Everton’s journey this season has been a tumultuous one. Beginning with a ten-point deduction, the team seemed destined for a challenging path. However, under the helm of Sean Dyche, they managed to turn the tables by clinching a crucial 1-0 victory against West Ham, breathing new life into their campaign.
Despite the setback of the points deduction, Everton’s resurgence is evident. Currently positioned 17th with 21 points, they teeter just above the relegation zone. Nevertheless, factoring in the reinstated points would propel them to 13th place, surpassing teams like Crystal Palace and Bournemouth.
A notable struggle for Dyche’s squad lies in their goal-scoring efficiency. With a mere 28 goals in the Premier League, Everton ranks among the lowest scoring teams. While blame cannot solely rest on Beto and Dominic Calvert-Lewin, as key attackers, the burden falls on them to deliver goals – an area where they have faltered.
Beto, acquired for £25.75m, has underperformed with only three goals in 28 games. His costly goal ratio of roughly £8.58m per goal underscores his lackluster contribution. Despite scoring twice in the Carabao Cup, his league performance is far from satisfactory.
In a recent match against Brighton, Beto’s ineffectiveness continued, managing two shots with only one on target, resulting in a low xG of 0.10. While Calvert-Lewin also struggled, failing to attempt a shot, Beto’s substitution for him raised eyebrows, especially considering the departure of Neal Maupay to Brentford.
Maupay’s impact at Brentford, with ten goal contributions in 22 games, questions Dyche’s decision to let him go. His consistency and productivity contrast starkly with Everton’s striking woes. While Maupay awaits a possible return, Everton must now rely on Beto and Calvert-Lewin to salvage their season despite their lackluster form.
The dilemma facing Everton underscores the need for a turnaround in performances if they aim to avoid further setbacks. Dyche’s choices, including Maupay’s departure, might loom large by season-end if improvements aren’t seen soon.
