Everton Independent Research Data
TIM CAHILL NETS A HAT-TRICK FOR EVERTON
Tim Cahill scored a hat-trick during Everton's fifth straight pre-season win
Sunday August 1,2010
By Sunday Express Reporter
TIM Cahill netted a hat-trick as Everton cruised to their fifth straight pre-season win.
But the Aussie was given a helping hand by Norwich’s ex-Everton keeper John Ruddy. With just six minutes gone new signing Ruddy, 23, dropped a clanger by allowing Cahill’s innocuous daisy-cutter to go through his legs. And Cahill was gifted another after some sloppy Norwich defending. Paul Lambert’s side hit back through midfielders Andrew Crofts and Andrew Surman. But Diniyar Bilyaletdinov and Cahill sealed victory for Everton.
MOYES SAYS DONOVAN IS TOO DEAR
Norwich 2 Everton 4
MOYES: Priced out of a move for Donovan
By Greg Gobere at Carrow Road,
News of the world 1st August 2010
DAVID MOYES has told Landon Donovan he would love to have him back at Goodison Park... if only he could afford him.
David Beckham's LA Galaxy team-mate issued a 'come and get me' plea last week, saying that he wanted to return to Everton where he made 13 appearances in a three-month loan spell last season. But the MLS club will only do a deal for a permanent move - and they want as much as £11million for the 28-year-old. Moyes has pleaded with his chairman Bill Kenwright to make the transfer possible but the Toffees board say a deal is dead in the water. The Goodison boss - who saw Tim Cahill's hat-trick sink Norwich at Carrow Road - confessed:: "Don't you think I've asked my chairman to make it happen? "We'd love to have Landon but he looks too expensive for us and we just don't have it. "We don't have the finances. The price the MLS want for him is very big and it's an additional problem because of his age. "All we've done is spend £1m on Magaye Gueye so far. Jermaine Beckford and Jan Mucha were free, so we've spent no money by Premier League standards and will probably be the ones who spend the least this season."
Opportunity
Moyes is instead looking at the likes of Beckford to make a major difference.
He added: "Sometimes people in life need opportunities and we're going to give Jermaine that opportunity to see if he can score goals in the Premier League.
"He can certainly do it in the lower leagues and from what I've seen, I can see how he is a goalscorer. He's looked fantastic in training. Whether he can step up to the big league, we don't know. "It was a gamble but not one too expensive for us to try."
Beckford's reputation soared after his goal for Leeds dumped Manchester United out of the FA Cup in January. Mucha played in goal as Slovakia reached the World Cup last-16. Moyes welcomed back Tim Howard and Steven Pienaar to his starting line-up at this friendly in Norfolk but it was calamity rather than class that made the difference against Norwich.
BECKFORD: In action
It took young Canaries keeper John Ruddy just six minutes to emulate former Norwich man Rob Green's England howler to a tee. A sharp turn from Tim Cahill was followed by a sluggish shot in the home side's penalty box, but the Aussie's former Goodison team-mate somehow let the ball squirm under him and trickle into the net at a snail's pace. Cahill made it 2-0 seven minutes from half-time after nodding home Ruddy's attempted clearance from his initial shot. Canaries hit back straight after the break through an Andrew Crofts strike. And Andrew Surman levelled from a tight angle on 58 minutes. But substitute Diniyar Bilyaletdinov restored Everton's lead a minute later before Cahill completed his hat-trick with 19 minutes left.
MOYES EARMARKS DAVIS AS MIDFIELD OPTION
Gers star could replace Pienaar
DAVIS: Influential figure for Rangers
By Greg Gobere,
News of the world 1st Aug 2010
EVERTON have singled out Rangers midfielder Steven Davis as a replacement for Steven Pienaar if the South African leaves Goodison Park.
Toffees boss David Moyes is still no closer to getting Pienaar, 28, to commit his future to the club. With one year now remaining on his current deal, Inter Milan and Arsenal are closely monitoring the situation and will be encouraged by the midfielder's stalling tactics. Moyes is loathe to losing a player who has been a revelation since his arrival from Borussia Dortmund three years ago, but past experience with key departures Joleon Lescott and Wayne Rooney have taught the Scot to adopt a pragmatic approach to the situation. SPFA Players' Player of the Year Davis, 25, has been earmarked by Moyes as the man to bring stability to his midfield should he lose Pienaar. The Northern Ireland international made 36 appearances for Rangers last season.
New Jagielka injury may scupper Arsenal deal
01/08/10 By Simon Mullock
Sunday Mirror
Arsenal are monitoring the fitness of £15million target Phil Jagielka after the Everton defender suffered another knee injury. Gunners boss Arsene Wenger has put the England international at the top of his transfer wish-list as he looks to bring some steel to the centre of his defence. But Jagielka missed Everton’s pre-season friendly at Norwich yesterday after breaking down in training during the week. And after missing most of last season with a ruptured cruciate ligament, Wenger wants to be certain that Jagielka’s fitness problems haven’t returned.
Norwich 2-4 Everton
Sunday Mirror match report
31/07/10 By Anthony Clavane
David Moyes last night ruled out a bid for Landon Donovan, despite the United States skipper declaring his desire to rejoin Everton. The £10 million-rated star is desperate to return to Goodison Park. In a three-month loan spell from LA Galaxy earlier this year he scored twice in 13 games and was a big hit. But Moyes closed the door on a return after watching the Toffees beat Norwich 4-2 at Carrow Road. The Everton boss said: “We would love to sign him but we don’t have the finances to do that. The price he would go for would be very big. That would be a problem given his age [28] and what we might pay for him. “It looks as if he will be too expensive for us. We don’t have the money.” Moyes saluted Tim Cahill’s first hat-trick for Everton which helped them maintain their 100 per cent pre-season record. “We want him to do that for us in the Premier League,” he said. “His third goal was fantastic.” Cahill opened the scoring thanks to a terrible gaffe by John Ruddy. The goalkeeper left Goodison for the Canaries last month and was clearly so confused about his loyalties he allowed the midfielder’s shot to creep under his legs and roll slowly over the line. The mistake was horribly reminiscent of former Norwich stopper Rob Green’s
infamous blunder in England’s World Cup draw with the USA. Ruddy wasn’t at fault for the visitors’ second goal, with Michael Nelson taking the blame. The Norwich defender chested a harmless cross straight into Cahill’s path. Ruddy blocked the shot, but the Australian followed up to head home. Andrew Crofts then pulled one back for the home side just after the restart, nodding Adam Drury’s cross past goalkeeper Tim Howard. And Norwich drew level when Andrew Surman hit his first goal for City, placing the ball past Howard. But Diniyar Bilyaletdinov’s confident strike restored the lead for the Premier League side. Cahill then made sure of the win with a sublime goal, flicking the ball over Ruddy before tapping in to complete a hat-trick.
Tim Cahill's hat-trick helps Everton quell Norwich City's challenge
Guardian, 1st August 2010
Everton's Tim Cahill celebrates after completing his hat-trick against Norwich City. Photograph: Andrew Couldridge/Action Images A hat-trick from Tim Cahill helped Everton record a 4-2 victory over Norwich City at Carrow Road. The Australia midfielder had given the visitors a two-goal lead at half-time, but they were pegged back by strikes from Andrew Crofts and Andrew Surman for the Championship side. However further goals from Diniyar Bilyaletdinov and Cahill sealed the win.
Fraizer Campbell continued his excellent pre-season form as his goal helped Sunderland to a 2-1 win over Leicester City at Walkers Stadium. Campbell, who grabbed four goals against Hull last weekend, opened the scoring before Andy King equalised for Leicester. Jordan Henderson's long-range strike slipped through goalkeeper Chris Weale's grasp for the winner. Stoke continued their pre-season preparations as they claimed a 2-1 win over Burnley at Huddersfield's Galpharm Stadium. The Turkey international Tuncay Sanli had put Stoke, wearing their new away kit for the first time, in front but Graham Alexander levelled from the spot. Burnley were not level for long though as Michael Tonge's long-range goal gave them the win. Carlton Cole bagged his fourth pre-season goal as West Ham picked up a fifth straight success against Ipswich Town at Portman Road. Goals from David Murphy and Seb Larsson were enough to give Birmingham City a 2-1 win at Derby County, Gareth Roberts getting a goal back for the hosts.
TIM CAHILL NETS A HAT-TRICK FOR EVERTON
Tim Cahill scored a hat-trick during Everton's fifth straight pre-season win
Sunday Express August 1,2010
By Sunday Express Reporter
TIM Cahill netted a hat-trick as Everton cruised to their fifth straight pre-season win.
But the Aussie was given a helping hand by Norwich’s ex-Everton keeper John Ruddy. With just six minutes gone new signing Ruddy, 23, dropped a clanger by allowing Cahill’s innocuous daisy-cutter to go through his legs. And Cahill was gifted another after some sloppy Norwich defending. Paul Lambert’s side hit back through midfielders Andrew Crofts and Andrew Surman. But Diniyar Bilyaletdinov and Cahill sealed victory for Everton.
David Moyes admits Everton FC are likely to be priced out of re-signing Landon Donovan
Aug 2 2010
EVERTON manager David Moyes has admitted he is likely to be priced out of a deal to bring Landon Donovan back to the club despite reiterating his desire to see the US player return. The Goodison Park manager brought the American star to Merseyside for a successful three-month loan period in January with the 28-year-old instantly becoming a home crowd favourite. The LA Galaxy man has made public of his want to return to Everton but the latest noises coming out of Goodison Park suggest Donovan's stock has risen to such heights after the World Cup, they can no longer compete for his signature. The USA’s all-time leading goal scorer, who netted twice for Everton in the Premier League, is now likely to attract interest from some of Europe's biggest clubs who can easily outmuscle Everton in the financial stakes.
Speaking after his side’s 4-2 victory over Norwich City at Carrow Road, Moyes said: “We would like to have Landon back but we probably don’t have the finances to be able to do that. ”The price which the MLS would want would be big and that might be a problem because of his age and what we have to pay. “We would like to, but it would probably be a problem. Of course I ask my chairman about the money but if you don't have it, you don't have it.” Moyes, who saw Australian midfielder Tim Cahill score a hat-trick against Paul Lambert’s Championship outfit, said his club will not be big-spenders in the transfer market. He said: “All we have done is add Beckford on a free, Jan Mucha on a free and the French lad Gueye who we played £1m for, so by Premier League standards we will probably have spent the least again.” Moyes added that he does not believe the Premier League’s new 25-man squad rule will provide an advantage to clubs unable to spend big on foreign stars but with a reliance on local players. He said: “I'm not sure how it will work yet. I don't think any of us know really. You could go on with no home grown players by just having a small squad. There will be a lot of clubs who will still have as good a season regardless. We try to pluck one or two local lads and give those boys a chance.”
Norwich City 2, Everton FC 4: Greg O'Keeffe sees Tim Cahill cages the Canaries
Aug 2 2010 Liverpool Echo
NORWICH might not have much in common with the desolate setting of Sergio Leone’s The Good, The Band and The Ugly, apart from requiring a trek like a Western stage coach odyssey to get there. But there was plenty of good, bad and ugly during an entertaining friendly at Carrow Road when Everton, in the end, comfortably maintained their unbeaten pre-season run. Thankfully most of The Good was courtesy of the boys in royal blue. Tim Cahill scored a hat-trick which reflected as much his dogged persistence as it did the impact Mikel Arteta and Steven Pienaar have on this team’s creativity. Against a newly-promoted Championship side no better than most of Everton’s opponents in Australia, the Blues stepped up their scoring rate. Where Melbourne Heart and Brisbane Roar were only forced into conceding two, suddenly four were put past Norwich. Even less than fully fit, Arteta and Pienaar ensured Everton were never going to go hungry for goals and showed why they will be pivotal to the team’s chances of progression in the approaching season. It wasn’t quite a gentle summer stroll alongside the Norfolk broads. Some of The Bad was evident in patchy Toffees defending which allowed an enthusiastic and capable Norwich side to score two easily avoidable goals. Forced into a re-shuffle due to Phil Jagielka’s absence, David Moyes asked Tony Hibbert to partner Sylvain Distin in central defence with Seamus Coleman starting again at right-back. With Coleman still finding his feet and Hibbert out of position, albeit capable there, one could expect any problems to come from their half of the back line. But Norwich’s opener came when the usually immaculate Leighton Baines and Distin allowed Norwich’s Andrew Crofts to steam past them both and thump a header beyond Tim Howard at the start of the second half.
If Everton’s defending was lax for Norwich’s first, it was worse for their equaliser. Tony Hibbert was caught out of position from a throw allowing Chris Martin to take on Joseph Yobo, cut inside too easily and slot calmly past Howard.
It was Yobo’s first pre-season run-out and it showed. Later he was caught day-dreaming on the ball and only had his blushes spared thanks to brave goalkeeping from Howard. The Ugly part though was down to a recently departed Everton player.
Highly-rated young keeper John Ruddy handed his old side their lead with six minutes gone. The Norwich new-boy was about to embark on the Toffee’s trip down under when his transfer materialised, and he barely had time to say farewell.
But his late leaving gift came when he allowed Tim Cahill’s sixth-minute shot to squirm between his legs, Rob Green-style. He will have far better days on the East coast than this. Buoyant after a brace during his side’s 2-1 victory over Newcastle United last weekend, Canaries striker Chris Martin could have grabbed two in the first half. He flashed a near post header from a corner just wide, and then bent a free kick shy of the post from a central position 20 yards out. Although only going through their gears, Everton’s play gradually asserted itself and they scored again courtesy of an old pals act Evertonians desperately want to see more of next season. After Jermaine Beckford pinched possession in the Norwich half, there was clever interplay between Tim Cahill and Mikel Arteta on the edge of the area before the Spaniard teed up his friend against Ruddy. Cahill’s initial shot was saved, but he reacted quickest to head home the rebound. The Blues gave away that second easy goal moments after Yobo came on to replace Coleman, allowing Hibbert to move back to tight-back.
Then David Moyes also brought on the conundrum known as Diniyar Bilyletdinov.
The Russian failed to really get going in Australia, and looked set to atone when he shaped to volley a chance at the far post from a Baines cross, but he got his angles wrong and scuffed his effort wide. Cue more leaden defending byEverton to let the Canaries back into the game. But the home side’s hopes lasted just a minute, before Arteta fed Pienaar in the box and the South African’s cute back heel was met with aplomb by Bilyaletdinov who picked his spot through a crowded area.
Bily is clearly capable of moments of sheer class. If the enigmatic midfielder can manage to impose himself more consistently on games, he will be a real threat.
Shortly after Louis Saha was introduced, and Everton really started to dominate.
On 71 minutes the Blues put the gloss on a lively friendly when Tim Cahill flicked the ball over the hapless Ruddy from close range and smashed his shot home for first Everton hat-trick. Paul Lambert’s impressive side nearly made it interesting again with six minutes left when Oli Johnson cut inside at the byline to cross for City’s prolific striker Grant Holt who slid it wide. Jack Rodwell responded with deft footwork to sting Ruddy’s palms at the other end with a low shot which he did well to hang onto. Plenty more of the good and plenty less of the bad will be David Moyes' demand, when his troops return home to Goodison Park to play against their Chilean namesake on Wednesday evening.
NORWICH: Ruddy, R Martin, Ward (Askou 72), Nelson, Drury (Gill 66), Surman (McNamee 82), Crofts, Fox (Lappin 66), Hoolahan, C Martin (Johnson 81), Jackson (Holt 72). Subs : Steer, Hughes, Francomb, Dawkin, Tudur Jones.
Goals: Crofts (47), Surman (59)
EVERTON: Howard, Coleman (Yobo 45), Hibbert, Distin, Baines (Saha 62), Neville, Arteta, Pienaar (Rodwell 73), Gueye (Bilyaletdinov 45), Cahill (Wallace 81), Beckford (Vaughan 73). Subs: Turner, Silva, Mustafi.
Goals: Cahill (6, 40, 71) Bilyaletdinov (60)
Attendance: 13, 437
Referee: Grant Hegley (Hertfordshire)
New Everton FC forward line excites Blues keeper Tim Howard
Aug 2 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
TIM HOWARD says he is bubbling with excitement about the most potent Everton attacking line-up during his time at the club. The Toffees keeper believes David Moyes has assembled the strongest stable of forwards for the forthcoming season than ever before. After the Blues scored four against Norwich at Carrow Road on Saturday, Howard said he is hoping more teams are put to the sword with high scores when the new campaign kicks off. Tim Cahill grabbed a hat-trick against the Championship newcomers, with Diniyar Bilyaletdinov adding another. And with Louis Saha, Jermaine Beckford and Jack Rodwell also looking threatening in front of goal, and Yakubu still to return, the USA star said: “This is probably one of the strongest attacking line-ups we’ve had in my time here. “One of the things the gaffer does very well is brings in good strikers. He always has – even when I wasn’t here but just watching Everton. “We certainly have a good stable now and they feed off each other. Not just in games but in training. They always want to outdo the next guy. “Forwards are greedy and they want that glory which is good. You need that. “The Premier League, more than any other in the world, is all about goals. “We’ve done a good job over the last few years of creating chances. “But the more times in games we can get on the front foot and be in a winning position the better. “The team that normally goes ahead in the premier league wins. “The more goalscorers we have on the better.”
The win meant the Blues are still unbeaten in pre-season, and Howard added: “It would be nice to go unbeaten in preseason. “Since I’ve been here we haven’t had too many great pre-seasons based on results, but we’ve had some really good seasons so you can’t read too much into it. “But then you can never go wrong with winning. It gives you that mental steel and metal.” Meanwhile, Phil Jagielka has an outside chance of being involved in the squad for Wednesday’s Goodison friendly against Everton of Chile. Despite fears he has suffered a serious reoccurrence of the knee ligament injury which kept him out for most of last season, the England defender is only being rested as a pre-caution. He reported pain in the knee last week after playing four consecutive full games in pre-season, and Moyes wanted to have it assessed to ensure there were no further complications. The Goodison boss will not take any risks with his prized defensive lynchpin, just as he will not entertain any bids for his services from Arsenal.
Former Everton FC player Gary Ablett in cancer battle
Aug 2 2010 By David Randles
FORMER Everton and Liverpool defender Gary Ablett is battling blood cancer.
Just a year after leaving his post as Reds reserve manager, the 44-year-old has been diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma after falling ill last week.
Now a coach at Ipswich Town, Ablett was taken to hospital in Suffolk where he is being treated. Ablett was missing from Ipswich's pre-season friendlies against Bury last week and West Ham on Saturday and is expected to be moved to Merseyside this week where intensive treatment will continue. Ipswich manager Roy Keane added Ablett to his coaching staff recently after first getting to know him on a coaching course. Said Keane: "Gary was taken ill at the training ground and taken to hospital. He is getting the best of treatment." Ablett won two league titles and an FA Cup with Liverpool before moving across Stanley Park where he again lifted the FA Cup with Everton. He later went on to become a youth coach with the Blues before switching back to Liverpool where he was installed as reserve team manager.
After guiding the Reds' second string to the league title in 2008 Ablett parted company with the Anfield club last summer when Rafael Benitez shuffled his backroom staff. Ablett was then appointed manager at Stockport County but left the cash-stricken club in June after they were relegated to League Two.
Norwich City 2 Everton 4: Former Blue John Ruddy gives ex-colleagues a helping hand
Aug 2 2010 by Philip Kirkbride, Liverpool Daily Post
WITH an uncanny knack of plucking rough diamonds from the lower leagues, manager David Moyes may have viewed Saturday’s trip to Norwich a scouting mission, as much a pre-season tune-up. A timely reminder of his proven track record for spotting a bargain was Tim Cahill’s hat-trick in the 4-2 victory at Carrow Road but the performance of the home side’s attacking contingent in particular may well have interested Moyes as much as this entertaining summer run out. Pre-season offers little insight into the campaign ahead; the excellent following from Merseyside at the weekend will not have seen much new from their players. Mikel Arteta was smooth in possession coupled with classy movement, Steven Pienaar typically busy on the wing and Phil Neville quietly vital to everything Everton achieve. At the back, a customary defensive lapse from Joseph Yobo will not have surprised too many of the Blue army though fortunately goalkeeper Tim Howard sparred his blushes with two smothering saves of the highest order at the feet of Wes Hoolahan. Had the City forward kept his composure in the 79th minute and made it 4-3, Paul Lambert’s men would have been backed to level the scores once again but the resolve which Moyes and the Everton fans know so well, remains with the side, even in the friendly occasions. For despite fortuitously taking a sixth minute lead when Norwich keeper John Ruddy, signed from Goodison Park this summer, handed his former side a parting gift when allowing Cahill’s weak effort to squirm underneath his body, the Carrow Road side were by far the dominant force in the opening half. The triple attacking threat of Simeon Jackson, Hoolahan and Chris Martin provided last season’s League One champions with the ammunition to cause Everton’s central defensive pairing real headaches.
Norwich’s pressure was slowly building as the half approached its mid point and Hoolahan’s deflected effort flashed wide on 25 before Martin’s free-kick from the edge of the area whistled past the post. The City striker prodded marginally wide five minutes later from right in front of Howard’s goal as the pacey forays forward of Lambert’s men made Tony Hibbert and Sylvain Distin thankful for the gruelling pre-season fitness work their manager forced upon them. When given a respite and Everton were in control, Moyes’ men played patiently in front of stubborn home defending, refusing to waste the ball despite playful cries of ‘shoot’ from the travelling support hoping for a second Ruddy gaff of the afternoon. But for all Arteta’s neat footwork and ability to engineer time and space on the ball, Everton would double their lead by capitalising on a Norwich error once more. Jermaine Beckford picked the pocket of a ponderous Elliot Ward before interchanging with Arteta and Cahill. The Australian eventually latched onto Arteta’s chipped ball into the area, had his first effort blocked by Ruddy but nodded home the rebound to make it 2-0; somewhat against the run of play. An exciting and youthful Norwich side, which also included lively showings from Andrew Surman and Andrew Crofts, refused to back down in the face of losing a second goal just before the break and stormed out after the interval.
Pulling a goal back two minutes into the second half when Andrew Crofts profited from static marking to power thunderous header beyond Howard, City mounted a recovery.
Twelve minutes later and the scores were level, as Norwich caught Everton napping again when Surman collected a routine throw-in, cut into the area with ease and fired with accuracy past Howard.
Game on it seemed, but Everton responded immediately with the strike of the game courtesy of substitute Diniyar Bilyaletdinov.
Collecting a neat back-heel from Pienaar, the Russian winger found the top left hand corner of Ruddy’s goal with swerve and power from the edge of the area to make the scores 3-2 on the hour. The spark which had lit up Norwich’s play somewhat fizzled out after the third Everton goal and 10 minutes later Cahill rubber stamped the win with his third, and best, goal of the afternoon. Neville’s chip into the box evaded the City defenders allowing Cahill to chest down, flick sublimely over the advancing Ruddy before hammering the ball home from close range. Grant Holt’s introduction for the home side briefly threatened to stir a revival in Norwich but they ultimately ran out of steam and had Ruddy to thank for keeping the deficit to just two goals as he saved well from late replacement Jack Rodwell. Everton added another victory to their pre-season campaign at Carrow Road and perhaps the names of some future players.
David Moyes - Landon Donovan deal too expensive for Everton FC
Aug 2 2010 by Philip Kirkbride, Liverpool Daily Post
EVERTON manager David Moyes has admitted he is likely to be priced out of a deal to bring Landon Donovan back to the club despite reiterating his desire to see the US player return. The Goodison Park manager brought the American star to Merseyside for a successful three-month loan period in January with the 28-year-old instantly becoming a home crowd favourite. The LA Galaxy man has made public of his want to return to Everton but the latest noises coming out of Goodison Park suggest Donovan's stock has risen to such heights after the World Cup, they can no longer compete for his signature. The USA’s all-time leading goal scorer, who netted twice for Everton in the Premier League, is now likely to attract interest from some of Europe's biggest clubs who can easily outmuscle Everton in the financial stakes.
Speaking after his side’s 4-2 victory over Norwich City at Carrow Road, Moyes said: “We would like to have Landon back but we probably don’t have the finances to be able to do that. ”The price which the MLS would want would be big and that might be a problem because of his age and what we have to pay. “We would like to, but it would probably be a problem. Of course I ask my chairman about the money but if you don't have it, you don't have it.” Moyes, who saw Australian midfielder Tim Cahill score a hat-trick against Paul Lambert’s Championship outfit, said his club will not be big-spenders in the transfer market. He said: “All we have done is add Beckford on a free, Jan Mucha on a free and the French lad Gueye who we played £1m for, so by Premier League standards we will probably have spent the least again.”
Moyes added that he does not believe the Premier League’s new 25-man squad rule will provide an advantage to clubs unable to spend big on foreign stars but with a reliance on local players. He said: “I'm not sure how it will work yet. I don't think any of us know really. You could go on with no home grown players by just having a small squad. There will be a lot of clubs who will still have as good a season regardless. We try to pluck one or two local lads and give those boys a chance.”
Phoney war is over - Norwich City ready to go
MARK ARMSTRONG
August 2 2010 Norwich Evening News
Norwich City 2, Everton 4
Pre-season games aren't meant to be like this. They are supposed to be tepid contests where fans more often than not walk away from the stadium asking why exactly they spent a fair proportion of their hard-earned watching a glorified training session.
