Yarrgh
Player Valuation: £70m
None of them being ruined by the galoot's agricultural training regime.
Literally, he's got the strikers ploughing lone furrows, the midfield sewing doubts, and the defence scattering.
Former Everton Centre Forward Duncan Ferguson steps into management.....
- Thread starter The Penalty Box Dancer
- Start date
Literally, he's got the strikers ploughing lone furrows, the midfield sewing doubts, and the defence scattering.
The Penalty Box Dancer
Player Valuation: £35m
Tottenham Hotspur vs Everton
4th December 2024
Nottingham Forest and Brighton both picked up wins in this round of midweek fixtures putting them on 14 points with Everton and closing the gap at the bottom. It was time for Everton turn around a run of 8 league games without a win. In a bid to get something from Spurs, Gueye and Garner came into the midfield and Patterson replaced Maffeo at Right Back. Cole Palmer came in behind Beto and James Rodriguez dropped to the bench. Garnacho was loving life in London since making the switch from Old Trafford and he started on the left this evening. Beto had the better of Skipp in the middle of the park shrugging him off the ball with ease, he went right to Roony who got down the right side and crossed low for Palmer but it was cleared by Davies. On 6 minutes Maddison took the ball in space on the right taking it down nicely, he played it into the six yard box for Richarlison to finish against his former club, 1-0. Patterson came down the right on 21 minutes, he cut it back to Garner and he found Roony in the box in space, he struck with his left foot and Vicario done well to save with his feet putting it behind for a corner. The second half started and Everton came out searching for the equaliser, Palmer played a ball for Roony to run on to down the right, the cross for Calvert-Lewin was overhit and it allowed Maddison to break, he passed to Ndombele then to Lo Celso and he found Garnacho getting forward in the box, is he onside? Garnacho with the shot and it's saved by Pickford but the flag went up. Everton made two changes on 62 minutes, Rodriguez came on for Roony and Onana came on for Gueye. Cham came on for Palmer, Calvert-Lewin went off for McNeil and Beto was replaced by Konate in a last ditch attempt to get something in the final minutes. Spurs were trying to finish the game off but between Pickford and the defence they were doing a good job keeping it at 1-0, Everton just needed one chance to hit Spurs on the counter. Cham went off in stoppage time with an injury reducing Everton to ten men. Almost 98 minutes gone, two minutes over the additonal 6, Everton knackered but still fighting, Godfrey played the ball into the box for one last attempt, McNeil flicked it on, Konate surely? His header is saved Vicario as he comes rushing out. It's all over and Spurs take the win, Konate had a great chance to level but what a save in the final few seconds.
DF: It's another defeat and another hurdle we couldn't get over, I thought the performance was battling, we just have to get better going forward and take those risks. We dealt with Spurs as best as we could and I felt we had a few chances to take something but Vicario was great in goal today and he was alert to save them in the dying seconds.
PLAYER RATINGS
Everton vs Aston Villa
7th December 2024
Ten games without a win and rumours of a discussion between Ferguson and Moshiri surfaced during the week. The christmas period was fast approaching and Everton did not want to find themselves around the bottom three going into the second half of the season. James Tarkowski was back for Everton and went straight in next to Godfrey, Branthwaite on the bench. Maffeo was in at Right Back for Patterson and the rest of the side remained unchanged. Cham was ruled out for around two months with a torn hamstring so it was Rodriguez in behind Beto. Five minutes in and Everton on the attack, Maffeo found Rodriguez on the edge of the box who turned and took a shot which Martinez tipped behind for a corner. Diego Carlos picked up the ball in the centre circle and passed forward to Ramsey, Godfrey backed off and Gueye went to the ball but he took the shot outside the box and it went into the bottom right corner, 1-0 to the visitors after 24 minutes. Ten minutes later, Mings passed short for Tielemans and it was cut out by Rodriguez who knocked it in front of Beto, with just the keeper to beat he got it on to his left foot and made an easy finish! 1-1! Vitaliy Mykolenko was looking exhausted and wasn't making the runs down the left instead passing the ball inside to Gueye. He was taken off just after the second half started for Branthwaite and Godfrey moved to left back. Doucoure found Calvert-Lewin on 52 minutes and he cut inside playing a switching pass over to Roony, he cut back on to his left foot and floated the ball towards the far post, Beto pushed Konsa out the way and headed in to make it 2-1! VAR took a look for the foul but they were happy with it and the goal stood! Everton were fighting for every ball and the crowd were with them for it, Aston Villa were forced to take long range shots which weren't troubling Pickford. McNeil came on for Calvert-Lewin with just under half an hour to go, Calvert-Lewin has really settled into that wide left position. Another change with 15 minutes to go saw Dobbin come on for Roony and Palmer come on for Rodriguez. With 5 minutes to go Everton had done so well but were almost caught out when Tielemens hit a rocket that struck the face of the post to the surprise of everyone in blue. Digne took the throw and got it back from Khedr, he crossed and Wilson headed in to beat Pickford, Villa drew level on 86 minutes. Everton's hard work undone just like that. It was Aston Villa putting Everton under late pressure and a tip over the bar from Pickford as Khedr tried the chip inside the box was a fantastic save inside stoppage time. 2-2 was the final score at Goodison Park and another tough pill to swallow for Everton who were so close to their first win since September.
Duncan, this team must be itching for that win? It was a good performance but a late goal caught you out.
DF: The ball came in and we didn't do what we should have done at that stage of the game, the players were switched on and focused up until that moment and they were caught out just in that moment because they done everything else with conviction. We were attacking well and creating really good chances whilst at the same time limiting Villa and making it hard for them. The performance is there, the results aren't but I know it's coming.
