Everton are bracing themselves for another tough season in the Premier League. The Toffees, who have lost their opening two league games, sit at the bottom of the table. Sean Dyche has a tough road to overturn his side’s fortunes.
Could Everton get relegated?
As one of the original teams in the Premier League, Everton has stayed in England’s top division for a long time. Even though they came close to being relegated a few times, the Toffees have always stayed up.
However, this season appears to culminate the past few years. Last Season, Everton needed to win their last league game to secure safety. Over several seasons, the Toffees have dropped from mid-table to relegation.
It is early into the season with another thirty-six matches to go, but Everton’s start has been far from ideal. Sean Dyche’s side suffered a 3-0 defeat to Brighton at Goodison Park last weekend and then endured a 4-0 thrashing by Tottenham.
The main reason is that the owner, Farhad Moshiri, is hesitant. He doesn’t want to spend money on the team, which has caused Everton to fall to lower positions. Everton’s rivals have improved by signing new players, but the Toffees signings haven’t worked out. Several attempts to buy the club have also fallen, as investors don’t want to purchase it.
Furthermore, some managerial changes have developed a toxic atmosphere between the board and fans. While many fans back their players week in and week out, the rise of a toxic culture has seen several clashes between the players, fans, and board.
Imagine another job where it’s normalised to get abuse like this.
Hanging around at a train station to scream at men who are trying their best… https://t.co/jzNPPxX3Tv
— Neal Maupay (@nealmaupay_) August 25, 2024
Jarrad Branthwaite’s injury
A key reason Sean Dyche’s side is struggling this season is Jarrad Branthwaite‘s injury. The defender was key for Everton last season as they survived relegation. With an excellent ability to play out from the back and being physical and direct with attackers, Branthwaite was essential for the Toffees defence.
Even though the team struggled and lost points, Branthwaite had a great season with Everton. The coach chose the defender for England’s Euro training squad but later dropped him. Branthwaite also strongly partnered with James Tarkowski in defence, which helped Everton earn important points last season.
Even though many rumours about Branthwaite leaving, Everton has managed to keep their most valuable player. However, they have had to turn down offers from Manchester United. Once Branthwaite returns from injury, it is still unclear if the Toffees can move up the table.
What can Sean Dyche do?
Sean Dyche has done a great job in his role at Everton. He has managed to steer his side to safety in the past two seasons. Understandably, Toffee fans wanted more memorable European nights back in 2017.
However, given the current situation, his side’s place in Europe seems far off. Dyche has been handed the most formidable job in football. Everton’s future looks bleak with an owner who is refusing to reinvest back into the club and several injured/suspended players.
The sale of Amadou Onana to Aston Villa for £50 million has seen the Blues bring in five new signings. While Onana was crucial in the midfield, his departure was inventible. Everton was deducted two points after failing to comply with the Premier League’s profitability and sustainability rules.
After letting go of several players this summer, it seems unlikely that the Toffees will make any more transfers. Even though Sean Dyche needs new players, it seems his request will be turned down. Dyche must manage with his current team and rely on the youth squad for this season.
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