true! Amen!!
Brendan McLaughlin
28 Posted 23/07/2026 at 21:54:50
28 Posted 23/07/2026 at 21:54:50
Jay #27
Moyes taking the Scotland job? Even "clutching at straws" doesn't do the unlikelihood justice.
You've said you're not religious... so a word to the unwise Saint Jude is your best bet.
Moyes taking the Scotland job? Even "clutching at straws" doesn't do the unlikelihood justice.
You've said you're not religious... so a word to the unwise Saint Jude is your best bet.
Tony Dunn
29 Posted 23/07/2026 at 21:55:11
29 Posted 23/07/2026 at 21:55:11
It doesn't matter what we say, do, or hope for... the bottom line, the most important thing to the Yanks, is money.
Scraping along in the Premier League is a goldmine to them. We're fucked!
Scraping along in the Premier League is a goldmine to them. We're fucked!
Mike Gaynes
30 Posted 23/07/2026 at 21:59:27
30 Posted 23/07/2026 at 21:59:27
Jay #27,
I believe he'd be the first real Scot in history to voluntarily take a 90% pay cut.
I believe he'd be the first real Scot in history to voluntarily take a 90% pay cut.
Mal van Schaick
31 Posted 23/07/2026 at 22:27:44
31 Posted 23/07/2026 at 22:27:44
This lad is a good player, just play him.
Jay Lewis
32 Posted 23/07/2026 at 22:33:56
32 Posted 23/07/2026 at 22:33:56
Mike @30,
I truly hope so!
I truly hope so!
Stan Grace
33 Posted 23/07/2026 at 23:46:46
33 Posted 23/07/2026 at 23:46:46
So James #25,
"The season starts, the games get played, then we see; Moyes or no."
So what are you saying? We're going to qualify for Europe next season?
Can you provide any evidence to suggest what the 'losers' are saying won't come to pass?
"The season starts, the games get played, then we see; Moyes or no."
So what are you saying? We're going to qualify for Europe next season?
Can you provide any evidence to suggest what the 'losers' are saying won't come to pass?
Annika Herbert
34 Posted 24/07/2026 at 01:50:47
34 Posted 24/07/2026 at 01:50:47
James @ 25,
If you don't like reading what you so eloquently call 'horseshit', don't write so much of it yourself!
If you don't like reading what you so eloquently call 'horseshit', don't write so much of it yourself!
Steve Brown
35 Posted 24/07/2026 at 03:31:37
35 Posted 24/07/2026 at 03:31:37
Well said, Annika. You are simply stating the obvious.
Based on the quality of the squad today and Moyes's managerial habits, it could be a long and painful season. We all hope it isn't, of course, but there needs to be action to improve the squad in the next 2 weeks.
Based on the quality of the squad today and Moyes's managerial habits, it could be a long and painful season. We all hope it isn't, of course, but there needs to be action to improve the squad in the next 2 weeks.
Paul Griffiths
36 Posted 24/07/2026 at 04:03:44
36 Posted 24/07/2026 at 04:03:44
Nonsense from James Flynn on this thread. It's not just one young player, it's a clear pattern and trend. Not just for the last two seasons but Moyes more generally who recently said that 21 is the new 18. I wish that I could find it, but there is a juicy quote about Moyes and young players somewhere, out there.
David West - 7 - My feelings are that he's just taken time to settle, off the pitch as much as on it.
Martin Berry - 16 -Patience, gentlemen, patience, the lad is just a lad, the talent's there, and it will be nurtured. Let's wait and see how he does in the impending season.
A year is a long time in a footy career - 'the lad is just a lad'. Well, that explains everything then. What makes you think, Martin, that he will be 'nurtured'? Do you think that he has been effectively 'nurtured' up to now???
These two posts tend to put things on Dibling's shoulders. I don't. My only concern about him is whether or not the big move up north has indeed had a detrimental impact on his frame of mind.
David West - 7 - My feelings are that he's just taken time to settle, off the pitch as much as on it.
Martin Berry - 16 -Patience, gentlemen, patience, the lad is just a lad, the talent's there, and it will be nurtured. Let's wait and see how he does in the impending season.