PLAYER RATINGS
Newcastle United vs Everton
14th December 2024
After 12 months in charge, Julian Nagelsmann was sacked with Newcastle underachieving in 10th place, it came after a 4-0 thrashing from Man United. Ferguson was surviving but supporters were fearing another season languishing down at the bottom and not a lot to play for. The league's leading scorer Beto was doing his best to keep the Toffees afloat but some lapses in concentration caused points to be dropped. Onana came into the side replacing Gueye in midfield. Everton got on the ball early, Onana found Doucoure in space in the middle and he passed right to Roony who came inside and hit a swerving shot towards the top left corner that Nick Pope had to get across to to tip over. Branthwaite won the ball back from Correa but his clearance was poor and Tonali came forward and drove a low shot striking the inside of the post and going in, Pickford unable to get across quick enough. Maffeo played the ball back to Pickford on 52 minutes, Beto missed the header but Roony judged it well and ran on to the loose ball, he had three players around him so took a shot that Pope tipped wide. Torres had it easy when nobody pressed him on the edge of the box, his pass into the box for Isak was too easy and he slotted the second. Everton made a change with 15 minutes to go, Palmer replacing Roony. It summed up Everton's day when Dominic Calvert-Lewin ran the ball out of play and the referee blew up for full-time as Newcastle moved closer to the European places. A disappointing game for Everton who looked bereft of ideas. Duncan Ferguson could be out of a job in the morning as they are now 12 league games without a win.
PLAYER RATINGS
4th December 2024
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Nottingham Forest and Brighton both picked up wins in this round of midweek fixtures putting them on 14 points with Everton and closing the gap at the bottom. It was time for Everton turn around a run of 8 league games without a win. In a bid to get something from Spurs, Gueye and Garner came into the midfield and Patterson replaced Maffeo at Right Back. Cole Palmer came in behind Beto and James Rodriguez dropped to the bench. Garnacho was loving life in London since making the switch from Old Trafford and he started on the left this evening. Beto had the better of Skipp in the middle of the park shrugging him off the ball with ease, he went right to Roony who got down the right side and crossed low for Palmer but it was cleared by Davies. On 6 minutes Maddison took the ball in space on the right taking it down nicely, he played it into the six yard box for Richarlison to finish against his former club, 1-0. Patterson came down the right on 21 minutes, he cut it back to Garner and he found Roony in the box in space, he struck with his left foot and Vicario done well to save with his feet putting it behind for a corner. The second half started and Everton came out searching for the equaliser, Palmer played a ball for Roony to run on to down the right, the cross for Calvert-Lewin was overhit and it allowed Maddison to break, he passed to Ndombele then to Lo Celso and he found Garnacho getting forward in the box, is he onside? Garnacho with the shot and it's saved by Pickford but the flag went up. Everton made two changes on 62 minutes, Rodriguez came on for Roony and Onana came on for Gueye. Cham came on for Palmer, Calvert-Lewin went off for McNeil and Beto was replaced by Konate in a last ditch attempt to get something in the final minutes. Spurs were trying to finish the game off but between Pickford and the defence they were doing a good job keeping it at 1-0, Everton just needed one chance to hit Spurs on the counter. Cham went off in stoppage time with an injury reducing Everton to ten men. Almost 98 minutes gone, two minutes over the additonal 6, Everton knackered but still fighting, Godfrey played the ball into the box for one last attempt, McNeil flicked it on, Konate surely? His header is saved Vicario as he comes rushing out. It's all over and Spurs take the win, Konate had a great chance to level but what a save in the final few seconds.
DF: It's another defeat and another hurdle we couldn't get over, I thought the performance was battling, we just have to get better going forward and take those risks. We dealt with Spurs as best as we could and I felt we had a few chances to take something but Vicario was great in goal today and he was alert to save them in the dying seconds.
PLAYER RATINGS
Everton vs Aston Villa
7th December 2024
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Ten games without a win and rumours of a discussion between Ferguson and Moshiri surfaced during the week. The christmas period was fast approaching and Everton did not want to find themselves around the bottom three going into the second half of the season. James Tarkowski was back for Everton and went straight in next to Godfrey, Branthwaite on the bench. Maffeo was in at Right Back for Patterson and the rest of the side remained unchanged. Cham was ruled out for around two months with a torn hamstring so it was Rodriguez in behind Beto. Five minutes in and Everton on the attack, Maffeo found Rodriguez on the edge of the box who turned and took a shot which Martinez tipped behind for a corner. Diego Carlos picked up the ball in the centre circle and passed forward to Ramsey, Godfrey backed off and Gueye went to the ball but he took the shot outside the box and it went into the bottom right corner, 1-0 to the visitors after 24 minutes. Ten minutes later, Mings passed short for Tielemans and it was cut out by Rodriguez who knocked it in front of Beto, with just the keeper to beat he got it on to his left foot and made an easy finish! 1-1! Vitaliy Mykolenko was looking exhausted and wasn't making the runs down the left instead passing the ball inside to Gueye. He was taken off just after the second half started for Branthwaite and Godfrey moved to left back. Doucoure found Calvert-Lewin on 52 minutes and he cut inside playing a switching pass over to Roony, he cut back on to his left foot and floated the ball towards the far post, Beto pushed Konsa out the way and headed in to make it 2-1! VAR took a look for the foul but they were happy with it and the goal stood! Everton were fighting for every ball and the crowd were with them for it, Aston Villa were forced to take long range shots which weren't troubling Pickford. McNeil came on for Calvert-Lewin with just under half an hour to go, Calvert-Lewin has really settled into that wide left position. Another change with 15 minutes to go saw Dobbin come on for Roony and Palmer come on for Rodriguez. With 5 minutes to go Everton had done so well but were almost caught out when Tielemens hit a rocket that struck the face of the post to the surprise of everyone in blue. Digne took the throw and got it back from Khedr, he crossed and Wilson headed in to beat Pickford, Villa drew level on 86 minutes. Everton's hard work undone just like that. It was Aston Villa putting Everton under late pressure and a tip over the bar from Pickford as Khedr tried the chip inside the box was a fantastic save inside stoppage time. 2-2 was the final score at Goodison Park and another tough pill to swallow for Everton who were so close to their first win since September.
Duncan, this team must be itching for that win? It was a good performance but a late goal caught you out.
DF: The ball came in and we didn't do what we should have done at that stage of the game, the players were switched on and focused up until that moment and they were caught out just in that moment because they done everything else with conviction. We were attacking well and creating really good chances whilst at the same time limiting Villa and making it hard for them. The performance is there, the results aren't but I know it's coming.
