02/09/2026
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(Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
“No way back” was the original draft headline for the piece I wrote on Harrison Armstrong’s potential sale to Nottingham Forest over the weekend. Between sitting down to write that feature and finishing it up, news had broken of that deal falling through, with Everton pulling out.
Make no mistake, it was not the resistance of David Moyes or Angus Kinnear that really made TFG think twice on that sale. It was the power of the fans.
But three days on from Sunday’s drama, those same fans are now left picking up the pieces of a disastrous deadline day to cap off a terrible transfer window.
Everton, somehow, went into deadline day still needing a big sale to go through — Iliman Ndiaye eventually joined Manchester City, with the official announcement coming around 10pm.
By that point, there was speculation Folarin Balogun — a £40M target from Monaco — had failed his medical, and Everton’s search for a standout right-back candidate had led them to Ainsley Maitland-Niles, a 29-year-old who claims that is not even his best position.
Other departures had been confirmed too, with Everton finally recouping (decent) money for fringe players like Beto, Tim Iroegbunam and Nathan Patterson.
Yet with the Balogun deal very much up in the air, panic was clearly setting in within Everton. The announcement video for Jack Grealish’s return came out around 10:15pm — by that point, nobody cared, as there was news of Everton throwing in a last-ditch bid for Joshua Zirkzee, which Manchester United rejected.
Quite how you go from Balogun, a pacy striker who wants to run in behind, to Zirkzee, a forward who drops into midfield to link the play, is beyond me. Quite how you leave it all this late is beyond me too, though.
Then, Everton seemed to have pulled a rabbit out of the hat. Balogun was back on, they had renegotiated the terms with Monaco and a deal sheet had been submitted. Yet, one more twist. For some reason, the United States international then elected not to sign with Everton. Perhaps he was not sold by the fact the club tried to change the terms of the deal? We’ll probably never know.
But what we do know is that Everton have managed to end this transfer window weaker than when they started.
Each of the signings, in their own right, are okay. Hayden Hackney has made a bright start, Tyrique George is a great talent. Christian Nørgaard, when he gets fit, will fill the need for a No.6 (strange how Everton didn’t seem to have any issues signing this injured player, though?). Brennan Johnson is an upgrade on Dwight McNeil. Grealish at least replaces some of Ndiaye’s flair and provides creativity, while Maitland-Niles plugs a gap.
But Everton are down to two recognised full-backs and one recognised striker.
All window long, this structure has made a complete mess of prioritising which deals should be done to fill which positions.
If the budget was so tight, why was the majority of it spent early on on players that simply did not fill priority needs?
TFG has got involved, and made it worse, and there is now a distinct feeling that they somewhat pulled the rug midway through the window.
Kinnear will rightly get the blame, and he should go, there’s no way back for him now, but the bigger questions need to be asked of the ownership.
Moyes has every right to be frustrated, but he is not blameless in this. He is far too stubborn on targets and takes far too long to make his mind up.
Sure, he’d like the business done early, but his approach to waiting too long to make a call on players plays into having to do work later in the window.
Nick Cox, what does he bring to the table from a recruitment perspective? James Smith? Nick Hammond hardly seems to be earning his corn as negotiator, when deals take so long to thrash out.
The reaction to this deadline day fiasco has seen the fanbase unite. Fan group the 1878s has now stepped back from all the great work they do in helping this pathetic football club try to engage with the fanbase, and rightly so.
The fans have done enough. This was supposed to be a brand new era, yet TFG appear to be charlatans, and those that they have hired are evidently out of their depth.
Kinnear likes to speak, so come on then, Angus, let’s hear from you. Get out there and tell us why it all went wrong.
And don’t do it with friendly, club media. Get in front of proper journalists and proper fans and answer some tough questions.
The irony is, Kinnear is probably going to be the one who has to fall on his sword for this, and TFG will probably go into hiding anyway. Do they care?
Evertonians care, and now a season that has started relatively well has already been tarnished.
Kinnear said the target was a European push, but in a couple of days the club has reduced an already small squad and left key positions without adequate cover.
Jamie Carragher got stick from Evertonians on Monday when he said the club was still the worst run in the Premier League. I’d like to hope Evertonians who gave him that criticism now realise he was absolutely right.
There’ll be more fallout to come, but for too many involved at the top at Everton, there is now just no way back.
Reader Comments (185)
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Duncan McDine
2 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:03:45
2 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:03:45
I genuinely think we are a couple of key injuries (Barry being one) away from certain relegation.
If Moyes walks (and who could blame him?) we're proper fucked. Half the fanbase wanted him out anyway, so after this utter shitshow I'd be surprised if he had it in him to stay.
If Moyes walks (and who could blame him?) we're proper fucked. Half the fanbase wanted him out anyway, so after this utter shitshow I'd be surprised if he had it in him to stay.
Dean Williams
3 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:04:14
3 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:04:14
Welcome to the shit show that is efc. We are like one of those actors whose name nobody knows, but always seems to play a sketchy character in a movie.
Andy Meighan
4 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:06:04
4 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:06:04
Patric please do not come on Evertons fans favourite site and say Carragher was absolutely right.
That reptile will be pissing down his leg at us now, he's always having sly digs at us, considering he's an ex red he's quick to comment on anything Everton.
And to be quite frank no evertonian I know gives a flying one what he thinks or says, he can take his digs his sneers and his snide comments and shove them up his arse.
Good for one thing and one thing only, spitting at kids, fucking animal.
That reptile will be pissing down his leg at us now, he's always having sly digs at us, considering he's an ex red he's quick to comment on anything Everton.
And to be quite frank no evertonian I know gives a flying one what he thinks or says, he can take his digs his sneers and his snide comments and shove them up his arse.
Good for one thing and one thing only, spitting at kids, fucking animal.
Andrew Ellams
5 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:10:28
5 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:10:28
Duncan, I wanted Moyes out but after this shit show I have genuinely no idea what credible manager would want to work with this club.
Alan McGuffog
6 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:11:16
6 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:11:16
Duncan, he's earning a fortune, employed by people who don't care if he's worth it or not. Haven't we all dreamt of a job like that ! He ain't going nowhere !
Annika Herbert
7 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:12:23
7 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:12:23
Well, a total disaster is the only way to describe yesterday! So much for keeping our powder dry for the summer window. Waiting until the end in the hope of grabbing bargains didn’t work out well either.
The recruitment team have proved they aren’t fit for purpose. There is no defence either of our owners. They might be successful business people but they haven’t a clue how to run a successful football team.
Moyes dithering doesn’t help of course but it’s difficult to lay too much blame at his door over this fiasco.The fans were already starting to question TFG’s plans for the club but, after this performance, there is going to be a total breakdown of trust.
An elite recruitment team, a data analytics company, a lead transfer negotiator and TFG have all failed Everton miserably.
The recruitment team have proved they aren’t fit for purpose. There is no defence either of our owners. They might be successful business people but they haven’t a clue how to run a successful football team.
Moyes dithering doesn’t help of course but it’s difficult to lay too much blame at his door over this fiasco.The fans were already starting to question TFG’s plans for the club but, after this performance, there is going to be a total breakdown of trust.
An elite recruitment team, a data analytics company, a lead transfer negotiator and TFG have all failed Everton miserably.
David West
8 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:17:53
8 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:17:53
Seems they, and everyone knew balogun was carrying the injury, before he even arrived and during the world cup.
The player must have got pissed off when he heard we were scrambling round putting bids in for any other strikers, while he's been sitting there for 12 hours.
It's negligence, from the people who let beto leave before anyone's signed.
Simple. Whoever made the decision to sell beto before another is in, should be fired, TODAY, before they can fuck anything else up.
I wouldn't let them make me a fucking cup of tea, nevermind manage multi million pound deals, the fate of a club and its fans, the whole seasons plan, the squad that's now demoralised, the fans furious.
Kinnear or whoever sanctioned beto leaving needs to face the cameras and resign !
The player must have got pissed off when he heard we were scrambling round putting bids in for any other strikers, while he's been sitting there for 12 hours.
It's negligence, from the people who let beto leave before anyone's signed.
Simple. Whoever made the decision to sell beto before another is in, should be fired, TODAY, before they can fuck anything else up.
I wouldn't let them make me a fucking cup of tea, nevermind manage multi million pound deals, the fate of a club and its fans, the whole seasons plan, the squad that's now demoralised, the fans furious.
Kinnear or whoever sanctioned beto leaving needs to face the cameras and resign !
Mal van Schaick
9 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:22:47
9 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:22:47
Annika #7. You have summed it up perfectly. Everton as a team has taken a backward step in a transfer window that should have improved the team. What a shambles.
Paul Griffiths
10 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:24:06
10 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:24:06
Ipswich signed Flemming FFS.
Kinnear and Hammond OUT NOW.
You have put our club - not yours - hanging on a cliff.
Kinnear and Hammond OUT NOW.
You have put our club - not yours - hanging on a cliff.
Mike Morgan
11 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:27:27
11 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:27:27
I think Balagun must have seen "the art of the deal" type negotiation and decided it wasn't for him.
Careful what we wish for. Right now DCL, Richarlison, Beto all would be very welcome.
Richarlison is particularly sad as he was desperate to come back and would have covered left wing and CF.
Barry needs wrapping in cotton wool.
I would like to see Alcaraz given a go at CF he's ok in the air and aggressive, a poor man's Cahill. What a desperate situation to be in.
Careful what we wish for. Right now DCL, Richarlison, Beto all would be very welcome.
Richarlison is particularly sad as he was desperate to come back and would have covered left wing and CF.
Barry needs wrapping in cotton wool.
I would like to see Alcaraz given a go at CF he's ok in the air and aggressive, a poor man's Cahill. What a desperate situation to be in.
Si Cooper
12 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:27:36
12 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:27:36
Andy (4), the reason he comments on Everton is because he’s from a Blue family (which was his allegiance as well) and so will undoubtedly spend a lot of time with people who probably want to use his media contacts to get the inside track on the club.
This transfer window was the one I expected to learn enough about TFG to judge them and unfortunately it’s not been one to inspire any sort of confidence either in their feel for the ethos of the club or their competence.
I still can’t see any way the sale of Harrison Armstrong could have significantly benefitted the squad.
I’m looking enviously at Hull City and the astounding news that they have apparently signed (on loan with option to buy) a promising young striker from Roma. If he proves a success that will really be a kick in the teeth.
This transfer window was the one I expected to learn enough about TFG to judge them and unfortunately it’s not been one to inspire any sort of confidence either in their feel for the ethos of the club or their competence.
I still can’t see any way the sale of Harrison Armstrong could have significantly benefitted the squad.
I’m looking enviously at Hull City and the astounding news that they have apparently signed (on loan with option to buy) a promising young striker from Roma. If he proves a success that will really be a kick in the teeth.
Pete Neilson
13 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:28:24
13 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:28:24
Well they’ve still got a few days in which to sell Barry to a Saudi club. Buffoons. Kinnear should stick to junk food deals.
Andrew Ellams
14 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:31:51
14 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:31:51
Love or loathe Carragher, I doubt the former applies for anybody here, his job is to talk about football and express his views and opinions and in this case he's 100% spot on.
George Cumiskey
15 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:35:17
15 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:35:17
What a joke of a club 🙄, please don't anyone come on this chat and try and find a positive in that shit show of a transfer window, if Moyes had an ounce of integrity he'd resign unless he agrees with how our world class transfer team has gone about it 🤔
Tony Abrahams
16 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:36:30
16 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:36:30
I’m not disagreeing with your assessment of Jamie Carragher, Andy, but he does work for Sky, which means what he says will always get a lot of exposure. Although I don’t value his opinion, I do remember agreeing with him when he criticised the old Everton regime, so if he his still criticising Everton, now we have got a new regime, I hope people begin to sit up and listen.
My experience tells me one of two things is going to happen. Normally I would suggest a siege mentality, knowing Evertonians, like I do, but we have been waiting for a new ground, and new owners for years, automatically thinking that things would instantly improve, but because the opposite has happened, I’m not sure how our fans will react.
I’ve been getting bored with football for years, but my initial reaction to this is that our fans need to unite once again, in the face of adversity, because these are dark days for Everton Football Club.
I always try and speak the truth and right now I feel sick that I introduced my children to Everton. We have obviously got some great memories of travelling absolutely everywhere and having loads of laughs, but it’s also been a lifetime of pain because they have watched a football team, who’s idea of success has completely diminished to making up the numbers, which wasn’t the case before they were indoctrinated in everything blue.
If subterranean homesick blues was genuinely the first ever rap song, then Bill Kenwright purchasing Everton, must have been the first ever leveraged buyout of a major English football club. When I lived away, I was often homesick for Everton, but right now I wish they’d just fuck off.
My experience tells me one of two things is going to happen. Normally I would suggest a siege mentality, knowing Evertonians, like I do, but we have been waiting for a new ground, and new owners for years, automatically thinking that things would instantly improve, but because the opposite has happened, I’m not sure how our fans will react.
I’ve been getting bored with football for years, but my initial reaction to this is that our fans need to unite once again, in the face of adversity, because these are dark days for Everton Football Club.
I always try and speak the truth and right now I feel sick that I introduced my children to Everton. We have obviously got some great memories of travelling absolutely everywhere and having loads of laughs, but it’s also been a lifetime of pain because they have watched a football team, who’s idea of success has completely diminished to making up the numbers, which wasn’t the case before they were indoctrinated in everything blue.
If subterranean homesick blues was genuinely the first ever rap song, then Bill Kenwright purchasing Everton, must have been the first ever leveraged buyout of a major English football club. When I lived away, I was often homesick for Everton, but right now I wish they’d just fuck off.
James Marshall
17 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:38:18
17 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:38:18
We kind of had to sell Beto now - his contract was coming into it's final year and there's no way we were going to offer him another one so our hand was forced somewhat on that one, otherwise we'd have had to let him go for nothing.
I'm trying to be be optimistic and say Brennan Johnson will score us a few goals as an auxiliary striker between now and January.
I'm trying to be be optimistic and say Brennan Johnson will score us a few goals as an auxiliary striker between now and January.
Danny Broderick
18 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:39:10
18 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:39:10
Moyes is the only one holding the club together at the minute. In the main, the players are all playing for him and we have started the season ok on the pitch.
Off the pitch has been a fiasco, they don’t know what they’re doing. We need a couple of proper football people in who can work with Moyes. Leeds’ recruitment seems to have picked up since Kinnear left. Coincidence?
Off the pitch has been a fiasco, they don’t know what they’re doing. We need a couple of proper football people in who can work with Moyes. Leeds’ recruitment seems to have picked up since Kinnear left. Coincidence?
Stu Darlington
19 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:42:05
19 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:42:05
Thanks for the article Patric,you sum the whole fiasco up pretty well.
Describing this transfer window as chaotic is a massive understatement.
It’s left us with a smaller squad than before,one striker less a mixed bagatelle of midfielders and a back four who were severely exposed in the last six or seven games of the season only changed by the addition of the questionable Maitland-Niles.
To describe this situation as a complete shit show is totally wrong.It’s not as good as that!
If there was a league for total mismanagement and incompetence we’d win it hands down.
The only good thing about this club at the moment are its supporters.Maybe vociferous action like in the Armstrong debacle will help bring some change but given this ownership’s reaction to the Roma fans revolt I’m not holding my breath.
We must now have become the laughing stock of the division.
Describing this transfer window as chaotic is a massive understatement.
It’s left us with a smaller squad than before,one striker less a mixed bagatelle of midfielders and a back four who were severely exposed in the last six or seven games of the season only changed by the addition of the questionable Maitland-Niles.
To describe this situation as a complete shit show is totally wrong.It’s not as good as that!
If there was a league for total mismanagement and incompetence we’d win it hands down.
The only good thing about this club at the moment are its supporters.Maybe vociferous action like in the Armstrong debacle will help bring some change but given this ownership’s reaction to the Roma fans revolt I’m not holding my breath.
We must now have become the laughing stock of the division.
Stephen Campbell
20 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:42:07
20 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:42:07
We all agree that yesterday was a complete shambles but now we need to find a striker who is a free agent and i've just noticed Anthony Martial and Jamie Vardy are still available.Either or both of them could do a job on a short term contract. We just need our great recruitment team to work fast.!!!!
Kim Vivian
21 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:44:20
21 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:44:20
Fucking yanks. I didn't think I could despise them any more but it's just all about the farkin' money with them. I bet they're all fucking Maga as well.
So angry !!!
So angry !!!
Anthony Dove
22 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:44:38
22 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:44:38
One long cock up.
Paul Griffiths
23 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:46:30
23 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:46:30
Cheers James 17. How's your recovery going mate?
Shaun Parker
24 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:50:46
24 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:50:46
Just another season of plain mediocrity.
Out of both cups at first hurdle.
Dour Dave talking of a push for Europe.
No youth on the pitch.
13th/14th at best.
🙈
Out of both cups at first hurdle.
Dour Dave talking of a push for Europe.
No youth on the pitch.
13th/14th at best.
🙈
Craig Walker
25 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:51:19
25 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:51:19
I wrote the following, replying to an article on Evertonia.com on May 28th 2026:
... We will probably sign some players who are over the hill. We won't get them in early but procrastinate. The forwards will follow in the traditions of Sandro, Keane, Tosun, Niasse, Rondon, Maupay, Barry. The experienced signings will get crocked and be out until Christmas.
Our scouts won't look for unknown gems but will get out their Panini Premier League sticker albums from 2025/26 and tick any player that we might be able to afford. As a result, during the summer, it's very likely we'll have one forward player in mind who will opt to go elsewhere (think Giroud or Delap) and we won't have a plan B.
