A disappointing result at Stamford Bridge, yes, but a performance which can give some consolation and confidence that the team remains on track in their progression under David Moyes.
There will be an inconsistency with results on this journey, I’ve said that before but the fundamentals remain the same.
The major negative to take from the 2-0 defeat to Chelsea for me, however, was the injury to Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall.
The former Chelsea man was in tremendous form going into the game. Depending on the extent of the suspected hamstring injury Dewsbury-Hall suffered – which saw him leave the action and replaced by Charly Alcaraz on 15 minutes – he’ll be a major loss to Moyes and the team, especially as Idrissa Gana Gueye and Iliman NDiaye board their flight to join up with Senegal for the Africa Cup of Nations tournament in Morocco.
There could not have been a worse start to the game! 😫
How are Everton going to manage without Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall?
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall withdrawn through injury in Chelsea vs Everton.
Credit: Getty Images/Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC.
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Dewsbury-Hall has been a shining light both this season but more so in recent games, and Moyes will be praying that the injury is not too serious and the 27-year-old can get back quickly.
Alan Myers gives updates on James Garner’s Everton contract situation
That injury, I’m sure, will have played a big part in the manager’s decision to take fellow midfielder James Garner off with around 10 minutes remaining.
Garner showed once again why a number of clubs are monitoring his situation, and with the former Man Utd man being one booking away from suspension, Moyes couldn’t take any last minute chances with Arsenal coming to the Hill Dickinson Stadium next week.
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Garner has become a very important member of the squad, his versatility is crucial, especially with the injuries the team has had to deal with. My opinion is that he will sign a new contract in the next few months, he is liked by Moyes and everyone else at Everton.
The news that Jarrad Branthwaite and Merlin Rohl were ‘back on the grass’ will be music to the manager’s ears. Branthwaite has been out for a while and will need bringing back gradually, but his return will free up Garner to resume a more familiar midfield berth. And with Rohl on the mend too, the picture in the middle of the park doesn’t look quite as desperate.
Three January transfers expected as Everton eye move for Vitinho
I still expect signings in January though, maybe as many as three. I’m told Everton have shown a real interest in the Botafogo defender Vitinho, although it hasn’t progressed to an offer at this point.
What did you make of Thierno Barry’s display vs Chelsea?
Thierno Barry stats vs Chelsea
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The 26-year-old is someone who would definitely fit the troublesome right-back position, however there is interest from other clubs in the former Burnley defender.
For me, another striker addition remains a priority and I’m sure the recruitment team will already have been scanning the options. I think the team needs another option in the forward positions, but as we all know, January isn’t the best time to get strikers.
A left-back and a holding midfielder are something the club will be looking for. I think it’s more likely those two positions will be filled in the summer window rather than now, but with transfers, things present themselves when you least expect and you have to be ready to take action.
The recruitment processes will be much more aligned now, following a summer of new appointments and relationship building. All involved will know each other’s working methods much more clearly now and that can only be a good thing in my opinion.
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