PLAYER RATINGS
Newcastle United vs Everton
14th December 2024
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After 12 months in charge, Julian Nagelsmann was sacked with Newcastle underachieving in 10th place, it came after a 4-0 thrashing from Man United. Ferguson was surviving but supporters were fearing another season languishing down at the bottom and not a lot to play for. The league's leading scorer Beto was doing his best to keep the Toffees afloat but some lapses in concentration caused points to be dropped. Onana came into the side replacing Gueye in midfield. Everton got on the ball early, Onana found Doucoure in space in the middle and he passed right to Roony who came inside and hit a swerving shot towards the top left corner that Nick Pope had to get across to to tip over. Branthwaite won the ball back from Correa but his clearance was poor and Tonali came forward and drove a low shot striking the inside of the post and going in, Pickford unable to get across quick enough. Maffeo played the ball back to Pickford on 52 minutes, Beto missed the header but Roony judged it well and ran on to the loose ball, he had three players around him so took a shot that Pope tipped wide. Torres had it easy when nobody pressed him on the edge of the box, his pass into the box for Isak was too easy and he slotted the second. Everton made a change with 15 minutes to go, Palmer replacing Roony. It summed up Everton's day when Dominic Calvert-Lewin ran the ball out of play and the referee blew up for full-time as Newcastle moved closer to the European places. A disappointing game for Everton who looked bereft of ideas. Duncan Ferguson could be out of a job in the morning as they are now 12 league games without a win.
PLAYER RATINGS
LEAGUE TABLE
Can we have some details / spreadsheets on the club's financial standing @The Penalty Box Dancer ?
If there's one the I've learnt in the last few weeks it's that loan repayments, takeovers and legal dealings are far more exciting than the footy.
Oh and how are Fylde getting on?
If there's one the I've learnt in the last few weeks it's that loan repayments, takeovers and legal dealings are far more exciting than the footy.
Oh and how are Fylde getting on?
The Penalty Box Dancer
Player Valuation: £35m
Will compile this data for you. We may need you to take a look and help manage the clubs finances.
Having read multiple in-depth strategic fiscal tear-downs in E sector, I feel more than qualified for the job.
The Penalty Box Dancer
Player Valuation: £35m
Everton vs Stoke City
21st December 2024
If things couldn't get any worse for Duncan Ferguson sitting in the relegation zone, how about an injury crisis on top of that? In an abnormal week for The Toffees, Dobbin, Palmer, Rodriguez and Konate all joined the medical room. The most severe being Cole Palmer with an ankle strain. Francis Okoronkwo was promoted to the bench for the game and Roony played up top in a Striker role next to Beto. McNeil started on the right. A big performance was expected of Everton against a Stoke side that have only won 1 game in 17. It was a tense opening 20 minutes as Tyrese Campbell gave Godfrey and Tarkowski the run around but his shot was poor and went wide. Everton came forward down the right with McNeil and he had Maffeo in support, Maffeo crossed to the far post, Calvert-Lewin got up for the header and struck the post, unlucky. Marmol came forward for Stoke and was inside the box, Doucoure checked him and immediately held his hands up, minimal contact but the referee awarded Stoke the penalty! Bazoer took the kick and went to Pickford's left and the keeper made the save pushing it behind! Doucoure got away with that but it was a poor call from referee Michael Salisbury. Everton made a double change with 25 minutes to go, Patterson replaced Mykolenko and Garner came on for Doucoure. Everton were short on options but with less than ten minutes to go, Beto went off for Okoronkwo to be given a chance. Stoke had a free-kick near the corner flag, taken by Campbell who put in a good cross, Bazoer nodded it down inside the box for Trusty to lash at it and he got it! Is that the winner? Stoke on the verge of an upset! The five additional minutes were not enough for Everton and the boo's rang around Goodison Park, this was a shock and not one we expected. Surely this is the end for the manager?
PLAYER RATINGS
Brighton & Hove Albion vs Everton
26th December 2024
A boxing day trip to the South coast for Everton and the penultimate game of the calendar year. Idrissa Gueye was the latest player to join the injury room with a pulled calf muscle so Tyler Onyango travelled with the squad. Everton kicked off and came straight out, Calvert-Lewin and Doucoure battling for the ball and Beto's shot was tipped over the bar after 16 seconds. The corner routine didn't work and Maffeo went back to Onana, he pumped it into the box, Calvert-Lewin knocked it down for Roony and his shot was pushed away, great save. Pickford rolled the ball out to Maffeo on 5 minutes, he passed forward to Doucoure and then on to McNeil, McNeil played it inside to Roony and his first time pass forward found Beto goal side, Beto took the ball in his stride and blasted it into the bottom left corner, 1-0 to Everton! The referee put his flag up! Was there an offside? Beto was played offside by Veltman, a close call. It's moments like this that cost Everton, they do so well but then will concede cheaply. Three minutes later that was the case when Mitoma kept the ball in on the byline beating Maffeo and then beating Pickford at his near post, 1-0 to Brighton. Calvert-Lewin was limping but played on, he crossed into the box and found Doucoure who took the ball down and passed to McNeil to slot into the bottom corner, 1-1 on 20 minutes! Just before Brighton took the kick-off, Calvert-Lewin went off for Okoronkwo. McNeil was having a good first half getting some good balls into Beto, Beto looked fired up and had a good shot saved just before the half. He came out in the second half looking to cause damage, he beat Dunk but his shot was into the side netting. Mykolenko took the throw in the Brighton half, Okoronkwo played an incisive pass to Roony who broke into the area, he had Beto in support but selfishly went for goal from a tight angle, Beto was livid with Roony. Veltman blocked it putting it out for a corner. Doucoure played it to Roony who drove forward, he came down the left and played a low cross into the box for Beto, he left Dunk and tapped it wide, how did he miss? That was the chance. Everton made a few changes with three minutes to go, Garner replacing Onana, Branthwaite came on for Tarkowski and Patterson came on for Maffeo. It was all over in Brighton and Everton should have won this. Ferguson clapped off his players and then went over to the travelling supporters who were served up a better performance but wins are desperately needed.
Duncan, at the half way point of the season, is this what you expected?
DF: No, is the short answer. There's much more to this side than what we are seeing and some tweaking is needed, whether that be in the transfer market or trying a different way of playing, I'm aware something needs changing and hopefully it can result in us scoring more. This team have enough about them to stay away from the bottom three and I want us pushing closer to mid-table. We had a day out together last week to try and build relationships in the squad and it was a beneficial experience. I've spoken to the players as a team and as individuals and their feedback is important. We are one team, it's not me and them. We will come through this and be a better team for it.