We'll probably play a few pre-season friendlies (probably Preston North End) and get turned over in most of them. We'll get excited by the few players we manage to get in and will use phrases in August like "bring on the derby" or "Europe". Michael Keane will still be a first choice centre half even though he should have gone about 6 seasons ago. Come October, it'll dawn on us that we've overpaid on our signings and we are not that good. The positive phrases will have turned to "we'll be relegated". We'll console ourselves that there is the January window when we can bring in reinforcements. We'll be linked with all and sundry throughout January. On Deadline Day, we'll follow Sky Sports News all day and realise that we will have to finish the season with what we've got. Possibly after making a half-hearted last ditch attempt at 23:55 to lure someone who instead opted for Palace or Sunderland because they are in Europe. In amongst this, there will be the home and away kit unveilings and most fans will think they are awful. We'll also have debates about white socks vs blue socks for the home kit.
Meanwhile, the likes of Brentford and Bournemouth will sign players you've never heard of and be above us in the league.
Prove me wrong, Everton.
Nil satisfaction. Nil optimism.
--
My only crumb of comfort today after yesterday's debacle is that this club is better when its back is against the wall and the fans get angry.
... We will probably sign some players who are over the hill. We won't get them in early but procrastinate. The forwards will follow in the traditions of Sandro, Keane, Tosun, Niasse, Rondon, Maupay, Barry. The experienced signings will get crocked and be out until Christmas.
Our scouts won't look for unknown gems but will get out their Panini Premier League sticker albums from 2025/26 and tick any player that we might be able to afford. As a result, during the summer, it's very likely we'll have one forward player in mind who will opt to go elsewhere (think Giroud or Delap) and we won't have a plan B.
We'll probably play a few pre-season friendlies (probably Preston North End) and get turned over in most of them. We'll get excited by the few players we manage to get in and will use phrases in August like "bring on the derby" or "Europe". Michael Keane will still be a first choice centre half even though he should have gone about 6 seasons ago. Come October, it'll dawn on us that we've overpaid on our signings and we are not that good. The positive phrases will have turned to "we'll be relegated". We'll console ourselves that there is the January window when we can bring in reinforcements. We'll be linked with all and sundry throughout January. On Deadline Day, we'll follow Sky Sports News all day and realise that we will have to finish the season with what we've got. Possibly after making a half-hearted last ditch attempt at 23:55 to lure someone who instead opted for Palace or Sunderland because they are in Europe. In amongst this, there will be the home and away kit unveilings and most fans will think they are awful. We'll also have debates about white socks vs blue socks for the home kit.
Meanwhile, the likes of Brentford and Bournemouth will sign players you've never heard of and be above us in the league.
Prove me wrong, Everton.
Nil satisfaction. Nil optimism.
--
My only crumb of comfort today after yesterday's debacle is that this club is better when its back is against the wall and the fans get angry.
Mike Powell
26 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:52:31
26 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:52:31
Selling Beto before we had a replacement was just criminal, who's ever Idea it was should be sacked. We are worse off than last season, another realagation battle on this season, and yes Carragher was right this is the worst run club in the premier league,I am sick of this club, and If I was Moyes I would walk away from this shit show
James Marshall
27 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:54:50
27 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:54:50
Paul - getting there mate. I can walk now and also back in the gym, plus seeing a physio. Still signed off work but way more mobile at least. Still have a fair bit of pain to manage, but that's OK because I'm used to that being an Evertonian!
Free agents as of today:
Jamie Vardy, 39 (surely worth a year long punt given the circumstances)
Edinson Cavani, 39
Anthony Martial, 30 (injured a lot)
Benzema, 38 (sounds like he's going to retire)
Danny Ings, 34 (RS twat, hates us, we hate him)
Mauro Icardi, 33 (looks like he's signing for Lazio)
Michail Antonio, 36 (broke his leg/legs in a car crash, Moyes knows him, please God no)
That's all I got.
Free agents as of today:
Jamie Vardy, 39 (surely worth a year long punt given the circumstances)
Edinson Cavani, 39
Anthony Martial, 30 (injured a lot)
Benzema, 38 (sounds like he's going to retire)
Danny Ings, 34 (RS twat, hates us, we hate him)
Mauro Icardi, 33 (looks like he's signing for Lazio)
Michail Antonio, 36 (broke his leg/legs in a car crash, Moyes knows him, please God no)
That's all I got.
James Newcombe
28 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:55:07
28 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:55:07
Why do we scramble around for players not-quite-good-enough for the ‘top’ clubs? There will be anomalies like Lukaku, but otherwise you are just cementing your place as an also-ran. Whilst paying through the nose to do so.
Our scouting must be shocking… My Nan could have named most of our targets. Look at Rayan at Bournemouth. We wouldn’t have signed him in a hundred windows.
Our scouting must be shocking… My Nan could have named most of our targets. Look at Rayan at Bournemouth. We wouldn’t have signed him in a hundred windows.
Pete Neilson
29 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:57:54
29 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:57:54
Quite rightly there are questions being asked of Kinnear and Hammond but what about James Smith (Director of Scouting and Recruitment) and Chris Howarth (Head of Football Strategy & Analytics). Our scouting and recruitment looks dire and our use of analytics was promised as “ensuring the club is at the vanguard of data optimisation in the development of all aspects of football operations.”
Paul Griffiths
30 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:59:09
30 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:59:09
Keep it going JM. Good to hear mate. I can't imagine someone just glad to be walking again. I don't know what happened but all the best for you but, like me, this window is not good for our health. Thanks Everton.
Tony Abrahams
31 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:59:41
31 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:59:41
Although I have never had much time for David Moyes, believing him to be arrogant and self serving, there are two things he has said in the last week, that have suddenly taken on a lot more significance.
Firstly he got slaughtered off a large percentage of the fan base for turning a question about winning cups, on its head, to ask is it more important than survival.
Then he said that the fans aren’t always wrong, when they went to Bournemouth and sang a protest song about the sale of Harrison Armstrong, all game.
There has obviously been a lot of arguing going on behind the scenes, because Moyes’s words make a lot more sense now.
Firstly he got slaughtered off a large percentage of the fan base for turning a question about winning cups, on its head, to ask is it more important than survival.
Then he said that the fans aren’t always wrong, when they went to Bournemouth and sang a protest song about the sale of Harrison Armstrong, all game.
There has obviously been a lot of arguing going on behind the scenes, because Moyes’s words make a lot more sense now.
Steve Brown
32 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:02:10
32 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:02:10
On the bright side - I know it is hard at the minute given what happened yesterday.
Moyes now has the support of the wide fans base because he has been badly let down. He has a motivated, united squad with a committed mentality, he associated himself with the fans over Armstrong, he will use all his squad in the next 4 months because he'll have to and we have had a decent start to the season.
On the downside - TFG and the executive leadership team have shown themselves to be grossly incompetent when it comes to recruitment and football operations. Friedkin needs to speak up and someone needs to be fired. The squad overall is now weaker than last season, lacking quality, cover in key roles and numbers throughout the squad.
All self-inflicted by TFG.
Moyes now has the support of the wide fans base because he has been badly let down. He has a motivated, united squad with a committed mentality, he associated himself with the fans over Armstrong, he will use all his squad in the next 4 months because he'll have to and we have had a decent start to the season.
On the downside - TFG and the executive leadership team have shown themselves to be grossly incompetent when it comes to recruitment and football operations. Friedkin needs to speak up and someone needs to be fired. The squad overall is now weaker than last season, lacking quality, cover in key roles and numbers throughout the squad.
All self-inflicted by TFG.
Jim Bennings
33 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:03:33
33 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:03:33
James
That's an inspiring list isn't it? Not lol.
Don't suppose Olivier Giroud is still in the building?
That's an inspiring list isn't it? Not lol.
Don't suppose Olivier Giroud is still in the building?
Ant Sorvoja
34 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:05:48
34 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:05:48
Looking at the BBC's summer transfer summary for Everton, our incoming group looks much stronger than outgoings with a net profit of £25.5m
Maybe it is typical to BBC how their data is totally misleading. If you look at it closely, 6 out of the 7 signings are midfielders and wingers. Plus this includes Röhl, George, and Grealish who all played for us last season anyway.
I reckon this deadline day circus will go down to our future folklore just like the Arteta money.
Maybe it is typical to BBC how their data is totally misleading. If you look at it closely, 6 out of the 7 signings are midfielders and wingers. Plus this includes Röhl, George, and Grealish who all played for us last season anyway.
I reckon this deadline day circus will go down to our future folklore just like the Arteta money.
Dave Abrahams
35 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:10:13
35 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:10:13
Did Carragher tell us anything we didn’t already know? Like most pundits he’s not worth listening to.
John Collins
36 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:12:29
36 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:12:29
.
Dave Lynch
37 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:14:06
37 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:14:06
Like a good few on here and elsewhere...i never trusted these Yanks.
Their lack of communication and interest in the club has shown them for what they are...grifters, looking to make a quick profit.
The transfer team should be sacked immediately, Moyes will not walk as his integrity stops at his bank account, god knows where we go from here?
I'll bet any money that we'll get the..."mistakes were made, we tried but it was a difficult window, we'll put it right in January".
Every fucking year it's last minute with us, and this time it's bit us on the arse.
Their lack of communication and interest in the club has shown them for what they are...grifters, looking to make a quick profit.
The transfer team should be sacked immediately, Moyes will not walk as his integrity stops at his bank account, god knows where we go from here?
I'll bet any money that we'll get the..."mistakes were made, we tried but it was a difficult window, we'll put it right in January".
Every fucking year it's last minute with us, and this time it's bit us on the arse.
Steve Dowdeswell
38 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:16:35
38 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:16:35
Comes to something when Hull and Ipswich do better in the transfer market than we do.
Absolute shit show and whoever was managing it needs to go ASAP.
Can write last until January to hopefully get some now very much needed cover in key positions (ones we knew needed that cover for at least 18 months).
Just hope we can get some quick dirty points on the table before the tiredness and injuries set in to completely fuck the season over.
Absolute shit show and whoever was managing it needs to go ASAP.
Can write last until January to hopefully get some now very much needed cover in key positions (ones we knew needed that cover for at least 18 months).
Just hope we can get some quick dirty points on the table before the tiredness and injuries set in to completely fuck the season over.
Minik Hansen
39 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:17:18
39 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:17:18
Personally, frustrated as well with the Balogun situation and where that leaves us, but calling the football club pathetic, I'll take it momentarily and with a pinch of salt. There'll be consequences of this late drama, I believe that, and now we can only hope for free agents and a decent good run throughout the first half of the season. One way to find out.
Of any positives, while Maitland-Niles plugs a gap, Röhl and Garner can be pushed further up the pitch, so it has left us better on that position. As for the rest, it's up to you now Barry hehe. Good luck.
Of any positives, while Maitland-Niles plugs a gap, Röhl and Garner can be pushed further up the pitch, so it has left us better on that position. As for the rest, it's up to you now Barry hehe. Good luck.
Ant Sorvoja
40 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:19:22
40 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:19:22
Bobble updated that Chelsea put a late bid to sign James Garner for £65m last night. Supposedly it was rejected by Everton and player being happy to stay.
I would love if someone was making Everton reality show. It would have been a slapstick comedy episode at Finch Farm last night.
Also another news we are now exploring Anthony Martial.
I would love if someone was making Everton reality show. It would have been a slapstick comedy episode at Finch Farm last night.
Also another news we are now exploring Anthony Martial.
Paul Olsen
41 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:19:45
41 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:19:45
Incompetance has become an Everton trademark, deeply ingrained in the clubs DNA by now. Sad state
Raymond Fox
42 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:22:36
42 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:22:36
I think your right James @ 17, I was going to suggest Johnson myself up front, but it's a right carry on which upsets any plans we had before this mess.We can cover right back but even then they will be makeshift players in that position who don't really want to play there. Who else can play left back, that's more difficult to solve, what about injuries which are certain to happen.
We needed another centre back as well, thankfully Branthwaite has stayed sound up to now which is a godsend but that's not a given, then we have Tarks and Keane who are at an age where they are more likely to get injured.
If they were trying to get us relegated they couldn't have done a better job, heads need to roll.
This system where the manager is given players and expected to make do with what he's given has always seemed a crazy way of doing it to me.
We needed another centre back as well, thankfully Branthwaite has stayed sound up to now which is a godsend but that's not a given, then we have Tarks and Keane who are at an age where they are more likely to get injured.
If they were trying to get us relegated they couldn't have done a better job, heads need to roll.
This system where the manager is given players and expected to make do with what he's given has always seemed a crazy way of doing it to me.
John Pickles
43 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:22:55
43 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:22:55
Injuries, the lack or plethora of, will decide if this ranks alongside Koeman's infamous '4 number 10s' window.
Brian Harrison
44 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:22:57
44 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:22:57
As the song goes " Send in the clowns don't bother there here "
I really don't know were to start but even for those who want him gone Moyes is our only hope of avoiding relegation thats if he doesn't walk. Should we be surprised by the massive incompetence shown by this board, absolutely not, only days after extolling the virtues of our academy and in particular Harrison Armstrong they tried to offload him to Forest and I wonder had the press not reported it then it would probably have happened. We have known that Ndaiye having turned down numerous new contract offers he was on his way, but even that was handled badly. I don't think anybody thought it was wrong to sell Beto and most would wish him well.
But the manager had said we need to strengthen the squad and this board have now left him with 1 striker who is very hit and miss, has replaced Ndaiye with Grealish and at 31 his better days are well behind him and last season just managed 2 goals. We have brought in Norgaard who somehow passed the medical but is still not even training with the first team. We signed Maitland Niles who said yesterday he considers himself more a defensive midfielder than a full back.
I doubt this clueless lot even asked Moyes for his opinions on these acquisitions other than KDH and grealish, the rest were bought by this incompetent recruitment team.
Now as fans we need to mobilize to show this board and owner you are messing with th ewrong fans this time. I would suggest either a complete ban on buying any food or drink inside the ground coupled with a walkout at a certain time on Sunday. They need the message loud and clear we will not let your incomtetence destroy this club.
I really don't know were to start but even for those who want him gone Moyes is our only hope of avoiding relegation thats if he doesn't walk. Should we be surprised by the massive incompetence shown by this board, absolutely not, only days after extolling the virtues of our academy and in particular Harrison Armstrong they tried to offload him to Forest and I wonder had the press not reported it then it would probably have happened. We have known that Ndaiye having turned down numerous new contract offers he was on his way, but even that was handled badly. I don't think anybody thought it was wrong to sell Beto and most would wish him well.
But the manager had said we need to strengthen the squad and this board have now left him with 1 striker who is very hit and miss, has replaced Ndaiye with Grealish and at 31 his better days are well behind him and last season just managed 2 goals. We have brought in Norgaard who somehow passed the medical but is still not even training with the first team. We signed Maitland Niles who said yesterday he considers himself more a defensive midfielder than a full back.
I doubt this clueless lot even asked Moyes for his opinions on these acquisitions other than KDH and grealish, the rest were bought by this incompetent recruitment team.
Now as fans we need to mobilize to show this board and owner you are messing with th ewrong fans this time. I would suggest either a complete ban on buying any food or drink inside the ground coupled with a walkout at a certain time on Sunday. They need the message loud and clear we will not let your incomtetence destroy this club.
John Collins
45 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:23:22
45 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:23:22
Like it or not, Carragher is right.
Looks like those of us who doubted TFG are correct.
We have the smallest first team squad in the league now through market stall haggling over transfer fees.
Im hearing sack Kinnear shouts.
Does anyone think Kinnear would carry on in this manner independently?
He answers to his boss who he" talks to every day on football matters.
Are we in profit for this summer's transfer dealings?
Looks like those of us who doubted TFG are correct.
We have the smallest first team squad in the league now through market stall haggling over transfer fees.
Im hearing sack Kinnear shouts.
Does anyone think Kinnear would carry on in this manner independently?
He answers to his boss who he" talks to every day on football matters.
Are we in profit for this summer's transfer dealings?
Andy Meighan
46 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:24:40
46 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:24:40
Carragher shouldn't still be working for Sky, we all know why so I and plenty of my mates and family don't care for anything he says about Everton.
And I really don't care if hes from a blue family, they all defected when he signed for them.
The man is a snide and an arrogant prick and I know because ive had the misfortune of meeting him on a few occasions.
After the way he behaved he should be nowhere near a tv.studio or a microphone.
And I really don't care if hes from a blue family, they all defected when he signed for them.
The man is a snide and an arrogant prick and I know because ive had the misfortune of meeting him on a few occasions.
After the way he behaved he should be nowhere near a tv.studio or a microphone.
Andy Meighan
47 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:27:56
47 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:27:56
James Marshall whatever it is you're recovering from, get well soon pal.
Got a lot of time for your posts, take care.
Got a lot of time for your posts, take care.
Scott Hamilton
48 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:28:51
48 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:28:51
Totally and utterly humiliating.
We might have a beautiful new home but in every other way we remain an anachronism. A club stuck in a recursive loop which began almost 30 years ago.
It begs the question: Was this our owners’ plan all along? Cash in this window and leave us light on players but probably just about strong enough to remain mid-table and with the January transfer window available if needed.
We might have a beautiful new home but in every other way we remain an anachronism. A club stuck in a recursive loop which began almost 30 years ago.
It begs the question: Was this our owners’ plan all along? Cash in this window and leave us light on players but probably just about strong enough to remain mid-table and with the January transfer window available if needed.
Mal van Schaick
49 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:31:01
49 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:31:01
We will miss Ndaiye because he gave us an outlet, holding the ball up, and being creative on the break and I can’t see who else will do that as a replacement. Grealish will be okay in the opposition half but he won’t have the legs at 30 to be a box to box player for 90 minutes.