However, none of the 13,437 in attendance were asking themselves that as they siphoned away from Carrow Road on Saturday after watching the Canaries more than hold their own against a Premiership side that will undoubtedly finish in the top eight once again next season. We are forever being told by managers that 'you can't read anything into pre-season' as a reason to explain away a loss or dampen down expectations after a fine win. Perhaps City boss Paul Lambert won't have been too disappointed to see his side taste defeat for the first time in their pre-season campaign but City's performance did nothing to quell the supporters' expectations. For long periods Norwich matched their more illustrious visitors, who fielded a strong side despite the absence of several key men including Ayegbeni Yakubu, Phil Jagielka, Marouane Fellaini and Leon Osman. Admittedly, there was some questionable goalkeeping and defending from the Norwich perspective but don't read too much into John Ruddy's howler when he let Tim Cahill's tame shot through his legs in the sixth minute. He has shown himself in pre-season to be a safe pair of hands and more than capable of filling Fraser Forster's boots. He is unlikely to make another mistake like that when City's campaign starts for real. Michael Nelson enjoyed a fantastic battle with Jermaine Beckford all afternoon, which the former Hartlepool man had the better of and, but for an error that let Cahill in for his second, would have been a real contender for man-of-the-match. Whether a Championship striker would be quite so lethal in punishing a defensive mistake is open to question. Cahill may take the plaudits for his hat-trick but it was Mikel Arteta who was the class act on display. Quite how he doesn't get anywhere near the Spanish squad is absolutely frightening because if he had an English passport he would be one of the first names on Fabio Capello's team-sheet. That being said, Norwich were far from outclassed in the middle of the park with Andrew Crofts in particular catching the eye with an all action display that bodes well for the new season. Former Everton manager Joe Royle coined the phrase 'dogs of war' during his time at Goodison Park and the term can be equally applied applied to Crofts. There is more to him than just that however as he showed just after half-time when his lung-bursting run into the Everton penalty area culminated in the former Brighton man meeting Adam Drury's perfect cross to plunge a downward header past Tim Howard to make it 2-1. Crofts' partnership with David Fox in central midfield worked very well with the summer signing from Colchester continuing to show he has the kind of eye for a pass that was lost when Sammy Clingan departed for Coventry City last year. On several occasions he released both Chris Martin and Simeon Jackson in behind the Everton back four although neither could take advantage thanks in no small part to the powers of recovery of Sylvain Distin. What the Frenchman lacks in positional sense he more than makes up for in speed. He was kept busy by Jackson in particular although the fact that the striker is yet to open his account in a City shirt appears to be preying on his mind. While his movement across the front line was impressive, his decision-making when in possession will improve once he gets that first goal. On too many occasions the 23-year-old decided to shoot from improbable distances when team-mates were better placed. You could not level the same accusation at Andrew Surman in the 58th minute when Drury's quick thinking from a throw-in released the midfielder. After jinking inside Joseph Yobo, he proceeded to unleash a smart shot into the bottom corner with his less favoured right foot and make it 2-2. The Canaries' fans optimism was short-lived however with the ex-Wolves man's goal merely jolting the Toffees into action. Just two minutes later substitute Diniyar Bilyaletdinov finished off a fine move involving Arteta and Steven Pienaar with a curling shot from the edge of the area that ended up in the top corner. Everton then got a grip on the game by keeping a hold of the ball and the Canaries struggled to carve out chances until the introduction of Grant Holt from the substitutes' bench. The big striker dispelled any fears that he would not be fit enough to play his part in Norwich's Championship opener on Friday with a lively display. When he harried Yobo into a mistake, Wes Hoolahan was in on goal but Howard did well to force the winger wide and the chance was gone.
By then however any chance of salvaging a draw had gone when that man Cahill took advantage of more defensive uncertainty. Surman and Elliott Ward failed to deal with Phil Neville's cross from the left and the Australian international showed all his class by lifting the ball over Ruddy before volleying home from close range. That marked the end of the scoring and the end of Norwich's pre-season. But if they perform as they did against Everton in the Championship next season then English football's second tier should hold no fears for them.
Norwich City (4-4-2): Ruddy 5, R Martin 7, Ward 5 (Askou 72, 6), Nelson 7, Drury 8 (Lappin 66, 6), Fox 7 (Gill 66, 6), Crofts 8, Surman 7 (McNamee 81, 6), Hoolahan 7, C Martin 7 (Johnson 81, 6), Jackson 6 (Holt 72, 7). Subs not used: Steer, Hughes, Francomb, Dawkin, Tudur Jones.
Goals: Crofts 46, Surman 58.
Everton (4-3-2-1): Howard 7, Hibbert 7, Baines 7 (Saha 62, 6), Arteta 7, Distin 7, Beckford 6 (Rodwell 73, 6), Cahill 8 (Wallace 81), Neville 7, Gueye 6 (Bilyaletdinov 46, 7), Pienaar 6 (Vaughan 73, 6), Coleman 6 (Yobo 46, 5). Subs not used: Turner, Silva, Mustafi.
Goals: Cahill 6, 38, 70 Bilyaletdinov 60.
Referee: Grant Hegley (Hertfordshire)
Attendance: 13,437
Moyes gives praise to City after excellent workout
August 2 2010 Norwich Evening News
Everton boss David Moyes was delighted with the workout Norwich City provided his side on Saturday as they prepare for another Premier League season. The Toffees' 4-2 win was their fifth straight success during their pre-season campaign and while Moyes adopted the party line of 'pre-season games don't matter' - he admitted it was nice to get another victory. “It doesn't make a great deal of difference if you win or lose but it's obviously better if you do win. “We are all trying to get ready for the start of a big season. “I don't think we've picked five really easy games. “I think Norwich were a tough opponent and they have got a lot of momentum going with them. “They are in a good moment and it was a tough game for us.” Tim Cahill was the hero for Moyes' side, who looked impressive considering the Scot had to do without the likes of Marouane Fellaini, Ayegbeni Yakubu and John Heitinga. The Australian international hit a 'perfect' hat-trick and Moyes expects the midfielder to be a big player for them next season. “I hope he keeps the hat-tricks for the big games. We know that Tim has got goals in him and he is an important player for us.” New signing Jermaine Beckford enjoyed a long running battle with Michael Nelson all afternoon with the Norwich stand-in skipper arguably enjoying the better of their tussles. Beckford arrived on a free transfer from Leeds United earlier this summer while other top flight managers pondered whether the striker would be able to make the grade in the Premier League. Moyes stepped in and he hopes to have bagged himself the bargain of the summer. “We've said that we want to give him a go and see if he can do it. We are going to give him an opportunity to score in the Premier League. “He can certainly do it in the lower divisions and from what I've seen I think he is a goalscorer. “He has looked fantastic in training for us - whether he can step up to the big league, we don't know. “From what I've seen at the moment he has certainly got the attitude to learn and I think he wants to show he can do it.” Despite Everton's small outlay over the summer, Moyes is confident his side can still be a threat to the Champions League places next season. Rumours persist over some of his star players with Arsenal linked with a £15million move for Jagielka but the Everton boss will resist any such overture. “I think that we will just go and do everything we can. “We have a good squad of players and a good team. We are playing in a good style so I'm looking for good results this season. We don't sell and if we do we sell very, very expensive.”
Holt return has come at just the right time - Lambert
August 2 2010 Norwich Evening Express
Norwich City boss Paul Lambert believes Grant Holt's return to fitness will spur on his squad to even greater things. The Canaries impressed with a good all round display against Everton on Saturday but perhaps the most heartening sight on Saturday for City fans was that of skipper Holt coming on as a late substitute. Holt has been suffering with a thigh injury since appearing against Dereham but showed no ill-effects during his cameo appearance. “He came on and he had about three chances,” said Lambert. “He might lack a bit of finesse, but he has got a terrific desire to score a goal and that's why he is an important player for us. “He has got a great desire to get in the box and he's a huge player, so it was great to have him back. “I think when you play with players like that besides you it tends to make you think that you've got to go and do it yourself. “I am delighted and I think we are more than ready for Friday (against Watford).” “You can never promise anything in football or guarantee it, but we will be more than ready for the game.” Lambert believes his side are ready for the start of the Championship campaign and will not be losing any sleep after defeat against the Toffees. “Sometimes you have to hold your hands up - you get beat by a team that is a level above us and being a top-half Premiership side, being in Europe and all those sort of things,” added Lambert, who insisted he isn't worried by the soft nature of Everton's goals. “I thought it was a good game again - against a really top, top side. I thought we played really well and looked threatening, which is pleasing. The first two goals, you can't legislate for them, but that's football. “I thought we were excellent as in going forward and manoeuvring the football, which I thought was great. I am more than happy. “It will be a totally different atmosphere from today to next Friday - we will be ready. I'm delighted with them. We are definitely a threat going forward that's for sure.” Lambert looks unlikely to be adding to his squad before the end of the month and played down reports that Greek international striker Angelos Charisteas had been on trial at Carrow Road. “I have never heard of him,” Lambert insisted. “I don't know where the rumours come from, honestly I don't. I have never heard of him.”
Moyes springs to Ruddy's defence
MARK ARMSTRONG
August 2 2010
Everton boss David Moyes has assured Norwich City fans that goalkeeper John Ruddy will bounce back from his first-howler in the 4-2 defeat to the Toffees on Saturday. The Canaries' shot-stopper, who Moyes allowed to leave Everton for Carrow Road this summer, endured a moment to forget in his young career when he allowed Tim Cahill's powderpuff strike to squirm through his legs and put his former side 1-0 up in the pre-season friendly. But Moyes, who let Ruddy out on loan to Motherwell last season, insists the 23-year-old has the strength of character to come back from his howler and believes the error may even benefit the youngster in the long term. “That mistake happens doesn't it and maybe it's better to get it out the way before the season starts,” he said. “It will maybe re-focus John but you ask people about John Ruddy in Scotland and they will tell you arguably he was the best goalkeeper up there last season. “He will be fine.” Hat-trick hero Tim Cahill also leapt to the defence of Ruddy, who had not put a foot wrong during pre-season on Saturday, most notably saving a penalty in the 0-0 draw against Stevenage last month.
The Australian international, who was sent off at the World Cup in South Africa for his homeland, believes his former team-mate will go on to be one of the Canaries' star performers in the Championship next season. “It was just one of those things,” said the former Millwall man. “The thing about Ruddy is a lot of our players know how good he is but that was just unfortunate. It happens in a lot of goalkeepers' careers, but he'll pick himself up. And it's happened in pre-season so it means nothing. “He's a great goalkeeper and the good thing about him is he's moved on to play football.
“He's a young lad, obviously very strong, a great shot-stopper and he's got all the attributes to be a top goalkeeper.” Many City fans were worried when the club could not deliver the funds to secure Fraser Forster on another loan deal this season after the Newcastle man starred during Norwich's march to League One glory last season.
City boss Paul Lambert plumped for Ruddy instead and has tipped the St Ives man to continue the Canaries' tradition of nurturing excellent, young goalkeepers. Ruddy was not at fault for any of the other Everton goals as the Canaries held their own against the Premier League side. Andrew Crofts, who was on the scoresheet on Saturday, put the mistake down to 'just one of those things'. “I don't think it affected us at all,” said Crofts. “I think we were playing some great stuff before that and even after that - Rudds has been great pre-season and it is just one of those things. He isn't going to let that affect him. “He's done really well and it was just one of those things, but the lads responded well.”
Tim Cahill: We're in the best shape for years
August 2 2010 Daily Mirror
World Cup star Tim Cahill lit up Carrow Road with a midfield masterclass that included his first Everton hat-trick – then claimed the club are ready to take the Premier League by storm. Cahill, 30, who spearheaded Australia’s challenge in South Africa, made it five wins on the spin for the Merseyside giants, including three during an impressive tour Down Under where he linked up with manager David Moyes and the rest of the Everton squad. He said: “We have had a very good pre-season. In terms of preparation it has probably been the best since I came to the club. “Right from the start everything has been great. A lot of the lads are looking fresh and fit for the start of the season, even those of us who were away at the World Cup. &&&&
“I’m very happy with where we are, we have got a great squad.” New Norwich number one John Ruddy, signed in the summer from Everton, made an horrendous blunder to get Cahill going while sub Diniyar Bilyaletdinov was also on target.
League One champions Norwich hit back through midfielders Andrew Crofts and Andrew Surman, two of seven new signings. Crofts said: “It was a great workout for us and we can take a lot of confidence from this into the new season.”
MOYES: DONOVAN TOO PRICEY FOR US
Dailt Star
2nd August 2010
Everton boss David Moyes has ruled out signing Los Angeles Galaxy striker Landon Donovan because he is too expensive. The 28-year-old impressed during a three-month loan spell at Goodison Park last season and said recently he is keen to return.
But Moyes is quoted in The Guardian as saying: "We'd love to have Landon but he looks too expensive for us and we just don't have it." He added: "We don't have the finances. The price they want for him is very big and it's an additional problem because of his age." Donovan is thought to be valued at around £10million.
Everton have signed three players this summer but paid a fee for only one - Â £1million on Magaye Gueye.
Ian Holloway says Blackpool's bid for Everton's Seamus Coleman is doomed
August 2 2010 The Guardian
The Blackpool manager, Ian Holloway, admits he is unlikely to be able to bring Seamus Coleman back to the club. The Everton defender impressed during a loan spell at Bloomfield Road at the end of last season, helping Blackpool win promotion to the Premier League. The 21-year-old Irishman has featured regularly in pre-season friendlies for Everton since then and Holloway feels it will be difficult to convince the Everton manager, David Moyes, to part with him again. "He is playing so well that David Moyes won't want to let him go," Holloway told the Blackpool Gazette. "I've asked him, I've left messages, I've spoken to Moyesy's brother [Kenny, an agent], so I'm trying all I can. However, I think the honest answer is probably no. But I've got other targets I'm waiting on as well." Blackpool are reported to have had a bid rejected by Leicester for the striker DJ Campbell, another player who enjoyed a successful loan spell with them last term. However, Holloway may yet have more luck in his efforts to sign the Swansea defender Angel Rangel. The 27-year-old was the subject of a failed bid last week, but the Swans' coach, Alan Curtis, expects him to leave the Welsh side before the end of the transfer window. "I think the club are trying to persuade Angel and trying to open talks over a new contract," Curtis told the BBC. "But obviously the lure of playing in the Premier League is something he is probably going to find very difficult to turn down. "It looks likely that he may well move on, but that might not be for a couple of weeks yet. The [transfer] deadline is not until the end of August and the shame is he's such a good player for us."
Everton's David Moyes rules out signing LA Galaxy's Landon Donovan
August 2 2010 The Guardian
David Moyes has ruled out bringing the USA captain, Landon Donovan, back to Everton on a permanent basis because the club would be unable to afford him. The Everton manager admitted he would like to re‑sign the forward, who enjoyed a successful loan spell at the club last season and has expressed a desire to return, but he claimed the financial constraints at Goodison Park have made it impossible for the transfer to happen. Donovan, who is valued at around £10m, said last week that he "would love to go back to Everton", where he spent two months earlier in the year, scoring twice in 13 appearances. Those comments will have been well received by Everton supporters, who quickly took to Donovan, but any hopes they had of seeing the 28-year-old LA Galaxy forward this season have been extinguished. The Everton manager, who has signed three players this summer but paid out only £1m in transfer fees, claimed Donovan is well beyond their reach. Moyes also suggested that unless the club's financial position changes – Bill Kenwright, the Goodison Park chairman, is continuing to search for new investors – Everton are likely to be among the lowest spenders in the Premier League this season. "We'd love to have Landon but he looks too expensive for us and we just don't have it," said Moyes. "We don't have the finances. The price they want for him is very big and it's an additional problem because of his age. All we've done is spend £1m on [new signing] Magaye Gueye so far. Jermaine Beckford and [the Slovakia goalkeeper] Jan Mucha were free, so we've spent no money by Premier League standards and will probably be the ones who spend the least this season." Moyes has admitted that signing Beckford, who arrived on a free transfer from Leeds United and has never played in the top flight, was a gamble, but he believes it was one that Everton had to take. "Sometimes people in life need opportunities and we're going to give Jermaine that opportunity to see if he can score goals in the Premier League," the Everton manager said. "He can certainly do it in the lower leagues and from what I've seen, I can see how he is a goalscorer. He's looked fantastic in training. Whether he can step up to the big league, we don't know. It was a gamble but not one too expensive for us to try."
TOFFEES IN £5M BID FOR DAVIS
Monday August 2,2010 Daily Express
By Scott Burns
EVERTON will make a £5million move for Rangers star Steven Davis – if they can cash in on Steven Pienaar or Mikel Arteta. Goodison Park boss David Moyes has identified the Northern Irish international as a top target if he loses either of his star men. The £8m-rated South African star Pienaar is the most likely to go as he is going into the last year of his contract and has refused to agree an extension. That has alerted the likes of Tottenham, Inter and Bayern Munich. Former Rangers man Arteta is in a similar boat and is being courted by big-spending Manchester City. Losing either would be a big blow to Moyes but he would turn to former Aston Villa and Fulham star Davis to fill the void. Walter Smith would be reluctant to lose his main playmaker but knows his hands may be tied due to the financial problems at the club.
Neville vents his fury at Dan Gosling transfer
Monday, 2 August 2010
Belfast Telegraph
Everton midfielder Phil Neville expressed anger yesterday at the way former Toffees team-mate Dan Gosling’s s Summer transfer to Newcastle unravelled, and went on to back calls for the Premier League to introduce a winter break. Gosling turned down an improved contract at Goodison Park at the end of last season, allowing Newcastle to sign the midfielder, 20, on a four-year-deal. The Everton captain said: “I was disappointed because Dan was a great kid. The manager had given him a platform to progress as a footballer. I’ll always like Dan but I don’t like the situation that occurred. It’s disappointing that he cannot fulfil his potential and that he felt he needed to go elsewhere.” Gosling made 18 appearances in two and half years with the club, scoring six times — including winners against Manchester United and Liverpool. “Heads get turned,” Neville continued. “They get influenced by other people.” Neville also suggested that a winter break would be of benefit to Fabio Capello’s side. England’s premature World Cup exit this summer led to renewed calls for a winter break in the Premier League. “It’s 1966 since we last had success — that’s too long,” the midfielder said. “We need a break, where for two or three weeks there is a complete shut-down, when players can refresh, recharge. “It’s great playing at Christmas, but come May, when you need to be peaking for your country in the biggest [tournament] of your life, you’re dead on your feet.” “We all want to play. I love playing on Boxing Day, New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day —it’s part of the tradition of English football — but then you come to a major tournament and accept that the players aren’t in the best shape. “You can’t have it both ways. Maybe you can have a mid-winter break after New Year’s day “We have to take something from the Premier League to give something back to our national side.”
Everton Ladies boss Mo Marley relishing European test
Aug 3 2010 by James Pearce, Liverpool Echo
BOSS Mo Marley is confident Everton Ladies can march on in the Women’s Champions League – despite their lack of preparation for this week’s first-round mini-tournament in Lithuania. The Blues will play Klaksvikar of the Faroe Islands in their opening game on Thursday before facing Macedonia’s ZFK Borec on Saturday and Lithuania’s Gintra Universitetas on August 10. Marley’s side, who qualified for the tournament after finishing second in the Women’s Premier League last season, are big favourites to progress to the last 32, but they are going into it cold. “The last time we were together as a group was in early May, when we played our final Premier League game,” she said. “After so long apart it’s going to be difficult going straight into a Champions League tournament with no pre-season together as a club team.
“But practically all of the girls have been involved in international football recently, either with the England seniors or younger teams, so their fitness levels are high and they’ve got match sharpness. “We might struggle a bit to get our game together in the first match but we’ll get better as the tournament goes on and I’m feeling quietly confident. “It’s important we go through and give England two teams in the last 32.
“We’ve been to Lithuania before at this time of year and it’s been ridiculously hot, so if it’s the same again that won’t help us. “But hopefully we’ve got enough quality and experience in the squad to cope with the conditions and the opposition.”
Tim Cahill can’t wait to start with Everton FC's ’amazing' squad
Aug 3 2010 Liverpool Echo
TIM CAHILL has hailed Everton’s “amazing” squad and admits he can’t wait for the new Premier League campaign to start. The Australian frontman netted a hat-trick in Saturday’s 4-2 friendly victory over Norwich City at Carrow Road. It was the Blues’ fifth successive pre-season win and Cahill believes David Moyes’ men are in great shape ahead of their opening league clash with Blackburn Rovers on August 14.
“It’s an amazing squad here,” Cahill said. “It’s one of the strongest and it’s going to be difficult for a lot of the lads to get a game. That competition for places is healthy and helps ensure you are playing to the best of your ability. “It’s all about maintaining that now and making sure we can keep everyone fit.” Cahill is about to start his seventh season at Goodison and insists the Blues have never been better prepared for the big kick-off. “I always look forward to the new season but this time I think the preparations this summer have probably been the best in my time at the club,” he said.
“I hope this time we can have a great start because I think it’s crucial for us to take this form into the league, replicate our form from the end of last season and really kick on.”Cahill played in the Blues’ first two games of their tour Down Under after the World Cup before finally taking a well earned break. Saturday was his first match back and he was delighted with his hat-trick. He said: “I like to keep pretty fit and be involved, especially when a game is being played in my home town. Playing for Everton in Australia was an absolute pleasure. “It’s been a hard couple of weeks since I’ve been back. We had a really hard week going into the Norwich game with a hell of a lot of running. To see that hard work pay off on the pitch early is great.
“It was all about getting minutes under our belts and for me the goals were a nice bonus. “I was playing behind Becks (Jermaine Beckford) and trying to understand the way he plays as well as getting the relationship back with Mikel (Arteta) and Steven (Pienaar). “Norwich are a good team and I’m very happy with how it went.”
With their World Cup stars now all back at Finch Farm, Cahill is hoping Everton can maintain their good form in tomorrow night’s friendly with Everton Chile at Goodison. “There’s maybe a little bit of pressure on us World Cup players because the lads have done so well over pre-season,” he said. “It wasn’t easy to come back after a break and come back into the thick of things. “But we’re playing nice, flowing football, keeping the balls well and we look like a really good team at the minute.”
Steven Pienaar targeting Champions League football with Everton FC
Aug 3 2010 by James Pearce, Liverpool Echo
STEVEN PIENAAR believes he has can achieve his dream of playing Champions League football with Everton. The South African international’s future has been the subject of speculation this summer after he failed to accept the Blues’ offer of a new deal before the World Cup. Pienaar has entered the last year of his current contract but insists he feels “at home” and is focused on leading Everton’s charge for a top four finish this season. “It’s good to feel at home again,” he said. “I missed the guys so it’s always good to be back. We all know that if we have a fully fit squad we can compete for the Champions League this season. “The players are up for the challenge.
“I know the supporters want us to do well and we want to make them happy.”
Pienaar was granted an extended break after the World Cup finals but returned to make his first pre-season appearance in Saturday’s 4-2 friendly win at Norwich.
The midfielder came through unscathed and is hoping to feature again in tomorrow night’s clash with Everton Chile at Goodison Park. “It was a good test for me as I get used to playing again after a month off,” he added. “After a hard week’s training I was happy to get through 70 minutes.“For me it’s important to get fit and play a few more games.
“We still have two friendlies to go. We need to get through them without any injuries, make sure we get fitter and then start the season with high spirits and full of confidence. “To score four goals at Norwich was good and you could see in the first 20 minutes we were quite sharp. “After that we dropped a bit because of the hard week’s training. “We can always get better and the competition for places we have now keeps you sharp. “You can’t relax and have to work hard every day – that’s good for the team.” Meanwhile, Blackpool boss Ian Holloway is ready to admit defeat in his attempts to bring Everton full-back Seamus Coleman back to the club on loan.
The 21-year-old Irishman impressed at Bloomfield Road towards the end of last season as the Seasiders secured promotion to the Premier League. “I think I’ve got two hopes – one of them is Bob, the other is no,” Holloway said. “He is playing so well that David Moyes won’t want to let him go. “I’ve asked him, I’ve left messages, I’ve spoken to Moyesy’s brother (agent Kenny), so I’m trying all I can. “However, I think the honest answer is probably no. “But I’ve got other targets I’m waiting on as well.”
Barcelona may move for Everton FC midfielder Mikel Arteta after Cesc Fabregas delays
Aug 3 2010 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
BARCELONA are ready to plan a move for Mikel Arteta having grown frustrated at their attempts to prise Cesc Fabregas away from Arsenal. The Spanish giants have been linked with a Fabregas all summer despite Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger having stated the midfielder will not be allowed to depart during the transfer window.
Fabregas spoke last week about being torn between moving to Barcelona, where he started out as a youngster, or staying at Arsenal, where his career has blossomed since arriving as a 16-year-old seven years ago. Barcelona, though, are losing patience with the current impasse and have drawn up alternative transfer options should they miss out on their preferred target. And reports in Spain claim that high on the Catalans’ list is Arteta, who has already been in strong demand this summer. Manchester City are still contemplating a big-money move for the Spanish schemer, Sevilla have also sounded an interest while, ironically, Arsenal are thought to have pinpointed the 28-year-old as the replacement for Fabregas should he leave for the Camp Nou.
Another Everton player the subject of increasing speculation is Steven Pienaar, who has entered the final year of his Goodison contract with agreement over a new deal not yet in sight. The South Africa international made his first appearance of the pre-season programme in the 4-2 win over Norwich City at the weekend having returned from an extended break following the World Cup. And for now Pienaar is determined to keep his focus on his present club and believes David Moyes’s side can challenge for a top-four place following their strong second-half showing in the previous Premier League campaign. “It’s good to feel at home again,” said the midfielder. “I missed the guys so it’s always good to be back. “For me it is important to get fit and to play a few more games. We have got two more friendly games to go so it is important to get through it without injuries and make sure you get fitter and start the league with high spirit and full of confidence. “We all know that if we ever felt we had a totally fit squad, we can compete for a Champions League place and I think the players are up for the challenge.“Because of the support for us to do well, that is why we are playing – to make the supporters happy.”
Meanwhile, Blackpool manager Ian Holloway is poised to admit defeat in his attempts to re-sign Seamus Coleman on loan. The 21-year-old full-back spent a spell at Bloomfield Road at the end of last season and played a major part in the Seasiders’ promotion to the Premier League through the play-offs. Coleman is highly-rated by Everton manager David Moyes and made a sparkling top-flight debut against Tottenham Hotspur last November. The Republic of Ireland under-21 has been heavily involved in Everton’s pre-season preparations, and now Holloway concedes it is unlikely the player will be back at Blackpool any time soon. “He is playing so well that David Moyes won’t want to let him go,” said Holloway. “I’ve asked him, I’ve left messages, I’ve spoken to Moyesy’s brother (agent Kenny), so I’m trying all I can.
“However, I think the honest answer is probably no. But I’ve got other targets I’m waiting on as well.”
History in the making as Everton meet Everton
Aug 4 2010 by David Randles, Liverpool Daily Post
IT’S not often you can guarantee the Goodison faithful will applaud goals by the opposition. But should the Everton defence be breached tonight, that’s exactly what will happen. Some 101 years after CD Everton was formed, the Chilean club will finally face their namesakes for the inaugural Brotherhood Cup. CD Everton were established by a group of exiled Anglo-Chilean football supporters in 1909 in the port of Valparaiso, inspired by Everton’s all-conquering tour of South America alongside a travelling Tottenham Hotspur side. To mark their centenary year the Vina Del Mar club have been invited to Merseyside to play Everton and arrive as the first Chilean club to play in Europe. It is an honour that delights CD Everton manager Nelson Acosta who says he will be a proud man leading his team out at Goodison.
“This is an historic occasion for Everton Chile and the English Everton,” said Acosta.
“It is the first time a Chilean team has been invited at club level to come and play anywhere in Europe. We will be the first to do it and we are very proud of that.
“Over the years there have been links and similarities between the two clubs. It goes beyond the world of football. We are in the realms of cultural and historic links between the two countries; between our cities. “It is a great moment for us.”
As the man who led CD Everton to the club’s first league title for 32 years two seasons ago, Acosta is accustomed to making history. Born in Uruguay, he played for Penarol in his homeland before moving to Chile in 1977 to join CD Everton.