PLAYER RATINGS
Everton vs Southampton
29th December 2024
It's the last match at Goodison Park in the year 2024. Everton are desperate for a win to ensure they can escape the mire going into the second half of the season. If previous matches were anything to go by, Everton won 4-1 at St. Mary's back in August but scoring four goals in a game seems an incredible feat right now. Ferguson went with a three man midfield bringing Garner in with Onana and Doucoure. Due to injuries, Okoronkwo started on the right with McNeil playing on the left. 15 minutes in and Patterson played a long ball forward for Beto inside the area, did he time his run? First time on his right foot across the keeper and it was 1-0! Nothing wrong with that and the goal stands! Beto dropped deep and brought Mykolenko into the attack on 21 minutes, he came down the left and crossed into the box but the keeper punched clear, it fell to Doucoure on the edge of the box and his side footed half volley was seen over the bar by the keeper. Doucoure came forward a few minutes later and passed right to Okoronkwo, he used his pace to get past Reo and get a good cross in for Beto who won the header placing it into the bottom corner! 2-0 to Everton! Everton with a great first half performance, this is what this side have wanted to do and there must be a sense of relief around Goodison Park. Everton are more patient in their approach but the passing is key and there is some great forward runs being made here. Alcaraz came close for Southampton on 52 minutes driving his shot just wide of the post. Almost a goal back for Southampton. Everton made a change on 64 minutes, Beto going off to a rapturous applause for Calvert-Lewin. Calvert-Lewin wrapped his foot around the ball getting it to Garner who passed down the left for McNeil, he bombed forward and Calvert-Lewin sprinted into the box, the low ball came into the near post and Calvert-Lewin tapped in the third! Mykolenko played a great ball with the outside of the boot to Okoronkwo who crossed in for Calvert-Lewin to head in his second on 73 minutes! Everton flying! Everton made three changes, Roony came on for McNeil, Onyango replaced Doucoure and Eli Campbell came on for Mykolenko. An additional seven minutes were added on but Everton were comfortable and in control. Okoronkwo with a man of the match performance down that right side and a solid defensive display ensured a clean sheet. Everton move out of the bottom three!
DF: The goals were just what we needed to help boost the goal difference and put the game to bed as early as possible. We kept our focus throughout and really feel playing a three man midfield was effective for us. We got the ball forward very well to our wide players and Okoronkwo really showed his potential to make it at this level with a top performance. It's a relief to finally win and that should help our confidence.
PLAYER RATINGS
LEAGUE TABLE
21st December 2024
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If things couldn't get any worse for Duncan Ferguson sitting in the relegation zone, how about an injury crisis on top of that? In an abnormal week for The Toffees, Dobbin, Palmer, Rodriguez and Konate all joined the medical room. The most severe being Cole Palmer with an ankle strain. Francis Okoronkwo was promoted to the bench for the game and Roony played up top in a Striker role next to Beto. McNeil started on the right. A big performance was expected of Everton against a Stoke side that have only won 1 game in 17. It was a tense opening 20 minutes as Tyrese Campbell gave Godfrey and Tarkowski the run around but his shot was poor and went wide. Everton came forward down the right with McNeil and he had Maffeo in support, Maffeo crossed to the far post, Calvert-Lewin got up for the header and struck the post, unlucky. Marmol came forward for Stoke and was inside the box, Doucoure checked him and immediately held his hands up, minimal contact but the referee awarded Stoke the penalty! Bazoer took the kick and went to Pickford's left and the keeper made the save pushing it behind! Doucoure got away with that but it was a poor call from referee Michael Salisbury. Everton made a double change with 25 minutes to go, Patterson replaced Mykolenko and Garner came on for Doucoure. Everton were short on options but with less than ten minutes to go, Beto went off for Okoronkwo to be given a chance. Stoke had a free-kick near the corner flag, taken by Campbell who put in a good cross, Bazoer nodded it down inside the box for Trusty to lash at it and he got it! Is that the winner? Stoke on the verge of an upset! The five additional minutes were not enough for Everton and the boo's rang around Goodison Park, this was a shock and not one we expected. Surely this is the end for the manager?
PLAYER RATINGS
Brighton & Hove Albion vs Everton
26th December 2024
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A boxing day trip to the South coast for Everton and the penultimate game of the calendar year. Idrissa Gueye was the latest player to join the injury room with a pulled calf muscle so Tyler Onyango travelled with the squad. Everton kicked off and came straight out, Calvert-Lewin and Doucoure battling for the ball and Beto's shot was tipped over the bar after 16 seconds. The corner routine didn't work and Maffeo went back to Onana, he pumped it into the box, Calvert-Lewin knocked it down for Roony and his shot was pushed away, great save. Pickford rolled the ball out to Maffeo on 5 minutes, he passed forward to Doucoure and then on to McNeil, McNeil played it inside to Roony and his first time pass forward found Beto goal side, Beto took the ball in his stride and blasted it into the bottom left corner, 1-0 to Everton! The referee put his flag up! Was there an offside? Beto was played offside by Veltman, a close call. It's moments like this that cost Everton, they do so well but then will concede cheaply. Three minutes later that was the case when Mitoma kept the ball in on the byline beating Maffeo and then beating Pickford at his near post, 1-0 to Brighton. Calvert-Lewin was limping but played on, he crossed into the box and found Doucoure who took the ball down and passed to McNeil to slot into the bottom corner, 1-1 on 20 minutes! Just before Brighton took the kick-off, Calvert-Lewin went off for Okoronkwo. McNeil was having a good first half getting some good balls into Beto, Beto looked fired up and had a good shot saved just before the half. He came out in the second half looking to cause damage, he beat Dunk but his shot was into the side netting. Mykolenko took the throw in the Brighton half, Okoronkwo played an incisive pass to Roony who broke into the area, he had Beto in support but selfishly went for goal from a tight angle, Beto was livid with Roony. Veltman blocked it putting it out for a corner. Doucoure played it to Roony who drove forward, he came down the left and played a low cross into the box for Beto, he left Dunk and tapped it wide, how did he miss? That was the chance. Everton made a few changes with three minutes to go, Garner replacing Onana, Branthwaite came on for Tarkowski and Patterson came on for Maffeo. It was all over in Brighton and Everton should have won this. Ferguson clapped off his players and then went over to the travelling supporters who were served up a better performance but wins are desperately needed.