All we can do is see how the team plays with what we have until the New Year.
All we can do is see how the team plays with what we have until the New Year.
Andrew Clare
50 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:31:06
50 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:31:06
On a positive note Barry will now get 20 goals this season. He is looking sharp and determined.
Contrary to many opinions I think he was unlucky not to get a hat-trick against Bournemouth. Their goalkeeper was outstanding.
Regarding the transfer window - it was wrecked because our owners weren’t prepared to do anything until N’Diaye was sold.
He should have been valued at £80 million plus. If that price wasn’t met we should have kept him. Unfortunately our owners being American businessmen are only concerned about money now and his sale was supposed to fund our purchases.So as a result our transfer window was wrecked.
We are the prime example of how to run a club badly and we have been run badly for decades.
This is a great football club that deserves great owners.
Contrary to many opinions I think he was unlucky not to get a hat-trick against Bournemouth. Their goalkeeper was outstanding.
Regarding the transfer window - it was wrecked because our owners weren’t prepared to do anything until N’Diaye was sold.
He should have been valued at £80 million plus. If that price wasn’t met we should have kept him. Unfortunately our owners being American businessmen are only concerned about money now and his sale was supposed to fund our purchases.So as a result our transfer window was wrecked.
We are the prime example of how to run a club badly and we have been run badly for decades.
This is a great football club that deserves great owners.
Dave Abrahams
51 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:33:53
51 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:33:53
Brian (44) I know you mean well Brian because you are a solid Bluenose who loves the club but last season v Sunderland the crowd didn’t need for an exact time to walk away from the shite they were watching, they were leaving in large numbers from half time and at the end there was only a small minority left watching the Sunderland fans singing there heads off I think Moyes and his plans were largely responsible for that walkout.
I’m hoping he goes and the former Ipswich manager is coming in but I wouldn’t blame any manager turning his nose up at Everton now with these owners — Moyes will stay though he won’t give up the wages he is getting.
I’m hoping he goes and the former Ipswich manager is coming in but I wouldn’t blame any manager turning his nose up at Everton now with these owners — Moyes will stay though he won’t give up the wages he is getting.
Bill Gall
52 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:38:26
52 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:38:26
Its not a case of someone needs be fired Steve, it is we need new ownership who are more interested in Everton F.C. instead of supporting Roma They are the ones who placed people in a position to run Everton F.C.that have failed miserably.
Andrew Ellams
53 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:41:40
53 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:41:40
Andrew @ 50, if a striker has the chances to score a hattrick and comes back with nothing then there is probably more than just bad luck involved. Especially when a CB finishes off a chance that was more difficult that any of them.
Craig Walker
54 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:43:04
54 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:43:04
Brian. Doesn't Send in the Clowns finish with the line "well, maybe next year".
That should be our club motto because our current one hasn't been relevant for decades.
That should be our club motto because our current one hasn't been relevant for decades.
Raymond Fox
55 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:48:31
55 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:48:31
He'll not leave now Dave @ 51, on top of this fiasco I don't think it's a good idea to change the manager as well. He will not want to abandon a sinking ship and be blamed for it.
He'll go at the end of the season, but as it is he will have a better idea of how he can make the best use of what he's left with which is a right cock up.
He'll go at the end of the season, but as it is he will have a better idea of how he can make the best use of what he's left with which is a right cock up.
Mark Taylor
56 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:51:27
56 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:51:27
I don't think there is much doubt that the Moyes and the management team are on different pages, and not just on the Armstrong fiasco.
"we certainly feel behind the scenes that we’ve got a long way to go and need to do an awful lot more.”
That has a Moyes quote from a week or so ago. Since then, we've brought in 2 players, lost 5. I very much doubt that 'an awful lot more' meant that.
"we certainly feel behind the scenes that we’ve got a long way to go and need to do an awful lot more.”
That has a Moyes quote from a week or so ago. Since then, we've brought in 2 players, lost 5. I very much doubt that 'an awful lot more' meant that.
Brian Harrison
57 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:52:16
57 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:52:16
Dave 51
Just to be clear I wanted Moyes back because he was the only person who knew the club and would have the best chance of turning the shit show that Dyce was producing. And it worked but I have said he probably isn't the manager to lead us forward, but with what this incompetent CEO and owners have left him with this is not the time to change to a young manager. As I say he isn't the man to take us forward and will be gone in the summer but at this moment in time he is the one manager who might be able to get enough points to avoid relegation.
I have long feared what would happen with TFG and its very clear they bought the stadium to raise money from non football events, as their spending on players tells us all we need to know about them.
Dave you are as staunch a blue as anyone we might have different ideas on how to put things right but we have both watched Everton for a long time and I am really struggling to remember our fanbase being so annoyed even the selling of Alan Ball or Rooney while both very disappointing didnt come close to how they feel about our club today.
Just to be clear I wanted Moyes back because he was the only person who knew the club and would have the best chance of turning the shit show that Dyce was producing. And it worked but I have said he probably isn't the manager to lead us forward, but with what this incompetent CEO and owners have left him with this is not the time to change to a young manager. As I say he isn't the man to take us forward and will be gone in the summer but at this moment in time he is the one manager who might be able to get enough points to avoid relegation.
I have long feared what would happen with TFG and its very clear they bought the stadium to raise money from non football events, as their spending on players tells us all we need to know about them.
Dave you are as staunch a blue as anyone we might have different ideas on how to put things right but we have both watched Everton for a long time and I am really struggling to remember our fanbase being so annoyed even the selling of Alan Ball or Rooney while both very disappointing didnt come close to how they feel about our club today.
Ian Bennett
58 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:54:48
58 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:54:48
Get yourself a coffee and read this.
https://theesk.org/2026/09/02/the-analysis-series-evertons-2026-summer-transfer-window/
https://theesk.org/2026/09/02/the-analysis-series-evertons-2026-summer-transfer-window/
Paul Hewitt
59 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:56:44
59 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:56:44
Apparently Balogun walked because we were trying to sign other strikers and he hadn't signed himself.
Andrew Merrick
60 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:57:26
60 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:57:26
I think we have to ask questions of everyone at the club, Moyes, Kinnear, Hammond et al all the way up to the TFG top table.
Collectively dysfunctional.
TFG are going nowhere, so what gives?
A restructure, new heads and ideas come in? One or more heads roll to take the heat off...
There will have to be some desperate maneuvers now, old was beens as make shift squad players til xmas when we get our pants pulled down, to salvage our season.
Square pegs all over the pitch, training will now have to accommodate this, and instead of like for like subs we will see in game repositioning or even fewer subs than last season.
The lack of forward planning is negligent, the outcome is unacceptable, the forecast is gloomy.
We have a few younger players that need to play front foot football, not KITAP1, how can we now utilize that without leaving a big hole in front of our back 4 ? Man Utd next, how do we set up for that one Everton?
Collectively dysfunctional.
TFG are going nowhere, so what gives?
A restructure, new heads and ideas come in? One or more heads roll to take the heat off...
There will have to be some desperate maneuvers now, old was beens as make shift squad players til xmas when we get our pants pulled down, to salvage our season.
Square pegs all over the pitch, training will now have to accommodate this, and instead of like for like subs we will see in game repositioning or even fewer subs than last season.
The lack of forward planning is negligent, the outcome is unacceptable, the forecast is gloomy.
We have a few younger players that need to play front foot football, not KITAP1, how can we now utilize that without leaving a big hole in front of our back 4 ? Man Utd next, how do we set up for that one Everton?
Geoff Hind
61 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:58:26
61 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:58:26
None of this comes as a great surprise. Have a read of the recent Roma history and the fans views of the owners.
Nathan Ford
62 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:59:07
62 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:59:07
No true right back in the squad as maitland niles is a converted centre midfielder like Rohl has been.
No reserve left back why was aznou allowed to leave?
Only 1 striker why was Beto allowed to leave?
Branthwaite injury away from a centre back crisis!
If we have injuries at centre back, left back and striker at the same time we'll be screwd. Why didn't we try to get loan signings in? George and Rohl have shown if you loan the right kind of player with a buy option it can work out. I'm actually feeling anger with the whole Everton hierarchy
No reserve left back why was aznou allowed to leave?
Only 1 striker why was Beto allowed to leave?
Branthwaite injury away from a centre back crisis!
If we have injuries at centre back, left back and striker at the same time we'll be screwd. Why didn't we try to get loan signings in? George and Rohl have shown if you loan the right kind of player with a buy option it can work out. I'm actually feeling anger with the whole Everton hierarchy
Scott Phelps
63 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:59:21
63 Posted 02/09/2026 at 10:59:21
Angus Kinnear out! This idiot was at Leeds when they go relegated in 22/23. In his Toffee TV interview he spouted a load of excuses about our transfer business and lack of a RB. The last 48 hours has shown he should be nowhere near our club. Regardless of you opinion on Moyes, he can definitely sign a player. Cahill, Pienaar, Arteta etc and even his time at West Ham with Bowen. These idiots on the transfer committee have put us at serious risk now. We need to protest until Angus the fraud leaves.
Mark Steers
64 Posted 02/09/2026 at 11:01:02
64 Posted 02/09/2026 at 11:01:02
O M G you lot have got it bad we probaly have our best bunch of players for about 10 years and 1 thing goes wrong and world war 3 breaks out.
Ive read Relegation going finish bottom got only 1 striker no Right back well we've been like this since the stadium started getting built.
Poor dyche had to play demari grey up front a young gordon. Mc niel up front lightening he was ha ha.
Well I believe Moyes has a lot to do with all this with his square pegs management skills and him saying he isan Evertonian ha ha.
He called us a disgrace when he was united don't get fooled by him.
Now lets forget all about it and concentrate on our team.
You see if nobodys noticed we're unbeaten and in the next round of the cup so now we have a chance to make our best start for many a year before the internationak break we have 3 home games and1 away to spurs so don't you think the lads here need supporting.
In football things can change quickly just ask Ndaiye 1 minute he was going into the bottom 3 with spurs.
Then the shite pull the plug on gapko and now Ndaiye is on top of the league.
Keep the faith and get behind the lads
UTFT.
Ive read Relegation going finish bottom got only 1 striker no Right back well we've been like this since the stadium started getting built.
Poor dyche had to play demari grey up front a young gordon. Mc niel up front lightening he was ha ha.
Well I believe Moyes has a lot to do with all this with his square pegs management skills and him saying he isan Evertonian ha ha.
He called us a disgrace when he was united don't get fooled by him.
Now lets forget all about it and concentrate on our team.
You see if nobodys noticed we're unbeaten and in the next round of the cup so now we have a chance to make our best start for many a year before the internationak break we have 3 home games and1 away to spurs so don't you think the lads here need supporting.
In football things can change quickly just ask Ndaiye 1 minute he was going into the bottom 3 with spurs.
Then the shite pull the plug on gapko and now Ndaiye is on top of the league.
Keep the faith and get behind the lads
UTFT.
Scott Hamilton
65 Posted 02/09/2026 at 11:06:00
65 Posted 02/09/2026 at 11:06:00
Many of us have (rightly) been criticising Moyes following the team’s end of season collapse. There’s even been a lot of talk about replacing him with a majority on TW clearly in favour of that.
The irony is that I now wouldn’t be surprised if Moyes walked away.
His grumpy demeanour at recent press conferences suggested that something wasn’t quite right and he was pretty unsubtle in condemning any potential sale of Armstrong or any other of our top players.
His next press conference will be very interesting. He’s in the final year of his own contract so I wouldn’t be surprised if he speaks forcefully.
The irony is that I now wouldn’t be surprised if Moyes walked away.
His grumpy demeanour at recent press conferences suggested that something wasn’t quite right and he was pretty unsubtle in condemning any potential sale of Armstrong or any other of our top players.
His next press conference will be very interesting. He’s in the final year of his own contract so I wouldn’t be surprised if he speaks forcefully.
Mark Ryan
67 Posted 02/09/2026 at 11:29:52
67 Posted 02/09/2026 at 11:29:52
Didn't they say "Judge us after the Summer"
Anyone know where there is a Courtroom free ? I have all the witnesses
Anyone know where there is a Courtroom free ? I have all the witnesses
Kevin Naylor
68 Posted 02/09/2026 at 11:35:16
68 Posted 02/09/2026 at 11:35:16
Barry when he starts usually gets hooked around 75 mins so he's going to have to be a 90+mins player until Christmas at least. That means he's more likely to get injured. This is providing he is scoring goals which he currently hasn't done consistantly (3 against lower opposition is not proof he has turned a corner) and a lot of the ones he has scored have been tap ins etc. So, if he gets injured or reverts back to being shit (the signs are already there) then where does that leave us?
Ray Mia
69 Posted 02/09/2026 at 11:37:43
69 Posted 02/09/2026 at 11:37:43
Patric's reaching for "no way back" tells you he wanted that headline more than he actually looked at the squad.
Forget the drama and look at what's on the pitch. Grealish, Johnson, Barry and George give us a front line, with Keane able to fill in up top if it comes to that, and Grealish already has an understanding with Dewsbury-Hall from last year, which is more than Ndiaye ever gave since he was never really a natural fit alongside those two anyway. Could we have got more cash for him? Maybe, but he turned down mulitple contracts, wanted out and his value was dropping with 2YRS left... Midfield's stronger than last season too, with Nørgaard, Hackney and Armstrong staying being clear upgrades on Iroegbunam, Gueye and a front line that was built round Beto, who simply never worked out. That's addition by subtraction, not a decline.
Calling this a disaster only holds up if you still think Beto, Iroegbunam and Ndiaye mattered to where the club's heading, and they didn't, they were the problem being solved rather than the plan falling apart. Balogun's medical collapsing is rotten timing rather than proof the whole operation's a shambles, since deals fall through everywhere, even at clubs with five times our budget. The real question is whether what's left can function, and short of a proper right-back and some cover up front, it can. Add in Miles to cover RB... and Merlin who if you listen to Podcast and Local Radio chatter is looking at the position to get into the Germany sqaud...
There's also a bit of context missing here, because Spurs and City are spending like it's Monopoly money and everyone outside the top four is getting priced out these days, so that's the shape of the league now rather than something uniquely wrong with us.
On Moyes, fair enough, he's in the last year of his deal and maybe Howe's the man after him, but Howe's whole reputation is built on patience over panic, which is closer to what's actually happened here than Patric's giving us credit for.
What I see isn't a disaster, it's Everton doing what Everton always does after deadline day, talking itself into a state before the evidence is even in. Ask again in ten games who had it right. We won't get relegated... I don't think we will even get into a bottom table dog fight... I think the squad is better than it was, sure we need find goals, but we need to dig in and be hard to beat, nasty to play against, good on the road to nick points and wins... This is the way.
I maybe totally wrong, won't be the first time - but I'm not going to run around with my new pants on imaginary fire...
Forget the drama and look at what's on the pitch. Grealish, Johnson, Barry and George give us a front line, with Keane able to fill in up top if it comes to that, and Grealish already has an understanding with Dewsbury-Hall from last year, which is more than Ndiaye ever gave since he was never really a natural fit alongside those two anyway. Could we have got more cash for him? Maybe, but he turned down mulitple contracts, wanted out and his value was dropping with 2YRS left... Midfield's stronger than last season too, with Nørgaard, Hackney and Armstrong staying being clear upgrades on Iroegbunam, Gueye and a front line that was built round Beto, who simply never worked out. That's addition by subtraction, not a decline.
Calling this a disaster only holds up if you still think Beto, Iroegbunam and Ndiaye mattered to where the club's heading, and they didn't, they were the problem being solved rather than the plan falling apart. Balogun's medical collapsing is rotten timing rather than proof the whole operation's a shambles, since deals fall through everywhere, even at clubs with five times our budget. The real question is whether what's left can function, and short of a proper right-back and some cover up front, it can. Add in Miles to cover RB... and Merlin who if you listen to Podcast and Local Radio chatter is looking at the position to get into the Germany sqaud...
There's also a bit of context missing here, because Spurs and City are spending like it's Monopoly money and everyone outside the top four is getting priced out these days, so that's the shape of the league now rather than something uniquely wrong with us.
On Moyes, fair enough, he's in the last year of his deal and maybe Howe's the man after him, but Howe's whole reputation is built on patience over panic, which is closer to what's actually happened here than Patric's giving us credit for.
What I see isn't a disaster, it's Everton doing what Everton always does after deadline day, talking itself into a state before the evidence is even in. Ask again in ten games who had it right. We won't get relegated... I don't think we will even get into a bottom table dog fight... I think the squad is better than it was, sure we need find goals, but we need to dig in and be hard to beat, nasty to play against, good on the road to nick points and wins... This is the way.
I maybe totally wrong, won't be the first time - but I'm not going to run around with my new pants on imaginary fire...
Jimmy Carr
70 Posted 02/09/2026 at 11:40:49
70 Posted 02/09/2026 at 11:40:49
I don’t think we’ll ever know who exactly was responsible for that omnishambles of a transfer window. Unless someone gets sacked, we’ll just have to carry on guessing.
It’s been clear for a long while that there is a disconnect between Moyes and the recruitment team, recent events have proved that the disconnect remains as strong as ever. They either need to get it sorted between themselves or someone needs to move on, it’s doing the club no good. There is obviously no agreed transfer strategy between them.
Meanwhile TFG’s silence leaves a black hole where all kinds of ideas can circulate. I’m not that arsed about them owning Everton to make money, which owners don’t own clubs to make money these days, ok, maybe the ones who own clubs for sportswashing, but their silence does them or us no favours. The supporters are stakeholders as well as custodians of the club. What kind of owners don’t bother talking to their stakeholders? By not speaking they speak volumes.