Although his playing days at Everton were shortlived, it is here that his love affair with the country began and he eventually became a naturalised Chilean in 1984. He went on to manage the national team and oversaw Chile’s 2-0 win over England at Wembley prior to the 1998 World Cup. Acosta guided Chile to France that year where he added another chapter to the story of Chilean football. “That was the first time in our history we’d got beyond the World Cup group stages playing outside of Chile,” he says proudly. “I’ve made history in Chile at various stages of my life but winning the title with Everton was the most important achievement of my career by far simply because we hadn’t won it for 32 years prior to that. “I arrived in 2007 when the team was in danger of being relegated. It was my job to keep them up. “We cleared out lot of players and started virtually from scratch. We built up a totally different side and won the league. “But now there are only four or five of that team still with us. It is like a constant rotation policy in Chile. Some players only stay for a year and move on to different countries. But Everton is a big part of my life.” The transient nature of club football in Chile means that CD Everton have found it difficult to emulate the success of two years ago. With the Chilean season well underway – Acosta’s side were granted special dispensation by the country’s football Association to travel to Europe – CD Everton are currently lying in mid-table. “The title will be difficult this year,” admits Acosta. “We have a lot of ground to make up this season but will go for it again next season. We will bring in new players and start again.” Although David Moyes’ Everton are outstanding favourites to triumph tonight, Acosta insists his team are not just here to make up the numbers. “It’s absurd that you can actually think of going into a game as a professional football manager and not have the intention of winning,” said the 66-year-old. “Obviously it’s a special occasion, different from any other game, but we still want to win if we can. “As representatives of our country, we have a duty to come here and play to the best of our ability. In terms of Chilean football and also to continue the links between the two clubs we need to do ourselves justice and play to our maximum. “It will be a very good experience for our players to come over here and face players from different cultures. We are very keen to do well while we are here.” Just as CD Everton provide an element of the unknown, Acosta admits he knows little of their English counterparts. He used the World Cup to brush up on some of the Blues’ dangermen and singles out Tim Howard as one player who caught his eye in South Africa. “We didn’t know too much about Everton’s team but watching the World Cup where they had so many players involved, we saw a lot more of them,” he said. “The goalkeeper Tim Howard stood out in particular.
“He played really well for the United States. “You take note of the teams that did well and the names of Everton players tended to crop up. “That has helped us become more aware of Everton. “Saying that, we didn’t want to take too much notice of the players doing well at the World Cup or we may become afraid of them!” Despite the friendly nature of tonight’s game – all money raised will be donated to the Former Everton Players Foundation – Acosta is giving little away as to what we can expect from the visitors. “I like my teams to do their talking on the pitch,” he smiles. “I don’t make a mystery of it but it’s down to how the players react on the pitch. You’ve got to devise a system that best suits the players at your disposal at any given moment. “If a manager has got his own system devised but the players do not fit into that than he’s got problems.” It all adds to the intrigue of a fascinating encounter.
Everton FC captain Phil Neville excited by Goodison return
Aug 4 2010 by David Randles, Liverpool Daily Post
PHIL NEVILLE can’t wait to return to Goodison Park tonight.
Everton bring their pre-season preparations back to home soil for the historic match against CD Everton of Chile – the South American club that took its name from a touring Everton team back in 1909. Tonight will be the first time the two Everton’s have played each other and Neville is looking forward to the occasion. “It is quite a unique fixture,” said the Everton captain. “We saw Chile in the World Cup and they are a much improved footballing nation. “It’s the first time our fans will see us in action at Goodison. The season is creeping up on us and we need to make sure we hit the ground running. “We want to win the game, winning brings confidence and every player in the squad is back training now. “Hopefully the fans will see the World Cup players tonight and the boys are looking forward to being at Goodison.”
CD Everton goalkeeper Gustavo Dalsasso insists his team are looking to upset the odds tonight. Dalsasso is excited by the prospect of facing the Premier League club and says CD Everton are here to win. “We’ve got an ambition to come over here and do well, pull together and try and get a result,” said Dalsasso. Obviously we want to get everything right and do as well as we can. “We are here to represent our club; a club that has got great relations with Everton in England. “We are also representing our country. “This is my first time in England. “I am looking forward to playing against Everton at Goodison Park. “Any South American is going to look forward to coming here to play against one of the best teams in what is probably the most illustrious league in the world.” Meanwhile, Blackburn Rovers are lining up a move for James Vaughan. The Everton striker has moved down the pecking order at Goodison Park following the summer arrivals of Jermaine Beckford and Magaye Gueye and could be tempted by a fresh challenge at Ewood Park. Rovers manager Sam Allardyce is an admirer of Vaughan and is thought to be willing to meet Everton’s the £1.5million valuation to land the 22-year-old. Vaughan burst on to the scene against Crystal Palace in April 2005 when he became Everton’s and the Premier League’s youngest ever goalscorer. Since then his progress has been hampered by a succession of injuries and he has struggled to make an impact in David Moyes’ team.
Following two loan stints last season, first with Derby County before joining Leicester in March, Moyes is thought to be prepared to let Vaughan leave on a permanent basis as he looks to raise funds before the end of the transfer window.
Everton FC letters: Blues fans on Steven Pienaar and Tim Cahill
Aug 4 2010 by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Echo
HAVING read this week that Steven Pienaar believes he can fulfil his dream of playing Champions League football with Everton, this sounds positive. Hopefully it also indicates that things are ticking along with his contract negotiations too. If we are going to move forward we need players of Pienaar's calibre. If we can hold onto him and Mikel Arteta and get Marouane Fellaini firing on all cylinders again our midfield will stack up against any in the Premier League. I think the key thing with the Pienaar situation is for the fans to remember the much-quoted “In Moyes We Trust” motto.
After Dan Gosling, there is no way any agent or player is going to put one over on Everton, and therefore if Pienaar does stay for another year and then leave on a free this will be Everton's choice too. That said, let's hope the Blues can sort something out with him. If we need to raise cash for transfers then the likes of Joseph Yobo, James Vaughan and maybe Victor Anichebe (he may still come good) should be sold.
These guys have had their opportunity, but sadly cannot cut it at the top level, whereas Pienaar has consistently proved he can. Se3 A FINE hat-trick at Carrow Road from Tim Cahill, who based on his performances last season, will need a consistent run of goal-scoring to maintain his first team place. Furthermore, it was a sublime right foot finish from Bilyaletdinov who will have a major impact for the Blues this forthcoming season. It was encouraging to read Tony Hibbert's comments supporting Seamus Coleman's development and furthermore his willingness to play anywhere for the Blues. This attitude should be pervasive throughout football. If Everton do sign anyone between now and when the transfer window shuts I hope it is a player similar to Hibbert's attitude and application. David Kearns, Aintree I WOULD love to see Landon Donovan back at Everton – but not for £10m. He’s nowhere near worth that kind of money. A sum of £4m would be more sensible. If we need to sell before we can buy, why not off load Joseph Yobo and Yakubu? Between them they would fetch £15m, surely? Bluewinner HERE'S hoping for a speedy recovery to Gary Ablett, a former player for both Everton and Liverpool. I know both sets of fans are united in this sentiment. Yakublue
Paddy Shennan: Everton v Everton – it could be the start of something special
Aug 4 2010 by Paddy Shennan, Liverpool Echo
HISTORY will be made at Goodison Park tonight with the perfect match – Everton v Everton. All football fans, whoever they support, will be able to understand this quite wonderful concept: a game which is much more than a let’s all relax, meaningless friendly – it’s a let’s all relax, meaningless friendly between two teams of the same name (well, one is called Everton de Viña del Mar, but you know what I mean).
It’s a win-win situation. Or even a draw-draw situation. Who wins? Who cares? It’s bound to be Everton. I reckon all clubs could learn a lesson from this charity game (tickets are just a tenner and will benefit the Everton Former Players’ Foundation).
I realise not all clubs can arrange games against teams of the same name from Chile, or wherever, but, perhaps, as part of every pre-season, every club with a decent-sized squad (which is most Premier League clubs) could give all their players a run-out at the same time. How about Liverpool v Liverpool? Man Utd v Man Utd? Man City v Man City? (actually, with their squad, Man City could probably stage two games).
With a good cause standing to benefit, I reckon such games could become regular summer attractions. The doubters may deride the idea, saying there is every chance a newly-arrived player desperate to impress – or a young player desperate to impress – might accidentally (or not-so accidentally) leave a serious imprint on the leg of an established first-teamer. But come on, they take each other on in training every day – and a player would have to be pretty stupid to risk injuring a crowd favourite right in front of the crowd in question. Let’s be honest, supporters would deserve to see such goodwill games played on an annual basis – especially in an era when they are expected to endure anguished summers wondering whether their obscenely-overpaid star players – despite already being under contract – will decide to stay for at least another season. It makes you wonder why clubs don’t get together in a bid to do away with meaningless three, four and five year contracts and just have season-long deals – which is effectively what we’ve got at the moment. In the meantime, come on Everton – and come on Everton. Everyone’s a winner!
CD Everton coach Nelson Acosta looking for an upset at Goodison Park
Aug 4 2010 by David Randles, Liverpool Echo
IF you know your history you will be aware of a special occasion taking place at Goodison Park tonight. Some 101 years after CD Everton was formed, the Chilean club will finally face their namesakes for the inaugural Brotherhood Cup.
CD Everton were established by a group of exiled Anglo-Chilean football supporters in 1909 in the port of Valparaiso, inspired by Everton’s all-conquering tour of South America alongside a travelling Tottenham Hotspur side. To mark their centenary year, the Vina Del Mar club have been invited to Merseyside to play Everton and arrive as the first Chilean club to play in Europe. It is an honour that delights CD Everton manager Nelson Acosta who says he will be a proud man leading his team out at Goodison. “This is an historic occasion for Everton Chile and the English Everton,” said Acosta. “It is the first time a Chilean team has been invited at club level to come and play anywhere in Europe. “We will be the first to do it and we are very proud of that. “Over the years there have been links and similarities between the two clubs. It goes beyond the world of football. We are in the realms of cultural and historic links between the two countries; between our cities. “It is a great moment for us.”
As the man who led CD Everton to the club’s first league title for 32 years two seasons ago, Acosta is accustomed to making history.
Born in Uruguay, he played for Penarol in his homeland before moving to Chile in 1977 to join CD Everton. Although his playing days at Everton were shortlived, it is here that his love affair with the country began and he eventually became a naturalised Chilean in 1984. He went on to manage the national team and oversaw Chile’s 2-0 win over England at Wembley prior to the 1998 World Cup finals. Acosta guided Chile to France that year where he added another chapter to the story of Chilean football. “That was the first time in our history we’d got beyond the World Cup group stages playing outside of Chile,” he says proudly. “I’ve made history in Chile at various stages of my life but winning the title with Everton was the most important achievement of my career by far simply because we hadn’t won it for 32 years prior to that. “I arrived in 2007 when the team was in danger of being relegated. It was my job to keep them up. “We cleared out lot of players and started virtually from scratch. We built up a totally different side and won the league. “But now there are only four or five of that team still with us. It is like a constant rotation policy in Chile. Some players only stay for a year and move on to different countries. “But Everton is a big part of my life.” The transient nature of club football in Chile means that CD Everton have found it difficult to emulate the success of two years ago. With the Chilean season well under way – Acosta’s side were granted special dispensation by the country’s football association to travel to Europe – CD Everton are currently lying in mid-table. “The title will be difficult this year,” admits Acosta. “We have a lot of ground to make up this season but will go for it again next season. We will bring in new players and start again.” Although David Moyes’s Everton are clear favourites to triumph tonight, Acosta insists his team are not just here to make up the numbers.
“It’s absurd that you can actually think of going into a game as a professional football manager and not have the intention of winning,” said the 66-year-old.
“Obviously it’s a special occasion, different from any other game, but we still want to win, if we can. As representatives of our country, we have a duty to come here and play to the best of our ability. “In terms of Chilean football and also to continue the links between the two clubs we need to do ourselves justice and play to our maximum. It will be a very good experience for our players to come over here and face players from different cultures. We are very keen to do well while we are here.” Just as CD Everton provide an element of the unknown, Acosta admits he knows little of their English counterparts. He used the World Cup to brush up on some of the Blues’ dangermen and singles out Tim Howard as one player who caught his eye in South Africa. “We didn’t know too much about Everton’s team but watching the World Cup where they had so many players involved, we saw a lot more of them,” he said. “The goalkeeper Tim Howard stood out in particular. He played really well for the United States. “You take note of the teams that did well and the names of Everton players tended to crop up. “That has helped us become more aware of Everton. Saying that, we didn’t want to take too much notice of the players doing well at the World Cup or we may become afraid of them!” Despite the friendly nature of tonight’s game – all money raised will be donated to the Former Everton Players Foundation – Acosta is giving little away as to what we can expect from the visitors. “I like my teams to do their talking on the pitch,” he smiles. “I don’t make a mystery of it but it’s down to how the players react on the pitch. “You’ve got to devise a system that best suits the players at your disposal at any given moment. “If a manager has got his own system devised but the players do not fit into that than he’s got problems.” It all adds to the intrigue of a fascinating encounter.
History in the making as Everton meet Everton at Goodison Park
Aug 4 2010 by David Randles, Liverpool Echo
Everton captain Phil Neville and Everton Chile captain Gustavo Tulo Dalsasso 300
CD EVERTON are hoping to pull off a shock in tonight’s historic match at Goodison Park. Despite being crowned Chilean champions as recently as 2008, the South Americans are underdogs ahead of the inaugural Brotherhood Cup match.
David Moyes’ side are on a hot streak with an impressive 100 per cent record in pre-season, scoring 12 goals in five games. Star of the Everton Chile side is goalkeeper and captain Gustavo Dalsasso, and the former Boca Juniors stopper will be charged with keeping the Toffees at bay tonight. Although the Chilean Primera Division is sub-standard to the English Premier League, Dalsasso insists the Vina Del Mar club are determined to give a good account of themselves. “Everton are obviously a much stronger side than us but we will have to try and make that up with a greater level of application and concentration,” he said. “We’ve got an ambition to come over here and do well, pull together and try and get a result. “Obviously we want to get everything right and do as well as we can. “We are here to represent our club; a club that has got great relations with Everton in England. We are also representing our country. “Chile is regarded as the most English of South American countries. There are a lot of English traits and customs in Chile. It is regarded as the little England of the South American continent so we want to do well here in the country that triggered all of that off.” While Everton are gearing up for the start of the new season, Everton Chile are midway through their campaign and have been granted special dispensation by the Chilean FA to break from their domestic schedule. Following tonight’s match, the Blues travel to Germany to play Wolfsburg on Saturday to complete their pre-season schedule ahead of the Premier League opener at Blackburn a week later.
“We know Everton are a team that finished in the top half of the table last season. They are a strong side,” said Dalsasso. “Hopefully they are not as motivated as we are to win this game. “But they are coming to the end of their pre-season preparations so will really be looking to sharpen up in the last few games before the start of the season in less than two weeks’ time. Everton have got many international players, some of whom play for Nigeria, Holland and Australia at the World Cup. “We know we will have our hands full playing against them. But we really want to get on with it and show what we can do against players of the highest calibre.” All funds raised from tonight’s game (8pm kick-off) will be donated to the Former Everton Player’s Foundation. The Main Stand, Park End, Lower Gwladys and Upper Gwladys will all be open for the game and the club has urged supporters wishing to attend to buy tickets as soon as possible. Supporters are advised to collect pre-ordered tickets from Goodison Park at least three hours before kick off. Tickets can be ordered by calling 0871 663 1878
Everton FC chief Bill Kenwright hopeful Mikel Arteta and Steven Pienaar staying at Goodison
Aug 4 2010 by Merseyside Sport, Liverpool Echo
EVERTON Chairman Bill Kenwright remains hopeful Steven Pienaar and Mikel Arteta will agree new contracts with the Club. Both players have been the subject of speculation regarding their future but the Chairman, who was speaking at Wednesday night's Shareholders' Forum at Goodison Park, underlined his faith in successfully concluding new contracts with the duo. The Chairman told the Forum: "I'm more than hopeful we will start the season with the players who ended the season with last year. You can never say that something will definitely happen until it does but I remain hopeful that the pull of the Blues will mean the players (in question) will say 'is there anywhere better'?" Pienaar has one year remaining on his existing deal, whilst Arteta has two years to run on his contract. Manager David Moyes has made no secret of his desire to keep intact the squad that ended the 2009/10 campaign. Speaking to the Forum, Moyes said: "We have to make sure we keep the players we have got at the moment, even if we cannot go out and spend on new talent all the time." Moyes has added to his squad in the summer, with goalkeeper Jan Mucha and striker Jermaine Beckford arriving on free transfers and youngsters Magaye Gueye and Joao Silva acquired to bolster the Blues' ranks.
Everton 2 CD Everton 0: Everton on to a winner in their no-lose game
Aug 5 2010 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
IT was billed the game Everton literally couldn’t lose. And it left David Moyes with plenty of reasons to believe he could be on to a winner this coming season.
The meeting between the Goodison outfit and their South American namesakes wasn’t just an historic occasion in which the inaugural Brotherhood Cup was at stake.
For Moyes there was further affirmation his team’s preparations remain on course, confidence built by the strong showing after the turn of the year carried into the summer. So continues Everton’s perfect pre-season. Brisbane Roar, Melbourne Heart, Sydney FC, Preston North End, Norwich City and now Everton Chile have been confidently dispatched, all while avoiding any major injuries. The new arrivals continue to give quiet encouragement, while with each returning World Cup star comes the growing realisation this is without doubt the strongest squad at Moyes’s disposal during his eight-year reign. And then there was the sight of Marouane Fellaini making his first appearance since suffering ankle ligament damage in the Merseyside derby defeat at Anfield on February 6. The Belgian emerged at half-time to a rapturous ovation and didn’t take long to show there are clearly no lingering psychological effects from his injury, given the manner in which his overzealous challenge sent opposing midfielder Lucas Nania tumbling. Beckford, though, will rightly take the plaudits after setting Everton on their way to victory with a well-taken header shortly after half-time. Even without his goal, the striker demonstrated why his free transfer from Leeds United could provide further justification for Moyes’s willingness to gamble, whether it be enforced or not, on talents from the lower leagues. Beckford possesses a genuine threat up front with his pace, and his direct style and willingness to shoot on sight will surely make him a crowd favourite. This, then, was the ideal Goodison calling card. Without doubt, the evening was a success both on and off the field, a healthy crowd of more than 25,000 attending a notable occasion in the history of both clubs. The driving force behind the fixture has been Everton supporter John Shearon who, prompted by an article referring to his team’s Chilean namesakes in a matchday programme in 1977, embarked on a number of visits to Vina del Mar that led to the forming of a group called the Ruletoros in 2002 with the aim of strengthening the bond between the two clubs. After years of lobbying, a game was finally arranged to mark the Chilean club’s centenary year celebrations, their first meeting since CD Everton were established by a group of exiled Anglo-Chilean football supporters in 1909 in the port of Valparaiso, inspired by Everton’s tour of South America. Everton Chile won their domestic league two seasons ago – ending a 32-year title drought – and are managed by Nelson Acosta, who once led the country’s national team to a 2-0 win over England at Wembley in 1998. Acosta spoke before the game of his pride at his team becoming the first from Chile to be invited to play a game in Europe. Indeed, 171 hardy souls made the lengthy trip from Vina del Mar to support their team from the away end – that’s nine more than bothered to make the trip up the M6 from Fulham last season.
However, their Merseyside counterparts were strong favourites to triumph and, looking to extend their unbeaten pre-season programme, dominated the first half.
That they hadn’t continued their goal-laden pre-season form before half-time was down to some profligate finishing, the main shortcoming, of all things, coming from the head of Tim Cahill.The tone was set in the fourth minute when Steven Pienaar’s curling 20-yard free-kick was beaten out by diving Everton Chile goalkeeper Gustavo Dalsasso. Diniyar Bilyaletdinov was then guilty of being far too over-elaborate inside the area when a shot would have sufficed, before Beckford, making his Goodison debut, saw a shot saved by Dalsasso. Cahill should have done better on 14 minutes when directing a free header at the busy Dalsasso from Phil Neville’s cross, and then the Australian turned provider with a ball for Pienaar that was also nodded off target.
Beckford shot over after possession had broken for him inside the area ahead of two further misdirected free headers from Cahill that the midfielder would normally despatch with his eyes closed. Everton will hope he is saving them for the real thing in nine days’ time. It was the turn of Beckford to again come close on 27 minutes, his clever flick at the near post from Neville’s cross drawing another decent save from the busy Dalsasso. The goalkeeper beat out a Pienaar piledriver ahead of the interval before the breakthrough finally arrived six minutes after the restart. It was a good goal, too, substitute Magaye Gueye delivering an excellent cross from the left that was glanced into the top corner by the head of fellow new boy Beckford from 12 yards. Up until that point, the only effort of note Everton Chile had mustered was a shot from Cesar Cortes midway through the first half that was dragged wide, Slovakian goalkeeper Jan Mucha given little to do on his home bow. But only a smart stop from substitute goalkeeper Iain Turner prevented Mauro Guevgeozian netting an immediate equaliser. The impressive Gueye was provider for Everton’s second on 66 minutes, his corner from the left headed down by Fellaini for the unmarked Bilyaletdinov to volley home. Alex von Schwedler gave the visitors something to cheer with an attempted overhead kick from 20 yards out, while at the other end Dalsasso blocked from Gueye before denying Beckford with his legs from six yards. Steve McClaren’s Wolfsburg will provide a much sterner test at the weekend and perhaps give a greater indication of how far along the line Everton are in their preparations for the start of the Premier League campaign. But for now, Moyes has every reason to feel confident ahead of the trip to Blackburn Rovers on Saturday week.
Andy Burnham says he would rather play for Everton FC than be prime minister
Aug 5 2010 by Rob Merrick, Liverpool Daily Post
ANDY BURNHAM shocked his own campaign aide by declaring: “I would rather play for Everton in the Cup Final than be Prime Minister!” A transcript of an interview with the Labour leadership candidate recorded his assistant shouting “No! I’m going to kill him.” Mr Burnham was then asked if he wished to “re-answer” the question, posed by the Labour Uncut website. It is unthinkable any of his rivals would have hinted at a greater passion for football. But Old Roan-born Mr Burnham, a fanatical Evertonian, stressed it was a lighthearted answer, adding: “Obviously, I want to do both things! But I have a serious job to do, which is why I am throwing everything into trying to become the next Labour leader.”
Marouane Fellaini in contention for Everton FC Premier League opener
Aug 5 2010 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
MAROUANE FELLAINI has put himself into contention for the start of the Premier League season after making his comeback after six months on the sidelines.
Fellaini played the second half as Everton defeated their Chilean counterparts 2-0 to win the inaugural Brotherhood Cup at Goodison last night. It was the midfielder’s first action since damaging ankle ligaments in a challenge with Sotirios Kyrgiakos during the Merseyside derby defeat at Anfield on February 6. Fellaini only made his return to full training last month after an intensive rehabilitation programme.
And now the Belgium international has an outside chance of being available when Everton begin their domestic campaign at Blackburn Rovers on Saturday week.
“Felli has looked that good in training over the last 12 days that we thought he was ready and he thought he was ready,” said Everton assistant manager Steve Round.
“It’s a massive boost for us. He is such a terrific player and to have him back in the squad is a real confidence boost for us. “I think we have got to assess how he feels in the morning and whether he plays a part at Wolfsburg and then assess him during the week’s training. “He has put himself in contention with the way he is training and playing 45 minutes tonight. Whether that’s too early for him only time will tell.”
With Fellaini on the field, Everton scored twice during the second half to win the historic first-ever clash with their South American namesakes from Chile’s Vina del Mar. Jermaine Beckford capped a man-of-the-match performance on his Goodison bow with the opening goal on 51 minutes before Diniyar Bilyaletdinov sealed the victory with a volley 15 minutes later. It continued Everton’s 100% pre-season with only Saturday’s trip to Bundesliga side Wolfsburg to come before the visit to Ewood Park. Meanwhile, Everton chairman Bill Kenwright remains hopeful Steven Pienaar and Mikel Arteta will agree new contracts with the club. Both players have been the subject of speculation this summer, with Arteta being tracked by Barcelona, Manchester City and Arsenal while Pienaar has entered the final year of his current deal. But, speaking at Everton’s Shareholders’ Forum at Goodison before last night’s friendly, Kenwright expressed his confidence the pair will stay put. “I’m more than hopeful we will start the season with the players who ended the season with us last year,” he said. “You can never say that something will definitely happen until it does but I remain hopeful that the pull of the Blues will mean the players (in question) will say ‘is there anywhere better’?” Everton manager David Moyes added: “We have to make sure we keep the players we have got at the moment, even if we cannot go out and spend on new talent all the time.”
Everton 2 CD Everton 0: Historic match ends with an Everton victory
Aug 5 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
IT MUST have been an exciting Everton side which embarked on that all-conquering tour of South America back in 1909. So exciting in fact, that those early 20th Century Toffees inspired a whole new team named in their honour. That club, from the picturesque coast of Vina Del Mar in Chile, made their first ever visit to the land of their forebearers yesterday for a long-planned friendly. They were comfortably beaten by another Everton side with the potential to excite a generation and maybe even make history. Whether David Moyes’ peaking team are able to inspire a namesake somewhere else across the globe is a tall order, but they are certainly seem able to achieve something special when the premier league kicks off in a few weeks time.
Because as the inaugural Brotherhood Cup was lifted aloft by Phil Neville and Mikel Arteta on the pitch after last night’s game, Evertonians of a Merseyside persuasion were dreaming of more meaningful silverware finally arriving at Goodison next season. And now more than ever they can be forgiven for daring to dream.
Of course a lot depends on whether Moyes is able to keep Steven Pienaar and Mikel Arteta, but chairman Bill Kenwright at least offered words of encouragement that both may yet stay before the game. And new plans for a £9m retail and administrative centre at the Park End proved there is a clear ambition and strategic zeal emanating from the chief executive’s office. So plenty to be positive about on a historic night in Walton. Phil Jagielka confounded rumours of another injury set-back by returning to the side, Marouane Fellaini was back too, and Jermaine Beckford scored at Goodison.
The 171 Chilean fans, more than Fulham to Goodison last season, were a lively entourage ensuring the game had a constant samba-style accompaniment with drumming and chanting throughout. The first of countless chances for the blues came on eight minutes when Steven Pienaar’s free kick beat the wall but was well-saved by the opposition’s star player and captain keeper Gustavo Dalsasso. Moyes’ side kept possession well, swapping multiples passes on the left flank and patiently waiting for an opening. Another great chance came after half an hour when Pienaar jinked into area and his cut back found Bilyaletdinov who just failed to take ball in his stride when one on one with the keeper. Jermaine Beckford, on his Goodison debut, went close minutes later, snatching a shot which was well saved by Dalsasso at his near post. Then Cahill planted a header into keeper’s arms from a cute Bily cross.
Roared on by a fantastic crowd, Beckford went even closer next, volleying a first time effort narrowly over the bar. The Goodison new boy was looking sharp and hungry for his first strike in front of the home crowd. Referee Mark Halsey was making his return to Goodison in a formal match since he refereed here the day after he was diagnosed with throat cancer in August last year. The popular referee’s illness now in submission, he seemed delighted to be back and was warmly applauded by the crowd.
If Halsey’s presence was uplifting, so too was the return to the match-day squad of Marouane Fellaini. Although the big Belgian’s travails pale in comparison to the gutsy official’s, there were still plenty of smiles around the ground when he embarked on his first warm-up run. Evertonians have not forgotten his impact last season.