Duncan, at the half way point of the season, is this what you expected?
DF: No, is the short answer. There's much more to this side than what we are seeing and some tweaking is needed, whether that be in the transfer market or trying a different way of playing, I'm aware something needs changing and hopefully it can result in us scoring more. This team have enough about them to stay away from the bottom three and I want us pushing closer to mid-table. We had a day out together last week to try and build relationships in the squad and it was a beneficial experience. I've spoken to the players as a team and as individuals and their feedback is important. We are one team, it's not me and them. We will come through this and be a better team for it.
PLAYER RATINGS
Everton vs Southampton
29th December 2024
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It's the last match at Goodison Park in the year 2024. Everton are desperate for a win to ensure they can escape the mire going into the second half of the season. If previous matches were anything to go by, Everton won 4-1 at St. Mary's back in August but scoring four goals in a game seems an incredible feat right now. Ferguson went with a three man midfield bringing Garner in with Onana and Doucoure. Due to injuries, Okoronkwo started on the right with McNeil playing on the left. 15 minutes in and Patterson played a long ball forward for Beto inside the area, did he time his run? First time on his right foot across the keeper and it was 1-0! Nothing wrong with that and the goal stands! Beto dropped deep and brought Mykolenko into the attack on 21 minutes, he came down the left and crossed into the box but the keeper punched clear, it fell to Doucoure on the edge of the box and his side footed half volley was seen over the bar by the keeper. Doucoure came forward a few minutes later and passed right to Okoronkwo, he used his pace to get past Reo and get a good cross in for Beto who won the header placing it into the bottom corner! 2-0 to Everton! Everton with a great first half performance, this is what this side have wanted to do and there must be a sense of relief around Goodison Park. Everton are more patient in their approach but the passing is key and there is some great forward runs being made here. Alcaraz came close for Southampton on 52 minutes driving his shot just wide of the post. Almost a goal back for Southampton. Everton made a change on 64 minutes, Beto going off to a rapturous applause for Calvert-Lewin. Calvert-Lewin wrapped his foot around the ball getting it to Garner who passed down the left for McNeil, he bombed forward and Calvert-Lewin sprinted into the box, the low ball came into the near post and Calvert-Lewin tapped in the third! Mykolenko played a great ball with the outside of the boot to Okoronkwo who crossed in for Calvert-Lewin to head in his second on 73 minutes! Everton flying! Everton made three changes, Roony came on for McNeil, Onyango replaced Doucoure and Eli Campbell came on for Mykolenko. An additional seven minutes were added on but Everton were comfortable and in control. Okoronkwo with a man of the match performance down that right side and a solid defensive display ensured a clean sheet. Everton move out of the bottom three!
DF: The goals were just what we needed to help boost the goal difference and put the game to bed as early as possible. We kept our focus throughout and really feel playing a three man midfield was effective for us. We got the ball forward very well to our wide players and Okoronkwo really showed his potential to make it at this level with a top performance. It's a relief to finally win and that should help our confidence.
PLAYER RATINGS
LEAGUE TABLE
The Penalty Box Dancer
Player Valuation: £35m
@Jimishorts
INCOME
EXPENDITURE
WAGES
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DEBT
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PROJECTION
Club Finances 1st January 2025
Last Month's values are for December 2024.
SUMMARY
Last Month's values are for December 2024.
SUMMARY
INCOME
EXPENDITURE
WAGES
FFP
DEBT
SPONSORS
PROJECTION
Well now
Now then.
The Penalty Box Dancer
Player Valuation: £35m
GUILHERME ARANA SIGNS FOR EVERTON!
Everton made a surprise signing on the opening day of the transfer window as Left Back Guilherme Arana joined the club from Brazilian side Atletico Mineiro on a free transfer. The 27 year old was out of contract this January and Duncan Ferguson acted fast to bring in his man. With 4 caps for Brazil and 225 career appearances including spells in La Liga and Serie A, the attacking full back brings some vital experience to provide support in the Left Back position.
"We have been watching Guilherme for a while now and we are so pleased to be able to bring in a talented Brazilian on a free transfer. The Left Full Back position was one of concern to me with only really Vitaliy the natural choice so this signing was important for the club." Duncan Ferguson on the signing of Guilherme Arana.
Nottingham Forest vs Everton
1st January 2025
It was an opportunity for the travelling Blues to see their new signing in action, Arana was named in the starting lineup at Left Back and Lewis Dobbin was back from injury named on the bench. Okoronkwo started on the right after a dazzling display last time against Southampton. Okoronkwo got the fans excited on 4 minutes when he nutmegged Targett and found space to put the ball into the box from the right, he cut it back to Doucoure but his shot was deflected behind for the first corner. Everton were playing with an air of confidence but yet to find the breakthrough. Garner passed the ball forward for McNeil to chase into the box but he was forced out of play by Felipe and Michael Oliver blew for a penalty! That was a dubious decision but there was uneccessary contact. Who's going to take it? Arana is straight in there, can he take penalties? He put the ball down, took a few steps back and then ran up to place the ball in the bottom left corner sending the keeper the wrong way, great pen! Forest had a free-kick on 33 minutes, taken quickly by Talisca, Gibbs-White beat a daydreaming Onana inside the box and nudged it on insie the box for a free header from Awoniyi, no one near him, 1-1. Everton were not phased by the equaliser and keopt going, Arana came forward on 42 minutes but was blocked off by Sangare and stayed down clutching his knee, McNeil kept going and got to the ball playing into the six yard box for Beto to knock in! 2-1! The Forest fans booed Arana down on the ground but it looked serious. He got up just before half-time to a chorus of boos from the home supporters. But the Everton fans replied with Arana! Arana! Doucoure went off on 54 minutes being replaced by Onyango. Everton made two further changes with around 20 minutes to go, Okoronkwo came off for Roony and Patterson was replaced by Maffeo. Hudson-Odoi got forward for Forest on 84 minutes and his cross deflected into the box into the path of Maupay who scored against his former club, 2-2! That was his first goal for Nottingham Forest and he more than enjoyed it! Everton running out of steam and McNeil went off for Calvert-Lewin. As the whistle was blown the Forest fans erupted claiming a late draw to the frustation of the Toffees.