I’ve no idea whether Moyes is blameless in all of this, but regardless of the reservations many supporters have, he’s our best hope for the time being. If we can limp on and get a half arsed striker in between now and the winter window that will have to do.
TFG should be undertaking a full review of what went wrong right now, but I’ve no idea whether they even care that much. If nothing changes in the short term, it suggests they really don’t.
It’s been clear for a long while that there is a disconnect between Moyes and the recruitment team, recent events have proved that the disconnect remains as strong as ever. They either need to get it sorted between themselves or someone needs to move on, it’s doing the club no good. There is obviously no agreed transfer strategy between them.
Meanwhile TFG’s silence leaves a black hole where all kinds of ideas can circulate. I’m not that arsed about them owning Everton to make money, which owners don’t own clubs to make money these days, ok, maybe the ones who own clubs for sportswashing, but their silence does them or us no favours. The supporters are stakeholders as well as custodians of the club. What kind of owners don’t bother talking to their stakeholders? By not speaking they speak volumes.
I’ve no idea whether Moyes is blameless in all of this, but regardless of the reservations many supporters have, he’s our best hope for the time being. If we can limp on and get a half arsed striker in between now and the winter window that will have to do.
TFG should be undertaking a full review of what went wrong right now, but I’ve no idea whether they even care that much. If nothing changes in the short term, it suggests they really don’t.
Chris James
71 Posted 02/09/2026 at 11:44:03
71 Posted 02/09/2026 at 11:44:03
Like everyone here, I am bleary-eyed, wounded and angry this morning.
After the typical back and forth, I finally went to bed exhausted but happy at midnight. We'd lost Ndiaye and thinned squad players, but had improved everywhere else. Then the dog woke me up at 2 am and I checked my messages... bad idea!
Even by Everton's standards, the Balogun debacle shows staggering mismanagement and incompetence. Firstly, it should never have been left to the last day, and if we were always planning it this way, then we obviously needed Plans B, C and D in the wings. Ideally, we needed 3 strikers anyway, so Plans C or D should've been in negotiations already.
Secondly, if there was a medical issue, then surely we should have been aware of this earlier, and had a different way to manage it. If it was not so bad after all that we could sign him anyway, then why not just take the risk earlier?
Thirdly, and most importantly though, I think this was a major structural failure in the transfer team that had roots going back several months.
I for one don't actually blame TFG for this; I suspect they weren't involved in the specifics at all. What they will have done is set the overall parameters for how Everton needed to operate.
As Paul The Esk outlines in his typically deep and brilliant piece, Everton FC: Player trading strategy, Summer 2026, which I honestly think should be required reading for any fan before they launch into tirades, if we want to run sustainably, stay within the new SCR rules for the Premier League, or Uefa's even tighter ones, and avoid further penalties [we do], then we need to work between the lines.
This information would've been very clear to the Everton hierarchy earlier in the year, and as such the need to sell at least one big asset if we were to recruit would've been blatantly clear. Ndiaye was clearly the main prize, and as he also refused to sign new contract terms and apparently had some sort of agreement he could leave if we didn't achieve European football, his departure was pretty much inevitable.
In early August, the deal was all but done done, with Al-Hilal, for £75M... then the player reneged, and decided to stay in the Premier League. From this point things got messy.
We'd already spent money on George, Rohl, Hackney, Norgaard and then swapped in Johnson for McNeil, so we were €74M in the red. Now we could've swallowed some of that, but not all of it, so the need to sell was still there.
Ndiaye interest circulated, but it seemed like Man City, Arsenal, and ManUtd were turning attention elsewhere, so suddenly it wasn't as likely he could be sold for a premium and August was ticking on...
That's when Forest's bid for Armstrong came, and £35/40M effectively pure profit offered a possible solution that may not need Ndiaye to go. But the fans, arguably rightly, put a stop to that.
So... back to Ndiaye again, and the need to get a big fee. But now we were clearly getting a little more desperate, and that's where the Spurs £60M part swap deal came along... which in hindsight looks less terrible than it did!
That got delayed because of Richarlison's wages -- contract pay-off was proving a problem, and then Man City popped in, and we agreed what looked like a better deal at £65M... This unlocked a final push forward for other plans, which saw Balogun enter the fray.
But by this point there's only a couple of days left. And then we let Beto and Co go without having fully confirmed the other deals... and then we end up with whatever the feck happened yesterday -- which saw a Balogun hokey cokey and desperate moves for Zirkzee [thank god that didn't come off].
So, 12 hours of medical and negotiations, after which Balogun was clearly made to feel not that valued after all. Deals for full backs Tete and Ward also fell by the way side, due to outside complications, and we were outbid for Munoz.
Some of this was unfortunate and -- in the world of scummy agents, player power and crazy money -- things will go south, as they have for virtually every club this window to some degree.
The issue is not just money, I think the parameters have remained the same as they always were, it's the delay in making concrete moves, the lack of proper Plans B, C and D, and the apparent inability to make pragmatic decisions quickly that is where it's all failed.
The team isn't totally fecked: we have plenty of solid midfielders and creative playmakers... Hackney, George, Grealish and Rohl are great additions [and Norgaard could be], and our first team defence is decent enough... but we are paper thin there with just 17 outfield players, have just one striking option, and will be knackered by injury.
So, whilst I am more balanced than many, I do agree someone needs to be held accountable here to ensure that this doesn't continue to happen. Not for any specific player or deal, but for the overall fact that we've had 3 months at least to sort out key areas [more like 2/3 years re right-backs]...
Someone, or some team, has to face up to that, and honestly, I don't think that's down to TFG.
After the typical back and forth, I finally went to bed exhausted but happy at midnight. We'd lost Ndiaye and thinned squad players, but had improved everywhere else. Then the dog woke me up at 2 am and I checked my messages... bad idea!
Even by Everton's standards, the Balogun debacle shows staggering mismanagement and incompetence. Firstly, it should never have been left to the last day, and if we were always planning it this way, then we obviously needed Plans B, C and D in the wings. Ideally, we needed 3 strikers anyway, so Plans C or D should've been in negotiations already.
Secondly, if there was a medical issue, then surely we should have been aware of this earlier, and had a different way to manage it. If it was not so bad after all that we could sign him anyway, then why not just take the risk earlier?
Thirdly, and most importantly though, I think this was a major structural failure in the transfer team that had roots going back several months.
I for one don't actually blame TFG for this; I suspect they weren't involved in the specifics at all. What they will have done is set the overall parameters for how Everton needed to operate.
As Paul The Esk outlines in his typically deep and brilliant piece, Everton FC: Player trading strategy, Summer 2026, which I honestly think should be required reading for any fan before they launch into tirades, if we want to run sustainably, stay within the new SCR rules for the Premier League, or Uefa's even tighter ones, and avoid further penalties [we do], then we need to work between the lines.
This information would've been very clear to the Everton hierarchy earlier in the year, and as such the need to sell at least one big asset if we were to recruit would've been blatantly clear. Ndiaye was clearly the main prize, and as he also refused to sign new contract terms and apparently had some sort of agreement he could leave if we didn't achieve European football, his departure was pretty much inevitable.
In early August, the deal was all but done done, with Al-Hilal, for £75M... then the player reneged, and decided to stay in the Premier League. From this point things got messy.
We'd already spent money on George, Rohl, Hackney, Norgaard and then swapped in Johnson for McNeil, so we were €74M in the red. Now we could've swallowed some of that, but not all of it, so the need to sell was still there.
Ndiaye interest circulated, but it seemed like Man City, Arsenal, and ManUtd were turning attention elsewhere, so suddenly it wasn't as likely he could be sold for a premium and August was ticking on...
That's when Forest's bid for Armstrong came, and £35/40M effectively pure profit offered a possible solution that may not need Ndiaye to go. But the fans, arguably rightly, put a stop to that.
So... back to Ndiaye again, and the need to get a big fee. But now we were clearly getting a little more desperate, and that's where the Spurs £60M part swap deal came along... which in hindsight looks less terrible than it did!
That got delayed because of Richarlison's wages -- contract pay-off was proving a problem, and then Man City popped in, and we agreed what looked like a better deal at £65M... This unlocked a final push forward for other plans, which saw Balogun enter the fray.
But by this point there's only a couple of days left. And then we let Beto and Co go without having fully confirmed the other deals... and then we end up with whatever the feck happened yesterday -- which saw a Balogun hokey cokey and desperate moves for Zirkzee [thank god that didn't come off].
So, 12 hours of medical and negotiations, after which Balogun was clearly made to feel not that valued after all. Deals for full backs Tete and Ward also fell by the way side, due to outside complications, and we were outbid for Munoz.
Some of this was unfortunate and -- in the world of scummy agents, player power and crazy money -- things will go south, as they have for virtually every club this window to some degree.
The issue is not just money, I think the parameters have remained the same as they always were, it's the delay in making concrete moves, the lack of proper Plans B, C and D, and the apparent inability to make pragmatic decisions quickly that is where it's all failed.
The team isn't totally fecked: we have plenty of solid midfielders and creative playmakers... Hackney, George, Grealish and Rohl are great additions [and Norgaard could be], and our first team defence is decent enough... but we are paper thin there with just 17 outfield players, have just one striking option, and will be knackered by injury.
So, whilst I am more balanced than many, I do agree someone needs to be held accountable here to ensure that this doesn't continue to happen. Not for any specific player or deal, but for the overall fact that we've had 3 months at least to sort out key areas [more like 2/3 years re right-backs]...
Someone, or some team, has to face up to that, and honestly, I don't think that's down to TFG.
Steve Brown
72 Posted 02/09/2026 at 11:45:36
72 Posted 02/09/2026 at 11:45:36
Our spend is net-positive after deadline-day sales.
TFG set out to balance the books this window -- they wanted us to sell to buy which is why deals for key positions were so hard.
Based on SCR, the club could spend a maximum of 85% of their football-related revenue and net profits from player sales on their squad. We are in the high 60s so we could have spent considerably more.
TFG's aim is not to resource us to compete.
TFG set out to balance the books this window -- they wanted us to sell to buy which is why deals for key positions were so hard.
Based on SCR, the club could spend a maximum of 85% of their football-related revenue and net profits from player sales on their squad. We are in the high 60s so we could have spent considerably more.
TFG's aim is not to resource us to compete.
Eugene Ruane
73 Posted 02/09/2026 at 11:45:47
73 Posted 02/09/2026 at 11:45:47
Last night's shlt show actually reminded me of my late mother. She came over from Ireland as a young woman, trained to be a nurse and worked in hospitals in Liverpool.
When she met my dad and married, she gave up work to have a family. But once we (four) kids got to a certain age, she went back to work. Then, until she retired, she worked nights, a week on and a week off.
What does this have to do with anything? Well, just that when she was working nights, just before she went out of the door in the evening, there was guaranteed panic... "Where's my belt? Who's seen my belt? I can't go to work without my belt? Help me find my friggin' belt! Say a prayer to Saint Anthony to help me find my belt!
It never seemed to occur to her to do any forward 'belt planning' -- to simply hang the belt on a hook on the back of the door when she came in from work in the morning, knowing it'd be there ready for the next evening. It never seemed to occur to her that a little forward planning meant avoiding panic, disappointment and/or anger.
I'm 67 years old now and my guess is, unless Everton FC are somehow purged of amateurs and incompetents, every transfer deadline day I'll experience until they nail the lid down on my coffin will involve an Everton manager or CEO or owner shrieking -- "Say a prayer to Saint Anthony to help us find a striker... and a right-back!" --UTFT!
When she met my dad and married, she gave up work to have a family. But once we (four) kids got to a certain age, she went back to work. Then, until she retired, she worked nights, a week on and a week off.
What does this have to do with anything? Well, just that when she was working nights, just before she went out of the door in the evening, there was guaranteed panic... "Where's my belt? Who's seen my belt? I can't go to work without my belt? Help me find my friggin' belt! Say a prayer to Saint Anthony to help me find my belt!
It never seemed to occur to her to do any forward 'belt planning' -- to simply hang the belt on a hook on the back of the door when she came in from work in the morning, knowing it'd be there ready for the next evening. It never seemed to occur to her that a little forward planning meant avoiding panic, disappointment and/or anger.
I'm 67 years old now and my guess is, unless Everton FC are somehow purged of amateurs and incompetents, every transfer deadline day I'll experience until they nail the lid down on my coffin will involve an Everton manager or CEO or owner shrieking -- "Say a prayer to Saint Anthony to help us find a striker... and a right-back!" --UTFT!
John Collins
74 Posted 02/09/2026 at 11:48:08
74 Posted 02/09/2026 at 11:48:08
An absolute shambles of a football club. I asked the question since the start of the summer transfer window: "Will TFG show their commitment to the club by spending every penny allowed under the rules?"
I knew the answer to my own question but wanted to get others' thoughts. I absolutely knew TFG would not spend the full amount allowable.
What I didn't expect was for TFG to make a £25M profit on the transfers. At least we now know TFG's strategy.
I knew the answer to my own question but wanted to get others' thoughts. I absolutely knew TFG would not spend the full amount allowable.
What I didn't expect was for TFG to make a £25M profit on the transfers. At least we now know TFG's strategy.
Christy Ring
75 Posted 02/09/2026 at 11:51:04
75 Posted 02/09/2026 at 11:51:04
Firstly, the recruitment team should resign. Selling players before you complete the signing of a replacement is a must. We now have one striker, one right-back and one left-back. That's why Fulham kept Tete, they couldn't get a replacement -- that's how other clubs work.
Secondly, why do TFG and Kinnear & Co wait until the end of the window to make these deals? We only decided to go for Balogun on Sunday or Monday?
The wheels fell off the pram when they tried to sell Armstrong... Moyes even said that we need to keep our good players, and bring extra quality in. TFG wouldn't listen, couldn't wait to sell Ndiaye, and below his market value!
But the most embarrassing part was, they said Balogun had an injury; we haven't been told what it is, but decided to renegotiate a lesser fee, and still tried to bring in a striker on loan, with Balogun still in the building!
Would anyone blame him for not signing, it was appalling. Whether you like him or not, we definitely can't deny Carragher is right.
Secondly, why do TFG and Kinnear & Co wait until the end of the window to make these deals? We only decided to go for Balogun on Sunday or Monday?
The wheels fell off the pram when they tried to sell Armstrong... Moyes even said that we need to keep our good players, and bring extra quality in. TFG wouldn't listen, couldn't wait to sell Ndiaye, and below his market value!
But the most embarrassing part was, they said Balogun had an injury; we haven't been told what it is, but decided to renegotiate a lesser fee, and still tried to bring in a striker on loan, with Balogun still in the building!
Would anyone blame him for not signing, it was appalling. Whether you like him or not, we definitely can't deny Carragher is right.
John Steadman
76 Posted 02/09/2026 at 11:51:17
76 Posted 02/09/2026 at 11:51:17
Well that transfer window shows that, as a club, we have not moved forward at all... the incompetence at boardroom level is beyond belief.
You do not wait until the very last few hours to conduct your transfer business, 3½ months since the last season finished to get your ducks in a row! And 3 years to get a proper right-back! 'Inept' is not a strong enough word.
I fully believe that the owners are taking us for mugs. By the look of things, they did sanction Armstrong going for £40M and then left it till the last minute to sanction Ndiaye going for £60M -- that would have put £100M in their pocket.
The Friedkins' heart -- "if they have one" -- is at Roma, not here on the banks of the Mersey. What owner in 12 months of ownership would never set foot in the business they own?
Time for them and "Roy" Kinnear to walk!!! As our motto translates: "Only The Best is Good Enough"!!!
You do not wait until the very last few hours to conduct your transfer business, 3½ months since the last season finished to get your ducks in a row! And 3 years to get a proper right-back! 'Inept' is not a strong enough word.
I fully believe that the owners are taking us for mugs. By the look of things, they did sanction Armstrong going for £40M and then left it till the last minute to sanction Ndiaye going for £60M -- that would have put £100M in their pocket.
The Friedkins' heart -- "if they have one" -- is at Roma, not here on the banks of the Mersey. What owner in 12 months of ownership would never set foot in the business they own?
Time for them and "Roy" Kinnear to walk!!! As our motto translates: "Only The Best is Good Enough"!!!
Steve Jones
77 Posted 02/09/2026 at 11:54:10
77 Posted 02/09/2026 at 11:54:10
Ray @ 69 -- Spot on.
A number of players we brought in last year are maturing and showing some form. We are able to keep the ball better and have a much better goal threat.
We just need to get behind Barry, the manager and the team. COYBs
A number of players we brought in last year are maturing and showing some form. We are able to keep the ball better and have a much better goal threat.
We just need to get behind Barry, the manager and the team. COYBs
Robert Williams
78 Posted 02/09/2026 at 11:56:11
78 Posted 02/09/2026 at 11:56:11
Annika @7 I totally agree.
But seeing your name reminded me that I haven't seen any post by Christine Foster for yonks. I do hope she is okay and will drop in from time to time.
Greatly value both your posts.
But seeing your name reminded me that I haven't seen any post by Christine Foster for yonks. I do hope she is okay and will drop in from time to time.
Greatly value both your posts.
Kevin Naylor
79 Posted 02/09/2026 at 12:04:10
79 Posted 02/09/2026 at 12:04:10
To steal a line from elsewhere, we now have more stadiums than strikers!
Lord Hughes
80 Posted 02/09/2026 at 12:05:01
80 Posted 02/09/2026 at 12:05:01
Under previous owners, a disastrous transfer window would entail us wasting money on rubbish while further drowning in debt.
