Well that’s another season over, and let’s face it, it’s not been one of our best. The season review video will be found in the DVD bargain bin, reduced to £1.50 before long, next to all those Jeremy Clarkson books. Anyway, after the Spurs match, I put these questions to Evertonian, Mick, from Bath:
In this disappointing season, what’s been your best and, if you can, one worst moment?
Best moment has got to be Jags 91st minute equaliser against that lot. We didn’t play great and they probably deserved all 3 points so for the captain to step up and put it in the top bin on the half volley at the Kop end was pretty special.
Worst moment, well there’s been a few really. The 6-3 reverse against Chelsea was a performance that set the tone for the season really, not too bad at scoring goals but easily conceeding. The 5-2 against Kyiv was embarassing and ended all hopes of a trophy.
Who would you sign this summer?
think Lennon has earned himself a chance. People are saying the £7m is too much but I would rather spend that on a player that is tried and tested, than some fancy named foreign player who may or may not make the grade. A new keeper would be nice – Begovic or John Ruddy could certainly do a job.
With Distin and Alcaraz going I think a new centre half is needed but I also think one or two of the young lads might be seen a lot more in defence next year.
Would like to see a central midfielder with a bit of craft and guile who can dictate the game. Sergio Canalas has been linked and seems he could be a good fit and obviously the link with Moyes could help.
Also a striker who can bag a few. I’ve been patient with Kone but it doesn’t look like its going to happen and with his contract up next year maybe it’s time to move him on and get one in – Charlie Austin would offer something different and Nolito who I know very little about apart from being a tricky winger/forward could be a type of player Martinez would fancy.
What is your realistic forecast for the coming season?
I think without the Europa league we will finish siginifcantly higher in the league: 5th to 7th. I would also look for a cup, I dont care if it’s the League cup or FA cup, they really should be a priority in a lot of ways. We need to win something and I hope that forecast comes true.
How long would you realistically give Martinez?
I think he has earnt this blip of a season to a certain extent – the added pressure of Europa sees clubs year in year out have poor seasons in the league so without that and a fresh look at the squad while letting some of the dead wood go, we will be better. If by Christmas we are still the same I would say that then would be time for a change. Would be a shame for that to happen as I do believe he is a good manager and if he gets the recruitment right in the summer we could be back up there next season.
In the most irreverent way you can, describe your relationship with Everton over the years…..
Supporting Everton is like a having a mad man for a partner. You love them but sometimes they look to punch you in the face for no particular reason.
Thanks to Mick there. I’ll be out and about in the summer, looking for blues to get the views of.