PLAYER RATINGS
Coventry City vs Everton
F.A Cup Third Round
4th January 2025
Everton were hit with further injuries, Doucoure picked up an injury against Nottingham Forest and Amadou Onana picked up a knee injury a day before the match. Garner and Onyango formed the midfield with Dobbin playing behind in form Striker Beto. Everton have left the competition at this stage for the past two seasons and a cup run is likely to be their only pathway to success this season. It was mostly Coventry in the first 20 minutes coming down the right with Sakamoto, Latibeaudiere had a first time strike from the edge of box tipped over by a raging Pickford. Okoronkwo lived up to the hype with a fantasic cross into the box for Beto to head in the opener on the 30 minute mark, can anyone stop the Portuguese Predator? The goal spurred Everton on, Okoronkwo was dangerous down the right and he was well supported by Patterson and Onyango, Garner took a shot after a pass from Onyango and Moore done well to tip it over. Okoronkwo took the ball from Patterson's throw on 41 minutes, he flicked it to Onyango and his ball into the box found Dobbin who smashed it in with his left foot, 2-0 to Everton! The youngsters are running the show! The game can change in the blink of an eye and 18 seconds into the second half, Van Ewijk used his pace to come down the right side and cut back to Sakamoto who then found O'Hare who slotted low into the bottom corner, nobody around him picking him up. Ferguson made a change at 2-1, after a fine display Okoronkwo made way on 55 minutes being replaced by Roony. Thomas took the ball down for Coventry after Tarkowski's long ball forward but Dobbin got in his face and nicked it, he has to finish, Moore rushed off his line and done well to deflect the shot behind. Everton started out from the back on 56 minutes, Roony and Beto showing their style with quick one-two's, Roony played it to Patterson on the right side, low pass to the edge of the box to Mykolenko who played a quick one-two with Onyango and then into the feet of Garner who placed it hitting the underside of the bar and over the line, 3-1! Mykolenko was the next change due to being booked being replaced the new Brazilian Arana. Roony was having a good game since coming on, it shows what some competition in the side can bring out. Coventry were hoping to rescue their FA Cup story and Simms had a chance on 88 minutes but he lashed at the shot putting it wide of the mark. An additional 7 minutes were added on to the bemusement of the Everton manager. Dobbin had a chance for the fourth on 91 minures but he put the chip over the bar after the dink from Roony.There were some tired legs out there and Eccles was allowed too much space to take the shot, Pickford was well alert to knock it behind. Patterson kept the ball near the toucline as the game drew to a close, winning Everton a number of throw-ins, the referee had seen enough and brought the game to an end, Everton getting a deserved win and progressing to the next round!
DF: The team done themselves really proud, especially a number of players who wouldn't usually be a part of the first team yet but they are giving me a selection headache! Onyango, Okoronkwo and Dobbin showed their metal and they deserve to be here just as much as anyone else. We do have an injury crisis going on, quite a few players are training again and getting their sharpness back but they can't displace these hard working lads who have a point to prove. As a manager this is what I want to see, I want the headahce and I want players to know that to pull on that shirt, you have to be performing well.
Duncan, where does the future of Calvert-Lewin lie?
DF: Dom knows I want him part of this team, he has been playing well in a new role down the left side and he has said himself that he is enjoying it. There is interest this window for Dominic and his contract also hangs in the balance, we will have to make a decison if we can't agree terms with him.
It seems to be working well, Beto is the league's top scorer and looks unstoppable.
DF: He really is, he's got something about him and it clicked this season. He deserves to be where he is, top of the charts and long may it continue.
After a poor run you've clawd back two wins and two draws in the last five games, this is without your star players. How will they find things when coming back from injury?
DF: As I've previously said, it's not a case of going straight back in, I'm not that kind of manager. Players have to show me they want to be here and that starts on the training pitch. You're not just judged on performances, you are also judged on your conduct and attitude. Konate and Rodriguez are close for selection, but it doesn't mean they walk into the team.
What about Cole Palmer and Idrissa Gueye?
DF: Another week, not quite ready for Man Utd but will be available for Wolves.
PLAYER RATINGS
Everton made a surprise signing on the opening day of the transfer window as Left Back Guilherme Arana joined the club from Brazilian side Atletico Mineiro on a free transfer. The 27 year old was out of contract this January and Duncan Ferguson acted fast to bring in his man. With 4 caps for Brazil and 225 career appearances including spells in La Liga and Serie A, the attacking full back brings some vital experience to provide support in the Left Back position.
"We have been watching Guilherme for a while now and we are so pleased to be able to bring in a talented Brazilian on a free transfer. The Left Full Back position was one of concern to me with only really Vitaliy the natural choice so this signing was important for the club." Duncan Ferguson on the signing of Guilherme Arana.
Nottingham Forest vs Everton
1st January 2025
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It was an opportunity for the travelling Blues to see their new signing in action, Arana was named in the starting lineup at Left Back and Lewis Dobbin was back from injury named on the bench. Okoronkwo started on the right after a dazzling display last time against Southampton. Okoronkwo got the fans excited on 4 minutes when he nutmegged Targett and found space to put the ball into the box from the right, he cut it back to Doucoure but his shot was deflected behind for the first corner. Everton were playing with an air of confidence but yet to find the breakthrough. Garner passed the ball forward for McNeil to chase into the box but he was forced out of play by Felipe and Michael Oliver blew for a penalty! That was a dubious decision but there was uneccessary contact. Who's going to take it? Arana is straight in there, can he take penalties? He put the ball down, took a few steps back and then ran up to place the ball in the bottom left corner sending the keeper the wrong way, great pen! Forest had a free-kick on 33 minutes, taken quickly by Talisca, Gibbs-White beat a daydreaming Onana inside the box and nudged it on insie the box for a free header from Awoniyi, no one near him, 1-1. Everton were not phased by the equaliser and keopt going, Arana came forward on 42 minutes but was blocked off by Sangare and stayed down clutching his knee, McNeil kept going and got to the ball playing into the six yard box for Beto to knock in! 2-1! The Forest fans booed Arana down on the ground but it looked serious. He got up just before half-time to a chorus of boos from the home supporters. But the Everton fans replied with Arana! Arana! Doucoure went off on 54 minutes being replaced by Onyango. Everton made two further changes with around 20 minutes to go, Okoronkwo came off for Roony and Patterson was replaced by Maffeo. Hudson-Odoi got forward for Forest on 84 minutes and his cross deflected into the box into the path of Maupay who scored against his former club, 2-2! That was his first goal for Nottingham Forest and he more than enjoyed it! Everton running out of steam and McNeil went off for Calvert-Lewin. As the whistle was blown the Forest fans erupted claiming a late draw to the frustation of the Toffees.