A year is a long time in a footy career - 'the lad is just a lad'. Well, that explains everything then. What makes you think, Martin, that he will be 'nurtured'? Do you think that he has been effectively 'nurtured' up to now???
These two posts tend to put things on Dibling's shoulders. I don't. My only concern about him is whether or not the big move up north has indeed had a detrimental impact on his frame of mind.
Mick O\\\'Malley
37 Posted 24/07/2026 at 04:52:46
37 Posted 24/07/2026 at 04:52:46
Steve Brown @21 Amen, standards only apply to certain players.
Tarkowski and Co can stink the gaff out on a regular basis but get continually picked. I honestly can't wait to see the back of this bang-average yard dog.
Tarkowski and Co can stink the gaff out on a regular basis but get continually picked. I honestly can't wait to see the back of this bang-average yard dog.
Jeff Armstrong
38 Posted 24/07/2026 at 07:18:36
38 Posted 24/07/2026 at 07:18:36
Steve Brown 21, great post that, if only TFG where interested, those stats are daming for Moyes.
Even going back to the early days of Rooney, Moyes continually dipped him in and out of the team, for what? His development? Manage his growth spurts?
No, all we did was underplay him and let somebody else get the benefit (which was always going to happen).
Even going back to the early days of Rooney, Moyes continually dipped him in and out of the team, for what? His development? Manage his growth spurts?
No, all we did was underplay him and let somebody else get the benefit (which was always going to happen).
Eric Myles
39 Posted 24/07/2026 at 09:03:18
39 Posted 24/07/2026 at 09:03:18
Mike #30, when Duncan Ferguson was manager of a club (was it Forest Green, or that one in Scotland?) he was paying the players out of his own pocket, and he wasn't getting paid himself.
Darren Hind
40 Posted 24/07/2026 at 09:19:27
40 Posted 24/07/2026 at 09:19:27
Dibling's timid nature and discomfort at being taken away from his home life had been well and truly documented. We can argue all day as to whether he is simply immature, lacks confidence or has deeper psychological problems.
The simple fact is (unless his head was completely up his arse) Davey Moyes knew all this when he sanctioned spending £40M on him! The kid clearly needs confidence like the rest of us need oxygen. That's just how he is and his (well documented) timid nature should have been taken into consideration before blowing half the budget on him.
Moyes then thinks it's a good idea to treat the kid as if he had leprosy rather than confidence issues. He will not understand why his public humiliation of this kid didn't have him straight on his A game.
"A boot up the arse never did me any harm"
Gobshite!
The simple fact is (unless his head was completely up his arse) Davey Moyes knew all this when he sanctioned spending £40M on him! The kid clearly needs confidence like the rest of us need oxygen. That's just how he is and his (well documented) timid nature should have been taken into consideration before blowing half the budget on him.
Moyes then thinks it's a good idea to treat the kid as if he had leprosy rather than confidence issues. He will not understand why his public humiliation of this kid didn't have him straight on his A game.
"A boot up the arse never did me any harm"
Gobshite!
Laurie Hartley
41 Posted 24/07/2026 at 09:32:52
41 Posted 24/07/2026 at 09:32:52
He may have the talent but has he got the mindset of a Premier League player?
That is the question he has to answer, in my view.
That is the question he has to answer, in my view.
Martin Berry
42 Posted 24/07/2026 at 12:50:05
42 Posted 24/07/2026 at 12:50:05
I think we need to look at some of the best players in the Premier League who are now in their mid-20s but what were they like at 19 or 20? Don't tell me they were the finished article at that age, please!
Look at Kane and Beckham both out on loan at Dibling's age, hardly the finished article were they?
Now I am not saying Dibling will reach those heights but all young players need time and patience, the latter being in short supply by some here.
Look at Kane and Beckham both out on loan at Dibling's age, hardly the finished article were they?
Now I am not saying Dibling will reach those heights but all young players need time and patience, the latter being in short supply by some here.
Tony Abrahams
43 Posted 24/07/2026 at 13:52:11
43 Posted 24/07/2026 at 13:52:11
What has happened to us, Darren?
I remember reading Alan Mullery's book, and reading about how he was becoming really excited because he had a feeling he was being followed and thought that it might just be the ultra-professional Everton who were following him.
