Everton managed to cement their Premier League status towards the end of the 2023-24 campaign despite their off-field struggles which include uncertain takeover plans and points deduction for breaching Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules.
The Toffees were initially docked 10 points which was reduced to six after an appeal in February, and later in April, they were sanctioned with another two points deduction for a breach of Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR).
Afrosport reviews the campaign of Sean Dyche’s men in the Premier League from August 2023 to May 2024.
Overall Review
Everton made a decent start to the season but started their fight against relegation as early as November following the announcement of the 10-point deduction but they managed to secure their spot for the next campaign with a 2-0 win against Nottingham Forest on April 21.
Everton managed a record of 12 wins, nine losses, and 15 defeats after playing 36 games.
At the time of writing, they are placed 15th in the Premier League table 37 points – 11 points clear of the drop zone with two games remaining.
Unsung Hero
Abdoulaye Doucoure
The Mali international finds himself playing a more advanced midfield role in Sean Dyche’s team and he scored crucial goals for the Toffees in the first half of the season.
Doucoure, who moved to England in 2016, enjoyed his best-scoring return in the Premier League this campaign with six goals and two assists in 30 matches.
He notably ruled himself out of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast to stay at Goodison Park and fight for Everton’s survival.
Manager
Sean Dyche
Dyche’s tactical brilliance stood out at Everton despite the lack of transfer activity for the addition of more new players at the club.
The 52-year-old was unfazed in the face of the off-field decisions and deserves credit for the team’s resilience this campaign with little financial backing.
Possible areas for reinforcement
Everton need more creative players to support their forward play.
Regardless of Dyche’s defensive-minded formation, there should be more creative options who can threaten opposition other than Dwight McNeil and James Garner who dictate play and move the ball forward for the Toffees.
Tactical selection options
Start One: Idrissa Gueye
Bench One: Amadou Onana
Sell One: Andre Gomes