It wasn’t long before Tim Cahill was back among the action, when he just failed to guide a header from a corner on target. But he should have given the blues the lead on 25 minutes when a clever cross from the rapidly improving Bilyaletdinov beat the offside trap, and the Aussie nodded a simple chance wastefully wide.
The Russian was nearly provider again after Everton’s next attack. This time he headed across goal for Jack Rodwell to seize upon, but the teenager’s shot was well blocked. It was becoming a case of when Everton would score and not if, as again Neville broke forward and this time Beckford impressively back-heeled a first time effort just past the post. The tempo fizzled out as Everton’s avalanche of chances slowed towards the half-time whistle. And Tim Cahill hit the bar from a Bily cross to end a decidedly one-sided half of glorious chances. Halftime saw some wholesale changes for the blues. Along withMoyes brought on the attacking promise of Magaye Gueye, Mikel Arteta and, to universal delight, Fellaini. But it was the exciting young French signing who heralded his ability first on 51 minutes, in a slick move which finally eased Moyes’ side ahead. Magaye Gueye fired an inch-perfect cross into the area and Jermaine Beckford got his reward for a non-stop performance when his emphatic header hit the back of the net. Three goals already in pre-season, and the former Leeds United goal-machine is seeming at home in royal blue. In response, the Chileans broke up the other end and nearly scored but for a fine save from Ian Turner.
The little incongruities of the night helped make it so memorable. A sense of confusion for a few seconds everytime the pitchside announcer declared an Everton substitution and a player sprang from the away dug-out, the unique sight of two Evertons in lights up on the scoreboard and the sound of home and away fans chanting one name in the end. Both Halsey and Fellaini proved they have lost none of their edge. The referee giving the midfielder a stern lecture after a mis-timed and no-nonsense challenge showed he is as robust as ever. But Everton’s second came from another Gueye delivery, this time a corner aimed at Fellaini’s towering frame, and Bilyaletdinov capped off his own fine evening by burying a sweetly struck volley to make it two goals in two games since returning from Australia. Seamus Coleman was his usual cavalier self, especially in the second half. The young Irishman caused the team in yellow all sorts of problems marauding down the right. Yet, the score should have been more. Nelson Acosta’s side were well-organised, hard-working and methodical but consistently second best. If he has any complaints, David Moyes will be asking why more of his side’s numerous chances were not converted.
Gueye had yet another chance saved after smart over-lapping from Leighton
Baines. Then Beckford stumbled when he was poised for a tap in and his close range shot was saved. But in the end it was a comfortable win for the blues in a game which, in every sense, Everton really couldn’t lose.
EVERTON: Mucha (Turner, 45), Coleman (Mustafi, 85), Yobo, Jagielka (Arteta, 45), Neville (Hibbert), Rodwell (Gueye, 45), Pienaar (Vaughan, 67), Cahill (Fellaini, 45), Bilyaletdinov (Baxter, 78), Osman (Baines, 45), Beckford. Subs not used: Distin.
EVERTON: Dalsasso, Blazquez (Oviedo, 83), Arias (Penailillo), Cortes (Bottaro,83), Ramirez, Guevgeozian, Nania (Schwedler), Garipe, Montesinos, Diaz, Saavedra. Subs not used: Rencoret, Perez, Ceratto.
Ref: Mark Halsey Attendance: 25, 934
Marouane Fellaini focused on a top-five finish after making his return from injury in Everton’s pre-season friendly win over CD Everton
Aug 5 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
MAROUANE Fellaini set his sights on a top five finish for Everton after declaring it felt great to be back from his injury lay-off. The fans’ favourite Belgian midfielder made a surprise return to the side for the second half of Everton’s friendly against Chilean side Everton at Goodison yesterday. It was the 22-year-old’s towering header which set up a Diniyar Bilyaletdinov goal to secure the 2-0 win in the inaugural Brotherhood Cup, and Fellaini came through the work-out with no pain in the ankle he broke last season. Now he is targeting a further run-out in Everton’s final friendly in Germnay against Wolfsburg on Saturday, before the season opener on August 14.
He said: “My ankle felt good and strong. I’m in full training every day and I’m aiming for the start of the season. “I am hoping my ankle still feels as good after more games in quick succession. I’d like to play on Saturday and then maybe for the national team before the season starts. “It can be hard psychologically going into your first tackle when you’ve had a serious injury. Luckily I got that out of the way in training. It’s that hurdle when you fear for your ankle, but I’d tested it a few times before the game.
“It’s a big blow being out for five months with such a serious injury. It was my first injury and first operation, but it did help going back to Belgium and spending time with my brothers and my family. The home cooking was good too. “But I also was working three or four hours every morning with a physio from Antwerp I’ve always worked with and that helped.” Fellaini received warm applause as he warmed-up in the first half, and he was quick to thank the home fans. He said: “It made me feel good and gave me a lift when I heard the crowd cheering as I was warming up. But for me it’s just about working hard now and hoping things turn out for me and the team.
“It’s up to us to show whether we can make that top four or top five, but the lads have played pretty well in the other pre-season games. It looks like we’ve got a good squad and not being in Europe will help us recover. Top four has to be our objective.”
Bill Kenwright hopeful Steven Pienaar and Mikel Arteta will stay at Everton
Aug 5 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
Bill Kenwright hopeful Steven Pienaar and Mikel Arteta will stay at Everton
EVERTON chairman Bill Kenwright remains hopeful Steven Pienaar and Mikel Arteta will agree new contracts with the club. Both players have been the subject of speculation regarding their future but the Chairman, who was speaking at Wednesday night’s Shareholders’ Forum at Goodison Park, underlined his faith in successfully concluding new contracts with the duo. The chairman told the Forum: “I’m more than hopeful we will start the season with the players who ended the season with last year.
“You can never say that something will definitely happen until it does but I remain hopeful that the pull of the Blues will mean the players (in question) will say ‘is there anywhere better’?” Pienaar has one year remaining on his existing deal, whilst Arteta has two years to run on his contract. Manager David Moyes has made no secret of his desire to keep intact the squad that ended the 2009/10 campaign. Speaking to the Forum, Moyes said: “We have to make sure we keep the players we have got at the moment, even if we cannot go out and spend on new talent all the time.”
Everton staying at Goodison for ‘medium term’ as £9m retail plan revealed
Aug 5 2010 By Alex Turner, Liverpool Echo
EVERTON FC announced plans for a new £9m retail development at Goodison Park – and all-but ruled out a move to a new stadium “in the medium-term”.
The four-storey building will house a 10,000 sq ft shop, museum, café, corporate hospitality and offices. It will be situated next to the stadium at the Park End, on the current site of the Club Everton lounge with the existing statue of Dixie Dean in front.
The development would relocate some of the offices inside the stadium which will then increase the capacity for corporate hospitality within the ground. Speaking at last night’s shareholders’ forum, Robert Elstone, who marks his second anniversary as Everton chief executive today, said: “We do have a duty to make progress and enhance Goodison Park and we have been looking at a number of schemes.”
He said the financial assistance of Everton’s retail partner Kitbag and commercial partner Sodexo will mean the project is “self-funded”. "There is no net cost to the Club. In fact, it is cash-positive from the start. I am looking forward to how it will improve the business.” Subject to planning permission, the club hopes to be able to move into the building within a year. But Mr Elstone, while seeking to manage fans’ expectations, said the development “must not slow down or water down our prospects” for a new stadium. He said: “If we are being realistic about the current situation, to be inside a new stadium within the next five years, it’s very hard to see that happening. That’s why this new development has to have a quick payback and it has. “Our discussions with Liverpool City Council have been very positive but we need support that has to come from a major retail development. The city council recognise that is hard to deliver. It is a problem we have faced for 10-15 years. It is difficult to see a new stadium in the short and medium term.” Everton chairman Bill Kenwright added: “We want to give you, our fans, something else and I think it looks terrific. As long as we are here and as long as it doesn't put the finances for David Moyes in jeopardy, we are going to do what we can with Goodison Park. But it doesn’t mean the search isn’t going to go on for a new stadium within the Liverpool city boundary.”
Everton FC 2, CD Everton 0: Historic match ends with an Everton victory
Aug 5 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
Everton 2 CD Everton 0: Historic match ends with an Everton victory
IT MUST have been an exciting Everton side which embarked on that all-conquering tour of South America back in 1909. So exciting in fact, that those early 20th Century Toffees inspired a whole new team named in their honour. That club, from the picturesque coast of Vina Del Mar in Chile, made their first ever visit to the land of their forebearers yesterday for a long-planned friendly. They were comfortably beaten by another Everton side with the potential to excite a generation and maybe even make history. Whether David Moyes’ peaking team are able to inspire a namesake somewhere else across the globe is a tall order, but they are certainly seem able to achieve something special when the premier league kicks off in a few weeks time.
Because as the inaugural Brotherhood Cup was lifted aloft by Phil Neville and Mikel Arteta on the pitch after last night’s game, Evertonians of a Merseyside persuasion were dreaming of more meaningful silverware finally arriving at Goodison next season. And now more than ever they can be forgiven for daring to dream.
Of course a lot depends on whether Moyes is able to keep Steven Pienaar and Mikel Arteta, but chairman Bill Kenwright at least offered words of encouragement that both may yet stay before the game. And new plans for a £9m retail and administrative centre at the Park End proved there is a clear ambition and strategic zeal emanating from the chief executive’s office. So plenty to be positive about on a historic night in Walton. Phil Jagielka confounded rumours of another injury set-back by returning to the side, Marouane Fellaini was back too, and Jermaine Beckford scored at Goodison.
The 171 Chilean fans, more than Fulham to Goodison last season, were a lively entourage ensuring the game had a constant samba-style accompaniment with drumming and chanting throughout. The first of countless chances for the blues came on eight minutes when Steven Pienaar’s free kick beat the wall but was well-saved by the opposition’s star player and captain keeper Gustavo Dalsasso. Moyes’ side kept possession well, swapping multiples passes on the left flank and patiently waiting for an opening. Another great chance came after half an hour when Pienaar jinked into area and his cut back found Bilyaletdinov who just failed to take ball in his stride when one on one with the keeper. Jermaine Beckford, on his Goodison debut, went close minutes later, snatching a shot which was well saved by Dalsasso at his near post. Then Cahill planted a header into keeper’s arms from a cute Bily cross.
Roared on by a fantastic crowd, Beckford went even closer next, volleying a first time effort narrowly over the bar. The Goodison new boy was looking sharp and hungry for his first strike in front of the home crowd. Referee Mark Halsey was making his return to Goodison in a formal match since he refereed here the day after he was diagnosed with throat cancer in August last year. The popular referee’s illness now in submission, he seemed delighted to be back and was warmly applauded by the crowd.
If Halsey’s presence was uplifting, so too was the return to the match-day squad of Marouane Fellaini. Although the big Belgian’s travails pale in comparison to the gutsy official’s, there were still plenty of smiles around the ground when he embarked on his first warm-up run. Evertonians have not forgotten his impact last season.
It wasn’t long before Tim Cahill was back among the action, when he just failed to guide a header from a corner on target. But he should have given the blues the lead on 25 minutes when a clever cross from the rapidly improving Bilyaletdinov beat the offside trap, and the Aussie nodded a simple chance wastefully wide.
The Russian was nearly provider again after Everton’s next attack. This time he headed across goal for Jack Rodwell to seize upon, but the teenager’s shot was well blocked. It was becoming a case of when Everton would score and not if, as again Neville broke forward and this time Beckford impressively back-heeled a first time effort just past the post. The tempo fizzled out as Everton’s avalanche of chances slowed towards the half-time whistle. And Tim Cahill hit the bar from a Bily cross to end a decidedly one-sided half of glorious chances. Halftime saw some wholesale changes for the blues. Along withMoyes brought on the attacking promise of Magaye Gueye, Mikel Arteta and, to universal delight, Fellaini. But it was the exciting young French signing who heralded his ability first on 51 minutes, in a slick move which finally eased Moyes’ side ahead. Magaye Gueye fired an inch-perfect cross into the area and Jermaine Beckford got his reward for a non-stop performance when his emphatic header hit the back of the net. Three goals already in pre-season, and the former Leeds United goal-machine is seeming at home in royal blue.
In response, the Chileans broke up the other end and nearly scored but for a fine save from Ian Turner. The little incongruities of the night helped make it so memorable. A sense of confusion for a few seconds everytime the pitchside announcer declared an Everton substitution and a player sprang from the away dug-out, the unique sight of two Evertons in lights up on the scoreboard and the sound of home and away fans chanting one name in the end. Both Halsey and Fellaini proved they have lost none of their edge. The referee giving the midfielder a stern lecture after a mis-timed and no-nonsense challenge showed he is as robust as ever. But Everton’s second came from another Gueye delivery, this time a corner aimed at Fellaini’s towering frame, and Bilyaletdinov capped off his own fine evening by burying a sweetly struck volley to make it two goals in two games since returning from Australia. Seamus Coleman was his usual cavalier self, especially in the second half. The young Irishman caused the team in yellow all sorts of problems marauding down the right. Yet, the score should have been more. Nelson Acosta’s side were well-organised, hard-working and methodical but consistently second best. If he has any complaints, David Moyes will be asking why more of his side’s numerous chances were not converted.
Gueye had yet another chance saved after smart over-lapping from Leighton
Baines. Then Beckford stumbled when he was poised for a tap in and his close range shot was saved. But in the end it was a comfortable win for the blues in a game which, in every sense, Everton really couldn’t lose.
EVERTON: Mucha (Turner, 45), Coleman (Mustafi, 85), Yobo, Jagielka (Arteta, 45), Neville (Hibbert), Rodwell (Gueye, 45), Pienaar (Vaughan, 67), Cahill (Fellaini, 45), Bilyaletdinov (Baxter, 78), Osman (Baines, 45), Beckford. Subs not used: Distin.
EVERTON: Dalsasso, Blazquez (Oviedo, 83), Arias (Penailillo), Cortes (Bottaro,83), Ramirez, Guevgeozian, Nania (Schwedler), Garipe, Montesinos, Diaz, Saavedra. Subs not used: Rencoret, Perez, Ceratto.
Ref: Mark Halsey Attendance: 25, 934
Everton FC's Marouane Fellaini keen to make up for lost time after injury
Aug 5 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
MAROUANE Fellaini set his sights on a top five finish for Everton after declaring it felt great to be back from his injury lay-off. The fans’ favourite Belgian midfielder made a surprise return to the side for the second half of Everton’s friendly against Chilean side Everton at Goodison yesterday. It was the 22-year-old’s towering header which set up a Diniyar Bilyaletdinov goal to secure the 2-0 win in the inaugural Brotherhood Cup, and Fellaini came through the work-out with no pain in the ankle he broke last season. Now he is targeting a further run-out in Everton’s final friendly in Germnay against Wolfsburg on Saturday, before the season opener on August 14.
He said: “My ankle felt good and strong. "I’m in full training every day and I’m aiming for the start of the season. “I am hoping my ankle still feels as good after more games in quick succession. "I’d like to play on Saturday and then maybe for the national team before the season starts. “It can be hard psychologically going into your first tackle when you’ve had a serious injury. Luckily I got that out of the way in training. It’s that hurdle when you fear for your ankle, but I’d tested it a few times before the game. “It’s a big blow being out for five months with such a serious injury. It was my first injury and first operation, but it did help going back to Belgium and spending time with my brothers and my family. The home cooking was good too.
“But I also was working three or four hours every morning with a physio from Antwerp I’ve always worked with and that helped.” Fellaini received warm applause as he warmed-up in the first half, and he was quick to thank the home fans.
He said: “It made me feel good and gave me a lift when I heard the crowd cheering as I was warming up. But for me it’s just about working hard now and hoping things turn out for me and the team. “It’s up to us to show whether we can make that top four or top five, but the lads have played pretty well in the other pre-season games. It looks like we’ve got a good squad and not being in Europe will help us recover. Top four has to be our objective.”
Everton 2 Everton 0: Jermaine Beckford shines as Toffees' namesakes come unstuck
Aug 5 2010 Daily Mail
Jermaine Beckford and Diniyar Bilyaletdinov struck as David Moyes' Everton continued their pre-season preparations with a comfortable win over their Chilean namesakes. The pair were on target in the second half as the Merseyside club took on the South American side named after them for the first time in an historic friendly.
Chile's Everton were founded in 1909 after the original Everton made a positive impression on a pioneering tour across the Atlantic. The match was played for the newly-created Brotherhood Cup and could be the start of closer ties between the two clubs. The main purpose of the exercise for Moyes, however, was fine-tuning ahead of the Barclays Premier League season. The Scot will have been pleased with a lively display from new signing Beckford and a first run-out for Marouane Fellaini since injuring his ankle in a Merseyside derby in February. Referee Mark Halsey, who is in remission from cancer, was also given a warm reception by an appreciative Goodison Park crowd. Pick that out: Diniyar Bilyaletdinov slams home the second goal
The host Everton were a class above their opponents and squandered a number of chances to take the lead in a goalless first half. Steven Pienaar, whose future remains the subject of speculation, had the first of them with a free-kick that was saved by Gustavo Dalsasso. Beckford burst into the area and fired at Dalsasso before Tim Cahill headed at the goalkeeper and Pienaar flicked wide. Beckford also missed the target when well placed and Cahill sent a glancing header across the face of goal.
Jack Rodwell saw a good volley blocked, Beckford fired narrowly wide and Cahill put another good header against the bar. Pienaar then tested Dalsasso with a long-range shot. Lively: New signing Beckford put in an all-action performance up front
Two speculative efforts from Mauro Guevgeozian that flew over were the best of the visitors' first-half efforts. English Everton claimed the lead after 50 minutes when Beckford met a cross from fellow new recruit Magaye Gueye with a looping header.
Chile Everton almost responded immediately as Guevgeozian shot straight at Jan Mucha but the Merseysiders soon doubled their lead. Substitute Fellaini got involved by nodding down a Gueye corner and Bilyaletdinov blasted a low shot home.
Gueye went close to a third with a shot saved by Dalsasso and the goalkeeper then managed to scramble another Beckford attempt off the line.
Only one winner as Everton see off the challenge of their namesake
Aug 5 2010 The Guardian
Rarely, if ever, has Goodison Park applauded every opposition shot, save and substitution, but then it has never hosted such a comfortable no-lose contest before. Everton versus Everton – there could be only one winner. This unique pre-season friendly was an unequivocal triumph for The Ruleteros Society, a group of Evertonians who have forged links with their Chilean counterparts since their formation in 2002 and were instrumental in bringing Everton de Viña del Mar to Goodison Park for the first time in the club's 101-year history. A crowd of 25,934 marked a significant increase on corresponding Goodison Friendlys of recent years, including testimonials for legends such as Colin Harvey, with 171 fans making the trek from South America. Fulham brought 162 for the Premier League game here last season. Former Leeds United striker Jermaine Beckford produced a promising home debut, linking well with his team-mates and opening the scoring in the 51st minute when he glanced a cross from fellow summer signing Magaye Gueye into the top corner. Diniyar Bilyaletdinov ensured Everton kept their 100% record in pre-season so far with a volley from Gueye's corner. Of more significance to manager David Moyes was the return of Marouane Fellaini after six months out with ankle ligament damage. The influential Belgian midfielder was expected to miss the start of the season as he recovers from the injury suffered against Liverpool in February, but appeared for the second half in place of Jack Rodwell. Steven Pienaar, Mikel Arteta and Phil Jagielka – all linked with moves away from Goodison this summer – played, while referee Mark Halsey was given a rousing reception on his return to the game after recovering from throat cancer.
Premier League preview No8: Everton
Aug 5 2010 The Guardian
Mikel Arteta and Steven Pienaar are vital to the club's success this season, with David Moyes having little to spend to advance Everton's bid for Europe
Guardian writers' prediction: 7th (NB: this is not necessarily Andy's prediction, but the average of our writers' tips)
Last season's position: 8th
Odds to win the league: 150-1
It has been another quiet summer in the transfer market at Everton but, unusually, few are complaining. A return to Europe and the trophy David Moyes concedes is long overdue at Goodison Park is not beyond the realms of possibility should it stay that way. Naturally there would be more exuberance in Liverpool 4 had Everton unveiled the top-class centre-forward or right midfielder the manager is searching for. Instead, there have been four inexpensive but not insignificant additions to a squad who lost just two of their final 24 league games last season, and plans have been announced for a £9m office complex behind a stadium that the club's board of directors have conceded will not be vacated for the foreseeable future. Well, not unless the Chinese government seizes the land to build a giant Liver Bird's Nest Stadium for their neighbours, but that's a blog for another day. This will not sit comfortably with many Evertonians, but there is genuine and justifiable optimism surrounding Moyes's team for this season, though there is plenty of time for that to disintegrate and the natural order to return. The final 27 days of this transfer window promise a premature "squeaky bum" period for the club. Moyes's priority for this summer is no secret; he discussed it frequently towards the end of last season. "I'm just looking to try and get our squad stronger and keep the players we have got," he would say. And so far, so good, although until Mikel Arteta and Steven Pienaar sign the contract extensions offered to them, the Everton manager will not rest easy. Unlike Tim Cahill, Jack Rodwell and Leighton Baines, the two midfielders whose careers were rescued by Moyes and who have developed into Everton's most creative outlets have not committed their futures to Goodison amid the promise of riches elsewhere. Both are in strong bargaining positions. There has been no post-World Cup queue of suitors for Pienaar but, with 12 months remaining on his existing deal, the South African will not struggle to secure a lucrative pre-contract agreement from 1 January and could depart this summer should a substantial bid materialise. Arteta has two years remaining and would become Everton's highest-paid player on £75,000 a week should he decide to stay. The Spaniard, conscious of Everton's impact on his career and his place in the club's affections, has neither rejected nor accepted the offer. The possibility of a move to Barcelona or Manchester City should either club fail to land their current transfer targets indicates why he is in no rush to decide. There is also the distraction of Arsenal's interest in Phil Jagielka, although the England defender, awarded a new five-year contract while he recovered from a cruciate ligament injury last summer, has shown no inclination to depart. Keep all three, add either a proven finisher or a midfielder with the energy and quality of Landon Donovan, and Everton will be confident of entering the mix for Champions League qualification. Lose any, and the incremental progress under Moyes will be seriously threatened. In Arteta and Marouane Fellaini, Everton have a potential central midfield pairing to rival any in the Premier League, but they have rarely been seen together due to injuries. Rodwell will get more opportunity to develop his immense potential this season, Seamus Coleman, with the experience of featuring in Blackpool's promotion side behind him, could also make a breakthrough at right-back and Diniyar Bilyaletdinov, one of the few in the team with an eye for a defence-piercing pass, should also benefit from his first summer break in almost two years. Everton's one major gripe this summer has been the defection of the 20-year-old midfielder Dan Gosling, who exploited the club's failure to put a contract offer in writing to secure a free transfer to Newcastle United. It is instructive, however, that their disappointment concerns the impact of Gosling's departure on Moyes's transfer budget, not on his squad. But for the disruption caused by several serious injuries at the start of last season, coupled with Joleon Lescott's protracted transfer to Manchester City, Everton rather than Roberto Mancini's big spenders might have presented Tottenham Hotspur with the fiercest challenge for fourth place. Unless bids emerge for Pienaar and Arteta in the coming weeks – and so far Everton have received and rejected just two for their players this summer, a £6m offer for Yakubu Aiyegbeni from West Ham United and a £9m bid from Arsenal for Jagielka two months ago – they will not face the same hindrances this time.
Converting chances into victories was a problem for Everton even during their impressive finish last season, and it is asking a lot of the former Leeds United striker Jermaine Beckford to step out of League One and provide the remedy on his own. Assistance is required but, given the choice, it is safe to assume Moyes would happily shut the transfer window this afternoon.
Anichebe spotted at the Ricoh
Aug 5 2010
Coventry telegraph
Rumours that Everton striker Victor Anichebe is on his way to Coventry City seem to be wide of the mark. The Nigerian international was supposedly spotted at the Ricoh Arena during the friendly against West Brom at the weekend, having been left out of Everton's squad for their pre-season game. But David Moyes has rubbished the conspiracy theories that have surrounded a couple of Everton's pre season selections.
'There are a lot of players who have not been involved simply for the fact we have a big enough squad at the moment. That means that if I think if somebody has a little knock or isn't quite right we don't need to use them right now, but it will soon take shape.' Moyes said. It now appears that Anichebe was more likely catching up with his mate, and new Sky Blues signing, Lukas Jutkiewicz.
Former Everton FC defender Earl Barrett kicking prejudice into touch
Aug 6 2010 by David Randles, Liverpool Echo
WHEN Ron Atkinson was caught out racially abusing Marcel Desailly live on air, Earl Barrett was quick to jump to his defence. It happened six years ago following a Champions League game between Monaco and Chelsea when Atkinson was at the peak of his punditry powers, working for ITV. Unbeknown to him, his microphone remained switched on following the end of the transmission and his no holds barred rant about Desailly’s under-par performance was broadcast throughout the Middle East. Given the vile nature of Atkinson’s insult, Barrett’s support for him seemed extraordinary. But having worked under ‘Big Ron’ for two years at Aston Villa, he felt the need to speak out. “What he said is one of the worst things you can say to a black person,” insists the former Everton defender. “I struggle to use the word myself. Lots of black players, past and present, came out to say what a scandal it was and that he should be banned. “I understood the reaction from people who don’t know him. I’d probably be the same if I didn’t know him. But I do know him and can categorically say that I don’t think he’s racist, despite him having used a racist term. “It’s a tricky one to defend but all I could say was that he was never racist to me or any of the black players in the Aston Villa team. Not that I saw or heard of.” It is this open-mindedness from Barrett, his capacity to be both subjective and objective on the matter, that makes him an ideal appointment to the role of Mentor and Leadership Project Manager for Kick It Out. Kick It Out is football’s equality and inclusion campaign and was established in 1997, four years after the pilot scheme Let’s Kick Racism Out Of Football was launched. Whilst issues around racism are still at the core of the group’s work, the brief is now much broader. Kick It Out works throughout the football, educational and community sectors to challenge discrimination, encourage inclusive practices and work for positive change. Barrett took up the newly created post at the start of the summer and is optimistic about the impact he can have helping marginalised groups break into football. “I’m excited about the challenge”, said Barrett, whose role is part of a joint initiative with the Equality and Human Rights Commission. “I will be identifying inspiring individuals from a range of different communities who can help to mentor and inspire others to achievement, both at a grass roots and professional level. “Part of the objective is to practically address issues of exclusion and discrimination, particularly in relation to current gaps in representation, such as the lack of black coaches, managers, women and disabled in administration and Asian players. “Our aim is to get under-represented groups in to the football industry, initially on a voluntary basis with a view to gaining employment. It’s about creating pathways for groups who suffer any kind of inequality. The message within what we’re doing is equal opportunities for all. “We’re working from grassroots right up to the professional level of the game. “Most clubs have community departments and programmes after school or in holidays. They also have finance departments, a corporate department or IT. If we can get people volunteering in these areas it gives them an initial pathway into the industry. “I’m fascinated to see how it all turns out. It’s a new project and we’re just getting things going, but it will be interesting to see what results we get.” Barrett says football has made great strides since the days when he first suffered discrimination in the game. Kick It Out has been a major factor in that progress by tackling the issues head on; a far cry from the mid to late-80s when Barrett was cutting his teeth at Manchester City. “The first time I was subjected to racist abuse on the pitch I was playing for City reserves away somewhere,” recalls Barrett. “I was on the ball and all the monkey chants started up. I remember thinking, ‘what’s going on here?’ “It was disgraceful but I didn’t say anything about it to anyone. “There weren’t the avenues in those days to raise something like this, to make a complaint. Nowadays there are. You can go to the relevant people in authority and it will be taken further and investigated.
