Abdoulaye Doucoure, David Moyes
(Credit: Imago)
Dakir Thanveer
Sat 15 March 2025 15:52, UK
David Moyes must show Abdoulaye Doucoure no mercy after his lacklustre performance in the first half of the Premier League clash between Everton and West Ham United on Saturday.
Everton are determined to put the advantage of playing at Goodison Park to good use, but have endured a frustrating first half against West Ham with the scoreline reading 0-0.
Moyes’ side thought they had a golden opportunity to go in front after the referee pointed to the spot for a foul on Beto at the stroke of half-time, only for him to make a U-turn on his decision after reviewing the incident on the pitchside monitor.
Meanwhile, there have been a few warning signs on the other end of the pitch, with Jordan Pickford forced into two fine saves in the opening 45 minutes of the game.
1Beto
Beto thought he had won Everton a penalty right before half-time. (Credit: Imago)
Doucoure struggles in first half v West Ham
Moyes will be keen to ensure his Everton side grab the game by the scruff of the neck when they come out in the second half, but may have to make one change.
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There is no doubt Doucoure has been a key player for the Scottish tactician since his return to Goodison Park in January, bagging two goals and an assist in the Premier League since February.
However, he has struggled to make a mark on the game so far despite playing in the advanced midfield role.
Matches Goals Assists
27 3 1
Doucoure for Everton in 2024-25
The 32-year-old was left with egg on his face after a West Ham attacker nutmegged him early on in the game, embarrassing himself in the process.
He also left Beto annoyed on another occasion as he rushed to get on the end of a Jake O’Brien cross which the Guinea-Bissau international was eyeing up.
Beto throws his arms in frustration as Doucoure gets a to an O'Brien cross he was winding up to meet. Doucoure doesn't make a great connection and a good chance passes by. A few tricks from O'Brien created space for him
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— Joe Thomas (@joe_thomas18) March 15, 2025
Everton must bring Jesper Lindstrom on
Doucoure was wasteful in possession as well, completing only 12 of the 17 passes he attempted (71 per cent accuracy), according to FotMob.
Despite his reputation as a box-to-box defender, the Mali international only registered one defensive action, while winning only two of his five duels in total.
This is why there is an argument to be made for Moyes to axe Doucoure at half-time and bring Jesper Lindstrom on.
Lindstrom’s performances have left much to be desired this season, but he will be raring to go after grabbing an assist in the 1-1 draw against Wolves on 8 March.
Bringing the Napoli loanee on would also allow Moyes to move Carlos Alcaraz to the middle of the park in a move that could give the attacker more freedom.
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