We are no longer drowning in debt but clearly do have a limited transfer budget so it'll take time to build up.
And I'd rather we took that time than squandering money for the sake of short-term image to be seen spending.
We are no longer drowning in debt but clearly do have a limited transfer budget so it'll take time to build up.
And I'd rather we took that time than squandering money for the sake of short-term image to be seen spending.
Steve Brown
81 Posted 02/09/2026 at 12:05:10
81 Posted 02/09/2026 at 12:05:10
Steve, Ray and Lord Hughes (who?) must be the only Evertonians in the world who do not regard the transfer window as a disaster with the responsibility resting at the door of TFG, the CEO and the executive team.
Les Callan
82 Posted 02/09/2026 at 12:11:43
82 Posted 02/09/2026 at 12:11:43
Steve. Add John Williams. Presumably there’s a few more out there as well.
George Freeman
83 Posted 02/09/2026 at 12:11:49
83 Posted 02/09/2026 at 12:11:49
Robert #28 Christine Foster is posting regularly on the other fan site.
Mick O\\\'Malley
84 Posted 02/09/2026 at 12:12:21
84 Posted 02/09/2026 at 12:12:21
Robert @78, Christine posts regularly on Evertonia. I was just reading one of her posts this morning about last night's debacle.
I also think we've improved the squad quality wise but I'm pissed off we have got no cover for Barry and, if the 2 full-backs pick up an injury, we've got no cover there.
Thankfully Mykolenko seems pretty robust and doesn't miss many games, so touch wood we can hang on till January or hopefully we pick up a free agent or two.
I also think we've improved the squad quality wise but I'm pissed off we have got no cover for Barry and, if the 2 full-backs pick up an injury, we've got no cover there.
Thankfully Mykolenko seems pretty robust and doesn't miss many games, so touch wood we can hang on till January or hopefully we pick up a free agent or two.
Mark Taylor
85 Posted 02/09/2026 at 12:19:14
85 Posted 02/09/2026 at 12:19:14
If Kinnear talked about us as a bottom third club from a revenue and spending point of view, it would not be so bad, the Balogun debacle aside.
But that isn't what he claimed. He said we were top third as of this season. Part of the problem is poor expectation management. The other part is arguably a somewhat better quality squad, but wafer thin.
I've never seen Barry play 90 minutes, he often gets cramp, so Johnson looks like he might get a fair bit of game time as the back up. Of course we should get behind the club and all that, but this doesn't preclude calling out a shitshow for what it is.
Like Chris and a few others, I've also read Esk's article and it sets out the situation quite openly, part of which was that Ndiaye had to be sold, no debate. It will disabuse those who think our owners care that much about football success, but that's okay if a (meagre) plan is well implemented and it hasn't been.
But that isn't what he claimed. He said we were top third as of this season. Part of the problem is poor expectation management. The other part is arguably a somewhat better quality squad, but wafer thin.
I've never seen Barry play 90 minutes, he often gets cramp, so Johnson looks like he might get a fair bit of game time as the back up. Of course we should get behind the club and all that, but this doesn't preclude calling out a shitshow for what it is.
Like Chris and a few others, I've also read Esk's article and it sets out the situation quite openly, part of which was that Ndiaye had to be sold, no debate. It will disabuse those who think our owners care that much about football success, but that's okay if a (meagre) plan is well implemented and it hasn't been.
David Vaughan
86 Posted 02/09/2026 at 12:24:44
86 Posted 02/09/2026 at 12:24:44
As someone who doesn't believe in coincidences, these are purely my thoughts. I don't want to hear from any lawyers, but two facets of the transfer window's closure strike home.
Firstly, that the buyers (owners) and the intended purchase (player) are of course both American (seemingly with friends in high places).
While the money saved on the collapse of the deal covers most of what the owners ‘lost' out on when they cancelled Harrison Armstrong's despicable sale.
Perhaps all it took was an ‘off the record' phone call? Just thinking aloud...
Firstly, that the buyers (owners) and the intended purchase (player) are of course both American (seemingly with friends in high places).
While the money saved on the collapse of the deal covers most of what the owners ‘lost' out on when they cancelled Harrison Armstrong's despicable sale.
Perhaps all it took was an ‘off the record' phone call? Just thinking aloud...
Christy Ring
87 Posted 02/09/2026 at 12:26:37
87 Posted 02/09/2026 at 12:26:37
Chris, you wouldn't blame TFG, who decided to sell Armstrong behind the manager's and the fans' backs?
They sold our best player, and appointed the CEO and the rest of the muppet show.
They sold our best player, and appointed the CEO and the rest of the muppet show.
Stu Gre
88 Posted 02/09/2026 at 12:27:29
88 Posted 02/09/2026 at 12:27:29
Steve @32,
I'm not sure Moyes does have the support of the whole fanbase, even after this. In fact, I suspect he is very complicit in what has happened in the transfer window.
The irony is, even though I don't want Moyes here, I think he has to stay as he's probably the only manager that would get a tune out of this squad. It isn't a bad set of players, but it definitely isn't enough players -- yet that's how he works best.
Replace him now and I think you'll struggle to get another manager in that wouldnt be involved in a relegation battle.
I do wonder, however, if TFG have a manager in mind to replace Moyes, but that person isn't available at the moment. Hold back funds until he does become available... (Eddie Howe maybe?)
But we'll be boringly okay this season under Moyes. I'm going to hibernate until next spring and see that nothing has changed and hope for better next season.
I'm not sure Moyes does have the support of the whole fanbase, even after this. In fact, I suspect he is very complicit in what has happened in the transfer window.
The irony is, even though I don't want Moyes here, I think he has to stay as he's probably the only manager that would get a tune out of this squad. It isn't a bad set of players, but it definitely isn't enough players -- yet that's how he works best.
Replace him now and I think you'll struggle to get another manager in that wouldnt be involved in a relegation battle.
I do wonder, however, if TFG have a manager in mind to replace Moyes, but that person isn't available at the moment. Hold back funds until he does become available... (Eddie Howe maybe?)
But we'll be boringly okay this season under Moyes. I'm going to hibernate until next spring and see that nothing has changed and hope for better next season.
Pete Ambrose
89 Posted 02/09/2026 at 12:36:59
89 Posted 02/09/2026 at 12:36:59
I can only say one thing about those in charge of Everton's transfer business:
Joke, joke, joke, joke, joke, joke, joke. Pathetic….
Joke, joke, joke, joke, joke, joke, joke. Pathetic….
Rocco Bugaj
90 Posted 02/09/2026 at 12:39:58
90 Posted 02/09/2026 at 12:39:58
We shouldn't judge TFG too harshly. It is a conglomerate that doesn't care how it makes its money. To TFG, Everton could just as well be a steel company or a supermarket — the main thing is that they get their money.
"AS Roma has a better chance of making money? Then give the money to the Romans for a center-forward! And not to Everton, which only has one."
"AS Roma has a better chance of making money? Then give the money to the Romans for a center-forward! And not to Everton, which only has one."
Andrew Ellams
91 Posted 02/09/2026 at 12:42:51
91 Posted 02/09/2026 at 12:42:51
It's going to be ugly on Sunday...
Steve Jones
92 Posted 02/09/2026 at 12:43:47
92 Posted 02/09/2026 at 12:43:47
Steve @ 81
Les @ 82
Yes guilty as charged - just trying to lighten the load and look at the positive things in the squad/team.
We have a totally different squad than 2 years ago. Remember Jack Harrison, Lindstrom etc?
The thing I am disappointed with is, we did not have two or three 19- to 22-year-old prospects or projects in the left-back, right-back and striker positions. This would be an ideal opportunity for that approach.
There has to be several of these not wanted at Man City, Arsenal, Chelsea academies.
Les @ 82
Yes guilty as charged - just trying to lighten the load and look at the positive things in the squad/team.
We have a totally different squad than 2 years ago. Remember Jack Harrison, Lindstrom etc?
The thing I am disappointed with is, we did not have two or three 19- to 22-year-old prospects or projects in the left-back, right-back and striker positions. This would be an ideal opportunity for that approach.
There has to be several of these not wanted at Man City, Arsenal, Chelsea academies.
Steve Brown
93 Posted 02/09/2026 at 12:45:09
93 Posted 02/09/2026 at 12:45:09
Stu, Moyes probably has some support for today at least.
I am laying all the blame for the debacle of the last 24 hours at the feet of TFG, Kinnear and the recruitment team. I think TFG did not want to spend money this summer -- it was cost neutral or turn a profit -- and they are not planning to resource us to make big strides up the Premier League.
There probably is an element that they did not want to give the manager big funds to spend. They haven't renewed his contract and his target player profiles don't match their preference for buying younger players.
I am also not a supporter of his (to say the least), but he is a good choice to manage a small squad through the next 3-4 months.
I am laying all the blame for the debacle of the last 24 hours at the feet of TFG, Kinnear and the recruitment team. I think TFG did not want to spend money this summer -- it was cost neutral or turn a profit -- and they are not planning to resource us to make big strides up the Premier League.
There probably is an element that they did not want to give the manager big funds to spend. They haven't renewed his contract and his target player profiles don't match their preference for buying younger players.
I am also not a supporter of his (to say the least), but he is a good choice to manage a small squad through the next 3-4 months.
Eric Myles
94 Posted 02/09/2026 at 12:46:06
94 Posted 02/09/2026 at 12:46:06
Eugene #73, my wife's the same with front door keys, won't hang them on the hook by the door when she comes in, but being Confuscionist, she's no idea who Saint Anthony is.
Good to see you posting again.
Good to see you posting again.
Rocco Bugaj
95 Posted 02/09/2026 at 12:46:38
95 Posted 02/09/2026 at 12:46:38
What we can really hold against TFG are the promises (lies), the lack of football knowledge, the lack of transparency, and the way the fans are treated.
Mark Taylor
96 Posted 02/09/2026 at 12:46:41
96 Posted 02/09/2026 at 12:46:41
People mentioning Eddie Howe need to bear in mind he has just resigned from a club that has had a net spend of £340M in the past 5 years, with even this window, the one he resigned in, showing a £30M net spend.
Our 5-year net spend is £M. This window, we made a net profit of £22M so, even had we bought Balogun, we'd only have spend c £18M net.
Why would Howe choose such a club to manage?
Our 5-year net spend is £M. This window, we made a net profit of £22M so, even had we bought Balogun, we'd only have spend c £18M net.
Why would Howe choose such a club to manage?
Steve Jones
97 Posted 02/09/2026 at 12:56:53
97 Posted 02/09/2026 at 12:56:53
Ian @ 58
Thanks for the link. A good read.
One aspect I noted was that The Esk did a lot of historical revenues and costs.
This would have been looking backwards and PSR rules.
If he would have used the figure that Kinnear stated for last seasons revenue up to £265m and put a slight projected increase then the Denominator for Squad Cost Ratio would be higher and the ratio much lower to say low 60’s
This means we would have had much more head room. Thus painting an even worse picture of TFG and the CEO. Ratio over competition.
Thanks for the link. A good read.
One aspect I noted was that The Esk did a lot of historical revenues and costs.
This would have been looking backwards and PSR rules.
If he would have used the figure that Kinnear stated for last seasons revenue up to £265m and put a slight projected increase then the Denominator for Squad Cost Ratio would be higher and the ratio much lower to say low 60’s
This means we would have had much more head room. Thus painting an even worse picture of TFG and the CEO. Ratio over competition.
Frank Wolfe
98 Posted 02/09/2026 at 12:57:49
98 Posted 02/09/2026 at 12:57:49
Maybe we can have a new chant?
Instead of "One Thierno Barry", it's "One Centre-Forward, "
Instead of "One Thierno Barry", it's "One Centre-Forward, "
Lester Yip
99 Posted 02/09/2026 at 13:00:00
99 Posted 02/09/2026 at 13:00:00
Looks like Brennan Johnson as backup then.
Can Rohl also play there? Keane can play there.
Can Rohl also play there? Keane can play there.
Mark Steers
100 Posted 02/09/2026 at 13:01:00
100 Posted 02/09/2026 at 13:01:00
Christy 75.
You think Johnson for McNiel was bad buisness. Then we pull in Hackney, Rohl, George, Norgaard, Grealish and Maitland-Niles. Can you honestly say that was poor recruitment? You must be crazy. One thing goes wrong and a player fails a medical and it's all bad recruitment.
Also, to get £15M for Beto, £15M for Iroegbunam, and finally got rid of Patterson, a non-contributor for 5 years... Really poor recruitment? You talk rubbish. Christ, I've been in sport for 40 years -- what you think you see is totally different from their side.
Oh, and Ndiaye sold himself -- good riddance.
You think Johnson for McNiel was bad buisness. Then we pull in Hackney, Rohl, George, Norgaard, Grealish and Maitland-Niles. Can you honestly say that was poor recruitment? You must be crazy. One thing goes wrong and a player fails a medical and it's all bad recruitment.
Also, to get £15M for Beto, £15M for Iroegbunam, and finally got rid of Patterson, a non-contributor for 5 years... Really poor recruitment? You talk rubbish. Christ, I've been in sport for 40 years -- what you think you see is totally different from their side.
Oh, and Ndiaye sold himself -- good riddance.
Bob Parrington
101 Posted 02/09/2026 at 13:01:17
101 Posted 02/09/2026 at 13:01:17
OKAY, we fucked up with Balogan but, guess what. that is why we have fitness checks. Let's get over it.
There's no alternative but to find a solution that will take us through at least to the January window. No use crying over spilled milk FFS.
Possible solution is to (at least) use Barry and add Graham. A striker doesn't need to be 9ft tall to score goals.
Potential defence solution is to play Pickford, Niles/O'brien/Branthwaite/Mykolenko with a mix of our fab midfield options, Hackney, Armstrong, Garner, Rohl, Norgaard and choice attack between Grealish, Dibbling, George, Johnson, Barry, Graham!! Add Charly, Keane, Tarkowski (Have I forgotten somebody?)
FFS let's stop whingeing and get on with it
There's no alternative but to find a solution that will take us through at least to the January window. No use crying over spilled milk FFS.
Possible solution is to (at least) use Barry and add Graham. A striker doesn't need to be 9ft tall to score goals.
Potential defence solution is to play Pickford, Niles/O'brien/Branthwaite/Mykolenko with a mix of our fab midfield options, Hackney, Armstrong, Garner, Rohl, Norgaard and choice attack between Grealish, Dibbling, George, Johnson, Barry, Graham!! Add Charly, Keane, Tarkowski (Have I forgotten somebody?)
FFS let's stop whingeing and get on with it
Pete Ambrose
102 Posted 02/09/2026 at 13:01:38
102 Posted 02/09/2026 at 13:01:38
I am surprised that those fans who are often calling for Moyes’ head aren’t blaming him for the shambles created by incompetent people at the top of the club. At the end of the day Moyes has achieved a lot given how he had to do it with players either, past their best, injured or not experienced enough and that’s not including he had to play players out of position. I doubt there will be many managers, even in a years time, who will be knocking down the boardroom door to apply for the managers job. TFG seem to have a plan to build a business profile rather than a successful football team. They had ample opportunity to get the right players in but didn’t. A new manager may want more or different players but he would want a team that was already reasonably successful and backed by the owners. If they come in when the club isn’t successful or well backed they will want longer contract with bigger salary which would ensure if they weren’t backed etc or sacked they would walk away with pockets full of cash. TFG should have shown their support of the team and manager but instead let down the team, the manager and the fans. I think Moyes is capable of doing something with the team he has got but it may not be what fans want. I’ve said it before,, you can’t make a silk purse out of a sows ear. I think fans need to brace for more exits in January, could see Armstrong go, garner go, branthwaite go. These players will not want to be in a side that consistently has to struggle because of poor team backing.
Bill Fairfield
103 Posted 02/09/2026 at 13:09:28
103 Posted 02/09/2026 at 13:09:28
I’ve got a feeling the mood on Sunday v Utd will be as
black as the return of a young Wayne Rooney in that FA cup tie 2003.
black as the return of a young Wayne Rooney in that FA cup tie 2003.
Steve Jones
104 Posted 02/09/2026 at 13:19:03
104 Posted 02/09/2026 at 13:19:03
Bob @ 101
Agree! An opportunity for Braiden Graham perhaps Mr Moyesiah ?
Also if say James Garner has to cover at LB it gives more clear opportunities for Hayden and Armstrong to build their partnership.
Agree! An opportunity for Braiden Graham perhaps Mr Moyesiah ?
Also if say James Garner has to cover at LB it gives more clear opportunities for Hayden and Armstrong to build their partnership.
Pete Ambrose
105 Posted 02/09/2026 at 13:25:53
105 Posted 02/09/2026 at 13:25:53
I have just been checking free agents that are available and given Moyes needs at least a couple of players for the bench etc. there is four I personally would consider.. there is Zinchenko (not a bad option), Jason Sancho (still has potential),Malacia (could be worth a punt as he still has something to prove and isn’t that old at 27), then there’s Anthony Martial (flattered to deceive at united but always put in effort), and of course there is always bringing back Doucoure ( knows the club and while past his best would make a good addition to the bench). I know these are not in their prime but a couple could certainly be positive moves ie Sancho and Malacia.
Gavin Johnson
106 Posted 02/09/2026 at 13:26:06
106 Posted 02/09/2026 at 13:26:06
Steve #104
Braiden Graham looks a talent, but he looks about 5ft 6" and 9 stone. He looks far too small and slight to play as a No.9. His only way into the team is on the wing and that's actually one of the few areas where we're well stocked.
Braiden Graham looks a talent, but he looks about 5ft 6" and 9 stone. He looks far too small and slight to play as a No.9. His only way into the team is on the wing and that's actually one of the few areas where we're well stocked.