“I doubt very much that anyone can say anything racist to me that I haven’t already heard. “A lot of the time, people using racist terms don’t even know why they’re saying it. It’s because their mates do it or their dad does it or whatever.
“If you can point out the offence it can often cause people to take a different view of it. That’s part of my role, to make people think about what and why they’re saying something. “It’s not just colour but disability too. It’s about making people a bit more aware of their actions.” Barrett moved to Sheffield Wednesday after three seasons with Everton from 1995-98 and finally hung his boots two years later.
Since then he has gained a degree in Sports Science, worked for Manchester City’s community scheme and conducted motivational speaking sessions for children through the Youth Sports Trust Now 43, Barrett is also a youth team coach at Stoke City and is currently working towards his UEFA ‘A’ coaching badge having already picked up his ‘B’ licence. He harbours ambitions of moving into management one day and was recently linked with the vacant post at League of Ireland side Sligo Rovers.
Should Barrett make a name for himself in the dugout, he will be classed as another success story for Kick It Out. “It’s hard to say why there are so few black or Asian managers and coaches in the game, particularly when you consider how many black players there are,” he points out. “To be honest I could see there were no black managers when I was playing so I thought why bother going into coaching?
“It was a self-defeating mentality when I should have been saying, hang on, get all your qualifications then argue the toss.” Leading by example comes naturally to Barrett. Unlike Big Ron, though, this is unlikely to be the last we’ll be hearing from him.
Stuart Pearce tips Jack Rodwell to break into senior England set up
Aug 6 2010 by David Randles, Liverpool Echo
STUART PEARCE has tipped Jack Rodwell to break into the senior England set up.
The England U-21 manager is also an integral part of England manager Fabio Capello’s backroom team and was at Goodison Park this week to run the rule over Rodwell, who helped Everton to a 2-0 win over CD Everton. Rodwell has been earmarked as one of the youngsters expected to make the step up to the full international stage following England’s woeful World Cup campaign.
The nineteen year-old was considered for a first senior call up for England’s friendly against Hungary next Wednesday but has instead been included in Pearce’s Under-21 squad for a game against Uzbekistan the day before. And Pearce revealed: “As we have always said, it is in the players' hands, their form will dictate that. I travelled to watch him play (on Wednesday night) as well as the likes of Phil Jagielka.
"It's in their hands as to what they do when we watch them. Everyone is under consideration. "After a major tournament you talk about the younger players' names are put forward. Jack is certainly one with potential to go right through the age groups." Pearce sees all the right attributes in Rodwell to make it at the top level and also praises Blues boss David Moyes for his handling of the player. "You only have to spend two minutes in his company to see he is far beyond his years, mentally," said Pearce. "He is fortunate to have a club like this behind him to guide him. I give David Moyes a lot of credit. Some clubs don't have the faith but David has with Jack.
"The more experience I can give him at Under-21 the more that will help him as well.
"He has got to build on what he is doing at Everton and if he can keep getting international experience it will help him at international level and at his home club."
Meanwhile, Jermaine Beckford has described the ‘spine tingling’ feeling of playing at Goodison Park for the first time. The summer signing made his home debut against CD Everton and marked the occasion with the opening goal. That was Beckford’s third goal of pre-season since joining from Leeds United. “It was brilliant,” said the striker. The atmosphere was great, the pitch was great, the stadium was great, and the game was really good as well. I had a lot of fun. “Walking out of the tunnel for the first time was spine tingling. It was really good.” Tickets are now available for the next game at Goodison against Wolves (Premier League) on 21 August. Visit the online ticketing service at evertonfc.com/eticketing or by call 0871 663 1878, pressing option 1. Fans can also purchase tickets from the Box Office.
Everton FC's redevelopment plans 'no guarantee' that Goodison will remain home says council
Aug 6 2010
CITY political leaders said they did not believe Everton FC’s plans for a £9m development at Goodison Park was a total guarantee the club would remain on its home turf. They welcomed news of the four-storey, 100,000 square foot project including a shop, museum, cafe, offices and hospitality suite to be built at its current site. While club chief executive Robert Elstone said the decision all-but ruled out a move to a new stadium “in the medium term”, council leader Cllr Joe Anderson said the scheme should not be taken as an indication the Blues’ future at Goodison was guaranteed. Liverpool Walton MP Steve Rotheram added that it was important Everton “remained where it is as long as the fans want them to.” The development, which will be at the Park end of the site, will see investment from both the club’s retail and commercial partners Kitbag and Sodexo which will mean it is “self-funded” and will not rely on public subsidy. But Everton’s future plans are being monitored closely by the council, which Mr Elstone said recognises any major project is “hard to deliver” without major investment. However, the club is of the mind this can be best achieved with the involvement of a “major retailer”, a desire that was thwarted when the government rejected its plans to partner with Tesco and move to Kirkby.
Cllr Anderson said he still believed remaining at Goodison was the club’s “least attractive option”. He added: “You have to lose revenue when you are rebuilding parts of the ground, they experienced that when they rebuilt the Park end of the stand.
“I still think it’s do-able, that’s my own opinion, but it’s not down to me to say.
“I don’t think this signals one way or another that they’re staying there, it signals that this is a long process that is going to drag on.” Walton MP Mr Rotheram added: “Any investment we have to be thankful for. “I think it’s important Everton remain where they are as long as the fans want them to. “It’s important that the fans are consulted on these issues. “They have to engage with the people who are most affected by the decisions they make.”
Robbie Savage regrets missing out on Everton FC move
Aug 6 2010 by David Randles, Liverpool Echo
ROBBIE SAVAGE has revealed the biggest regret of his career was not signing for Everton when he had the chance. The former Welsh international was heavily linked with a move to Goodison Park five years ago when he was at Birmingham.
Blues boss David Moyes had Savage in his sights but the boyhood Evertonian ended up at Blackburn Rovers instead. The combative midfielder has not been averse to generating headlines throughout his career but wishes joining Everton had been one of them. “I regret the way it ended with Steve Bruce at Birmingham because to be playing for him was great,” said Savage. “My time at Birmingham was probably the most successful of my career. “I know I played for Blackburn in Europe but, in terms of having everything, at Birmingham it was incredible. “I regret getting Justin Edinburgh sent off in the Leicester versus Tottenham League Cup final in 1999.
“But the biggest regret of my career was not signing for Everton. I had a great opportunity to do that and I wish I had pushed that a bit harder.” The Derby County veteran added: “I was at the World Cup this summer and I saw David Moyes and I said ’why didn’t you sign me?’ “And he said ’we couldn’t afford you in the end’ tongue in cheek. “But he put two or three bids in for me and one was accepted by Birmingham but it got turned down at the last minute for some reason and I went to Blackburn instead.”
We must break wage structure to keep stars - Everton FC boss David Moyes
Aug 6 2010 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
DAVID MOYES admits Everton will have to break their wage structure if they are to keep hold of their leading players. The Goodison manager faces an anxious few weeks before the transfer window closes with both Mikel Arteta and Steven Pienaar attracting strong interest from potential suitors. Arteta is a target for Barcelona, Manchester City, Arsenal and Sevilla while Pienaar is being tracked by a number of clubs including Champions League finalists Bayern Munich. Pienaar’s situation is further complicated by the South African having already entered the final year of his contract. Negotiations with the players’ representatives have been on hold since before the World Cup, and unless an agreement is reached Pienaar will be able to have talks with any club from abroad come January. Everton continue to work within tight financial restraints, but Moyes believes the board must expect to pay higher salaries for leading players if they want to challenge in the upper echelons of the Premier League. “We cannot keep our best players if our wages don’t increase,” said the Goodison manager. “That is the part we have to make sure we keep improving. “We have to make sure we keep the players we have got at the moment even if we can’t go out and spend on new talent all the time.” Moyes has had little money to spend in the transfer window, but has witnessed an encouraging start to Everton life for many of his bargain recruits. Among those is Jermaine Beckford, who described his Goodison debut as “spine-tingling” after netting the first goal in the 2-0 friendly win over Everton’s Chilean namesakes on Wednesday night. “It was brilliant,” said Beckford. “The atmosphere was great, the pitch was great, the stadium was great, and the game was really good as well. I had a lot of fun. “It’s always good to score, and when it's in front of the home fans there aren't many better feelings.” Beckford, a free signing from Leeds United, has put himself into contention for a Premier League debut against Blackburn Rovers on the opening day of the season a week tomorrow.
And of his first Goodison experience, Beckford added: “It was really good. The atmosphere was brilliant and the fans are great. I'm just happy to get off the mark, well, to get another one, and hopefully I'll be able to continue when the season starts.
“The more you play with players, the more they get to learn your game and the more you learn their game. Then they start playing to your strengths and you start playing to theirs. And it seems to be working pretty well.”
Leighton Baines delight as Everton FC’s impressive pre-season form continues against Chilean namesakes
Aug 6 2010 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
LEIGHTON BAINES feels Everton’s preparations for the new season are well on track. The Goodison outfit continued their impressive and unbeaten pre-season campaign with a 2-0 win over Everton - their Chilean namesakes - in a friendly at Goodison Park on Wednesday night. David Moyes’s side now have just one more run-out, against German side Wolfsburg tomorrow, before their Premier League opener against Blackburn on August 14. Everton made a poor start last year, losing 6-1 to Arsenal on day one and then collecting just 15 points in 14 games, but Baines feels more positive this time around. The England international said: “The games and the training have gone well so far. “The important thing now is that we try to keep everyone fit and get ready to start the season as well as we have done in pre-season.
“As the games come along you get a bit sharper and everyone has looked sharp in all the games. “Everyone wants to go into the first game on a high note so it is important we end this pre-season well. “We all know last season that we had a poor result in the first game, one of the worst we could have imagined. “It is important, psychologically, to start well – but it is one game and there is plenty of time to recover.”
Baines has been impressed with the performances of new signing Jermaine Beckford this summer. The 26-year-old striker is stepping up to the top flight after excelling at League One level with Leeds. Beckford followed up his double against Preston last month with his first goal at Goodison as he headed the opener against Chile’s Everton.
Baines added: “It looks like he knows how to score. He is one of those people that have a knack for finishing. “He looked sharp and he also offers a threat behind. He looks like he is going to be a good addition to the squad.” Everton finished last season strongly as they lost just two of their final 24 games. It was form that might have seen them qualify for Europe had they not struggled so much early on when injuries proved a major factor. They ultimately had to settle for eighth. With most of the big names now fit - Marouane Fellaini played for the first time since February on Wednesday - Baines expects things to be different this year.
The 25-year-old said: “We haven’t been used to having so many players over the last couple of seasons – they’ve been littered with injuries and problems.
“It’ll be nice to have everyone fit. We’ve got some real strength in depth now and some nice problems for the manager.” Fellaini is hoping to underline his return to fitness by another outing in Germany tomorrow after playing the second half on Wednesday night. “My ankle feels good,” said the 22-year-old. “I’m in full training every day and I’m aiming for the start of the season. I am hoping my ankle still feels as good after more games in quick succession. “I’d like to play on Saturday and then maybe for the national team (next week) before the season starts.” Fellaini added: “It can be hard psychologically going into your first tackle when you’ve had a serious injury. I’ve worked hard over the last five months. “It’s going to take four or five games in succession to get back to normal. Normally it takes three or four weeks to get back physically, and after that it’s normally okay.”
No guarantee Everton FC will stay at Goodison Park, say politicians
Aug 6 2010 by Marc Waddington, Liverpool Daily Post
CITY political leaders said they did not believe Everton FC’s plans for a £9m development at Goodison Park was a guarantee the club would remain on its home turf. They welcomed news of the four-storey, 100,000 sq ft project – including a shop, museum, cafe, offices and hospitality suite – to be built at its current site.
But while club chief executive Robert Elstone said the decision all but ruled out a move to a new stadium “in the medium term”, council leader Joe Anderson said it should not be taken as an indication Everton’s future at Goodison was guaranteed.
Walton MP Steve Rotheram added it was important Everton “remained where it is as long as the fans want them to”. The development, which will be at the Park End of the site, will see investment from both the club’s retail and commercial partners Kitbag and Sodexo, which will mean it is “self-funded” and not rely on public subsidy.
But Everton’s future stadium plans are being monitored closely by the council, which Mr Elstone said recognised any major project was “hard to deliver” without major investment. But the club is of the mind this can be best achieved with the involvement of a “major retailer”, a desire which was thwarted when the Government rejected its plans to partner with Tesco and move to Kirkby. Cllr Anderson, a season-ticket holder, said he still believed remaining at Goodison was the club’s “least attractive option”. He added: “You have to lose revenue when you are rebuilding parts of the ground – they experienced that when they rebuilt the Park end of the stand. I still think it’s do-able, that’s my own opinion, but it’s not down to me to say. “I don’t think this signals one way or another that they’re staying there. It signals that this is a long process that is going to drag on.” Mr Rotheram added: “We have to be thankful for any investment. I think it’s important Everton remain where they are as long as the fans want them to.”
David Moyes fears Mikel Arteta and Steven Pienaar will leave unless Everton increase their wages
Aug6 2010 The Daily Mail
Everton manager David Moyes has told the club they risk losing Mikel Arteta and Steven Pienaar if they do not break the wage structure at Goodison Park.
Spain midfielder Arteta has been linked with a move to Barcelona, Manchester City, Arsenal and Sevilla, while South African Steven Pienaar has also had his fair share of suitors including Bayern Munich. Pienaar’s situation is further complicated by the South African having already entered the final year of his contract.
Moyes is worried he may lose both players if any bids come in from clubs offering the players more wages. And he said: 'We cannot keep our best players if our wages don’t increase. That is the part we have to make sure we keep improving. 'We have to make sure we keep the players we have got at the moment even if we can’t go out and spend on new talent all the time.' Moyes has had little money to spend in the transfer window, but has witnessed an encouraging start to Everton life for many of his bargain recruits.
Everton must pay more to keep their best players, warns David Moyes
The Guardian Friday 6 August 2010
By Andy hunter
The Everton manager says improving the terms of existing players, such as Mikel Arteta, is more pressing than new signings. Photograph: Nigel French/Empics Sport
David Moyes has told Everton's board of directors the club risk losing their main players unless they break the wage structure. The manager's warning follows an admission from the Everton chief executive, Robert Elstone, that the club are unlikely to leave Goodison Park "within the next five years". The Goodison futures of influential midfielders Mikel Arteta and Steven Pienaar are both uncertain with the pair yet to accept lucrative contract extensions offered this summer. Pienaar has 12 months remaining on his Everton contract and wants more than the £60,000-a-week offer to stay while Arteta, who is under contract until 2012, would become the club's highest earner should he accept a proposed £75,000-a-week extension.
Despite Moyes's appeal, the offers to Arteta and Pienaar represent a marked increase on their existing contracts at Everton. The Spanish midfielder, who has been linked with Manchester City, Arsenal and Barcelona this summer, earns £45,000 a week, and the Everton manager believes improving the terms of existing players is a more pressing issue than new signings this summer. Moyes, speaking at an Everton shareholders' forum, said: "We cannot keep our best players if our wages don't increase. That is the part we have to make sure we keep improving. We have to make sure we keep the players we have got at the moment even if we can't go out and spend on new talent all the time." The chairman Bill Kenwright told shareholders he was "more hopeful we will start the season with the players we ended the season with last year", albeit with the caveat that: "You can never say that something will definitely happen until it does." Kenwright has been unable to transform the club's finances through investment or a new stadium, with the government rejecting a proposed relocation to Kirkby in conjunction with Tesco last November. At the forum Everton announced plans for a £9m retail development behind Goodison which, subject to planning permission, will be completed within a year. The complex will house a shop, museum, café, corporate hospitality and offices, freeing up space inside the stadium for corporate facilities. Elstone, Everton's chief executive, said financial assistance from the club's commercial partner Sodexo and the retail partner Kitbag ensured the project would be "self-funded". He said: "There is no net cost to the club. In fact, it is cash-positive from the start." But Elstone said the scheme was essential to increasing revenue given Everton's continued struggle to finance a new stadium. The chief executive added: "If we are being realistic about the situation, to be inside a new stadium within the next five years, it's very hard to see that happening. That's why this new development has to have a quick payback and it has. Our discussions with Liverpool city council have been very positive but we need support that has to come from a major retail development. The city council recognise that is hard to deliver. It is a problem we have faced for 10-15 years. It is difficult to see a new stadium in the short and medium term."Everton's board faced fierce opposition to its plans to move the club outside the city of Liverpool to Kirkby and Kenwright indicated that controversy would not be repeated. "It [the new retail complex] doesn't mean the search isn't going to go on for a new stadium within the Liverpool city boundary," he said.
Everton visit could be first of many high profile friendlies
Friday August 06 2010
The Sligo Champions
The visit of Barclay’s Premier Division side Everton to the Showgrounds for Sunday’s eagerly awaited friendly against Sligo Rovers could be the launching pad for many such high profile fixtures, officials have revealed. Manager David Moyes and the Everton squad fly into Knock on Sunday ahead of the big kick-off at 7.00p.m. and Rovers hope further top profile opposition will make a similar journey in the not too distant future.
Jamie Carragher's testimonial wil be family day out at Anfield
Aug 7 2010 by Dominic King, Liverpool Echo
EVERY Evertonian will have October 17 ringed in their diaries for obvious reasons but the chance to record the first derby victory of the new campaign will come long before then. The Blues, of course, will provide the opposition in Jamie Carragher’s testimonial at Anfield on Saturday, September 4 and they will be defending a quirky record of never having lost to Liverpool in that kind of game. David Moyes has promised to send a strong team across Stanley Park but Royal Blue understands that some old Everton stalwarts will also be involved in the match. It is well known the all money raised from the event will go to charity and one cause that will benefit is the Everton Former Players Foundation, who will see their coffers swollen by the tune of £25,000. There will be a healthy representation of Evertonians in the crowd and Carragher – a boyhood Blue – is known to want to be a family day, which explains why the entire Everton and Liverpool Academies have been invited to the game for free.
Everton FC supporter letters
Aug 7 2010 Liverpool Echo
PEOPLE who say that results in pre-season games don't matter are usually the people who aren't winning them. I know it ultimately counts for nothing if we can't pick up points in the league but I'm delighted that Everton have so far looked impressive throughout their summer programme – winning all six of their matches to date.
The fact that we play such good passing football now rather than merely up tempo battling has helped us control these friendly fixtures but I believe we've still retained enough of our competitive spirit to carry on the form into the new campaign.
Given all this promise I think it would be foolhardy for either Mikel Arteta or Steven Pienaar to jump ship now. There is so much promise in this current Blues side – our best since we last won the title – and the club have offered them both lucrative new contracts to stay. Let's keep our fingers crossed that this is finally the year we win a trophy. Ray Buckley, Wallasey.
LOVING the start that Jermaine Beckford has made. I know Moyes said it was a gamble bringing him up the league ladder but he seems very confident and has a very good finish. I realise it’s early days but if he can bring this form into the new season I don’t see any reason why he cannot be a 20-goals-a-season man. Hotgreg
Everton FC fans enjoy their chance to meet manager David Moyes
Aug 7 2010 by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Echo
EVERTONIAN Richard Deane is an even bigger fan of David Moyes after meeting him this week at a Q&A event. He said: “I know it was much appreciated by all those I spoke to afterwards – my already high opinion of our great manager has only been enhanced.” The visit was organised by 188bet.
Everton FC will secure shock Premier League title victory this season
Aug 7 2010 by Chris Beesley, Liverpool Echo
EVERTON are going to win the Premier League title this season! It’s a bold statement, perhaps even a downright reckless one given the way money rules English top flight football these days. The bookies will offer you a whopping 150-1 for Moyes’ men to upset the odds and be crowned champions in May. But just what basis does this seemingly outlandish statement come from? Is it down to remarks made by David Moyes? The Blues boss has said: “I’d like us to finish first, even if it’s perhaps unrealistic but I can’t sit there in front of my captain and my players and say I want to finish fifth or fourth. “I couldn’t do that to my team. I have to say we’re going to finish first, it’s probably unrealistic but I have to believe that can happen, and I have to send my team out with that.” Is it down to Chelsea and Manchester United having ageing sides and Everton’s bright young things only losing two of their last 23 Premier League matches last season? I’m afraid not. Phil Neville will be lifting the Premier League trophy above his head in May because of a spooky numerical pattern that tells us the Blues’ time for glory has come around again. Time for goalkeeper Tim Howard to take note because it all revolves around the number 24. Some clubs have dominated certain eras of the game but Everton’s successes have been accumulated steadily on a fairly consistent long-term basis. After lifting their first League title in 1891, Everton had to wait another 24 years to be crowned champions again in 1915.
After going 24 years without a champion-ship, Everton then won four titles over a 24-year period with the 1915 success supplemented by victories in 1928, 1932 and 1939.
Then another 24 barren years passed until the Blues finished top of the pile again in 1963. Sure enough, four titles were collected over a 24-year sequence with league glory in 1970, 1985 and 1987. And of course 24 years on from 1987 takes us to 2011.
If history is to repeat itself then not only will Everton be celebrating next spring but three further titles will follow, climaxing in the year 2035. Everton are currently 15 years into a trophy drought but have never gone a quarter-of-a-century without securing silverware. As barren spells go, their 24-year wait is actually the shortest of any English club, a record curiously held jointly with neighbours Liverpool. It was John Moores’ millions that finally helped to bring the Blues back to the top in 1963 after having to wait since 1939 to reopen the Goodison trophy cabinet.
While overall, such a statistic is impressive for Everton, it does however pale in comparison to some of their major rivals in the modern era. Arsenal had to wait 44 years to win a major trophy but ever since they won their first league title in 1930, the longest they’ve had to wait to enjoy silverware is 17 years (1953-70). Similarly, the 17 years between Liverpool’s titles in 1947 and 1964 is the longest trophyless spell at Anfield post-war and they’ve never gone more than seven years without a cup since their first title under Bill Shankly in 1964. What 21st century football does tell us though is that while blanket success is more easily achievable for those with cash, those without find lifting some silverware even harder.
Greg O'Keeffe: Everton v Everton game was full of highlights
Aug 7 2010 by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Echo
IT WAS billed as the game that Everton couldn’t lose and the hosts must have been mightily relieved not to as the original Everton defeated their visitors from Chile at Goodison Park this week. Of course those who know their history will be aware that a team much closer to home wanted to call themselves Everton and play in blue and white when they were formed in 1892 but the FA put a stop to that.
The ‘other’ Everton who contested ‘The Brotherhood Cup’ on Wednesday night had crossed the Andes, Amazon and Atlantic to be here and were given a warm Mersey reception for their landmark game. Although the visitors from Vina del Mar played predictably attractive football, Moyes’ men displayed typical Premier League might throughout with plenty of silky stuff themselves. With a bit more good fortune and accuracy in their shooting boots, the Blues could have inflicted a real thrashing but given the friendly nature of the contest and result that keeps their 100% pre-season record intact after six games, they’ll no doubt be happy enough. To their credit, CD Everton brought 171 travelling supporters with them from South America – which is nine more than Fulham brought to Goodison last season! There were also a couple of drums which kept fans’ feet tapping for the full 90 minutes. Highlights included the rousing reception for referee Mark Halsey, taking charge of a game for the first time since winning his cancer battle and the sight of an injured Chilean player doing a ‘half lap of honour’ after been substituted through injury, high-fiving his way past the fans in the Gwladys Street.
Phil Jagielka believes Wolfsburg will be big test for Everton FC
Aug 7 2010 by James Pearce, Liverpool Echo PHIL JAGIELKA believes Wolfsburg will provide the perfect test for Everton in today's final pre-season friendly at the Volkswagen Arena. The Blues have won all six of their warm-up matches so far to boost confidence ahead of next Saturday's Premier League opener at Blackburn Rovers. However, the centre-back is expecting a much tougher assignment against the 2009 Bundesliga champions. “I think the games so far have been good games but we have gone into them as favourites,” he said. “Wolfsburg will be very interesting. They have been playing Champions League football recently and they're at home so I think this is going to be by far our biggest test. “But I'm more than confident with the squad we've got, and the boys looking as good as they are, that we can get a result.”
Wolfsburg are managed by former England boss Steve McClaren. He took over at the German club in May after leading FC Twente to their first ever Dutch title.
After his dismal reign in charge of the national side, which culminated in the failure to qualify for Euro 2008, Jagielka is delighted to see the former Middlesbrough coach rebuilding his career. “He is a fantastic manager and a great coach," Jagielka said.
“There is one reason he got the England job and that's because of the fantastic job he did beforehand. “He knew he had to get out the limelight here because of the way our press is. He went to Holland and did an amazing job, and now he has got a great job at Wolfsburg. “That tells you how big a club Wolfsburg is if Steve McClaren is prepared to leave a championship winning team in Holland to progress his career.”
When Jagielka sat out last weekend's friendly at Norwich it sparked fears he could be facing another spell on the sidelines. But the defender, who was out for nearly a year with a cruciate knee injury, returned for the midweek win over Everton Chile and is fit to face the Germans today. “There are always going to be rumours,” he said. “I didn't play at Norwich and I just needed a couple of days off my feet. “I feel good again and hopefully I'll get a bit of game time over in Germany and then prepare for the season.
“Pretty much every pre-season game I played was 90 minutes so I just needed to back off for a couple of days.” Striker Yakubu is set to make his first pre-season appearance today with John Heitinga and Victor Anichebe the only senior names missing from a 21-man squad. Heitinga is still building up his fitness after the World Cup, while Anichebe is expected to resume training next week after injury. Everton Ladies got their Champions League qualifying campaign off to a flying start with a 6-0 victory over Faroe Islands outfit Klaksvik in Lithuania. Fara Williams netted twice and there were further goals from Natasha Dowie, Toni Duggan, Michelle Hinnigan and Gwen Harries.
Everton FC aim to keep perfect pre-season going at Wolfsberg
Aug 7 2010 Liverpool Echo
IT'S been the kind of pre-season Everton manager David Moyes dreamed of when he was on the sun-lounger back in June. A hectic schedule which has taken the Blues around the world and back has yielded six straight wins, 14 goals and only three conceded. The Aussies have been taught a lesson, the Championship contenders outclassed and their Chilean namesakes sent packing. New faces have settled in quickly, injuries have been avoided and Moyes has been able to keep hold of his star names. Fitness and confidence have been gradually built up in equal measure.