PLAYER RATINGS
Coventry City vs Everton
F.A Cup Third Round
4th January 2025
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Everton were hit with further injuries, Doucoure picked up an injury against Nottingham Forest and Amadou Onana picked up a knee injury a day before the match. Garner and Onyango formed the midfield with Dobbin playing behind in form Striker Beto. Everton have left the competition at this stage for the past two seasons and a cup run is likely to be their only pathway to success this season. It was mostly Coventry in the first 20 minutes coming down the right with Sakamoto, Latibeaudiere had a first time strike from the edge of box tipped over by a raging Pickford. Okoronkwo lived up to the hype with a fantasic cross into the box for Beto to head in the opener on the 30 minute mark, can anyone stop the Portuguese Predator? The goal spurred Everton on, Okoronkwo was dangerous down the right and he was well supported by Patterson and Onyango, Garner took a shot after a pass from Onyango and Moore done well to tip it over. Okoronkwo took the ball from Patterson's throw on 41 minutes, he flicked it to Onyango and his ball into the box found Dobbin who smashed it in with his left foot, 2-0 to Everton! The youngsters are running the show! The game can change in the blink of an eye and 18 seconds into the second half, Van Ewijk used his pace to come down the right side and cut back to Sakamoto who then found O'Hare who slotted low into the bottom corner, nobody around him picking him up. Ferguson made a change at 2-1, after a fine display Okoronkwo made way on 55 minutes being replaced by Roony. Thomas took the ball down for Coventry after Tarkowski's long ball forward but Dobbin got in his face and nicked it, he has to finish, Moore rushed off his line and done well to deflect the shot behind. Everton started out from the back on 56 minutes, Roony and Beto showing their style with quick one-two's, Roony played it to Patterson on the right side, low pass to the edge of the box to Mykolenko who played a quick one-two with Onyango and then into the feet of Garner who placed it hitting the underside of the bar and over the line, 3-1! Mykolenko was the next change due to being booked being replaced the new Brazilian Arana. Roony was having a good game since coming on, it shows what some competition in the side can bring out. Coventry were hoping to rescue their FA Cup story and Simms had a chance on 88 minutes but he lashed at the shot putting it wide of the mark. An additional 7 minutes were added on to the bemusement of the Everton manager. Dobbin had a chance for the fourth on 91 minures but he put the chip over the bar after the dink from Roony.There were some tired legs out there and Eccles was allowed too much space to take the shot, Pickford was well alert to knock it behind. Patterson kept the ball near the toucline as the game drew to a close, winning Everton a number of throw-ins, the referee had seen enough and brought the game to an end, Everton getting a deserved win and progressing to the next round!
DF: The team done themselves really proud, especially a number of players who wouldn't usually be a part of the first team yet but they are giving me a selection headache! Onyango, Okoronkwo and Dobbin showed their metal and they deserve to be here just as much as anyone else. We do have an injury crisis going on, quite a few players are training again and getting their sharpness back but they can't displace these hard working lads who have a point to prove. As a manager this is what I want to see, I want the headahce and I want players to know that to pull on that shirt, you have to be performing well.
Duncan, where does the future of Calvert-Lewin lie?
DF: Dom knows I want him part of this team, he has been playing well in a new role down the left side and he has said himself that he is enjoying it. There is interest this window for Dominic and his contract also hangs in the balance, we will have to make a decison if we can't agree terms with him.
It seems to be working well, Beto is the league's top scorer and looks unstoppable.
DF: He really is, he's got something about him and it clicked this season. He deserves to be where he is, top of the charts and long may it continue.
After a poor run you've clawd back two wins and two draws in the last five games, this is without your star players. How will they find things when coming back from injury?
DF: As I've previously said, it's not a case of going straight back in, I'm not that kind of manager. Players have to show me they want to be here and that starts on the training pitch. You're not just judged on performances, you are also judged on your conduct and attitude. Konate and Rodriguez are close for selection, but it doesn't mean they walk into the team.
What about Cole Palmer and Idrissa Gueye?
DF: Another week, not quite ready for Man Utd but will be available for Wolves.
PLAYER RATINGS
Attachments
Yarrgh
Player Valuation: £70m
We've done well picking up the boy Arana on a free but looking at our wage turnover I hope he's being paid in cassava chips.
The Penalty Box Dancer
Player Valuation: £35m
DOMINIC CALVERT-LEWIN TRANSFER SAGA
Leicester City made an offer for Calvert-Lewin reportedly for £13.5M however Calvert-Lewin refused the move to the Championship side. It is rumoured Calvert-Lewin is holding out for a big pay day move to Saudi Arabia with Al-Nassr readying an offer. West Ham and Crystal Palace were also in the running but a cash flow problem ruled them out.
Leicester City made an offer for Calvert-Lewin reportedly for £13.5M however Calvert-Lewin refused the move to the Championship side. It is rumoured Calvert-Lewin is holding out for a big pay day move to Saudi Arabia with Al-Nassr readying an offer. West Ham and Crystal Palace were also in the running but a cash flow problem ruled them out.
