The Premier League season has passed the halfway stage, yet Everton finds themselves in a precarious position with only three victories to their name. This situation signals another fight for survival for the Toffees, hovering just above the relegation zone by a mere point.
Manager Sean Dyche has been instrumental in keeping Everton in the top flight for the past two seasons. However, with the team's recent poor performances, Dyche's contract set to expire, and the Friedkin Group's takeover marking a new era for the club, questions loom over his future.
A recent report indicated that the Friedkin Group is "reviewing" Dyche's work, prompting the manager to address this in a pre-match news conference. Dyche emphasized the importance of succession planning in any business of this scale, acknowledging the need for consistent performance and results to secure his position.
Former Everton player, Leon Osman, expressed concerns about the team's lack of creativity, likening their playing style to that of Premier League teams from the 1990s. Goalscoring has been a persistent issue for Everton, with a meager 15 goals scored in 19 league games this season, ranking them among the lowest in the division.
The club's dismal statistics further highlight their offensive struggles, with Everton recording the lowest expected goals rate in the league, a lackluster shots on target count, and a significant drop in goals per game compared to previous seasons.
With the Friedkin Group evaluating the team's performance and Dyche's future hanging in the balance, Everton faces a critical decision. Speculation surrounds a potential managerial change, with reports suggesting talks with Graham Potter, while Dyche maintains focus on steering the team through a challenging season.
As Everton navigates financial constraints and fan expectations, the club's immediate priority lies in securing their Premier League status. Dyche's track record of success with Burnley and Everton presents a compelling case for continuity, emphasizing the importance of stability amidst transitional phases within the club.