The Scotsman boasts real strength in depth and the squad has never looked stronger during his eight-year reign. There is now just one more hurdle to clear before next Saturday's Premier League opener against Blackburn Rovers at Ewood Park.
Wolfsburg await the Blues at the Volkswagen Arena today and they promise to provide a much tougher test. The Bundesliga outfit represent a step up in class but Everton assistant manager Steve Round believes his players are well prepared for the challenging showdown in Lower Saxony. “We are quite pleased with the way things have gone so far,” Round said. “We’ve won all our games, we're looking fit and we're injury free. We just have to ensure that's still the case on August 14.
“We would have liked to have scored more goals against the Chileans but it was a good workout. “We've created a lot of chances all pre-season and we've been quite pleased with our attacking play. “The attractive football we're playing is something we've carried on from last season.” There will be a familiar face in the home dugout today with Steve McClaren settling in to life as manager of Wolfsburg. The man dubbed 'The Wally with a Brolly' after his ill-fated England reign ended on a dismal night at Wembley three years ago, is on the road to redemption.
A two-year stint in Holland at FC Twente culminated in him guiding the un-fancied club to their first ever Dutch title in April.
In doing so McClaren became the first English manager since Bobby Robson at Porto in 1996 to win a major European league title. Having gone a long way towards restoring his reputation, the former Middlesbrough boss was in demand and when Wolfsburg swooped in May he became the first Englishman to ever manage a Bundesliga side. McClaren's mission is to take the 2009 champions back to the top of the pile. And he has brought in an experienced head alongside him by appointing Pierre Littbarski, a World Cup winner with Germany in 1990, as his assistant manager. Last season was a turbulent one for the Wolves as coach Armin Veh was dismissed after little over half of the campaign. Lorenz-Gunther Kostner led them to eighth place and the quarter-finals of the Europa League, where they were beaten by Fulham, but their fans demand more. McClaren said: “Falling from first to eighth in the league last season was a nasty surprise for the club. “I've come here to take this team back to the top and back into European competitions. I came here because Wolfsburg have a lot of ambition and the means for success. “I know that this team has some fantastic individual players. I'm really looking forward to gaining experience in Germany and I would like to take in all of the history, tradition and culture of German football.” Wolfsburg, who open their Bundesliga campaign against champions Bayern Munich on August 20, have so far managed to hold on to their highly-rated strikeforce, Brazilian Grafite and Bosnian frontman Edin Dzeko.
McClaren has also boosted his ranks with the acquisition of German international defender Arne Friedrich, who played a key role in helping Germany reach the semi-finals of the World Cup in South Africa. Friedrich should make his debut today alongside fellow new signing Simon Kjaer. The Danish international was snapped up for Palermo. Kjaer believes Everton will have their hands full trying to contain Dzeko, who was the Bundesliga's top scorer with 22 goals last season. "Edin is the best player I've ever been up against,” he said. “He has no weaknesses. When he's fully fit, it's difficult for any defender to keep him under wraps.” That could mean a testing afternoon for Blues left-back Leighton Baines but he's relishing the challenge.
“The games and the training have gone well so far,” Baines said. “The important thing now is that we try to keep everyone fit and get ready to start the season as well as we have done in pre-season. “As the games come along you get a bit sharper and everyone has looked sharp in all the games. “Everyone wants to go into the first game on a high note so it is important we end this pre-season well. “We all know last season that we had a poor result in the first game, one of the worst we could have imagined. It is important, psychologically, to start well.” Injuries took their toll in the first half of last season and despite a remarkable run of just two defeats in their last 24 league games Everton narrowly failed to qualify for Europe. But with their big names now fit and raring to go, Baines is optimistic about the campaign ahead. “We haven’t been used to having so many players over the last couple of seasons – they’ve been littered with injuries and problems,” he admitted. “It’ll be nice to have everyone fit.
“We’ve got some real strength in depth now and some nice problems for the manager.” Marouane Fellaini is set to feature again today after making his comeback after six months out with an ankle injury in the midweek win against Chile's Everton.
TODAY'S game will be streamed live on Everton's official website. For more information or to subscribe to evertonfc visit: ww.evertontv.evertonfc.com/public/PreSubscribe
Everton FC’s John Heitinga sets sights on silverware
Aug 7 2010 by David Randles, Liverpool Echo
JOHNNY HEITINGA has promised to play until he drops to help Everton land silverware this season. The Dutch international returned to Finch Farm this week after a marathon season that ended with the versatile player helping Holland all the way to the World Cup final. Heitinga played in each of his country’s seven games in South Africa, including the final in which he was sent off in extra-time for a second bookable offence when he tripped Spain’s Andres Iniesta on the edge of the penalty area. Although Holland lost 1-0 in Johannesburg, Heitinga has no regrets and has now set his sights on the opening day of the Premier League season when the Blues travel to Blackburn. “I’m feeling ok. I had almost three weeks off and am now preparing myself for the Blackburn game,” said Heitinga, who has not travelled to Germany for today’s friendly against Wolfsburg. “I’ve done a couple of sessions and feel good. I played seven games in one month with just a few weeks off. You don’t lose too much fitness in that time. “I hope it’s going to be a big season for us. I will give everything that I have this season and hope we can win a prize. I will fight until I can’t play football anymore.” Heitinga is showing no signs of a World Cup hangover and, despite his personal disappointment in Soccer City last month, is dwelling only on the positives of Holland’s best tournament for over three decades. “It was a good World Cup, from the first game to the last,” he said. “In the end we didn’t win but it was a great tournament for us. To reach the final after 32 years was great. “I am really proud to say that I’ve played in a World Cup final. Coming second was still a big position to finish in. “The main highlight was to play in the final. It was a big day, right from the first steps on the field, it was amazing. “To have 90,000 people in the stadium and millions watching all over the world, it was the biggest game I’ve played in.”
Heitinga played all of Holland’s World Cup games at the heart of the defence.
He was also used as a right-back and in midfield by David Moyes last season but says he prefers playing a central role. “There are two positions for me – as a central defender or a defensive midfielder,” he said. “You have to fight for your position and only the best players can play. I will have to fight and show that I am the best player for that position. “I’m ready for that. You play many games in England, the league, FA Cup and Carling Cup. You need all the players. Sometimes last season, before Christmas, the squad was not fit. “Sometimes we had just nine players from the first team available. You need a big, strong squad. Competition in the squad makes the players and team better.” Yakubu is set for his first pre-season action of the summer after travelling to Germany with the rest of the squad for today’s game against Wolfsburg. Marouane Fellaini is likely to continue building his match fitness after a lengthy injury lay-off, and Tim Howard could also come back into the starting line up after sitting out Wednesday’s 2-0 win over CD Everton.
Travelling squad: Howard, Mucha, Neville, Yobo, Hibbert, Jagielka, Baines, Distin, Coleman, Osman, Cahill, Arteta, Fellaini, Pienaar, Bilyaletdinov, Rodwell, Gueye, Yakubu, Saha, Beckford, Mustafi.
Mikel Arteta 'signs new five-year contract at Everton FC'
Aug 7 2010 by Merseyside Sport, Liverpool Echo
THE Press Association has reported that Mikel Arteta has signed a new five-year contract at Everton FC. The club has yet to confirm the reports but the news would come as a massive boost for David Moyes and the club's supporters as the Spanish midfielder has been strongly linked with a move away from Goodison Park all summer.
Massive boost for Everton FC as Mikel Arteta pens new five-year deal
Aug 7 2010 by Merseyside Sport, Liverpool Echo
EVERTON FC has received a massive boost after influential Spanish playmaker Mikel Arteta penned a new five-year deal with the Blues. The 28-year-old had been heavily linked with a move away from Goodison Park all summer with the likes of Manchester City, Arsenal and even Barcelona all rumoured to be possible destinations. Arteta said: "What this summer has made me realise is how important I am to the club and how important the club is to me. "The chairman and the manager wanted me to stay 120 per cent and that makes me feel proud. We are all seeing the club and the future in the same way and that is special - something that you don't always find. "I believe in this squad. We have got a very strong squad now and it is getting difficult to pick an 11 because of the players we have. Something is happening here and I want to be a part of it." Everton chairman Bill Kenwright believes the new deal is a huge boost for the club so close to the new season. He said: "Mikel Arteta is one of the finest players ever to wear an Everton shirt and over the past few weeks his pride in wearing that shirt has helped our conversations hugely. Alongside several others in the squad we are both passionate Evertonians. "After already tying up the likes of Tim Cahill, jack Rodwell, Leighton Baines and Seamus Coleman on long-term deals we have now agreed terms with one of the finest and most influential players in our recent history." Arteta has been a key player for the Blues since first arriving on Merseyside in January 2005 and has twice been named the Club's Player of the Season in his time with Everton. Manager David Moyes sees Arteta as a key part of his plans for the future of the side. He said: "Its great news that Mikel Arteta has pledged his future to Everton. He is a very important player for us and we are delighted to secure him. "The Chairman deserves a lot of credit for making this deal happen. He is continually trying to move the club forward." Everton will now hope to tie up the future of South African star Steven Pienaar who has just one year left on his existing deal at Goodison.
Wolfsburg 2 Everton FC 0 - Match Report
Aug 7 2010 by James Pearce in Germany, Liverpool Echo
EVERTON'S hopes of a 100% pre-season record were dashed when they were beaten at Wolfsburg in their final summer friendly. David Moyes's side had won all six of their previous warm-up games in the build up to the start of the Premier League campaign next week. But Wolfsburg, Bundesliga champions a year ago, were a significant step up in class and first-half goals from Mario Mandzukic and Karim Ziani earned the Germans a deserved triumph. It could have been worse for Everton, with Tim Howard saving a penalty from Edin Dzeko before the break. And the result – and performance – gives Goodison manager Moyes food for thought ahead of the big kick-off at Blackburn Rovers next Saturday. Everton had been buoyed by the news before the game that Mikel Arteta had ended speculation over his future by agreeing to sign a new five-year contract. However, a strong line-up struggled to make inroads during a first half in which Wolfsburg, now managed by former England head coach Steve McClaren, largely dominated. In truth, the visitors were at times architects of their own downfall with a number of players having harmed their chances of a starting role at Ewood Park next Saturday. Raiding right-back Sascha Riether had already signalled his intent with a cross that was headed wide by striker Dzeko before creating the opener on 18 minutes, his low ball met by a sliding Mandzukic at the far post.
Nine minutes later, Sylvain Distin compounded an initial misjudgement that allowed Dzeko a clear run on goal by racing back and fouling the Wolfsburg man inside the area. Dzeko picked himself up to take the spot kick, only to see Howard dive to his right and save his penalty before repelling Mandzukic's follow-up attempt.
It was only a temporary reprieve, though, with another sequence of errors leading to Wolfsburg's second on 39 minutes. After Distin headed against Dzeko, Phil Jagielka's hurried clearance fell to Ziani who, standing out on the right wing, struck a miscued cross that fortuitously floated over Howard and into the net. Everton were restricted to shots from range in the opening 45 minutes with neither Arteta nor Leon Osman able to test Wolfsburg goalkeeper Diego Benaglio. With Marouane Fellaini on to play his second 45 minutes in four days following his return from six months on the sidelines, Everton enjoyed more possession as Wolfsburg looked to play on the counter-attack.
Yakubu also later emerged for his first appearance since the World Cup, but couldn't prevent Everton's pre-season ending on a rare low note.
WOLFSBURG (4-4-2): Benaglio; Riether (Cigerci 88), Kjaer, Barzagli, Schafer; Ziani (Johnson 82), Hasebe (Kahlenberg 84), Josue (Pekarik 77), Mandzukic (Dejagah 81); Dzeko (Ben Khalifa 88), Misimovic (Cicero 80). Subs: Friedrich, Madlung, Grafite, Hitz.
EVERTON (4-4-1-1): Howard (Mucha 46); Hibbert, Jagielka (Yobo 77), Distin, Baines; Bilyaletdinov (Fellaini 46), Arteta (Yakubu 77), Neville (Rodwell 69), Pienaar (Gueye 77); Osman (Coleman 84); Saha (Cahill 46).
REFEREE: Florian Meyer (Germany).
ATT: 13,707.
Everton's Phil Jagielka and Jack Rodwell can solve Fabio Capello's England problems
The World Cup did wonderful things for the reputation of some England players.
By Duncan White
07 Aug 2010 Daily Telgrapher
As you watched Miroslav Klose brush past a flat-footed Matthew Upson, Phil Jagielka's merits appeared irrefutable; as you watched the stodgy horror of England trying to get in behind Algeria, the absence of the pace and directness of Ashley Young and Gabriel Agbonlahor seemed a criminal oversight. There was nothing better for your international prospects this summer than not playing for England.
Fabio Capello needs fresh blood in his squad and with many of those who represent teams in the big-ish five straining his patience to its limit, there is a serious opportunity for those outside the oligarchy to get into favour. The hungry and talented players at Aston Villa and Everton must sense their opportunity and Capello might see the merit of picking players who do not feel entitled to their selection.
Everton can fill two key positions for England: centre back and holding midfielder. With Rio Ferdinand's fitness an ongoing concern and John Terry's form increasingly prone to erratic dips, Jagielka has the opportunity to secure a promotion.
Michael Dawson is admired by Capello but Jagielka is a more rounded player and, crucially, complements Terry better than the gung-ho Dawson. That Arsène Wenger wants him to succeed William Gallas in the centre of the Arsenal defence shows that he is not just a stopper but also a player with a more holistic approach to the game. And England need that for sure. That Moyes has managed to hold off Arsenal - so far at least - is a testament to the way he translates his personal ambition to the players. Unable to compete on wages, Moyes has to battle just to keep his carefully assembled cadre together. Steven Pienaar is the latest under threat. The manager is aided, however, by the emergence of Jack Rodwell, the man who could fill another of Capello's problem positions. In South Africa, no player was more glaringly missed than Owen Hargreaves - other nations had the luxury of fielding two elite holding midfielders where England had none. Indeed, so strapped for options was Capello that he had to resort to a partially fit Gareth Barry. Rodwell, so elegant on the ball, should make the holding position his own at Goodison this season. Still only 19, Rodwell has been left to play for the England Under-21s this week, rather than the full England squad, but if Everton can sustain another challenge for European football, Rodwell will surely be integrated into Capello's squad and, eventually, team.
Moyes's recruitment has been modest this summer - Jermaine Beckford on a free from Leeds is the most intriguing arrival - as he hopes to persuade the club to sanction bigger contracts for his key assets. In this he would be following the strategy of Martin O'Neill at Aston Villa. Like Moyes, O'Neill has assembled a squad of talented young players, blending British with astute foreign recruitment. Like Moyes, he faces another exhausting season of coaxing them to go a further round with the heavyweights. Not even an apparently prohibitive transfer fee and the offer of a decent new contract was enough to see off Manchester City's pursuit of James Milner. Yet such an inflated fee - as high as £24 million when Stephen Ireland is included, according to some reports, but more like £20 million actually - is great business for Villa, especially if O'Neill can get Ireland playing like he did two seasons ago. The Irish midfielder is a bit of a space cadet but lavishly talented. While Milner's departure will of course be damaging, O'Neill will be hoping that Capello's rediscovered open-mindedness will give his young English players that added edge of motivation. Agbonlahor and Young both possess the physical and technical requirements, but Capello has expressed reservations about their mental fortitude.
Young does not always demand the ball in the way Capello would like, while Agbonlahor lacks tactical focus. If an increase in thought and application is manifested in their game, Capello will revise his opinions. An early season burst of form would do neither any harm. Milner's departure could also work well for England. Fabian Delph is still recuperating from a long-term knee injury so Marc Albrighton, after impressing on the right flank in pre-season, should get the opportunity to prove why Villa are so excited about him. He has been selected for the England Under-21s game against Uzbekistan in Bristol on Tuesday, so Capello should have a chance to take an early look at him. Capello will get through plenty of road miles as he conducts a broad geographical survey of what the English game has to offer his jaded squad. In the next few weeks he will be watching an awful lot of football. Who has been overlooked? Who has sensed their opportunity? Darren Bent at Sunderland, Carlton Cole at West Ham, Ben Foster at Birmingham, Ryan Shawcross at Stoke, Gary Cahill at Bolton, Andy Carroll at Newcastle: across the country players have the chance to persuade Capello they are worth including for the first Euro 2012 qualifiers at the beginning of next month.
Wolfsburg 2 Everton 0
Sporting Life, August 8 2010
Everton lost their first pre-season friendly as they went down to a 2-0 defeat to Wolfsburg in Germany. Mario Madzukic scored at the back post to open the scoring before Steve McClaren's men were awarded a penalty when Sylvain Distin was ruled to have fouled Edin Dzeko. However, Tim Howard made a smart save to his right to deny Dzeko and then gathered the rebound from Karim Ziani. Wolfsburg finished the scoring when Ziani's floated cross drifted over Howard and into the top corner.
Ayegbeni Yakubu made his first appearance of pre-season as a second-half substitute.
Howard was replaced at the break by Jan Mucha, while Marouane Fellaini and Tim Cahill were also given run-outs.
MIKEL ARTETA MAKES EVERTON HISTORY WITH £20M DEAL
8th August 2010
Sunday Mail
MIKEL ARTETA will tomorrow sign a new five-year £20million deal – the biggest
It will commit the Spanish midfield star to the club for life and earn him a record-busting £75,000 a week in the process. Everton are naturally delighted to have captured Arteta, 28, long term after another summer of constant speculation that he would be snapped up by the likes of moneybags Manchester City, Arsenal, Chelsea or Barcelona. But now the midfielder has ended the doubt by agreeing to his bumper new contract after drawn-out Kenwright stepped in personally to add weight to Moyes’ bid to keep him and the Everton supremo has spent the last three months talking Arteta around to staying. Moyes had demanded the Goodison board pull out all the stops to keep his best players – and that’s just what they have done with a deal that has re-written the club’s wage structure. Arteta, who arrived on loan from Real Sociedad in the 2005 January transfer window and signed permanently for £2m the following summer, said: “I’m so pleased. “There has been a lot of speculation through the media all summer but I have just been speaking to the manager, the chairman and my agent. “I know there were two clubs interested in me and we needed to make a decision. “I know some fans have been asking: ‘Will he be loyal?’ Well I am loyal and I believe in what is happening here. “I feel very honoured and privileged because the club could have looked at the money on offer for me and been tempted.
“But it was never a consideration and that said a lot to me. “There has been a chance to go elsewhere but I think I have done something very important by staying here and committing my future to this club. “I’m really looking forward to the next five years. What this summer has made me realise is how important I am to the club and how important the club is to me. “The manager wanted me to stay 120 per cent and that makes me feel proud.” Kenwright couldn’t wait to shout from the rooftops that Arteta is staying to underline Everton’s determination to keep hold of their most prized assets. He said: “It’s a deal I really wanted to pull off. “It sends out a powerful message to everyone at Everton and to our supporters that we mean business. “I knew I had a fight on my hands but for the past three months I have done everything to try and persuade Mikel to stay. “Thankfully he’s staying and it’s wonderful news. “He is one of the greatest players ever to wear an Everton shirt.”
Arteta sticks with Toffees
Sunday August 08 2010
Irish Independent
Everton midfielder Mikel Arteta has agreed a new five-year contract at Goodison Park. The news will end speculation over the 28-year-old's future after a summer in which he has been linked with Arsenal and clubs in his native Spain. Arteta follows Tim Cahill, Leighton Baines, Jack Rodwell and Seamus Coleman in signing a new long-term deal this summer. "What this summer has made me realise is how important I am to the club and how important the club is to me. The chairman and the manager wanted me to stay 120 per cent and that makes me feel proud," said Arteta.
"We are all seeing the club and the future in the same way and that is special -- something that you don't always find. I believe in this squad."
Everton FC wauled by Wolfsburg
Aug 9 2010 by James Pearce, Liverpool Echo
IT WAS going to take more than this to wipe the smile off an Evertonian's face in the Volkswagen Arena. Of course watching the Blues being comprehensively outplayed by Wolfsburg was hardly the ideal end to a pre-season previously full of promise.
But news of Mikel Arteta committing his future to Goodison was more than adequate compensation for the hoards who embarked on the trip to this corner of Lower Saxony. Retaining the Spanish maestro's services for the next five years sends out a clear message to those desperate to prise away the club's crown jewels.
Having spent eight years compiling a squad of genuine depth and talent, David Moyes isn't prepared to stand by and let his hard work go to waste. With the unequivocal support of chairman Bill Kenwright, Moyes is gunning to take the Blues back into the Premier League's elite, not allow them to cherry pick his most valuable assets.
As Moyes put it on Saturday: “We don't have any money but we don't need any right now either.” Despite Everton's insistence he wasn't for sale, there were still genuine fears Arteta would set his sights on a new challenge this summer.
The 28-year-old was a wanted man with Manchester City, Arsenal, Sevilla and Barcelona all waiting in the wings. But, crucially, when Arteta pondered his options he came to the conclusion that he didn't need to go anywhere else to satisfy his desire for success. "I believe in this squad,” he said. "Something is happening here and I want to be a part of it." Keeping hold of what he's got has been Moyes' top priority over the past six months with Tim Cahill, Leighton Baines, Jack Rodwell and Seamus Coleman having all signed new long term deals. Now the hope is that Steven Pienaar, who has entered the final year of his contract, will follow Arteta's lead and reaffirm his commitment to the cause. The only disappointment was that on the day Arteta vowed to see out his career at Goodison, the Blues couldn't produce a performance to celebrate the occasion. Wolfsburg may have only finished eighth in Germany last season but this is still largely the same side which won their first Bundesliga title 12 months earlier. This uninspiring German town didn't even exist prior to 1938, when it was founded to house workers at the Volkswagen factory which was built on the orders of Adolf Hitler. The car maker bankrolls the Wolves and the Fuhrer these days is Steve McClaren. McClaren took over in May after leading FC Twente to their first Dutch title and on Saturday's evidence his side will be a force to be reckoned with this season. After being deafened by soft rock before kick-off, the travelling fans in the half empty ground could only sit back and admire the hosts as Wolfsburg dominated the opening 45 minutes. Bosnian striker Edin Dzeko, who was the Bundesliga's top scorer with 22 goals last season, has been in demand this summer with Manchester City and Juventus both chasing him. However, he stayed put after neither met the 40 million euros release clause in his contract. That was a boost for McClaren but bad news for Sylvain Distin, who endured a torrid afternoon at the hands of the impressive 6ft 3ins frontman. Denmark international Simon Kjaer and Dzeko had both gone close before Wolfsburg deservedly went ahead in the 18th minute. Dzeko turned creator, with a slick pass setting Sascha Riether free down the right and his cross to the back post was converted by Croatian Mario Mandzukic, who was snapped up by McClaren from Dinamo Zagreb last month. A lethargic Everton persisted in carelessly tossing away possession and Swiss keeper Diego Benaglio was largely a spectator. The visitors' best chance fell to Arteta but he dragged a shot wide after being teed up by Phil Jagielka. The Blues were lucky not to fall further behind before the half hour mark. Distin horribly misjudged a long punt forward and Dzeko pounced. The centre-back got back to put him under pressure but compounded his initial error by tripping the striker. Tim Howard spared Distin's blushes as he dived to his right to parry Dzeko's spot-kick and was alert to keep out Zvjezdan Misimovic's volley from the rebound. The American keeper took the plaudits then but six minutes before the break he was left red-faced. Distin and Jagielka both failed to clear their lines but there appeared to be little danger when the ball dropped to Karim Ziani on the right.
However, his mis-hit curling cross caught Howard flat-footed and nestled inside the back post. Moyes looked distinctly unimpressed and rightly so with his first half line-up largely the side expected to start at Blackburn on Saturday. Some may have played their way out of contention with Distin and Bilyaletdinov particularly lacklustre.
The boss rung the changes at the break with Jan Mucha, Marouane Fellaini and Tim Cahill brought on at the expense of Howard, Bilyaletdinov and Louis Saha. Everton improved and kept the ball better in the second half but with Cahill as a lone frontman until Yakubu was introduced late on they rarely threatened to reduce the deficit. Not even the famous Fellaini dragback worked as Brazilian Josue easily dispossessed him. It was that kind of day. Of course this defeat - Everton's first in any game since late February - matters little. In fact if their six previous wins against inferior sides this summer had created a sense of over-confidence it might actually do them some good by focusing minds ahead of Saturday's trip to Blackburn. Fitness has been built up and thankfully injuries have been avoided. Now Everton must learn the lessons of this chastening experience and ensure the errors aren't repeated - then the serious stuff starts at Ewood Park.
WOLFSBURG: Benaglio, Riether (Cigerci 88), Kjaer, Barzagli, Schafer, Ziani (Johnson 82), Hasebe (Kahlenberg 83), Josue (Pekarik 77), Mandzukic (Dejagah 81), Dzeko (Khalifa 88), Misimovic (Cicero 80).
EVERTON: Howard (Mucha 46), Hibbert, Jagielka (Yobo 46), Distin, Baines, Bilyaletdinov (Fellaini 46), Osman (Coleman 84), Neville (Rodwell 69), Arteta (Yakubu 76), Pienaar (Gueye 76), Saha (Cahill 46).
REFEREE: Florian Meyer
ATTENDANCE: 13,707
Everton FC’s Jermaine Beckford's finishing indicates he can make step up to the Premier League
Aug 9 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
IT WAS only a training game during Everton’s pre-season tour of Australia, but it was impossible not to notice something special about Everton new-boy Jermaine Beckford. The tattooed striker was doing little of note outside the box, but in one instant he suggested his reputation as an instinctive goal-grabber is far more than mere hype. With a flash of electric pace, the 26-year-old burst past his marker and then scuffed a shot – which nevertheless wound up in the bottom corner. Not a perfectly executed finish by any means, but the type of strike only someone with goals in their blood can muster. Two weeks later, Beckford scored his first Everton goals on home soil, a well-taken brace during a 3-0 friendly win over Preston North End at Deepdale.
But for the man who fired Leeds United to promotion last season with 31 goals, including FA Cup strikes against Manchester United and Spurs, seeing the net bulge has been the only constant during a topsy turvy career to date. After a schoolboy move to Chelsea fizzled out, the Ealing-born striker was forced to roll up his sleeves and find employment where he could; in restaurants, sport shops and even slogging it out in a warehouse. Meanwhile, he spent his weekends playing in front of paltry crowds in that local semi-professional league, his only ray of hope a consistent and prolific habit of scoring goals. But it was a move to Middlesex-based club Wealdstone where he began to show the potential to go all the way to the top. Veteran Wealdstone boss Gordon Bartlett helped nurture Beckford in those early days, and will be tuning into Match of the Day with special interest this season to monitor the progress of a young player he remembers fondly. “We got hold of Jermaine as a youth player when his Chelsea move didn’t work out,” says Bartlett. “I was coaching the Middlesex county side as well and I spotted him playing for them. “He was the most natural finisher I have ever seen. “He is confident beyond belief and I would say that’s one of his biggest assets. “He never gets tense in front of goal like a lot of strikers do. “Jermaine is the type of player who goes to congratulate the keeper if he saves one of his shots, because he knows he’ll just score past him next time. “I remember he had a penalty saved for us once and he stood there and clapped the keeper. Later in the game he put two past him. “Some of the goals he scored for us were out of this world. I won’t deny there were times when I was tearing my hair out with him. “He was a young lad, only just coming up but there was never any doubt he could go on to a successful future in the game.” During his time in charge Bartlett has seen seven players leave to play League football, four in the last 18 months alone. He even coached Premier League goal king Les Ferdinand at a former club. Wealdstone is clearly a well-run, professional in all but name club, which gives players an excellent grounding.
