Everton will perhaps be relieved to head back on the road as they take on Newcastle at St James’ Park on Saturday.
The Toffees are now seven games without a win at their new home after Monday’s defeat against Manchester United. It was a touch unlucky – Everton had the bulk of possession but were undone by a rapid counter – yet the same old failings reared their heads: a lack of cutting edge, square pegs in round holes and a lack of pace in key areas.
Jarrad Branthwaite at left back, James Garner at right
back and Harrison Armstrong left wing, when players who naturally play in these positions were ignored was the source of most frustration. Moyes has defended his selection, but with such a small squad it feels like the team is weakened if you take key players out of one position to try and bolster another.
Back-to-back defeats have dragged Everton back into mid-table just as a European challenge began to gain some traction. The top six has sailed off into the distance, but the Toffees are only three points off seventh, which could bring a Conference League place. Even if they miss out, a first season without fears of relegation since 2021 should not be underestimated.
Supporters’ reactions have been oscillating wildly with each win and defeat, with David Moyes’ future being questioned. Moyes has only one year left on his contract and a decision needs to be made over whether to give him £100m+ to spend this summer.
My hunch is the owners will opt for stability as they look to set solid foundations for a long-term rebuild (including young players who have been largely ignored by Moyes this season), though the final 11 games could go a long way towards influencing their decision.
The opposition
Newcastle go into the game one point and two places behind Everton after a patchy league season so far, particularly away from home.
Their 4-1 thrashing of the Toffees is one of only three away wins in the Premier League, the other two coming against Burnley and Tottenham. Conversely, they have lost only four home games all season, two against Liverpool and Arsenal, with the other two against Aston Villa and Brentford (in their previous two home games).
That patchy form contrasts with their progress in the cups. They reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals and are through to the FA Cup fifth round and the Champions League last 16.
That inconsistency has put Howe’s position under scrutiny for the first time since replacing Steve Bruce in late 2021. Their mega-rich owners have lofty ambitions, but Howe will rightly point to Premier League financial rules that have ruled out an early Man City-style splurge and emphasise the fact that the season could yet end in further success.
Previous meeting
Another day to forget for Everton at Hill Dickinson Stadium as they were completely blown away by a Newcastle side who had failed to win away in the league before then.
Malick Thiaw’s goal after a minute set the tone, with the Magpies 3-0 up at half-time and 4-0 ahead before the hour mark. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall’s goal in reply meant little.
Team news
David Moyes has confirmed Charly Alcaraz will be out for several weeks with an injury picked up before the Manchester United game.
Jack Grealish is the only other injury absentee, with Jack O’Brien available again after serving a one-match ban.
Final word
Everton recorded a fine 1-0 win at St James’ Park on the final day of last season but will be hard pushed to repeat that here. Newcastle are more formidable on their own turf than away and have gathered momentum following progression in both cup competitions. That said, their league form remains inconsistent and they will be bidding to avoid a third successive home league defeat. A draw may suit everyone.
