Everton Player Ratings v Nottingham Forest
Assessment of the Everton squad from back to front, rooted in School of Science standards and the NSNO mindset.
First Time in the North Stand
Hi all. I have not been on here for a while. Yesterday was my first time getting a ticket to watch a match, and it did not disappoint. North Stand Upper near the touchline, a great view and it did not feel too far from the pitch at all.
Got to say I was blowing a bit after all the stairs, being north of 70, and I was half expecting to see a few defibrillators on the way up. Still, what a great experience overall and a proper bucket list item ticked off. The noise, the atmosphere, and the sense of occasion reminded me exactly why matchday matters so much.
League Position and Expectations
Regarding the team, I would never have thought we would be top six in the Premier League at this or any stage of the season, so fair play to all involved. There is clearly a structure there now, and results have followed.
That said, having been brought up on School of Science and NSNO, I still want better. Being grateful and being demanding can exist at the same time at Everton. Standards matter, and history demands more than simply being content with progress.
My Take on the Squad
Goalkeeper:
Pickford - Top keeper, no real challengers. The odd mistake in him, but how many times has he saved us.
Defence:
O'Brien - No right back by trade but has done well.
Seamus - A legend, but past his best now.
Patterson - Not the answer.
Aznou - A strange signing.
Tarks - Solid enough but not at last season's level.
Branthwaite - Best defender at the club. Needs to be kept at all costs.
Keane - Has had a good season. Long term still a question.
Myko - Solid enough and has improved. There are many better left backs out there.
Midfield:
Tim - Squad player.
Garner - So versatile and consistent. Underpaid compared to far inferior teammates. Needs re-signing.
Charley - Really like him. Gives 100 percent. Should be a guaranteed starter with AFCON coming.
Gueye - Defies his age. Still has much to offer.
Rohl - High hopes for the lad. Hopefully not injury prone.
KDH - A great signing.
Attack:
Ndiaye - What a player.
McNeil - Squad player. One footed. Lacks pace. Did okay as a sub yesterday.
Grealish - Top player. Just wish he had pace.
Dibling - Rated him at Southampton. Moyes clearly does not trust him as he cannot defend. His confidence will be low.
Beto - Not the answer.
Barry - Not the answer either. Has potential.
Final Word
It is all about opinions in the end. That is what makes football and following Everton what it is. Different views, the same badge, and the same desire to see the club push on properly. With the foundations now looking steadier, the hope is that the next steps bring quality to match the effort already on show.
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