Beckford returned with Leeds last season to play a friendly against his old side, and ex-Portsmouth striker Bartlett enjoyed catching up with him. “He was a credit to himself,” he says. “Typically he stayed behind after having pictures taken with kids and popped into the club and met some old supporters. “Between when he joined us as a kid and then when he left he changed a lot. “He grew up an awful lot and had a newfound maturity. “I did a lot of patient nurturing with him and it paid off. I always believed in his ability. “We sent him out on loan when he was here a few times to help him. “I think that (loan moves in non-league football) made him realise it wasn’t too bad at Wealdstone. “He got himself a full time job and fulfilled that responsibility. It was just a case of handling him well to get the best out of him. “I’ve got everything crossed that he takes this opportunity and gets the best out of it. “It will be satisfying for us all if he does well at Everton. “Management is all about dealing with people – from the players to the bloke who cleans the dressing room and they are all important to you. “Becks was important to us and I hope to see him banging them in for David Moyes’ side on a regular basis.”
Everton FC need silverware to take next step forward
Aug 9 2010 by David Prentice, Liverpool Echo
A GENERATION of Evertonians has grown from childhood into maturity without the spine-tingling experience of seeing an Everton captain raise a piece of silverware above his head. It is now 15 years since Dave Watson joyously hoisted the FA Cup to the heavens at Wembley Stadium, then found he enjoyed the experience so much he did it again with the Charity Shield a couple of months later. But there’s been nothing since. Not even a Full members Cup or an Anglo Scottish Trophy to add to the honours list. It’s certainly not the longest trophy drought Everton Football Club has endured. The near quarter-century which spanned the title winners of 1939 and 1963 claims that unwanted distinction – with only a wildly celebrated promotion inbetween to offer any cause for celebration. But 15 years is too long for a club of Everton’s stature to endure. And there’s a mood at Finch Farm which suggests more and more individuals think it’s time that drought was ended. During the Blues’ pre-season tour of Australia, manager David Moyes sat alongside Tim Cahill and declared: “We have been a decent team in the Premier League for quite a few years now. “But if you know about the history of Everton – Everton have won championships and European competitions. “The one thing me and Tim haven’t done is win anything yet. I think for us to get that name we are going to have to do something about it.” Back in England, Tony Hibbert added: “We want to win a cup. There’ll be plenty of focus on that.
”We’re long overdue when it comes to silverware. As a local lad who’s been at the club all my career it’d be amazing to be playing when we won a cup.” It’s a feeling of frustration which has been growing year on year. Before the Blues last FA Cup semi-final appearance against Manchester United, just 15 months ago, captain Phil Neville said: “Getting to the semi-final does not mean we’ve done it. We need to get to the final and we need to win a trophy.” They fulfilled the first half of that vow, but despite a 23-second strike by Louis Saha, it was Chelsea who ran around Wembley with the silverware that afternoon. But there’s no doubt Moyes is getting closer. In 2008 Everton reached their first League Cup semi-final for 20 years, and when Yakubu’s venomous volley threatened to rip the Stamford Bridge goal net from its moorings, then Jon Obi Mikel did the same with Phil Neville’s knee to leave Chelsea down to 10-men, a Wembley final looked distinctly achievable. A catastrophic 92nd minute own-goal, however, changed the balance of the tie and Everton’s wait for a Wembley appearance went on. This time Blues fans didn’t have to wait very long. The very next season perhaps the toughest FA Cup run in the club’s history yielded some spectacular results. Liverpool, Aston Villa, Middlesbrough and then Manchester United were all humbled – only for Chelsea to do exactly what they’d done the previous year and break Blue hearts. But there’s no doubt Everton are getting closer. Beaten semi-finalists, beaten finalists, the next step is arguably the hardest to take. But it’s a stride clubs like Portsmouth, Tottenham, Blackburn and Middlesbrough have all taken in the past six seasons, which is why the draw for the second round of this season’s Carling Cup will be awaited with a little more eagerness than usual at Goodison Park.
David Moyes has, by common consensus, assembled the most formidable squad of footballers at Everton since the days of the mid-1980s when silverware jostled for space in the Goodison trophy cabinet. But regardless of the quality of those footballers, the confidence actually claiming a trophy can bring to a squad is tangible.
The squad of young players put together by Howard Kendall ended a 14-year trophy drought in the summer of 1984. Two league titles and a European trophy followed in quick succession. This could be David Moyes’ biggest chance yet of claiming that elusive first trophy. And after that . . . who knows? Everton’s squad – provided the Premier League’s predatory poachers are kept at bay until September 1 – is the strongest in recent memory. Influential stars like Marouane Fellaini, Phil Jagielka, Mikel Arteta and Yakubu are recovered from serious injury, rather than recovering, while the draining effects of a European campaign will be missing this season.
Fifteen years is too long for Everton Football Club to be trophyless . . . but there’s a growing sense of anticipation that things could be about to change.
Diniyar Bilyaletdinov may yet write compelling Everton FC story
Aug 9 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
THE season was seconds from ending but Diniyar Bilyaletdinov was not done quite yet. Shy and quiet around Everton’s training ground, the Russian prefers to let his feet do the talking and when they feel like it – they tell a hugely promising tale. John Heitinga hurled himself into a tackle, winning possession as the game drifted towards a disappointing curtain-closing draw with relegated Portsmouth, and slipped the ball to Bily. Suddenly, in the time Jamie Ashdown had to blink, the ball was in the back of his net. “I told the boys at half-time I wanted some proper action, players throwing themselves at the ball and getting on the end of things,” said Moyes afterwards.
“Until that goal it looked like we’d run out of ideas – and let’s face it, Portsmouth should have had a goal. “But what a goal to settle it. A fantastic strike out of nothing, top corner, a goal of the season contender for us if he hadn’t already won that award for his goal against Manchester United.” Moyes, not prone to exaggeration, was blown away. The quality of the strike suggested his £9m signing from Lokomotiv Moscow can be a force to be reckoned with in Everton’s midfield. At only 25, the Russian who was recommended by Guus Hidink, still has plenty of room to mature. But first Moyes must solve the puzzle which the midfielder represents. The jury is out on whether Bilyaletdinov is really a winger. Instead of beating his man, the player signed as a left winger, prefers a fast passing game and to cut inside where his right foot can be used to devastating effect like his wonder-strike against Manchester United at Goodison. It remains to be seen if he has the pace to operate as a traditional winger, or if he will push for a more central place, possibly even contesting Tim Cahill for the role behind a centre-forward. For every quiet performance, when Bilyaletdinov seems frustratingly low-key, he will flash into life and show his eye for goal. In Australia his performances were largely ponderous, but in the second half against Norwich, he showed what he is capable of again with a deftly-taken strike in a crowded area. It is easy to forget that last season was Bilyaletdinov’s first in the Premier League, a massive change of pace and aggression from the Russian First Division. It may well be that Evertonians must continue to be patient, as their Russian enigma gradually unfolds, but the signs suggest that Bily could well be worth the wait.
Everton FC breakthrough is Seamus Coleman's aim
Aug 9 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
SEAMUS COLEMAN appears destined to take the Premier League by storm in royal blue. Consider the other avenues down which fate could have taken the quiet young Irishman. This time last season, Coleman’s career hung in the balance after a blister on his foot became infected during their pre-season tour of America. Only quick-acting medical staff prevented him from catastrophe as the infection ate into his flesh. Had it gone undetected, they said, Coleman could never have kicked a ball again.
Before that the Donegal youngster was made to choose between his love of Irish sport Gaelic Football, and football. When a career in the semi-professional GA which dominates many Irish households beckoned, it was a tough choice. Luckily for Everton, Coleman was spotted by Sligo Rovers when he lined-up for Donegal side, St. Catherine’s of Killybegs in a friendly match. He made his debut against Waterford United in 2006. But it was when Willie McStay, former teammate of David Moyes, recommended the right-back to the Scot that his career in England materialised.
Coleman was signed for £60,000 in January 2009, ahead of interest from Ipswich Town, Birmingham City and Celtic. How that small fee seems a bargain now.
The defender flourished during a successful loan spell with Blackpool, helping the Seasiders to Premier League promotion last season, and Holloway would love to have him back. But after a series of livewire performances in Australia, Moyes is letting Coleman go nowhere. The potential he showed when fearlessly tormenting Spurs on his Goodison debut last season was no flash-in-the-pan. Coleman is set for a breakthrough season at Goodison Park, with the 21-year-old keen to lean all the time. Those opposition wingers will have to think twice before charging forward, with Everton’s billy-whizz right back ready and waiting to turn defence into attack in an instant. “I didn’t feel as much pressure on my Goodison debut against Spurs, because I was on the bench, someone got injured and then I was on before I knew it,” he told the Echo this summer. “When you’re playing you don’t feel the pressure. But at Blackpool before the play-off final I felt the nerves. It helped me a lot playing in such a big occasion and it helped me as a player. “The Championship is a strong league. There’s a lot of big, physical players and the goals are flying in. “I tried my best to work on my defending and hopefully it helped. It was more a physical task. Obviously it’s a good standard of a league, but then you go up to the Premier League and it shoots up a level. It’s tough down there, maybe not as quick on the ground, but challenging. “Now I just want to keep impressing the manager and working hard,” he says. “If I get the chance I’ll shoot again, but if you’d seen my celebration you can tell I haven’t practised it much. I’ll have a go though; it might go in or it might hit row Z.”
Everton FC fans hope Yakubu's best days are in front of him
Aug 9 2010 by Hadyn Iball, Liverpool Echo
IT IS the sort of dilemma that most managers would like to have, but for David Moyes the idea of having half a dozen strikers to choose from is something of a novelty.
The additions of Magaye Gueye, Jermaine Beckford and Joao Alves have brightened an otherwise subdued summer’s dealings at Goodison Park, but suddenly Moyes has options in attack. And for one of Everton’s biggest names, that could spell trouble.
Yakubu’s Goodison career has stalled somewhat since a serious Achilles tendon injury, sustained at Tottenham in November 2008. After a fruitful debut campaign, the Nigerian has found consistency – and goals – hard to come by. Everton may have enjoyed a fantastic second half to the Premier League campaign, but for Yakubu 2009/10 was a season to forget. Recovering from an Achilles injury is no easy feat – as David Beckham will doubtless soon find out – but ‘The Yak’ laboured after his return to first team action last October. His sharpness clearly lacking, he finished the season with just five league goals in 25 appearances as Louis Saha, with 13 goals in 33, established himself as Everton’s ‘go to’ striker. Moyes himself hinted at a mental barrier which Yakubu needed to overcome before he could return to top form. The World Cup did little to repair the former Portsmouth man’s shattered confidence.
Although he was on target with a penalty in Nigeria’s final Group B match with South Korea, an inexplicable open goal miss in the same game would ultimately cost the Super Eagles a place in the competition’s last 16. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the newspaper rumour columns were soon linking the 27-year-old with a move away from Merseyside. West Ham were said to have made a £7million bid back in June, but Everton refused to countenance any such offer. Hardly surprising. Few strikers outside the league’s elite boast the kind of record Yakubu does. Since his arrival in England from Israeli side Maccabi Haifa in 2003, his goalscoring return has been nothing short of prolific. At Portsmouth he netted 43 times in 89 games, earning a £7million move to Middlesbrough, where he continued his form uninterrupted. It was no surprise when, after 36 goals in 101 games on Teeside, Everton took the plunge in 2007.
At £11.25m, Yakubu was the club’s record signing. He has since been surpassed by Marouane Fellaini in that respect, but 21 goals in his maiden campaign on Merseyside ensured he was a firm fans’ favourite. Now, having lost the best part of two years to the most unfortunate of injuries, the question on Everton supporters’ lips is; ‘Can The Yak ever recover his best form? The cynics would probably say no; Liverpool fans will remember the devastating effect Achilles injuries had on both Mark Lawrenson and John Barnes in the late 1980s/early 1990s. Lawrenson was eventually forced into retirement by his injury whilst Barnes, shorn of the pace and acceleration on which his game was based, would never be the same player again. Yakubu’s fans would argue that his game has never had the same reliance on speed, with movement and anticipation always more important to the Nigerian. Yet those who witnessed his anaemic displays at the back-end of last season could not have failed to notice the lack of sharpness in his all-round play. Moyes will be extra keen to ensure that this is remedied sooner rather than later. A good pre-season would have helped, but Yakubu has been kept out of the Blues’ summer campaign, and was omitted from Nigeria’s 35-man squad for the friendly with South Korea later this month. Doubts clearly remain about his general fitness. With Moyes likely to persist with his single striker system, utilising the Blues’ midfield supporting cast, chances are that Yakubu will be one of seven senior strikers competing for one starting spot. Saha is likely to begin the season in pole position, but with James Vaughan, Victor Anichebe and a trio of new signings on board, competition will be fierce at Goodison this season. Whether Yakubu has the stomach, or the fitness, for the challenge remains to be seen.
But Everton fans will be hoping his best days are still to come.
Marouane Fellaini living up to Everton FC record fee
Aug 9 2010 by David Prentice, Liverpool Echo
MAROUANE FELLAINI still commands Everton’s record transfer fee. A sum of £15m may be small change to other blue-shirted Premier League clubs, but to Everton it’s a small fortune. But the biggest tribute that can be paid to the big midfielder with the big hair, is that no-one mentions how much he cost any more. It wasn’t always the case. For 18 months Fellaini divided opinion amongst Evertonians more than a ground switch or David Moyes’ substitutions. Asked to play an unfamiliar role as an attacking midfielder, sometimes even a second striker – Moyes explained he still couldn’t trust him to occupy the more disciplined role of midfield anchor – he occasionally used his height and power to aerial effect. But consistently influential displays continued to elude him . . . until last winter. Finally employed in his favourite midfield role, Fellaini’s influence began to grow and grow. And the moment the ugly duckling became a swan arrived at Goodison Park on January 16. “Just listen to the crowd roar!” declared Match of the Day’s incredulous commentator as Marouane Fellaini span his way firmly into Evertonian affections that winter’s day. Craig Bellamy had just been left dizzy by an impudent piece of fertile footwork. And the stunning pirouette at the climax of Everton’s crushing 2-0 victory over Manchester City confirmed that Fellaini was finally looking like the real deal at the heart of Everton’s midfield. He was the holding midfielder the club had craved since the demise of Lee Carsley, but a defensive anchor who possessed a cultured edge. He reads the game eloquently, breaks up attacks with tank-trap tackling – and redistributes the ball simply but effectively. While playing slightly further back he still retains a commanding aerial ability and as strikes against Sunderland, BATE and Bolton proved, still has an eye for goal. Any debate on his merits or otherwise are now surely redundant. Patrick Vieira’s presence in the opposing line-up that February afternoon provided a telling contrast. If City’s latest signing was a faded figure, Fellaini is the Premier League’s coming force – showing all of the attributes and more that the Frenchman used to display in his Highbury heyday. Moyes said when he bought him he thought he could be the next Vieira, and until the Anfield derby match three weeks later he was not doing a bad impression, even down to the telescopic legs that come sliding in from halfway across the field to dispossess unsuspecting opponents. Following a bruising Merseyside derby, the Belgian’s season was over – a catastrophic collision with Sotirios Kyrgiakos nipping Fellaini’s flowering ….. in the bud. But for once for Evertonians there was a silver lining to serious injury. While the summer saw constant speculation linking those other midfield talents Steven Pienaar and Mikel Arteta with moves elsewhere, Fellaini was allowed to get on with his rehabilitation unchallenged. There had been talk of potential interest even before his ankle buckled under. Fellaini’s first season produced nine goals, but 13 yellow cards.
His second season produced three goals and just seven yellows. Born in Belgium of Moroccan parents, he spent the first 10 years of his life in Brussels, where he represented Anderlecht as a schoolboy. After another seven years in Mons, he moved on to Liege to pursue a career in professional football, something his father had unsuccessfully tried. “He was a goalkeeper in Morocco playing for Casablanca,” Fellaini said. “But when he moved to Belgium the paperwork didn’t come through so he had to play as an amateur in the lower divisions. “He got a job as a tram and bus driver and in his spare time would take my two brothers and me to the park to play football.”
World Cup brought fitful rewards for Everton FC stars
Aug 9 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
IT WAS a World Cup which sparkled fitfully and is unlikely to be recalled as a classic. But Evertonians will simply be breathing sighs of relief that their stars who took to the South African stage avoided injury. After a season so full of casualties, injury more than poor form was what the Toffees feared for their World Cup stars more than anything. There can have been few World Cups with so much varied interest for the Blues. With Tim Cahill, Steven Pienaar, Joseph Yobo, Yakubu, John Heitinga, Jan Mucha and Tim Howard all playing starring roles there was plenty to keep them glued to their TVs. Howard had a confidence-boosting summer to remember. His star has never been higher in the World game since he swapped Old Trafford for Goodison Park. The American stopper was flawless, pulling off a string of top-class saves and helping the USA enjoy a robust tournament which made football fans from Atlanta to Hawaii sit up and take notice. Their draw with England alone generated massive media interest in the US, and Howard shook off some minor niggles to finish on a high. Already back into the hustle and bustle of Everton’s pre season he is set to be as strong as ever for the new season. Tim Cahill’s World Cup might not have lasted as long as he would have liked, and featured a controversial red card, yet he remains the David Beckham of Aussie soccer. The headlines he made during Everton’s tour down under left nobody in doubt of his status back home, and David Moyes even suggested Cahill could play in the 2014 tournament in Brazil.
The tireless midfielder bagged a hat-trick against Norwich in one of the Blues’ pre-season games to remind everyone that he is ready to return to his bread and butter after signing a morale-boosting new deal. John Heitinga can only have grown in stature. Playing in a World Cup final will have filled him with confidence, and added a level of experience many players can only dream about. His red card may have taken the gloss from the night, but the Dutchman looks set to resume where he left off in May, as a hugely important player for David Moyes. Steven Pienaar’s tournament flattered to deceive. The South Africans struggled to cope with great expectations on home soil, and the man they call Schillo carried most of them on his slender shoulders. Yet, his lack of personal glory could still benefit Everton who will be secretly grateful the diamond of their midfield engine was spared an even bigger international exposure and the associated transfer interest. For the Blues’ Nigerian duo, it was an underwhelming campaign. Yakubu led the line with the usual mix of power and experience, but missed key chances. The striker, however, needs playing time still to fully banish the memories of that horrific Achilles injury and will have benefited from the football. Joseph Yobo too will have felt disappointment that the Super Eagles paled in comparison to African pace-setters Ghana, but will have benefited from the experience.
Everton FC preview: David Moyes’ Blues have to deliver
Aug 9 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
LIKE Stepford Wives in royal blue shirts Everton players have been churning out the same optimism-laced message all summer. Sounding like they are on the brink of something very special; everyone from Tony Hibbert to Steven Pienaar has repeated the same mantra. The words may differ slightly from each soundbite to the next, but the point is clear: “This is the strongest squad we’ve had under David Moyes. If we can stay fully fit we can achieve something big – top four qualification, a trophy, or both.” Even the players are tired of keeping a lid on expectations – this could be David Moyes’ biggest season yet. It’s a confidence emboldened by a scintillating run of form from January to the end of last season, when the Blues lost just twice in 24 games, and which would have been enough to finish third if sustained across a campaign. And there’s the rub. The challenge facing Moyes’ side is to do that all season. Of course, much of that will rely upon luck with injuries and the manager’s hopes of starting the 2010/11 campaign without losing any if his most highly-coveted stars. For the former, Moyes can only cling to the hope that never again in his career can he endure such a horrendous season for injuries to key players as the previous one.
Everton players fell like dominoes, the manager missing almost all of his key personnel for considerable periods. It hardly bears recalling yet finishing eighth in a season when he was deprived of so many players for long spells was actually a real achievement. Phil Jagielka, Mikel Arteta, Phil Neville, Marouane Fellaini, Yakubu, Steven Pienaar, to name but a few, all had spells on the sidelines. Luck more rotten can have befallen few managers in the domestic game. So Moyes can do little but hope for a reversal in fortunes on the casualty front. He can do little more than hope for fortune in the transfer market too. Moyes must hope that he does not experience a repeat of the deeply unsettling Joleon Lescott transfer scenario with any of his key players. Both so influential on Everton’s play, Arteta eased concerns by committing his future to the club over the weekend, yet a cloud remains over Steven Pienaar’s immediate Goodison future. Like Arteta, the South African has been offered highly-lucrative new contract, yet, at the time of writing, is yet to put pen to paper. He does still have one more year on his current contract, but if he decided to leave with the same zeal of Lescott when it became apparent there was a suitor with big money on the table, it would leave the manager in an unedifying position. Plus his options for replacing them would be limited as the summer creeps towards completion is another dilemma. Nevertheless, Moyes has world-beaters to call on in many positions. With the ever dependable Tim Howard in goal, facing fresh competition from another World Cup star Jan Mucha, the goalkeeping scenario is a resounding plus. Of his full-backs the Scot has a blend of experience and potential which rivals would crave.
From the wise head and tackling solidity of Tony Hibbert to the England star in the making of Leighton Baines. Then there is the flourishing potential offered by Seamus Coleman. In central defence he can juggle a World Cup finalist who suggested he can be an Everton icon last season in John Heitinga, despite some ill-judged remarks before the tournament. Then there is the dependable and experienced Sylvain Distin, Nigeria’s captain Joseph Yobo and one of the best English centre-halves in the country in Phil Jagielka. In midfield there are obvious magicians like Pienaar and Arteta, but also the experience and composure of Leon Osman, the leadership of Phil Neville, Magaye Gueye’s nascent promise and the highly anticipated return of Marouane Fellaini. That is without mentioning a 19-year-old, in Jack Rodwell, with the world at his feet and the ink not yet dry on a fresh Everton contract. In attack there are further riches. Tim Cahill’s pre-season form suggest he will offer his usual glut of goals from behind a centre-forward, Louis Saha will contribute deadly accuracy and sheer class when his body allows him, and Yakubu may yet return to the form which saw him score 20 goals in a season two years ago. Of his few acquisitions, Moyes was able to add Jermaine Beckford, a calculated risk but a proven goalscorer who already seems to have settled at Goodison and may yet prove one of the manager’s shrewder buys in a densely packed field. Last season’s damaging injuries meant that European qualification was just out of reach. There will be no Thursday night Europa League treats for Evertonians. Yet that may still prove a blessing in disguise, with the second tier continental competition providing a distraction, even if it is a welcome one. Without that strain on his squad, Moyes and his players can focus on the league – a harder nut than ever to crack with Manchester City spending ceaselessly to break the top four. Equally they can focus on the domestic cup competitions and a chance to finally, after 15 long years, bring some long overdue silverware back to Goodison Park. None of these objectives will be easy, but with this current squad able to stay together and stay fit, the chances of open-top bus parades, of Blue pride flooding the city, of long-awaited glory have never been greater.
Everton FC defender Phil Jagielka determined to take his England chance
Aug 9 2010 by James Pearce, Liverpool Echo
PHIL JAGIELKA is determined to grasp his chance to shine after being named in the England squad for Wednesday night's friendly against Hungary at Wembley.
The Everton centre-back was recalled by manager Fabio Capello after being overlooked for the World Cup finals in South Africa. Jagielka, who has impressed for the Blues in pre-season, hasn't played for England since the World Cup qualifier against Ukraine in April 2009 but has high hopes of earning his fourth cap. “I'm really happy to have been called up,” Jagielka said. “It is a privilege to have the chance to represent your country and I'm looking forward to getting together with the rest of the lads. “Pre-season has gone well and I'm feeling in good condition. There is already a lot of excitement about the new season and this call-up is the icing on the cake for me.
“I will just be looking to make a good impression.” Meanwhile, Everton boss David Moyes admitted Everton got what they deserved in Saturday's 2-0 friendly defeat to Wolfsburg. “It wasn't good in the first half,” Moyes said. “Wolfsburg were rightly in front at half-time and it could have been more with Tim Howard saving the penalty, although their second was a bit of a fluke. “Tactically, they were better than us. They worked us out better and we couldn't quite solve the problems they caused us. Some of our defending was not great. “It was definitely a step up from the other sides we have faced. We expected that. “The German sides have done well in pre-season against Premier League opposition. It's not just us that have seen it as a step up in class. “We were 17 unbeaten before today but losing happens. I'm not desperately disappointed with what happened, it's pre-season. “But I am disappointed that there were some problems on the pitch the players didn't solve. “We had one or two defensive lapses. But it was a real technical game and Wolfsburg are very good at that. Fellaini made a difference in the second half,” Moyes added. “He helped tighten us up and made us a little bit stronger. But he's been out for six months and we're still trying to ease him in. “He is physically fit but I just don't know if he is really match fit at the moment.”
Everton FC chairman Bill Kenwright: Mikel Arteta's new deal is a message of intent
Aug 9 2010 by James Pearce, Liverpool Echo
EVERTON chairman Bill Kenwright believes snapping up Mikel Arteta on a new five-year deal sends out a “powerful message” to the club's supporters. Kenwright had been working all summer on attempting to convince the Spaniard to rebuff the advances of Manchester City and Arsenal. “This is the one we really wanted to get done,” he said. “Mikel is one of the finest players to have worn an Everton shirt and for him to commit what will probably be the rest of his career to the club is tremendous. “After already tying up the likes of Tim Cahill, Jack Rodwell, Leighton Baines and Seamus Coleman on long-term deals we have now agreed terms with one of the finest and most influential players in our recent history. “This sends out a powerful message to everyone at Everton and to our supporters that we mean business.” Arteta, who has scored 29 goals in 159 appearances for the Blues, returned to action in January after nearly a year out with a knee injury. He played a key role in Everton's strong finish to last season and his signature is a major boost for boss David Moyes ahead of this Saturday's Premier League opener at Blackburn. “Mikel is a very important player for us and we are delighted to secure him,” Moyes said. “The chairman deserves a lot of credit for making this deal happen. He is continually trying to move the club forward.”
Wolfsburg 2, Everton FC 0: James Pearce sees the Blues mauled in the Wolf's den
Aug 9 2010 by James Pearce, Liverpool Echo
IT WAS going to take more than this to wipe the smile off an Evertonian's face in the Volkswagen Arena. Of course watching the Blues being comprehensively outplayed by Wolfsburg was hardly the ideal end to a pre-season previously full of promise.