The Penalty Box Dancer
Player Valuation: £35m
Manchester United vs Everton
11th January 2024
James Rodriguez, Cole Palmer, Karim Konate and Idrissa Gueye made the bench after returning from injury. Abdoulaye Doucoure was named in a three man midfield with Garner and Onyango. Calvert-Lewin started despite the recent transfer saga. It was a quick start from Man Utd, Mykolenko gave away a free-kick from a goalscoring position and Eriksen got it on target with Pickford spilling the ball inside the first minute. Man Utd were working hard for that first goal and Antony played it forward to Eriksen who got enough on it to slot past an on rushing Pickford on 9 minutes. Five minutes later Tarkowski's pass forward to Garner was intercepted by Mount and he played it forward to Tel who held it up and slid it in for Antony to take a shot from outside the box and Pickford should have done better but it went in off his hand, 2-0 to Man Utd. Everton got the ball down the right with Okoronkwo leading the charge, he played a pass to Patterson but the cross wasn't an option so he knocked it back to Okoronkwo who crossed quickly finding Calvert-Lewin with the header at the far post! 2-1! Everton looked beter, Beto got forward unchallenged, he chipped it in to the box and Onyango's header was just slightly over. Mykolenko cut out the forward pass to Antony and beat him down the left on 35 minutes, the cross went in but Okoronkwo could only head over. The second half started and United worked it well down the left, Patterson missed the interception and Lookman played it to Eriksen who put it on a plate for Dedic to smash home low into the bottom right, 3-1. Everton made two changes with around 30 minutes to go, Rodriguez made his return replacing Doucoure and Gueye also made his return replacing Onyango. Man Utd were running riot and it was game over on 66 minutes when Eriksen played a gresat ball forward for Sancho to grab after coming off the bench. It was despair for Everton as Lookman was allowed to run down the left, cut into the box and poke it past Pickford, 5-1. Everton were in a mess and when McTominay nodded it down to Sancho from the corner to smash into the net, the away fans started to leave the ground, 6-1. Everton could not escape it and the body language said it all, it was a horrendous day made worse when Patterson left a foot in on Eriksen and conceded a penalty on 92 minutes. Sancho took the kick trying to make it 7 but Pickford got across and saved. The Man Utd supporters were in full voice and a dejected Ferguson stood in the technical box in the rain. It was inexcusable. Man Utd kept in the title race, four points behind leaders Liverpool and Everton sit just one point above the drop zone.
PLAYER RATINGS
JANUARY TRANSFER WINDOW UPDATE
Everton fans were left reeling after Dominic Calvert-Lewin refused Everton's £200k a week contract offer for a move to Saudi Arabia to play in the Saudi Pro League for one of their top teams. Luis Castro's side paid a small transfer fee to land their man but the £500k a week deal for three years. "If Dominic wants to play his football in the Middle East, we can't stand in his way. He's not the first footballer to be lured out there and he may come back to England to see out his playing days when his contract is up but we wish him well. He has spent a long time here and unfortunately there was bigger temptation on the table. We know Mane, Laporte and Telles are over there so there are some big stars in that league. The difference is, he is at a different stage in his career" Duncan Ferguson broke his silence on the transfer and was obviously not happy about it.
ALBERTO MOLEIRO IS RECALLED FROM LOAN
Everton signed Moleiro in the summer for £8.75M and the Left Winger was loaned out to former club Las Palmas in the Spanish Second Division. With 5 goals and 5 assists in 17 games, Ferguson decided to activate the loan recall option and brought back the 21 year old, presumably to replace Dominic Calvert-Lewin. It is rumoured Everton are still active in the transfer window as they lookk to further strenghten their squad for the second half of the season.
11th January 2024
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James Rodriguez, Cole Palmer, Karim Konate and Idrissa Gueye made the bench after returning from injury. Abdoulaye Doucoure was named in a three man midfield with Garner and Onyango. Calvert-Lewin started despite the recent transfer saga. It was a quick start from Man Utd, Mykolenko gave away a free-kick from a goalscoring position and Eriksen got it on target with Pickford spilling the ball inside the first minute. Man Utd were working hard for that first goal and Antony played it forward to Eriksen who got enough on it to slot past an on rushing Pickford on 9 minutes. Five minutes later Tarkowski's pass forward to Garner was intercepted by Mount and he played it forward to Tel who held it up and slid it in for Antony to take a shot from outside the box and Pickford should have done better but it went in off his hand, 2-0 to Man Utd. Everton got the ball down the right with Okoronkwo leading the charge, he played a pass to Patterson but the cross wasn't an option so he knocked it back to Okoronkwo who crossed quickly finding Calvert-Lewin with the header at the far post! 2-1! Everton looked beter, Beto got forward unchallenged, he chipped it in to the box and Onyango's header was just slightly over. Mykolenko cut out the forward pass to Antony and beat him down the left on 35 minutes, the cross went in but Okoronkwo could only head over. The second half started and United worked it well down the left, Patterson missed the interception and Lookman played it to Eriksen who put it on a plate for Dedic to smash home low into the bottom right, 3-1. Everton made two changes with around 30 minutes to go, Rodriguez made his return replacing Doucoure and Gueye also made his return replacing Onyango. Man Utd were running riot and it was game over on 66 minutes when Eriksen played a gresat ball forward for Sancho to grab after coming off the bench. It was despair for Everton as Lookman was allowed to run down the left, cut into the box and poke it past Pickford, 5-1. Everton were in a mess and when McTominay nodded it down to Sancho from the corner to smash into the net, the away fans started to leave the ground, 6-1. Everton could not escape it and the body language said it all, it was a horrendous day made worse when Patterson left a foot in on Eriksen and conceded a penalty on 92 minutes. Sancho took the kick trying to make it 7 but Pickford got across and saved. The Man Utd supporters were in full voice and a dejected Ferguson stood in the technical box in the rain. It was inexcusable. Man Utd kept in the title race, four points behind leaders Liverpool and Everton sit just one point above the drop zone.
PLAYER RATINGS
JANUARY TRANSFER WINDOW UPDATE
Everton fans were left reeling after Dominic Calvert-Lewin refused Everton's £200k a week contract offer for a move to Saudi Arabia to play in the Saudi Pro League for one of their top teams. Luis Castro's side paid a small transfer fee to land their man but the £500k a week deal for three years. "If Dominic wants to play his football in the Middle East, we can't stand in his way. He's not the first footballer to be lured out there and he may come back to England to see out his playing days when his contract is up but we wish him well. He has spent a long time here and unfortunately there was bigger temptation on the table. We know Mane, Laporte and Telles are over there so there are some big stars in that league. The difference is, he is at a different stage in his career" Duncan Ferguson broke his silence on the transfer and was obviously not happy about it.
ALBERTO MOLEIRO IS RECALLED FROM LOAN
Everton signed Moleiro in the summer for £8.75M and the Left Winger was loaned out to former club Las Palmas in the Spanish Second Division. With 5 goals and 5 assists in 17 games, Ferguson decided to activate the loan recall option and brought back the 21 year old, presumably to replace Dominic Calvert-Lewin. It is rumoured Everton are still active in the transfer window as they lookk to further strenghten their squad for the second half of the season.