It was actually the television programme “This Is Your Life” which he said left him feeling disappointed because everyone used to know how the totally professional Everton Football Club used to run dossiers and check out the lifestyle of anyone they might be interested in signing.
Maybe The Silent Friedkins have been running dossiers on David Moyes and don't want to give him too much money, knowing that he usually does a lot better when he isn't under any real pressure?
Don't give him too much money!!!
I remember reading Alan Mullery's book, and reading about how he was becoming really excited because he had a feeling he was being followed and thought that it might just be the ultra-professional Everton who were following him.
It was actually the television programme “This Is Your Life” which he said left him feeling disappointed because everyone used to know how the totally professional Everton Football Club used to run dossiers and check out the lifestyle of anyone they might be interested in signing.
Maybe The Silent Friedkins have been running dossiers on David Moyes and don't want to give him too much money, knowing that he usually does a lot better when he isn't under any real pressure?
Don't give him too much money!!!
Darren Hind
44 Posted 24/07/2026 at 14:35:10
44 Posted 24/07/2026 at 14:35:10
Tony.
Moyes can't possibly do his homework. He has signed forwards who don't shoot. He has famously signed a centre-back who didn't head the ball.
I just hope he doesn't have final say on hiring the window cleaner. He'd probably hire a fucking acrophobe!
Moyes can't possibly do his homework. He has signed forwards who don't shoot. He has famously signed a centre-back who didn't head the ball.
I just hope he doesn't have final say on hiring the window cleaner. He'd probably hire a fucking acrophobe!
Dave Abrahams
45 Posted 24/07/2026 at 14:37:16
45 Posted 24/07/2026 at 14:37:16
Tony (43):I can recall a report on a Fulham v Everton game when Johnnie Carey was manager and Everton were very poor getting beat 2-0 and Mr. Carey was asked what he thought about the game and he replied “ That number 4 for Fulham looks a decent player” it was Alan Mullery so maybe he was being considered by the Blues.
Anyway the very professional John Moore’s took it on himself to relieve the club of Carey’s service and hire the manager of Sheffield Wed. who had just finished second to the great title winners at that time Tottenham Hotspur’s and Harry Catterick with John Moore’s help set about moving Everton up a lot of notches and becoming the great club they were before the Second World War — after Moore’s ill health along with Catterick’s we’ve moved steadily back to where we were when I started following the Blues in 1948.
Are we on the rise again? Definitely not with Moyes still hanging round.
Anyway the very professional John Moore’s took it on himself to relieve the club of Carey’s service and hire the manager of Sheffield Wed. who had just finished second to the great title winners at that time Tottenham Hotspur’s and Harry Catterick with John Moore’s help set about moving Everton up a lot of notches and becoming the great club they were before the Second World War — after Moore’s ill health along with Catterick’s we’ve moved steadily back to where we were when I started following the Blues in 1948.
Are we on the rise again? Definitely not with Moyes still hanging round.
Annika Herbert
46 Posted 24/07/2026 at 14:43:50
46 Posted 24/07/2026 at 14:43:50
Steve @ 35:and Paul @ 36, a 9 out of 10 for both of you from me.
Seeing as how we are now, apparently, rating people's posts.
Seeing as how we are now, apparently, rating people's posts.
Brian Harrison
47 Posted 24/07/2026 at 15:20:42
47 Posted 24/07/2026 at 15:20:42
I do hope that Dibling shows us some of the talent he showed when at Southampton. I am sure last season was a big disappointment for player and manager.
He did get chances last season but, for whatever reason, looked far from being the player we thought we were getting. But he is young and let's hope this season is different as we need to see the Dibling that played for Southampton.
Clubs seem to be spending fortunes in this window and we seem to just be consolidating deals for players who were here last season.
I thought the strangest signing was Rodgers from Aston Villa to Chelsea: nothing to do with Rodgers's ability but we have heard players for decades say they are moving to play Champions League, yet he has done the complete opposite.
He did get chances last season but, for whatever reason, looked far from being the player we thought we were getting. But he is young and let's hope this season is different as we need to see the Dibling that played for Southampton.
Clubs seem to be spending fortunes in this window and we seem to just be consolidating deals for players who were here last season.