Kevin Molloy
107 Posted 02/09/2026 at 13:26:33
107 Posted 02/09/2026 at 13:26:33
it's not incompetence. When people show you who they are, believe them. this is who the Friedkins are. they will have made clear to the CEO and manager what the score is weeks or months ago that there would be no investment, and that funds MAY be made available if sales were effected. they have us on a skeleton staff subsistence level. there is zero ambition for events on the field. they should have a window of 72 hours to clarify matters and tell the fans what is going on. No doubt they will say nothing. So, we know where we stand. We are owned by vulture capitalists who intend to keep us on minimal investment, and who plan to raise funds by regularly selling our best players.
We need to get these people out. And I think the only way we do that is public protest, and hitting their bottom line. We need to embrace relegation to get these scumbags out, and boycott merchandise, and season tickets until they sell up.
We need to get these people out. And I think the only way we do that is public protest, and hitting their bottom line. We need to embrace relegation to get these scumbags out, and boycott merchandise, and season tickets until they sell up.
Dale Self
108 Posted 02/09/2026 at 13:30:23
108 Posted 02/09/2026 at 13:30:23
Heal well James, good move Paul.
Eric Myles
109 Posted 02/09/2026 at 13:30:46
109 Posted 02/09/2026 at 13:30:46
In a nomal commercial enterprise if the CEO presided over a shit show like this that not only decreased the value of the asset, but put its survival in jeopardy, they'd be sacked.
So in the next week of fallout from this window we'll see where TFGs loyalties lie. Kinnear is "their man" they headhunted him to take the reins, so do they sack him or back him?
If they back him it sends out a signal that the Club is a secondary consideration to the money making stadium.
If they sack him there's a glimmer of hope that they want what we want for the Club.
Or will a scapegoat be hung out to dry?
So in the next week of fallout from this window we'll see where TFGs loyalties lie. Kinnear is "their man" they headhunted him to take the reins, so do they sack him or back him?
If they back him it sends out a signal that the Club is a secondary consideration to the money making stadium.
If they sack him there's a glimmer of hope that they want what we want for the Club.
Or will a scapegoat be hung out to dry?
Stu Gre
111 Posted 02/09/2026 at 13:37:46
111 Posted 02/09/2026 at 13:37:46
Pete 102
I am surprised that those fans who are often calling for Moyes’ head aren’t blaming him for the shambles created by incompetent people at the top of the club
To be honest I don't think Moyes is blameless, wouldn't surprise me if there was in fighting about the profile of player that Moyes wanted v those that were in the recruitment plan for the future. This might have contributed to the slightly shambolic nature of this window.
Bottom line though - Moyes didn't choose himself to come back, Kinnear didn't employ himself. TFG are to blame for that structure which may well be incompatible with each other (I'm not saying they don't get along personally).
Moyes likes to get his own way, TFG want a different profile to Moyes. Kinnear tries to satisfy his employer and calm Moyes. Dithering all round and we don't finish the transfer window strongly.
Now Moyes did criticise the owners reasonably publicly. That might have had an effect on this window also.
Just means we suffer waiting for Moyes contract to end because the owners are playing the long game and not wasting money changing managers.
Just a hunch.
I am surprised that those fans who are often calling for Moyes’ head aren’t blaming him for the shambles created by incompetent people at the top of the club
To be honest I don't think Moyes is blameless, wouldn't surprise me if there was in fighting about the profile of player that Moyes wanted v those that were in the recruitment plan for the future. This might have contributed to the slightly shambolic nature of this window.
Bottom line though - Moyes didn't choose himself to come back, Kinnear didn't employ himself. TFG are to blame for that structure which may well be incompatible with each other (I'm not saying they don't get along personally).
Moyes likes to get his own way, TFG want a different profile to Moyes. Kinnear tries to satisfy his employer and calm Moyes. Dithering all round and we don't finish the transfer window strongly.
Now Moyes did criticise the owners reasonably publicly. That might have had an effect on this window also.
Just means we suffer waiting for Moyes contract to end because the owners are playing the long game and not wasting money changing managers.
Just a hunch.
Eric Myles
112 Posted 02/09/2026 at 13:41:07
112 Posted 02/09/2026 at 13:41:07
Pete #102, "I am surprised that those fans who are often calling for Moyes’ head aren’t blaming him for the shambles created by incompetent people at the top of the club.
The usual suspects have been Pete, you must have missed their posts.
The usual suspects have been Pete, you must have missed their posts.
Martin Farrington
113 Posted 02/09/2026 at 13:41:34
113 Posted 02/09/2026 at 13:41:34
I predicted this would happen at the final whistle, signalling the end of last season. From what Kinnear said and heavily alluded to it was clear. I was roasted by Genial Mike Gaynes who vocally insisted that amount of free spend the club had at its disposal and how Kinnear would recruit liberally (he never said that but indeed heavily hinted it would be so) with his centre of excellence transfer team reeling them in. I kept my silence throughout the summer. I am not in anyway pleased by what I believed and that it came to fruition. It is an absolute disgrace. Kinnear should be sacked and TFG go. Go now. You are not respected. Not liked. Shown gross incompetence. You are not fit to run this beautiful club. Sell up and go
Christy Ring
114 Posted 02/09/2026 at 13:43:09
114 Posted 02/09/2026 at 13:43:09
Bob #101 That’s why we have fitness checks, get over it? That’s not the end of the story. They tried to sign Zirkzee / Abraham, were turned down by both, they then agreed a reduced fee and lodged the paperwork, but Balogun had enough and walked. Was the injury that bad if they still wanted to sign, especially for a lesser fee? What was the injury? It doesn’t add up.
Steve Jones
115 Posted 02/09/2026 at 13:44:07
115 Posted 02/09/2026 at 13:44:07
Kevin 107
I agree with you the rules were laid down by TFG and the CEO stated that finances had to be “Sustainable” and referred to Villa and Newcastle falling fowl of UEFA rules, this means 70% for SCR - I was thinking that they move to that to be under it for next season not this.
Turns out they are well under now.
I’d rather us get behind the manager and players. Don’t fancy another relegation fight….
I agree with you the rules were laid down by TFG and the CEO stated that finances had to be “Sustainable” and referred to Villa and Newcastle falling fowl of UEFA rules, this means 70% for SCR - I was thinking that they move to that to be under it for next season not this.
Turns out they are well under now.
I’d rather us get behind the manager and players. Don’t fancy another relegation fight….
Pete Ambrose
116 Posted 02/09/2026 at 13:45:57
116 Posted 02/09/2026 at 13:45:57
To Kevin (107) I would suggest that the only people who are going to be interested in Everton FC are more vulture capitalists that’s if there is anything left worth having.
Unless someone invests in the team and brings success ie challenging in the top two European championships(were the cash is) and bringing in more PL revenue from finishing higher in the league then I doubt EFC will be a club worth investing in or buying. Been an EFC fan all my life (70 now) and the last 20 years have been one step down after another. It’s hard to watch other clubs like hull, Sunderland even Wrexham who have owners who invest in the team to get results rather than having owners who are either incompetent or looking to pocket as much as possible. While many slagged off bill kenwright he did have the team at heart. He didn’t have multi millions to put in but he tried his best, ok it was an error in judgement bringing moshiri in but hindsight is sadly revealing.
Unless someone invests in the team and brings success ie challenging in the top two European championships(were the cash is) and bringing in more PL revenue from finishing higher in the league then I doubt EFC will be a club worth investing in or buying. Been an EFC fan all my life (70 now) and the last 20 years have been one step down after another. It’s hard to watch other clubs like hull, Sunderland even Wrexham who have owners who invest in the team to get results rather than having owners who are either incompetent or looking to pocket as much as possible. While many slagged off bill kenwright he did have the team at heart. He didn’t have multi millions to put in but he tried his best, ok it was an error in judgement bringing moshiri in but hindsight is sadly revealing.
Eric Myles
117 Posted 02/09/2026 at 13:49:19
117 Posted 02/09/2026 at 13:49:19
Nice one Frank #98 55555
Andy Meighan
118 Posted 02/09/2026 at 13:57:09
118 Posted 02/09/2026 at 13:57:09
Can people get this ridiculous notion out of their heads that Keane can play centre forward. Can someone please name me one instance when he has been used in that position?
Yes, he's scored a few great goals for us in his time here, but to suggest he could play the role up top is absolute madness.
Let's be fair: he's not even a good centr-back, never mind striker.
Tarkowski scored a cracker at Bournemouth on Saturday... I don't see anyone suggesting he could play there.
Yes, he's scored a few great goals for us in his time here, but to suggest he could play the role up top is absolute madness.
Let's be fair: he's not even a good centr-back, never mind striker.
Tarkowski scored a cracker at Bournemouth on Saturday... I don't see anyone suggesting he could play there.
Christy Ring
119 Posted 02/09/2026 at 14:02:46
119 Posted 02/09/2026 at 14:02:46
Mark#00 I’ve been into sport also for over 45 years and you’re talking utter garbage. Rohl, Grealish, and George were with us last season, Norgaard hasn’t even trained yet, Maitland-Niles was a last minute decision, as for failing a fitness test, why did we still try to sign him? We sold our best player, our only other striker, our reserve left back, and now have the smallest squad in the Premiership, and you have the audacity to say I’m talking rubbish? What was your sport, synchronised swimming?
Andrew Clare
120 Posted 02/09/2026 at 14:11:46
120 Posted 02/09/2026 at 14:11:46
That’s it Kevin. We aren’t going to win anything, we will make mid-table at best. This is the way our owners see it. They are not fans, there only interest is to make money out of their investment with the minimum of on field backing.
They will continue this way until they find the right time to sell us on.
The Esk’s report outlines everything.
They will continue this way until they find the right time to sell us on.
The Esk’s report outlines everything.
James Marshall
121 Posted 02/09/2026 at 14:16:01
121 Posted 02/09/2026 at 14:16:01
Andy@118
Brennan Johnson is now our backup striker.
Brennan Johnson is now our backup striker.
Nicolas Piñon
122 Posted 02/09/2026 at 14:18:09
122 Posted 02/09/2026 at 14:18:09
So we have: Barry and George as strikers;
Grealish, Johnson, Alcaraz, Dibling and Rohl for the wings;
Garner, Dewsbury-Hall, Alcaraz, Hackney, Armstrong, and Rohl for midfield;
Maitland-Niles, Rohl, O'Brien, Mykolenko and Garner for full backs;
Branthwaite, Tarkowski, Keane, and O'Brien as centre-backs.
Injuries and suspensions aside, we have a better squad.
Grealish, Johnson, Alcaraz, Dibling and Rohl for the wings;
Garner, Dewsbury-Hall, Alcaraz, Hackney, Armstrong, and Rohl for midfield;
Maitland-Niles, Rohl, O'Brien, Mykolenko and Garner for full backs;
Branthwaite, Tarkowski, Keane, and O'Brien as centre-backs.
Injuries and suspensions aside, we have a better squad.
Christy Ring
123 Posted 02/09/2026 at 14:21:14
123 Posted 02/09/2026 at 14:21:14
Looking at the stats, we are the lowest spenders in the Premier League in the last 5 years, we've a plus of £5M.
Just a point about recruitment teams, Palace signed Ben Chilwell on a free last night, and we let our reserve left-back leave on loan?
Just a point about recruitment teams, Palace signed Ben Chilwell on a free last night, and we let our reserve left-back leave on loan?
Mark Steers
124 Posted 02/09/2026 at 14:26:31
124 Posted 02/09/2026 at 14:26:31
You're funny, Christy. Rohl, Grealish and George -- I think the regime in charge bought them after looking at them last season.
Oh, Norgaard is a bad player because he hasn't trained yet? Laughable. And you have the audacity to say Ndiaye was our best player? You're miles off, Christy.
Pickford is supreme. Dewsbury-Hall is in a different class... Branthwaite. Barry, Garner, Johnson? Yes, you're right -- our best player? Get yourself a bigger TV and clean your glasses.
Oh, Norgaard is a bad player because he hasn't trained yet? Laughable. And you have the audacity to say Ndiaye was our best player? You're miles off, Christy.
Pickford is supreme. Dewsbury-Hall is in a different class... Branthwaite. Barry, Garner, Johnson? Yes, you're right -- our best player? Get yourself a bigger TV and clean your glasses.
Jimmy Carr
125 Posted 02/09/2026 at 14:26:44
125 Posted 02/09/2026 at 14:26:44
To those saying Moyes and Kinnear aren't compatible, I agree. Thought it last season.
I'm not blaming Moyes wholesale by the way, but the two of them obviously have different ideas about how the footballing side of the club goes forward. TFG appointed them both and this particular transfer window car crash has been in the making for a while.
I'm only repeating what I said earlier but it would be best if someone was moved on. The structure might, or might not, be the right idea, but if you've got people with fundamentally different approaches working within it, then that's a menu for dysfunction.
I think Moyes wants the last say on all football matters; you'd need a strong CEO to counter that. Or, as suggested elsewhere, TFG may just be waiting for his contract to expire prior to more significant spending.
That's about the best spin I can think of... either way, it's still an absolute shit show and TGF are the architects.
I'm not blaming Moyes wholesale by the way, but the two of them obviously have different ideas about how the footballing side of the club goes forward. TFG appointed them both and this particular transfer window car crash has been in the making for a while.
I'm only repeating what I said earlier but it would be best if someone was moved on. The structure might, or might not, be the right idea, but if you've got people with fundamentally different approaches working within it, then that's a menu for dysfunction.
I think Moyes wants the last say on all football matters; you'd need a strong CEO to counter that. Or, as suggested elsewhere, TFG may just be waiting for his contract to expire prior to more significant spending.
That's about the best spin I can think of... either way, it's still an absolute shit show and TGF are the architects.
Steve Brown
126 Posted 02/09/2026 at 14:30:48
126 Posted 02/09/2026 at 14:30:48
The Monaco sporting director on what happened.
Link
Messing Balogun about - questioning his medical results without basis, trying to renegotiate his fee structure, enquiring about Zirkzee and Abraham while he was in the building.
In a press conference on Wednesday morning, Monaco sporting chief Scuro said: "The allegation of Balogun is that, 'I'm not feeling well by the way the club treated me, the way the medical team brought doubts about my future or my health. I'm not comfortable to sign a long contract here'. That the way we finished the transfer window here."
Embarrassing, No wonder he left.
We signed the injured Norgaard but had “concerns” about Balogun’s medical? I smell a bullshit angle we tried to work to reduce the transfer fee - it backfired on us when the player told us to do one.
Link
Messing Balogun about - questioning his medical results without basis, trying to renegotiate his fee structure, enquiring about Zirkzee and Abraham while he was in the building.
In a press conference on Wednesday morning, Monaco sporting chief Scuro said: "The allegation of Balogun is that, 'I'm not feeling well by the way the club treated me, the way the medical team brought doubts about my future or my health. I'm not comfortable to sign a long contract here'. That the way we finished the transfer window here."
Embarrassing, No wonder he left.
We signed the injured Norgaard but had “concerns” about Balogun’s medical? I smell a bullshit angle we tried to work to reduce the transfer fee - it backfired on us when the player told us to do one.
Benjamin Dyke
127 Posted 02/09/2026 at 14:46:34
127 Posted 02/09/2026 at 14:46:34
If Everton used the medical to reduce the fee illegitimately then that's criminal. But the link above gives mixed messages.
He says what Everton did was normal but then quotes the player himself being uncomfortable due to the delay and reaction to the medical. That's his want but if he could not deal with legitimate concerns when shelling out £40M then he's a bit oversensitive surely?
Won't be the first time though that a club's arrogance or insensitivity has cost them a player. Only those close to Balogun will know the full story but it shows that the plan of splunking most of our budget on one player is a huge risk that will often backfire.
Think if we'd kept our powder dry a few windows and then bought a £70M striker -- Tosun, Beto, Barry, Moise Kean, Rondón, Maupay, Chermiti, Josh King -- all since 2020.
He says what Everton did was normal but then quotes the player himself being uncomfortable due to the delay and reaction to the medical. That's his want but if he could not deal with legitimate concerns when shelling out £40M then he's a bit oversensitive surely?
Won't be the first time though that a club's arrogance or insensitivity has cost them a player. Only those close to Balogun will know the full story but it shows that the plan of splunking most of our budget on one player is a huge risk that will often backfire.
Think if we'd kept our powder dry a few windows and then bought a £70M striker -- Tosun, Beto, Barry, Moise Kean, Rondón, Maupay, Chermiti, Josh King -- all since 2020.
Eric Myles
128 Posted 02/09/2026 at 14:48:38
128 Posted 02/09/2026 at 14:48:38
Jimmy #125
"The two of them obviously have different ideas about how the footballing side of the club goes forward."
So who would you rather have directing the footballing side of the club? An ex-player who has been a manager for years? Or an administrator with a university degree who used to sell shampoo and cola?
"The two of them obviously have different ideas about how the footballing side of the club goes forward."
So who would you rather have directing the footballing side of the club? An ex-player who has been a manager for years? Or an administrator with a university degree who used to sell shampoo and cola?
Jimmy Carr
129 Posted 02/09/2026 at 15:09:54
129 Posted 02/09/2026 at 15:09:54
Eric (128) Moyes obviously. But TFG appointed Moyes first then the management team second. Obviously they had to do it that way round due to circumstances, but if they’re both still here by the end of the season, one of them will need to go. TFG gave out mixed messages with those appointments. Moyes for stability but Kinnear to lead us to the brand new world. That’s when the seeds for this were sown, those two ideas might be compatible for selling cars but not for running a football club. Not aligned from the off.
