Although Everton has faced challenges with off-field issues resulting in a ten-point deduction, manager Sean Dyche has made a positive impact this season with the Toffees’ Premier League standing. With 13 games left, Everton holds their fate in their own hands.
Dyche’s team currently sits in 17th place, just outside the relegation zone on goal difference, ahead of Rob Edwards’ Luton Town. However, without the points deduction, Everton would be comfortably placed in 12th, beyond the reach of relegation to England’s second tier.
The financial difficulties at Goodison Park have restricted Dyche from making new signings, with the former Burnley boss working on a limited budget. He has relied on young first-team players like Jarrad Branthwaite and James Garner, who have both secured spots in Everton’s starting lineup.
But despite Dyche’s efforts, some senior players have struggled this season. Particularly, one player has found it difficult to meet the demands of the Premier League.
Everton paid a substantial £30m for defender Michael Keane from Burnley in 2017. Keane had impressed at Burnley, helping the team survive by six points in a season. He started well at Goodison Park, playing 30 times and contributing to an 8th-place Premier League finish. But as the seasons progressed, his game deteriorated, leading to less playing time.
Now at 31, Keane is the third-choice centre-back for Everton, behind Tarkowski and emerging talent Branthwaite. His market value has dropped to £4m from the original £30m and he is reportedly struggling on the field. With 18 months left on his contract and high wages, Everton may look to sell him in the summer, as Keane’s performance has declined significantly.