I thought the strangest signing was Rodgers from Aston Villa to Chelsea: nothing to do with Rodgers's ability but we have heard players for decades say they are moving to play Champions League, yet he has done the complete opposite.
Tony Abrahams
48 Posted 24/07/2026 at 15:44:39
48 Posted 24/07/2026 at 15:44:39
We have two sets of supporters, Dave, but unfortunately for Everton, the larger group are prepared to accept mediocrity.
Iain Johnston
49 Posted 24/07/2026 at 16:16:12
49 Posted 24/07/2026 at 16:16:12
We have supporters hoping Tyler Dibling shows some of the talent when at Southampton???
Er... what talent was that exactly? 2 goals and 1 assist the season before we signed him. Gylfi was a head scratcher at £45M. They must have been on something seriously Class A when they decided Dibling was the answer.
Nor do I understand the comments in regard to 'the player we thought we were getting'. The footballing world and his wife knew. No one else would go near him.
Dibling needs to be gone, he'd not even get into a newly promoted Ipswich team.
Martin Berry, that's all very well when the club pay £10M - £20M in today's market -- not £40M+ which is essentially a third of your transfer budget.
Also, both Kane and Beckham were loaned out from their parent clubs; neither Spurs or Man Utd had spent millions on a couple of teenagers.
How many first team regular players did we lose last season? Common sense dictates that we don't waste £42M on a bench-warming 19-year-old kid.
Er... what talent was that exactly? 2 goals and 1 assist the season before we signed him. Gylfi was a head scratcher at £45M. They must have been on something seriously Class A when they decided Dibling was the answer.
Nor do I understand the comments in regard to 'the player we thought we were getting'. The footballing world and his wife knew. No one else would go near him.
Dibling needs to be gone, he'd not even get into a newly promoted Ipswich team.
Martin Berry, that's all very well when the club pay £10M - £20M in today's market -- not £40M+ which is essentially a third of your transfer budget.
Also, both Kane and Beckham were loaned out from their parent clubs; neither Spurs or Man Utd had spent millions on a couple of teenagers.
How many first team regular players did we lose last season? Common sense dictates that we don't waste £42M on a bench-warming 19-year-old kid.
Christy Ring
50 Posted 24/07/2026 at 17:46:42
50 Posted 24/07/2026 at 17:46:42
I do think Moyes needs to give Dibling time, as with the other younger players... 5 or 10 minutes is utter nonsense.
Armstrong is the perfect example: our best player at Villa, in midfield... two games later, put out on the left wing, then bench. Moyes won't change his old school principles, sadly.
Armstrong is the perfect example: our best player at Villa, in midfield... two games later, put out on the left wing, then bench. Moyes won't change his old school principles, sadly.
Laurie Hartley
51 Posted 24/07/2026 at 23:29:53
51 Posted 24/07/2026 at 23:29:53
Dave # 45 - those of us who saw the sixties team are the lucky Evertonians. What a time it was to be an Evertonian! We feared no one.
Yes, and at a time when great managers like Bill Nicholson, Matt Busby and dare I mention him Bill Shankly, with great teams were in their pomp.
We have the fan base (how good are our young fans) and the stadium. There is only one piece missing; then we will be great again!
Yes, and at a time when great managers like Bill Nicholson, Matt Busby and dare I mention him Bill Shankly, with great teams were in their pomp.
We have the fan base (how good are our young fans) and the stadium. There is only one piece missing; then we will be great again!
Dave Abrahams
52 Posted 25/07/2026 at 17:15:39
52 Posted 25/07/2026 at 17:15:39
Laurie (51) I think the young fan base are just terrific— they have never seen us win a trophy unless they are over thirty five but are there in their droves following Everton season after season and the only occasions they have enjoyed the end of three seasons were when we escaped relegation and they joined the rest of us in cheering the team coming to the ground and carry on cheering them ‘til we achieved survival and this manager, we seem to be stuck with, said he couldn’t understand why these supporters were disappointed by the way we finished last season with three points from the last seven games.
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1 Posted 23/07/2026 at 10:48:46
Pre-season is his chance to make a statement: if he can't outshine Dwight, then maybe it's him that needs to play elsewhere.
The manager asked for him to show more last season, and we are waiting to see what he's got in blue shirt... Give it all now, Tyler.