I’m not defending Kinnear by the way, but there’s no point in having a CEO who gets in the way of the manager and vice versa.
And, to repeat myself from earlier, Moyes’s fingerprints were all over Thelwell’s departure. Would this have happened on his watch? Letting him go was a bad error and I said so at the time. I know, I’m digressing a bit there.
I’m completely guessing but I suspect that neither Moyes nor Kinnear are completely blameless for our latest fiasco!!
The best hope is that TFG have learnt some salutary lessons from this but who knows.
I’m not defending Kinnear by the way, but there’s no point in having a CEO who gets in the way of the manager and vice versa.
And, to repeat myself from earlier, Moyes’s fingerprints were all over Thelwell’s departure. Would this have happened on his watch? Letting him go was a bad error and I said so at the time. I know, I’m digressing a bit there.
I’m completely guessing but I suspect that neither Moyes nor Kinnear are completely blameless for our latest fiasco!!
The best hope is that TFG have learnt some salutary lessons from this but who knows.
Jeremy Harvey
130 Posted 02/09/2026 at 15:10:52
130 Posted 02/09/2026 at 15:10:52
Hi, I fell in love with Everton near the end of the Kendall era (thought I was jumping on the bandwagon) and have enjoyed ToffeeWeb for a number of years.
This is the first time I have posted as I am an American and feel unqualified to express an opinion. However, this summer the front office boys did some things almost as idiotic as appointing Rafa Benitez.
If I could ask Angus Kinnear one question, it would be this: How does anyone who speculated approximately £40M on an unproven Tyler Dibling last summer think it is a good idea to sell Harrison Armstrong for an equal amount of money this summer?
Two takeaways from that escapade for me. First, say what you want about Moshiri, even at the brink of bankruptcy, he held onto Branthwaite.
The other thing, Moyes has got balls. I will never forget the post-match interviews and his “the supporters are not always wrong”, “I don't want to lose any of our best players” and “[Harrison's fate] is in the hands of the board” quotes.
Then the Kinnear gang top that. From what I have read, yesterday, they make a deal with Monaco, fly Balogun in and put personal term negotiations on hold as they (1) try to shake down Monaco for a better deal; and (2) get on the phone with Man Utd and try to secure Zirkzee as an alternative.
I picture Balogun held up in a Finch Farm waiting room, scrolling on his phone till he came across an article on the Ndiaye - Richarlison farce.
Thank you for letting me get this off my chest and UTFT!
This is the first time I have posted as I am an American and feel unqualified to express an opinion. However, this summer the front office boys did some things almost as idiotic as appointing Rafa Benitez.
If I could ask Angus Kinnear one question, it would be this: How does anyone who speculated approximately £40M on an unproven Tyler Dibling last summer think it is a good idea to sell Harrison Armstrong for an equal amount of money this summer?
Two takeaways from that escapade for me. First, say what you want about Moshiri, even at the brink of bankruptcy, he held onto Branthwaite.
The other thing, Moyes has got balls. I will never forget the post-match interviews and his “the supporters are not always wrong”, “I don't want to lose any of our best players” and “[Harrison's fate] is in the hands of the board” quotes.
Then the Kinnear gang top that. From what I have read, yesterday, they make a deal with Monaco, fly Balogun in and put personal term negotiations on hold as they (1) try to shake down Monaco for a better deal; and (2) get on the phone with Man Utd and try to secure Zirkzee as an alternative.
I picture Balogun held up in a Finch Farm waiting room, scrolling on his phone till he came across an article on the Ndiaye - Richarlison farce.
Thank you for letting me get this off my chest and UTFT!
Ron Sear
132 Posted 02/09/2026 at 15:15:20
132 Posted 02/09/2026 at 15:15:20
Dan Friedkin's spitfire is a mark 1a, has anybody got a Focke Wulf 190 to spare?
Eric Myles
133 Posted 02/09/2026 at 15:16:04
133 Posted 02/09/2026 at 15:16:04
Jimmy, it was necessary to appoint Moyes first 'cos Dyche had thrown the towel in and TFG were still doing their recruitment for their executive positions.
Kinnear is no Director of Football, he's a marketing man whose job is to bring sponsor revenue to the Club.
Kinnear is no Director of Football, he's a marketing man whose job is to bring sponsor revenue to the Club.
Ged Simpson
134 Posted 02/09/2026 at 15:17:37
134 Posted 02/09/2026 at 15:17:37
Why do some posts go on the front TW page but not on the thread itself? Has happened to me a few times too. Hardly helps discussion develop on TW. A tech issue? Any tech experts out of contract anywhere?
Christy Ring
135 Posted 02/09/2026 at 15:20:10
135 Posted 02/09/2026 at 15:20:10
Steve#126 That's what made me so furious, if you fail the medical, and the club then renegotiate and get a lesser fee, after trying to bring in Zirkzee, why wouldn't he walk,. It's total bullshit by TFG, our recruitment team led by Kinnear, who Leeds fans were delighted to get rid of. The owners and Kinnear, told complete lies, Kinnear said two week before the season even started, we wouldn't be buying a fullback until the last week of the window, and even now, Maitland-Niles was a last minute decision? Who sells players before you bring in replacements, and you have comments here saying it's no one's fault he failed a medical, it's that and everything else.
Eric Myles
136 Posted 02/09/2026 at 15:21:22
136 Posted 02/09/2026 at 15:21:22
Ged #134, it's usually 'cos some people are on the naughty step and their posts are vetted.
Could also be that the site doesn't automatically refresh when you open it or change pages like it used to.
Could also be that the site doesn't automatically refresh when you open it or change pages like it used to.
Jimmy Carr
137 Posted 02/09/2026 at 15:23:14
137 Posted 02/09/2026 at 15:23:14
I know Eric. They should have left Thelwell in post though, but Moyes wanted control of all football matters and had the upper hand with TFG, that’s how I saw it. Regardless, the same thing is happening now between Moyes and Kinnear and it does us no good.
That’s how it looks to me.
That’s how it looks to me.
Rocco Bugaj
138 Posted 02/09/2026 at 15:27:44
138 Posted 02/09/2026 at 15:27:44
@Mark124 Signing Röhl was a must; there was no alternative. As for the other players: naturally, I’m glad we signed a few. Even so, I find the transfer window unsatisfactory. Why? 1. We didn’t fix our three problem areas; we actually made them worse.
2. Our rivals strengthened their squads with good players (often for very little money). We have fewer players than before.
3. The embarrassing way our negotiations were handled.
We could also talk about the lack of transparency, the lack of interest in the club and its fans, and so on, but I think that covers it.
2. Our rivals strengthened their squads with good players (often for very little money). We have fewer players than before.
3. The embarrassing way our negotiations were handled.
We could also talk about the lack of transparency, the lack of interest in the club and its fans, and so on, but I think that covers it.
Eric Myles
139 Posted 02/09/2026 at 15:28:03
139 Posted 02/09/2026 at 15:28:03
But Jimmy, TFG didn't give Moyes control of all football matters, he became part of a committee.
James Marshall
140 Posted 02/09/2026 at 15:33:44
140 Posted 02/09/2026 at 15:33:44
The funny thing is, we all thought it couldn't get any worse than Beto and Barry - so how about just Barry? 😂
Jimmy Carr
141 Posted 02/09/2026 at 15:35:54
141 Posted 02/09/2026 at 15:35:54
Eric (139) do you think that committee is functioning properly ?
Iain Johnston
142 Posted 02/09/2026 at 15:39:36
142 Posted 02/09/2026 at 15:39:36
New one doing the rounds. Brace yourselves...
We're talking to Malacia & Sancho. This probably means that they're sitting outside Costa in the Trafford Centre having a latte & almond slice.
FFS! I mean, can it get any worse?
We're talking to Malacia & Sancho. This probably means that they're sitting outside Costa in the Trafford Centre having a latte & almond slice.
FFS! I mean, can it get any worse?
John Collins
143 Posted 02/09/2026 at 15:39:59
143 Posted 02/09/2026 at 15:39:59
TFG made a £25M profit on this transfer window.
Just wondering... Did any other Premier League club make a profit on sales and buys?
Just wondering... Did any other Premier League club make a profit on sales and buys?
Raymond Fox
144 Posted 02/09/2026 at 15:41:03
144 Posted 02/09/2026 at 15:41:03
Well it depends what the club found what was wrong with Balogun doesn't it, I dare say the truth will come out eventually but I wouldn't count on it being the whole truth.
As usual we are in the dark on who is making these final decisions.
As usual we are in the dark on who is making these final decisions.
Jimmy Carr
145 Posted 02/09/2026 at 15:41:28
145 Posted 02/09/2026 at 15:41:28
James (140) I had to remind myself I hadn’t been drinking last night when I saw some posts bemoaning the sale of Beto, things got worse when I found myself agreeing.
Neil Tyrrell
146 Posted 02/09/2026 at 15:43:51
146 Posted 02/09/2026 at 15:43:51
Is Grealish our only loan player at the moment? Is it right that we can still do loans after the window SLAMMED SHUT, and have one domestic and two import spots open? Expected more incoming loans yesterday.
Jon Ashton
147 Posted 02/09/2026 at 15:51:20
147 Posted 02/09/2026 at 15:51:20
Players in their actual positions:
G: Pickford (then a big drop-off to Trafford)
LB: Mykolenko
CB: Branthwaite, O'Brien, Tarkowski, Keane
RB: Maitland Niles (a utility player who can't cross)
DM: Norgaard
8: Garner, Hackney, Rohl, Armstrong
10: KDH, Alcaraz
LW: Grealish, George
RW: Johnson (and Dibling, if you want to count him)
S: Barry
That's five to six different positions with only one quality, specialist senior player, relying on utility players for cover, and four #8s. Who put this squad together, again??
G: Pickford (then a big drop-off to Trafford)
LB: Mykolenko
CB: Branthwaite, O'Brien, Tarkowski, Keane
RB: Maitland Niles (a utility player who can't cross)
DM: Norgaard
8: Garner, Hackney, Rohl, Armstrong
10: KDH, Alcaraz
LW: Grealish, George
RW: Johnson (and Dibling, if you want to count him)
S: Barry
That's five to six different positions with only one quality, specialist senior player, relying on utility players for cover, and four #8s. Who put this squad together, again??
Andy Meighan
148 Posted 02/09/2026 at 15:51:44
148 Posted 02/09/2026 at 15:51:44
The thing is Ian Sancho isn't a striker he's a wideman so that makes no sense, the other lad Malacia not even sure where he plays.
As embarrassing as it is they've got to look at bringing a couple of free agents in, id have personally took a punt on Vardy, but someone on another thread said he's gone to Wrexham, whatever we need bodies and asap.
An absolute farce, by the way Ian I'm not knocking you but them two you mentioned just sums this recruitment team up.
As embarrassing as it is they've got to look at bringing a couple of free agents in, id have personally took a punt on Vardy, but someone on another thread said he's gone to Wrexham, whatever we need bodies and asap.
An absolute farce, by the way Ian I'm not knocking you but them two you mentioned just sums this recruitment team up.
Colin Malone
149 Posted 02/09/2026 at 15:55:08
149 Posted 02/09/2026 at 15:55:08
Trump pulled the plug on the deal.
Rocco Bugaj
150 Posted 02/09/2026 at 15:55:40
150 Posted 02/09/2026 at 15:55:40
Sancho was outstanding during his initial spell at Dortmund. After his transfer in 2021, his performance levels dropped sharply. Moreover, he is primarily a left winger rather than a center-forward. His most recent salary was €15 million per year.
Eric Myles
151 Posted 02/09/2026 at 16:06:18
151 Posted 02/09/2026 at 16:06:18
Jimmy #141, no, they're at odds with the manager.
Eric Myles
152 Posted 02/09/2026 at 16:08:02
152 Posted 02/09/2026 at 16:08:02
James #140, be positive, no Beto.
There, don't you feel better? 🙃
There, don't you feel better? 🙃
Ajay Gopal
153 Posted 02/09/2026 at 16:21:21
153 Posted 02/09/2026 at 16:21:21
A pretty scathing indictment of Everton's summer window by Phil McNulty of the BBC,
"How Everton's deadline day debacle leaves owners facing fan mutiny
By
Phil McNulty
Chief football writer
Published
2 hours ago
Everton's shambolic end to the transfer window has resulted in open revolt from supporters that places fierce scrutiny on owners The Friedkin Group and chief executive Angus Kinnear.
The last straw for fans already infuriated by the controversial proposed sale of home-grown youngster Harrison Armstrong to Nottingham Forest - the deal was eventually blocked by Everton's board in the face of the toxic reaction from the fanbase - was the bungled final day before the window closed.
Folarin Balogun's proposed £40m move from AS Monaco descended into high farce in the early hours of Wednesday morning after the original deal was renegotiated when issues arose with his medical, ending with the United States striker deciding to walk away from Everton's Finch Farm training base without signing.
.
(and the article goes on)"
I am glad that this is getting huge press coverage. Everton fans are showing that they can't be messed about. All credit to them and the media who are giving it the right importance.
"How Everton's deadline day debacle leaves owners facing fan mutiny
By
Phil McNulty
Chief football writer
Published
2 hours ago
Everton's shambolic end to the transfer window has resulted in open revolt from supporters that places fierce scrutiny on owners The Friedkin Group and chief executive Angus Kinnear.
The last straw for fans already infuriated by the controversial proposed sale of home-grown youngster Harrison Armstrong to Nottingham Forest - the deal was eventually blocked by Everton's board in the face of the toxic reaction from the fanbase - was the bungled final day before the window closed.
Folarin Balogun's proposed £40m move from AS Monaco descended into high farce in the early hours of Wednesday morning after the original deal was renegotiated when issues arose with his medical, ending with the United States striker deciding to walk away from Everton's Finch Farm training base without signing.
.
(and the article goes on)"
I am glad that this is getting huge press coverage. Everton fans are showing that they can't be messed about. All credit to them and the media who are giving it the right importance.
Jimmy Carr
154 Posted 02/09/2026 at 16:23:15
154 Posted 02/09/2026 at 16:23:15
Eric (151) exactly 🙂🙂
Eric Myles
155 Posted 02/09/2026 at 16:25:25
155 Posted 02/09/2026 at 16:25:25
But as TFGs spokesperson on here always reminds us, Friedkins don't care, they fcuked off the Roma Ultras.
Ian Bennett
156 Posted 02/09/2026 at 16:27:13
156 Posted 02/09/2026 at 16:27:13
They need to sell it. They've no interest in the business, they've made their money.
Move it on.
Move it on.
John Pickles
157 Posted 02/09/2026 at 16:34:09
157 Posted 02/09/2026 at 16:34:09
An estimate is that 90% of man.utd. fans have never been to Old Trafford.
Well 100% of Everton's owners have never been to Hill Dickinson.
Sunderland's owner flew to Lyon, to convince Malick Fofana to join them instead of Palace.
Well 100% of Everton's owners have never been to Hill Dickinson.
Sunderland's owner flew to Lyon, to convince Malick Fofana to join them instead of Palace.
James Marshall
158 Posted 02/09/2026 at 17:23:49
158 Posted 02/09/2026 at 17:23:49
Does anyone remember them saying anything about ambition when they bought us? All I remember is them saying how amazing they were - was there ever any talk of investment and making us a successful football team?
I don't recall hearing it.
I don't recall hearing it.
Kevin Molloy
159 Posted 02/09/2026 at 17:30:14
159 Posted 02/09/2026 at 17:30:14
that's why they have their spokesman Angus Kinnear, James. He's said plenty.
Ian McAvoy
160 Posted 02/09/2026 at 17:45:53
160 Posted 02/09/2026 at 17:45:53
Balogun isn’t a top class striker that would thrive in the Prem. He is an upgrade on Beto but thinks highly of himself. Bring in Graham from the U21 as the sub. Start blooding him. Worth a punt on the ex RM #9 if the salary is reasonable. I’m actually glad we didn’t sign Balogun. He was crap at the WC.
But I have no confidence in the CEO and board now. Also Moyes has some explaining to do as his attitude was clearly on display. Is there a breakdown between the pitch and the board room / ivory tower?
But I have no confidence in the CEO and board now. Also Moyes has some explaining to do as his attitude was clearly on display. Is there a breakdown between the pitch and the board room / ivory tower?
Tim Taylor
161 Posted 02/09/2026 at 18:23:21
161 Posted 02/09/2026 at 18:23:21
Ron Sear thank you for the huge lol at this shifty time... much needed
Tim Taylor
162 Posted 02/09/2026 at 18:24:30
162 Posted 02/09/2026 at 18:24:30
Should read shitty time ha
Mike Gaynes
163 Posted 02/09/2026 at 18:32:25
163 Posted 02/09/2026 at 18:32:25
Jimmy #137, agreed on Thelwell but it was never going to happen. New owners always want to choose their own chief executive rather than work with a holdover from the previous ownership.
Plus Thelwell was a DOF, and TFG preferred to hire a CEO (alphabet soup alert!) which in retrospect was a mistake.
This club needs a sporting director. The past few days have confirmed it.
Plus Thelwell was a DOF, and TFG preferred to hire a CEO (alphabet soup alert!) which in retrospect was a mistake.
This club needs a sporting director. The past few days have confirmed it.
Mike Gaynes
164 Posted 02/09/2026 at 18:35:21
164 Posted 02/09/2026 at 18:35:21
Eric #156, the Roma Ultras still hate the Friedkins but I'll bet they're quieting down now that Roma is in the Champions League.
News bulletin via the US press: The phone rang this morning at Everton and Martial's agent was on the other end.
News bulletin via the US press: The phone rang this morning at Everton and Martial's agent was on the other end.
