David Moyes is set to use the international break to explore whether Carlos Alcaraz can provide another option to Thierno Barry in the Everton attack.
Barry has started all seven of Everton’s games this season and, following the summer departure of Beto and the collapse of a deadline-day move for Folarin Balogun, remains the only specialist centre-forward in Moyes’ senior squad.
The 23-year-old has responded with five goals in seven appearances, including the winner in Saturday’s 1-0 victory over Ipswich Town, but Everton’s lack of another natural striker leaves Moyes needing alternatives.
Alcaraz could offer Moyes another option
According to the Liverpool Echo, some of Everton’s work during the international break is expected to involve looking at Carlos Alcaraz as another option in attack.
Moyes had already raised that possibility after Alcaraz came off the bench to score the winner against Wolves in the Carabao Cup.
“Charly could be one of them if we needed it,” Moyes said when discussing possible alternatives to Barry.
The Everton manager used Brennan Johnson through the middle against Wolves, with Barry given a rest after starting the opening six matches of the campaign. Moyes explained afterwards that he felt Johnson had the movement and finishing ability to operate centrally.
Alcaraz would give him a different option. The Argentine has predominantly been used as an attacking midfielder at Everton, although his willingness to make runs into the penalty area and compete physically means Moyes believes there is scope to use him further forward if required.
It would also give Moyes another variation within the tactical approach he has used this season, rather than requiring Everton to find a like-for-like replacement for Barry.
Moyes has also suggested Everton could arrange a behind-closed-doors game during the international break, which would give him an opportunity to look at different combinations before Premier League action resumes.
Everton’s lack of squad depth has been apparent since the transfer window closed. Barry has handled the responsibility impressively so far, but relying on one recognised centre-forward throughout the season was never likely to be ideal.
His five goals have ensured Everton have not yet been punished for that shortage. Moyes now has a couple of weeks to see whether Alcaraz can give him another workable option.
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