Look, I have no interest in falling out with others over Koeman. I've readily admitted that I dont like the feller and I see him falling short of being what I call Everton class in terms of his conduct here so far, but I've been very realistic and fair in any assessment of what we should demand from him this season and the following ones.
- The recent upturn results are to be welcomed. They offer a glimpse of what might be (though tempered by a nagging doubt that the players themselves are in 'non-pressurised' mode and that's had an effect too)
- Similarly the upturn in performance is noted. These players are not the wastrels that many were all too eager to portray them as. They can play - no question of that. The general standard of play all season has been pretty dire, so anything like the last three weeks or so is encouraging.
- His purchases look to be ok for the most part. Gueye especially so, he is doing exactly what McCarthy did in his first season - giving us a presence and energy in midfield. Lookman looks like he has good potential. Schneiderlin is good (but not a crucial buy for us, imo). His purchase of Bolasie looks a terrible waste of funds though.
- The early exits in the cup are a big negative because they not only take away our dreams for another season, they also take away pressure and competition amongst the squad for a first team place. That needs a big improvement on next season.
- We're 7th and looking like we'll show a clean pair of heels to the other teams chasing an outside European place in behind the pack of six ahead. It's important we emerge out of that ruck of mediocrity and we are doing so. That is a big merit that goes to Koeman. That wont be enough next season though.
FWIW that's where I stand on Koeman, and I think it's a lot healthier than handing him a free pass to say or do what he pleases or achieve/underachieve how he wants - which seem to be at the heart of some posters views on him. Never ever forget this feller is lucky to be here at Everton, it's NOT the other way around.
