David Moyes prepares for Everton's friendly against Accrington Stanley. Dwight McNeil takes a corner in Everton's friendly against Accrington Stanley.
David Moyes prepares for Everton's friendly against Accrington Stanley. Dwight McNeil takes a corner in Everton's friendly against Accrington Stanley.
Everton’s first pre-season of the summer is now in the books following their trip to Accrington Stanley.
David Moyes was able to test out the players he has remaining on Merseyside following a number of departures.
A 1-1 draw capped off the opening game of the 2025/26 term for the Toffees, with the Blues coming from behind in the end.
The result was not what Everton fans wanted, but it was about getting minutes in the tank for the players returning from their summer breaks.
Moyes is now demanding more signings after Everton secured the signing of Mark Travers on Tuesday afternoon.
Changes are going to be made before the season starts, but it was clear there was something that the travelling fans did appreciate at the Wham Stadium.
Accrington Stanley v Everton - Pre-Season Friendly
Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images
What Everton fans could be heard singing against Accrington Stanley
Everton have seen Michael Keane secure his future, among other players like Idrissa Gana Gueye.
It was crucial that Everton were able to keep some of their 2024/25 crop around with so many players departing at the end of June.
According to Liverpool Echo reporter Joe Thomas, the away end could be heard singing Keane’s name fresh off his contract signing.
‘Everton in a spot of bother as Charlie Caton finds himself running at last man Michael Keane,’ he said on their live blog.
‘Keane holds him off, shields the ball and steps away from trouble – earning choruses of ‘Keano’ from several home sections, suggesting some Blues have found some shelter!’
Everton were keen to bolster their defence this summer before Keane inked his new deal.
It will be interesting to see whether that remains the case, with four options now at Moyes’ disposal heading into the new season.
Beto also impresses with opening goal of pre-season
Everton have signed Thierno Barry and there is an expectation he will become the starting striker on Merseyside.
However, the 22-year-old is still enjoying his summer break following his participation in the U21 Euros.
Beto has impressed in Everton training, and the 27-year-old was able to convert that into the game on Tuesday evening.
Having started the game on the bench, the striker came on in the second half and was able to start the summer with a real message of his intent.
It has been claimed that Benfica are keen to sign Beto, but he is certainly showing his desire to keep his spot in the Everton starting XI.