James Marshall
165 Posted 02/09/2026 at 18:41:16
165 Posted 02/09/2026 at 18:41:16
Jadon Sancho appears to be heading to Palmeiras
David Currie
166 Posted 02/09/2026 at 18:50:15
166 Posted 02/09/2026 at 18:50:15
This club needs a new owner, the past few days have confirmed it.
Brendan McLaughlin
167 Posted 02/09/2026 at 19:26:08
167 Posted 02/09/2026 at 19:26:08
As Everton and Monaco were still prepared to proceed with the deal after the medical issues came to light it was obviously the player who pulled the plug.
I just don't get that bit. Presumably any renegotiation between Everton and Monaco didn't impact what the player had agreed with Everton.
Everton's medical team simply and understandably took a more cautious view of the injury than Monaco's or the players medical teams. I just don't see how that caused the player to pull the plug.
I just don't get that bit. Presumably any renegotiation between Everton and Monaco didn't impact what the player had agreed with Everton.
Everton's medical team simply and understandably took a more cautious view of the injury than Monaco's or the players medical teams. I just don't see how that caused the player to pull the plug.
Ian Wilkins
168 Posted 02/09/2026 at 20:02:08
168 Posted 02/09/2026 at 20:02:08
Brendan it is reported, rightly or wrongly, that the player felt unwelcome and didn’t like the way he was treated at Everton.
He didn’t agree with the medical assertions and he didn’t care for Everton shopping around last minute for what he believed were alternatives ( Zirkzee, Abraham, anybody with 2 legs really).
If he was wrong, jumping to wrong conclusions then you would expect somebody at Everton ( where he had been for 9 hours) would reassure him that he was wanted, important etc. All the things normal clubs would do when trying to get new players in and deals over the line.
Who was handling this? Cos it sure as hell wasn’t good.
He didn’t agree with the medical assertions and he didn’t care for Everton shopping around last minute for what he believed were alternatives ( Zirkzee, Abraham, anybody with 2 legs really).
If he was wrong, jumping to wrong conclusions then you would expect somebody at Everton ( where he had been for 9 hours) would reassure him that he was wanted, important etc. All the things normal clubs would do when trying to get new players in and deals over the line.
Who was handling this? Cos it sure as hell wasn’t good.
Raymond Fox
169 Posted 02/09/2026 at 20:06:59
169 Posted 02/09/2026 at 20:06:59
We can cover the right back position if Maitland-Niles gets injured or is rubbish, but we have no one I can think of to cover for Mykolenko if he can't play.
At centre forward, I suppose we can cotter something together there as well when Barry gets injured against Utd, knowing our cursed luck that's certain to happen.
Our recruitment 'experts' have effectively shot our prospects in both feet.
What will Moyes have to say I wonder when asked who's fault this farce is. He dare not say too much of what he really thinks because he knows he will be shown the door.
At centre forward, I suppose we can cotter something together there as well when Barry gets injured against Utd, knowing our cursed luck that's certain to happen.
Our recruitment 'experts' have effectively shot our prospects in both feet.
What will Moyes have to say I wonder when asked who's fault this farce is. He dare not say too much of what he really thinks because he knows he will be shown the door.
Brendan McLaughlin
170 Posted 02/09/2026 at 20:12:27
170 Posted 02/09/2026 at 20:12:27
Ian #168
So what exactly did Everton do to treat him so badly?
The fact that Everton took a more cautious view of the injury is understandable and I doubt it impacted the terms the player had agreed with us.
We were looking at other No.9's. We'd let Beto go. We needed a third option up front. Again understandable... I mean if he's that fecking insecure?
So what exactly did Everton do to treat him so badly?
The fact that Everton took a more cautious view of the injury is understandable and I doubt it impacted the terms the player had agreed with us.
We were looking at other No.9's. We'd let Beto go. We needed a third option up front. Again understandable... I mean if he's that fecking insecure?
Ian Wilkins
171 Posted 02/09/2026 at 20:29:32
171 Posted 02/09/2026 at 20:29:32
Just relaying what’s been reported from his perspective Brendan.
Whether we believe it or not is upto us.
Whether we believe it or not is upto us.
Tony Hughes
172 Posted 02/09/2026 at 20:31:23
172 Posted 02/09/2026 at 20:31:23
The relationship between us fans and the arrogant Yank owners is damaged beyond repair now.
Maybe if they would have visited Goodison and the Hill Dickey they would have some sort of feel and emotional attachment for this "asset" that they've bought.
But no, drop just about enough money to keep us stable in the league and then rake in the cash from the TV deals.
The arrogance to tell us about a world class recruitment team and then go and produce the past few days is laughable.
Maybe if they would have visited Goodison and the Hill Dickey they would have some sort of feel and emotional attachment for this "asset" that they've bought.
But no, drop just about enough money to keep us stable in the league and then rake in the cash from the TV deals.
The arrogance to tell us about a world class recruitment team and then go and produce the past few days is laughable.
Paul Griffiths
173 Posted 02/09/2026 at 23:31:59
173 Posted 02/09/2026 at 23:31:59
Kim V (21): yep Friedkin is a diehard Trump supporter. He has donated $924,600.00 to Trump's 47 committee.
Brendan McLaughlin
174 Posted 02/09/2026 at 23:40:23
174 Posted 02/09/2026 at 23:40:23
Ian #171
From his perspective of course. There is Everton's side and a world in between.
I don't really see other than leaving it late how have we put a foot wrong.
From his perspective of course. There is Everton's side and a world in between.
I don't really see other than leaving it late how have we put a foot wrong.
Dale Self
175 Posted 02/09/2026 at 00:06:28
175 Posted 02/09/2026 at 00:06:28
Good eye Ged 134, and thanks for that Eric 136. Makes sense, and yes, I've been there.
Dale Self
176 Posted 02/09/2026 at 00:10:36
176 Posted 02/09/2026 at 00:10:36
Jeremy 130, I have to say, this?
"This is the first time I have posted as I am an American and feel unqualified to express an opinion. "
This is class.
Please post frequently going forward. UTFT!
And obviously, welcome.
"This is the first time I have posted as I am an American and feel unqualified to express an opinion. "
This is class.
Please post frequently going forward. UTFT!
And obviously, welcome.
Mark Taylor
177 Posted 02/09/2026 at 00:23:38
177 Posted 02/09/2026 at 00:23:38
Dale
I was wondering whether it might be an ever so subtle criticism of our owners?
I was wondering whether it might be an ever so subtle criticism of our owners?
Don Alexander
178 Posted 02/09/2026 at 00:24:53
178 Posted 02/09/2026 at 00:24:53
I've criticised Friedkin repeatedly this year and, after the window closed, he's now shown me and an increasing number of others to be right to do so.
He and his team are charlatans, and Moyes is definitively part of Friedkin's team.
I know Friedkin has a TW American agent only now, at last, maybe moderating always praising him as reliable etc etc but America voted for Trump, twice, so to me most of them are all but devoid of insight of any sort.
He and his team are charlatans, and Moyes is definitively part of Friedkin's team.
I know Friedkin has a TW American agent only now, at last, maybe moderating always praising him as reliable etc etc but America voted for Trump, twice, so to me most of them are all but devoid of insight of any sort.
Steve Brown
179 Posted 02/09/2026 at 00:47:10
179 Posted 02/09/2026 at 00:47:10
Ajay @ 153, thanks for sharing.
Here is an article from Andy Hunter in the Guardian that is well worth a read.
Link
Here’s a extract: “ Everton are the lowest net spenders in the Premier League over the past five years and, more by accident than design, ended this summer making a net profit of £25m on transfers. TFG committed £78m on signings in a summer where, by the calculations of the football finance expert Kieran Maguire, the average spend per Premier League club was £181m.”
He also theorises: “TFG’s frugal spending and efficiency drive – redundancies were made behind the scenes at Everton this summer – has fuelled talk of Dan Friedkin and co looking to sell the club.”
If only that were true.
Here is an article from Andy Hunter in the Guardian that is well worth a read.
Link
Here’s a extract: “ Everton are the lowest net spenders in the Premier League over the past five years and, more by accident than design, ended this summer making a net profit of £25m on transfers. TFG committed £78m on signings in a summer where, by the calculations of the football finance expert Kieran Maguire, the average spend per Premier League club was £181m.”
He also theorises: “TFG’s frugal spending and efficiency drive – redundancies were made behind the scenes at Everton this summer – has fuelled talk of Dan Friedkin and co looking to sell the club.”
If only that were true.
Don Alexander
180 Posted 03/09/2026 at 03:51:47
180 Posted 03/09/2026 at 03:51:47
Given the totally hopeless behaviour of those supposedly now in charge of OUR club I regret to focus, in a small way given the tsunami of disastrous conduct of Friedkin since he took over, in that he mirrors, clearly, those similarly feckless psueds who've owned OUR club since the Premier League was incepted, with us and a very few other "big" clubs being party to it, the others never regressing as we have, for decades.
Friedkin doesn't give a shit about Everton fans, and yet by paying to watch the teams he/Kinnear/Moyes promulgate we, the true fans, add to Friedkin's fortune.
Us lot attending BMD enables him to relentlessly go on filling his own boots whilst taking the piss out of all of us when we pay him the ever-precious gate-money that in the rapacious world of football-club-ownership is hugely important.
Notably fewer attendees to BMD would significantly reduce the value of OUR club to Friedkin and prospective sharks/buyers but, whether or not there's an honourable entity minded to buy us with a realistic attitude and pocket to even try to restore our trophy winning history is admittedly a moot point.
Having supported Everton since 1963 I have long since despaired of our various owners having a scintilla of credibility or accountability to us fans.
Friedkin doesn't give a shit about Everton fans, and yet by paying to watch the teams he/Kinnear/Moyes promulgate we, the true fans, add to Friedkin's fortune.
Us lot attending BMD enables him to relentlessly go on filling his own boots whilst taking the piss out of all of us when we pay him the ever-precious gate-money that in the rapacious world of football-club-ownership is hugely important.
Notably fewer attendees to BMD would significantly reduce the value of OUR club to Friedkin and prospective sharks/buyers but, whether or not there's an honourable entity minded to buy us with a realistic attitude and pocket to even try to restore our trophy winning history is admittedly a moot point.
Having supported Everton since 1963 I have long since despaired of our various owners having a scintilla of credibility or accountability to us fans.
Dale Self
181 Posted 03/09/2026 at 04:20:20
181 Posted 03/09/2026 at 04:20:20
Mark 177, I thought it was just an expression of an American's insecurity amongst Englishmen, especially in a football forum.
I'm sure he will weigh in with more. It will be one of those seasons. Ugh.
And Don, man, come on! It was a close election each time. It is a 50/50 with your lesser cousins.
I'm sure he will weigh in with more. It will be one of those seasons. Ugh.
And Don, man, come on! It was a close election each time. It is a 50/50 with your lesser cousins.
Mike Gaynes
182 Posted 03/09/2026 at 04:58:19
182 Posted 03/09/2026 at 04:58:19
Christy #114 and Ian #168, Balogun's injury was a rolled ankle from the World Cup. It clearly had not fully healed.
Balogun didn't even make the bench, let alone the pitch, for Monaco's first four games of the season, two in Ligue 1 and two Europa Conference League playoff matches (all of which Monaco won without him).
It is clear from his absence that there is a problem with that ankle that Everton's medical staff identified and properly sounded the alarm about -- thus Monaco's willingness to renegotiate the transfer terms.
That Balogun got pissed off and left without signing is frustrating as hell, but what exactly did Everton do wrong? Were we not supposed to check with the specialists, or re-work the deal, or explore alternatives like Zirkzee once the deal was off the rails? Did they not bring the guy enough donuts or sing to him? We don't know.
I say again it was selling Beto without a confirmed replacement that screwed our pooch. That's what should cost Angus his job. Now. Immediately.
Neil #146, no, we cannot bring in loan players after the window closes, only loan them out to leagues whose windows are still open. We have screwed ourselves completely.
Balogun didn't even make the bench, let alone the pitch, for Monaco's first four games of the season, two in Ligue 1 and two Europa Conference League playoff matches (all of which Monaco won without him).
It is clear from his absence that there is a problem with that ankle that Everton's medical staff identified and properly sounded the alarm about -- thus Monaco's willingness to renegotiate the transfer terms.
That Balogun got pissed off and left without signing is frustrating as hell, but what exactly did Everton do wrong? Were we not supposed to check with the specialists, or re-work the deal, or explore alternatives like Zirkzee once the deal was off the rails? Did they not bring the guy enough donuts or sing to him? We don't know.
I say again it was selling Beto without a confirmed replacement that screwed our pooch. That's what should cost Angus his job. Now. Immediately.
Neil #146, no, we cannot bring in loan players after the window closes, only loan them out to leagues whose windows are still open. We have screwed ourselves completely.
Jimmy Hardacre
183 Posted 03/09/2026 at 07:07:36
183 Posted 03/09/2026 at 07:07:36
First of all, a good article. I agree Moyes thinks it's his money and always has but, in his defence, and this does not come easy, he has consistently said we need more players.
I have no idea why everything is left to the last minute every transfer window, no matter who owns the club. The faceless people behind the scenes are to blame here.
Kinnear has to go! We need on Sunday to make this is very clear. I tried to get his email... if anyone has it, put it up and let's do to him what he is trying to do to us and fuck him up.
These are the actions of a fucking red.
I have no idea why everything is left to the last minute every transfer window, no matter who owns the club. The faceless people behind the scenes are to blame here.
Kinnear has to go! We need on Sunday to make this is very clear. I tried to get his email... if anyone has it, put it up and let's do to him what he is trying to do to us and fuck him up.
These are the actions of a fucking red.
Rob Hooton
185 Posted 03/09/2026 at 08:19:57
185 Posted 03/09/2026 at 08:19:57
Steve, thanks for the link, good piece by Andy Hunter in The Guardian. As he writes, perhaps there are too many people involved in transfers and too little joined-up thinking.
We've just got to hope and pray that Barry scores goals and we don't get any injuries!!
We've just got to hope and pray that Barry scores goals and we don't get any injuries!!
Jack Convery
186 Posted 03/09/2026 at 08:40:03
186 Posted 03/09/2026 at 08:40:03
According to The Telegraph, the Blues are not currently considering unattached players as a solution to their problems up front.
If this is the case, why did they run round like scalded cars, trying to bring in Zirkzee or Abraham? They thought they needed a 2nd striker at 22:59 on Tuesday but not now? What the fuck is going on? Do they care any more? Funts the lot of them.
Whilst they were running around, did the Agent get a better offer from Turkey? Is that why he walked? After all, Monaco have 3 other centre-forwards, one of whom has only just joined for £20M. Makes you wonder.
If this is the case, why did they run round like scalded cars, trying to bring in Zirkzee or Abraham? They thought they needed a 2nd striker at 22:59 on Tuesday but not now? What the fuck is going on? Do they care any more? Funts the lot of them.
Whilst they were running around, did the Agent get a better offer from Turkey? Is that why he walked? After all, Monaco have 3 other centre-forwards, one of whom has only just joined for £20M. Makes you wonder.
John Collins
187 Posted 03/09/2026 at 09:40:52
187 Posted 03/09/2026 at 09:40:52
Does anyone believe Angus has automony in his decisions?
He doesn't have to run it by his boss first?
He doesn't have to run it by his boss first?
Kevin Molloy
188 Posted 03/09/2026 at 10:11:59
188 Posted 03/09/2026 at 10:11:59
Relax, it's much worse than you think.
This fuck up didn't explode in the last 72 hours, this has been building since these scumbags took over. From the moment they didn't sack Dyche you can trace the zero ambition bottom line perspective of this crew. The appointment of a man whose overwhelming focus is on dollars and donuts, the appalling silence from these shitbags will have its' two year anniversary at the end of the year.
The only saving grace of this org is that it won't be insolvent, but in every other respect we could not have done worse. cold blooded grasping, ignorant blundering fools.
We have to get them out. Whatever it takes, mass demos, boycotts, the lot. It's painful, but it's been done before.
This fuck up didn't explode in the last 72 hours, this has been building since these scumbags took over. From the moment they didn't sack Dyche you can trace the zero ambition bottom line perspective of this crew. The appointment of a man whose overwhelming focus is on dollars and donuts, the appalling silence from these shitbags will have its' two year anniversary at the end of the year.
The only saving grace of this org is that it won't be insolvent, but in every other respect we could not have done worse. cold blooded grasping, ignorant blundering fools.
We have to get them out. Whatever it takes, mass demos, boycotts, the lot. It's painful, but it's been done before.
Jeremy Harvey
189 Posted 03/09/2026 at 15:25:57
189 Posted 03/09/2026 at 15:25:57
Dale (175) Thanks for the shout!
Always enjoy the Evertonian banter on this site and who knows in the future may cautiously take up your offer in the future.
The last decade has been a torturous journey but this is still the greatest club on the planet because of its supporters!
Always enjoy the Evertonian banter on this site and who knows in the future may cautiously take up your offer in the future.
The last decade has been a torturous journey but this is still the greatest club on the planet because of its supporters!
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1 Posted 02/09/2026 at 09:03:28
I could have understood if Real Madrid had come calling and the lad had his head turned, but trying to negotiate a deal with Nottingham Forest, ffs do me a favour.
Now yesterday's shenanigans just days later, tells me that Dan Friedkin is more interested in polishing his fuckin spitfire than running our club or trying to get some success back here which is long overdue, and I mean success not just championing finishing 12th.
As far as I'm concerned no there is no way back for them or Kinnear, another moomin just sitting in a slot being fed a wage that we don't need to pay out.