But news of Mikel Arteta committing his future to Goodison was more than adequate compensation for the hoards who embarked on the trip to this corner of Lower Saxony. Retaining the Spanish maestro's services for the next five years sends out a clear message to those desperate to prise away the club's crown jewels. Having spent eight years compiling a squad of genuine depth and talent, David Moyes isn't prepared to stand by and let his hard work go to waste. With the unequivocal support of chairman Bill Kenwright, Moyes is gunning to take the Blues back into the Premier League's elite, not allow them to cherry pick his most valuable assets. As Moyes put it on Saturday: “We don't have any money but we don't need any right now either.”
Despite Everton's insistence he wasn't for sale, there were still genuine fears Arteta would set his sights on a new challenge this summer. The 28-year-old was a wanted man with Manchester City, Arsenal, Sevilla and Barcelona all waiting in the wings.
But, crucially, when Arteta pondered his options he came to the conclusion that he didn't need to go anywhere else to satisfy his desire for success. "I believe in this squad,” he said. "Something is happening here and I want to be a part of it." Keeping hold of what he's got has been Moyes' top priority over the past six months with Tim Cahill, Leighton Baines, Jack Rodwell and Seamus Coleman having all signed new long term deals. Now the hope is that Steven Pienaar, who has entered the final year of his contract, will follow Arteta's lead and reaffirm his commitment to the cause.
The only disappointment was that on the day Arteta vowed to see out his career at Goodison, the Blues couldn't produce a performance to celebrate the occasion.
Wolfsburg may have only finished eighth in Germany last season but this is still largely the same side which won their first Bundesliga title 12 months earlier.
This uninspiring German town didn't even exist prior to 1938, when it was founded to house workers at the Volkswagen factory which was built on the orders of Adolf Hitler. The car maker bankrolls the Wolves and the Fuhrer these days is Steve McClaren. McClaren took over in May after leading FC Twente to their first Dutch title and on Saturday's evidence his side will be a force to be reckoned with this season. After being deafened by soft rock before kick-off, the travelling fans in the half empty ground could only sit back and admire the hosts as Wolfsburg dominated the opening 45 minutes. Bosnian striker Edin Dzeko, who was the Bundesliga's top scorer with 22 goals last season, has been in demand this summer with Manchester City and Juventus both chasing him. However, he stayed put after neither met the 40 million euros release clause in his contract. That was a boost for McClaren but bad news for Sylvain Distin, who endured a torrid afternoon at the hands of the impressive 6ft 3ins frontman. Denmark international Simon Kjaer and Dzeko had both gone close before Wolfsburg deservedly went ahead in the 18th minute. Dzeko turned creator, with a slick pass setting Sascha Riether free down the right and his cross to the back post was converted by Croatian Mario Mandzukic, who was snapped up by McClaren from Dinamo Zagreb last month. A lethargic Everton persisted in carelessly tossing away possession and Swiss keeper Diego Benaglio was largely a spectator. The visitors' best chance fell to Arteta but he dragged a shot wide after being teed up by Phil Jagielka. The Blues were lucky not to fall further behind before the half hour mark. Distin horribly misjudged a long punt forward and Dzeko pounced. The centre-back got back to put him under pressure but compounded his initial error by tripping the striker. Tim Howard spared Distin's blushes as he dived to his right to parry Dzeko's spot-kick and was alert to keep out Zvjezdan Misimovic's volley from the rebound. The American keeper took the plaudits then but six minutes before the break he was left red-faced. Distin and Jagielka both failed to clear their lines but there appeared to be little danger when the ball dropped to Karim Ziani on the right.
However, his mis-hit curling cross caught Howard flat-footed and nestled inside the back post. Moyes looked distinctly unimpressed and rightly so with his first half line-up largely the side expected to start at Blackburn on Saturday. Some may have played their way out of contention with Distin and Bilyaletdinov particularly lacklustre.
The boss rung the changes at the break with Jan Mucha, Marouane Fellaini and Tim Cahill brought on at the expense of Howard, Bilyaletdinov and Louis Saha. Everton improved and kept the ball better in the second half but with Cahill as a lone frontman until Yakubu was introduced late on they rarely threatened to reduce the deficit.
Not even the famous Fellaini dragback worked as Brazilian Josue easily dispossessed him. It was that kind of day. Of course this defeat - Everton's first in any game since late February - matters little. In fact if their six previous wins against inferior sides this summer had created a sense of over-confidence it might actually do them some good by focusing minds ahead of Saturday's trip to Blackburn. Fitness has been built up and thankfully injuries have been avoided. Now Everton must learn the lessons of this chastening experience and ensure the errors aren't repeated - then the serious stuff starts at Ewood Park.
WOLFSBURG: Benaglio, Riether (Cigerci 88), Kjaer, Barzagli, Schafer, Ziani (Johnson 82), Hasebe (Kahlenberg 83), Josue (Pekarik 77), Mandzukic (Dejagah 81), Dzeko (Khalifa 88), Misimovic (Cicero 80).
EVERTON: Howard (Mucha 46), Hibbert, Jagielka (Yobo 46), Distin, Baines, Bilyaletdinov (Fellaini 46), Osman (Coleman 84), Neville (Rodwell 69), Arteta (Yakubu 76), Pienaar (Gueye 76), Saha (Cahill 46).
REFEREE: Florian Meyer
ATTENDANCE: 13,707
Everton FC's Mikel Arteta: 'I never wanted to go anywhere else’
Aug 9 2010 by James Pearce, Liverpool Echo
MIKEL ARTETA today revealed his pride at the bond he has with Everton supporters and insisted: “I never wanted to go anywhere else.” The Spanish midfielder ended speculation about his future on Saturday when he agreed a new five-year contract. It means the 28-year-old, who is expected to sign the deal today, is set to finish his career at the club he joined from Real Sociedad in 2005. “I am really happy and I hope the fans are happy as well,” Arteta said. “I was getting a lot of people come up to me in the streets in Liverpool saying ‘why do you want to leave Mikel?’ “I just told them to trust me. They know the way I am and how I feel about this club. I am loyal. I was keeping quiet for the benefit of everyone. I haven't been saying anything as I didn't want to put pressure on the club and they were the same with me. The way we managed the situation has been really good. “The fans have always been great with me and I'm looking forward to playing for them for five more years. “My aim has always been to stay here as long as I can. At the end of this contract I will have played for Everton for 11 years which is unbelievable.” Manchester City and Arsenal were among a host of clubs chasing Arteta’s signature and he thought Everton may opt to cash in on a player who only cost £2million five years ago. However, talks with chairman Bill Kenwright and boss David Moyes soon eased his fears and he insists rumours he was eyeing a return to his homeland were wrong. “There was never a chance I was going back to Spain,” he said. “People said things about how I wanted to go back because of personal reasons but that wasn’t true. I was always going to stay in England. “I knew from the end of last season that there was interest from other clubs. I did say to Everton ‘maybe this is a good chance for you. I’m 28-years-old, maybe you want to move me on and get a lot of money’. “But they said ‘no, we want you to stay here for as long as possible’. From the start the chairman and the manager were 100% convinced they didn’t want to listen to any of the other teams who were interested.
“That made me really proud. This summer has made me realise how important I am to the club and how important the club is to me. “We had a couple of discussions and got the contract sorted. I believe in this squad. Something is happening here and I want to be a part of it.” Arteta was part of the side beaten 2-0 at Wolfsburg on Saturday.
“We knew it was going to be a decent game and a couple of mistakes cost us goals,” he said. “In one way it’s good. We have to ensure we focus.”
Wolfsburg 2 Everton FC 0
Aug 9 2010 Liverpool Daily Post
SO practice wasn’t quite perfect. After a summer of increasing encouragement for David Moyes came a gentle reminder of the task in hand to push Everton back among the upper echelons. Attempts to seal a clean sweep of pre-season friendly victories stalled at the home of Volkswagen at the weekend as Wolfsburg put the brakes on the Goodison outfit’s drive to the start of the new campaign. Having seen off Sydney FC, Melbourne Heart, Brisbane Roar, Preston North End, Norwich City and their Chilean namesakes, Saturday was a sizeable step up in standard of opposition for Everton, the real litmus test of their warm-up programme. It showed. Despite being buoyed by the news earlier in the day of Mikel Arteta agreeing to sign a new contract, the Spaniard and his team-mates simply struggled to get out of first gear, the attacking vim and vigour of earlier friendlies conspicuously absent. Are Everton ready for the new season? On the evidence of Saturday, it would be impossible to confidently answer in the affirmative – they clearly have a little way to go before reaching their optimum level. A concern, then, that at least seven of the team that started at the weekend can expect to walk out at Ewood Park on Saturday. Few did themselves justice. It was only when Marouane Fellaini, continuing his comeback from injury, emerged at half-time that Everton began to belatedly stamp some authority on proceedings. By then, however, it was too late, first-half goals from Mario Mandzukic and Karim Ziani earning Wolfsburg a deserved triumph with Tim Howard’s penalty save from Edin Dzeko serving only to keep the score down. But there will be no panic at Finch Farm this week. After all, there has already been plenty during pre-season to suggest Everton will avoid the pitfalls of recent years by stuttering out of the blocks.
As such, Saturday’s defeat ensured, should it have been required, that feet will be planted firmly in the ground ahead of the trip to Blackburn Rovers. There is no doubting Moyes’s men are in much better shape now than last year, the injuries having cleared up and the main recruitment taken place earlier in the transfer window.With Arteta reaffirming his commitment, the spectre of a repeat of the Joleon Lescott situation of 12 months previous has largely dissipated, even if Steven Pienaar as yet has not resolved his own contract impasse. Now the only headache for Moyes is how best to put the jigsaw into place with so much talent at his disposal, surely the strongest squad during his eight-year tenure. Saturday’s game then, will prove instructive. Phil Jagielka, deservedly back in the England fold, is a definite at centre-back, but alongside him Sylvain Distin endured a shaky time against Wolfsburg and could find himself jettisoned for the returning John Heitinga. In midfield, Diniyar Bilyaletdinov flitted around the periphery of the game to limited effect before being replaced at half-time, while Louis Saha, back up front with Jermaine Beckford absent, was strangely listless, although the Frenchman could well point to a lack of service. Jack Rodwell and Tim Cahill, both substitutes on Saturday, will surely be promoted to starting roles, leaving the likes of Leon Osman and Tony Hibbert peering nervously over their shoulders this week. But although impressive in the second half, it would be folly to throw Fellaini into the rough and tumble of Premier League football having spent so long on the sidelines. A brief history lesson. Adolf Hitler identified the city that would become Wolfsburg as the base for his new automobile dream, the People’s Car – or Volkswagen as it is now better known. The car manufacturer dominates the landscape and lends its name to the 30,000-capacity arena that held Saturday’s fixture yet was surprisingly less than half-full for the visit of the Goodison outfit. With no European football this season, around a thousand Everton fans made the trip to Germany. But they may have been wondering why they bothered at half-time following a curiously lacklustre showing from the visitors. The Fuhrer around Wolfsburg these days is recently-appointed manager Steve McClaren, and Moyes later admitted Everton were outwitted by the former England head coach. But in truth, they were too often architects of their own downfall. Raiding right-back Sascha Riether had already signalled his intent with a cross that was headed wide by striker Dzeko when he created the opener on 18 minutes, his low ball met by an unmarked Mandzukic at the far post. Nine minutes later, Distin compounded an initial misjudgement that allowed Dzeko a clear run on goal by racing back and fouling the Wolfsburg man inside the area. Dzeko picked himself up to take the spot kick, only to see Howard dive to his right and save his penalty before repelling Mandzukic’s follow-up attempt. It was only a temporary reprieve, however, with another succession of errors leading to Wolfsburg’s second on 39 minutes. After Distin headed against Dzeko, Jagielka’s hurried clearance fell to Ziani who, standing out on the right wing, struck a miscued cross that fortuitously floated over Howard and into the net.
Everton were restricted to shots from range in the opening half with neither Arteta nor Osman able to test Wolfsburg goalkeeper Diego Benaglio. The introduction of Fellaini at least brought steel to Everton’s previously porous midfield, although the visitors were hampered somewhat by playing 31 minutes without a recognised striker until Yakubu, making his first appearance since the World Cup, was thrown on during the final quarter. “I knew it was going to be tough coming here,” said Moyes. “We wanted a hard game and that proved to be the case. Wolfsburg were better than us, especially in the first half. “I think we gave the ball away 18 times in the first half. We were too pretty and played too much, which is something we will work on. “But losing this game doesn’t really matter – it only matters when the real ball comes out.”
Roll on Saturday.
Mikel Arteta: Playing for Everton FC is a privilege
Aug 9 2010 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
MIKEL ARTETA has urged any players considering leaving Everton to think twice after extending his Goodison commitment to more than a decade. Arteta ended speculation over his future at the weekend by agreeing a new five-year contract that ties him to the club until 2015. The Spanish schemer has followed Tim Cahill, Leighton Baines, Jack Rodwell and Seamus Coleman in pledging his long-term future to the club this summer. It dashed any hopes potential suitors Barcelona, Manchester City, Sevilla and Arsenal had of prising the 28-year-old away from Goodison. And in a thinly-veiled warning to Steven Pienaar, who has entered the final 12 months of his present deal with talks having stalled on a new contract, Arteta believes the grass isn’t always greener elsewhere. “I think some day you need to realise what you’ve got,” said the midfielder. “I realise what I’ve got and how privileged I am to be here.
“We haven’t got everything at Everton because we haven’t been able to win things or play in the Champions League. “You can go to another club for more money or to play in the Champions League but if you move on from here you know you are going to miss many things. “Those things are really important as well.”Arteta, who arrived at Everton on an initial six-month loan in January 2005 before making a permanent £2million move from Real Sociedad, is expected to put pen to paper on his lucrative new contract today. The midfielder had told the Goodison board he would understand any decision to move him on given the player is at the peak of his market value.
But the manner in which such suggestions were dismissed out of hand convinced Arteta he was right to stay put. “I knew everything from the end of last season about the other clubs,” he said. “The club knew about it and we just had to deal with it.
“I said to the club ‘maybe this is a good chance for you. I’m 28 years old, maybe you want to move me on and get a lot of money’. “But they said ‘no, we don’t want that and we want you to stay here for as long as possible’ so we agreed the contract.
“There was never a chance I was going back to Spain. People said things about how I wanted to go back because of personal things but that wasn’t true. I always wanted to stay in England.”
Everton FC’s Phil Jagielka is looking to impress Fabio Capello after England recall
Aug 9 2010 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
PHIL JAGIELKA is determined to make the most of his opportunity after being handed a first England call-up in 16 months. Everton defender Jagielka has been included in Fabio Capello’s squad for Wednesday’s friendly against Hungary at Wembley. The 27-year-old has earned three senior caps although the last was for the World Cup qualifier against Ukraine in April 2009. Jagielka has subsequently suffered and recovered from a cruciate ligament injury that sidelined him for 10 months, his strong end-of-season form leading to calls for him to included in the party for the recent World Cup. Now the centre-back is among several changes to the England squad as Capello looks to lift the country’s mood following the dreadful campaign in South Africa. “I’m really happy to have been called up,” said Jagielka. “It is a privilege to have the chance to represent your country and I’m looking forward to getting together with the rest of the lads. “Pre-season has gone well and I’m feeling in good condition. There is already a lot of excitement about the new season and this call-up is the icing on the cake for me. “I will just be looking to make a good impression.” Jagielka’s encouraging pre-season form couldn’t prevent Everton from slipping to defeat in their final summer friendly at Wolfsburg on Saturday. First-half goals by Mario Mandzukic and Karim Ziani earned the Bundesliga outfit a 2-0 victory with Tim Howard also saving a penalty from Edin Dzeko. And Everton manager David Moyes admitted his side were deservedly beaten. “It wasn’t good in the first half,” he said. “Wolfsburg were rightly in front at half-time and it could have been more with Tim Howard saving the penalty, although their second was a bit of a fluke.
“Tactically they were better than us. They worked us out better and we couldn’t quite solve the problems they caused us. In the end, some of our defending was not great.
“It was definitely a step up from the other sides we have faced. We expected that. The German sides have done well in pre-season against Premier League opposition. It’s not just us that have seen it as a step up in class.” Moyes added: “We were 17 unbeaten before this game. But losing happens. I’m not desperately disappointed with what happened, it’s pre-season. But I am disappointed that there were some problems on the pitch that the players didn’t solve. “We had one or two defensive lapses. But it was a real technical game and Wolfsburg are very good at that.” Marouane Fellaini continued his return from six months out with ankle ligament damage by completing his second 45 minutes in four days as a half-time substitute. However, Moyes believes Saturday’s Premier League opener at Blackburn Rovers has come too soon for the Belgium international to be considered for a starting role. “Felli made a difference in the second half,” said the Goodison manager. “He helped tighten us up and made us a little bit stronger. But he’s been out for six months and we’re still trying to ease him in. “He is physically fit but I just don’t know if he is really match fit at the moment.”
Mikel Arteta’s happiness at new Everton FC contract
9 Aug 2010 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
MIKEL ARTETA has spoke of his happiness on signing a new five-year contract at Everton. The Spanish midfielder had been linked with a move away from Goodison Park all summer but ended speculation over his future on Saturday by committing himself to the Goodison Park outfit until he is 33 years old. He said: “I am really happy. It’s been a really busy summer and at the end of the day we all decided this was the best way for it to end up. “I think both parties are really happy with it.
“From the start the chairman and the manager were 100% convinced they didn’t want to listen to any of the other teams who were interested. That made me really think. If they are that convinced, there’s a reason for that. “We had a couple of discussions and tried to get something sorted. It was a situation which wasn’t going to improve through the season if we left it.” Arteta has already scored 29 goals in 159 appearances and twice been voted Everton’s player of the year. And he admits he can see himself playing out the remainder of his top-flight career at Goodison. “My aim is to stay here as long as I can – that’s why I agreed to the contract,” said the Spaniard.
“I said to the manager that at the end of this contract I will have played for Everton for 11 years which is unbelievable. I am really optimistic about this season and I think we have got a great chance. “We’ve got a great team with great experience.” Arteta earned a raucous ovation from the travelling supporters at Wolfsburg at the weekend, but could not prevent Everton falling to a 2-0 defeat in their final friendly ahead of the Premier League opener at Blackburn Rovers this coming Saturday. And the Spaniard said: “We knew it was going to be a decent game. It was the first time we’ve been a goal down in pre-season and we had to react from that. A couple of mistakes cost us goals. “In one way I think it’s good. We’ve been playing well and winning but now we have to ensure we focus and get it right next weekend. “We have to ensure we get it right from the start. That’s been missing in recent years. Let’s get off to a good start, start winning and kick on from there. “The two targets are to start winning and keep everyone fit. Let’s not talk about the Champions League or about winning trophies.
“If we start well we have a chance. If we don’t start well and get injuries then things will be difficult.”
Wolfsburg v Everton
Wolfsburg newspapers August 9 2010 (Translated into English)
The K question in the VfL Wolfsburg seems clarified: Also in the test game against the FC Everton, Edin Dzeko led the wolf castle on the field and would be allowed to be certain as a new captain of the soccer national league team. Officially trainer Steve McClaren in the choice of the new team captain of the VfL Wolfsburg did not want to determine himself also after the 2:0-Testspielsieg against the FC Everton. Twice he was awake questions of the present journalists from before he brought himself yet to an answer, that would qualify it as an applicant for the diplomatic service. "The decision yet is not certain. We will see in the first duty game, am who our captain". Internally the decision seems please on the other hand a long time. How already in the test in Naples, carried also against Everton in the last endurance test before the season start Edin Dzeko the captain bandage. The Bosnian clearly had made finally moreover again and again that the office would be no load, he it to the contrary gladly exercise would become because it would help it in its career. Against Everton, Dzeko gave already the "lead wolf", directed over far stretches its partners, demanded the balls and pulled again and again the speed on. It took carry out wanted many a time it to be sure with the acceptance of responsibility yet too exactly, about as it as a fouled the punishment push itself – and promptly at Everton goalkeeper Tim Howard failed. Nevertheless all points on that that Dzeko Josué becomes as a captain of the VfL beerben. "I does not know whether Edin Dzeko is now the captain. As a neutral observer, I would point it however so", mean VfL manager Dieter Hoeneß. Also at the fans, the choice McClarens seems to arrive well. In spite of the sommerlochfüllenden change rumors around Dzeko, it gave in its substitution in the 87th minute of standing applause of the fans. Already to game start, the Bosnian loudly was celebrated. The plan McClarens seems rise to take Dzeko through the captain velvet more into the responsibility and to tie at least to the end of the season to the VfL.
Martin O'Neill keen to swoop as Steven Pienaar's new deal fails to materialise
Aug 9 2010 Dail Mail
Aston Villa are hoping to take advantage of Everton’s failure to offer Steven Pienaar a new contract by luring the 28-year-old to Villa Park. Pienaar has been linked with a move away from Goodison after starring for South Africa at the World Cup and is unhappy it is taking so long to sort out the deal with the Toffees. Eyeing the exit: Pienaar is unhappy Everton are taking so long to sort new deal Tottenham were reported to be lining up a bid and European Champions Inter Milan were thought to be keen on the midfielder, but so far clubs have been warned off by the £15m price tag attached by the club.
Toffees to move for Spurs striker - Exclusive
09/08/10 By Alan Nixon (The Mirror)
Everton boss David Moyes is ready to bid for Tottenham’s England striker Peter Crouch. Moyes is set to move for the forward as West Ham prepare a deal for Goodison star Yakubu. The Everton boss has been alerted to Crouch’s potential availability, as revealed by Mirror Sport last week, and has been making checks to find out if the move would be possible. Crouch would cost around £7million, although his wages would worry the Goodison club. Liverpool are also being linked with offering Crouch a return-ticket. West Ham have already had a £7m offer rejected for Yakubu and are expected to come back with more. Everton midfielder Leon Osman is a target for Italian outfit Palermo. The Serie A side view him as a player who can lift them into the big time by playing in a deep role off striker Fabrizio Miccoli.
Peter Crouch 'set for Spurs to Everton transfer before start of season'
Spurs striker Peter Crouch is being linked with a surprise move back to Merseyside this summer, with Everton hoping to capture the ex-Liverpool hitman for a cut-price transfer fee this week.
Aug 9 2010 The Metro
Liverpool London David Moyes transfer Peter Crouch could be leaving London in favour of a move back to Liverpool The Toffees are keen to add some firepower up front and may move for the out-of-favour forward, who faces a battle to make the starting XI at White Hart Lane this year. Crouch, who is facing allegations about his personal life, could return to Merseyside just two years after leaving Liverpool for London when he was frozen out of the Reds first team under Rafael Benitez.
However, in a strange twist of fate, the two Mersey rivals could be set to battle one another for the England international's signature - with new Anfield boss Roy Hodgson a keen admirer. David Moyes is desperate to sign a new striker for this year and sees Crouch, 29, as the perfect foil for fellow new arrival Jermaine Beckford.
The former Leeds hitman arrived at Goodison Park in May on a free transfer and is expected to play a large part in the season. However, top-flight experience alongside the 26-year-old would be very welcome from Moyes' point of view - and Crouch certainly fits the bill having played for five different clubs in the Premier League.
Everton linked with cut-price move for Spanish defender Jose Angel
By Sportsmail Reporter
9th August 2010 Daily Mail
Everton boss David Moyes is hoping to pull off a cut-price transfer coup by snapping up Spanish defender Jose Angel. According to reports in Spain the highly-rated left-back is expected to be sacrificed by his club Sporting Gijon who have financial problems. Angel, 20, has a £15m release clause in his contract and is tied to the club until 2014, but he is understood to be avaialable for just £3m. Toffeeman? Sporting Gijon's defender Jose Angel, left, is being linked with a move to Everton
He has been a target for Udinese and Sporting Lisbon but the the player wasn't keen on either and favours a move to the Premier League. The Spanish youth international has reportedly been offered to Tottenham, Liverpool and Wigan, but Everton are the front runners to land his signature. Sporting Gijon's money trouble has also seen their defender Roberto Canella linked with a move to Blackburn Rovers as the club tries to ease it's financial burden. Birmingham boss Alex McLeish has also taken advantage of Sporting's problems by snapping up Michel for £3m in the last January transfer window.
Moyes ready to unleash Arteta
Aug 10 2010 by James Pearce, Liverpool Echo
MANAGER David Moyes believes Everton fans will now see the “proper” Mikel Arteta as he warned rival clubs to forget about trying to lure his stars away from Goodison. The Spanish midfielder ended speculation about his future by agreeing a new five-year deal last week-end. Moyes feared the uncer-tainty was affecting Arteta’s form in pre-season but with the issue resolved he’s backing him to shine in Saturday’s Premier League opener at Blackburn. “Mikel had two years left on his contract so we knew he couldn’t go anywhere anyway, but it’s nice to get rid of the speculation and make sure he is a part of future years here,” Moyes said.
“When you have good players there is always a feeling you can lose them to other clubs. But we are a good team now and I think the players realise that.
“Mikel is a massive part of that. Hopefully his focus will be a bit better now.
“He has been a little mixed up in recent weeks with different things.
“He got married and there’s been the stuff about his contract. “But now we can start getting him focused and get the proper Mikel back.” Moyes believes the fact the Blues turned down the chance to make a massive profit on the £2million they paid Real Sociedad for Arteta in 2005 proves they are serious about challenging for honours this season.And it also sends out a message to clubs contemplating a swoop for any of his players. Moyes is determined to keep the current crop together as he admits he’s unlikely to bring in any more new faces before the transfer window closes.
“We aren’t going to allow people just to take our players on the cheap,” he added.
“If they want them, they are going to have to come with bags of money.
“We have put together a squad we want to keep, we have a good team and we don’t want to get rid of it. “If the club needs money, then yes, we have players we can sell so they can get their money back. But we don’t need to do that. We don’t need money. We don’t have any money, but we don’t need any right now. “We are happy with our squad and the team we have got has got a really good chance of doing well.
“There’s nobody leaving as far as I’m concerned unless we get a sack of money. I can hardly answer it any other way. I can’t see us bringing anyone else in. We don’t have any cash, and that’s the way it is.” Meanwhile, Everton goalkeeper Iain Turner has been called up to the Scotland squad for tomorrow night’s friendly against Sweden in Stockholm. Turner replaces injured Cardiff keeper David Marshall.
Seamus Coleman pays tribute to Everton FC team-mate Shane Duffy after overcoming life-threatening injury
Aug 10 2010 by David Randles, Liverpool Echo
EVERTON defender Seamus Coleman has paid tribute to Shane Duffy, who returned to action at the weekend after suffering a life threatening injury last season.
Duffy figured alongside Coleman in a pre-season friendly against Sligo Rovers on Sunday months ahead of schedule of his anticipated return. The young defender was left fighting for his life after a freak accident in a practice match with the Republic of Ireland senior squad in May left him with serious internal bleeding. Duffy was expected to be out for six months but displayed remarkable powers of recovery to help an Everton XI to a 2-0 win over Coleman’s former club at the Showgrounds.
“It’s brilliant to see Duffy back,” said Coleman, who has picked up the FAI Under 21 Player of he Year Award. “I think a lot of people actually realise how lucky he is and he was very close to maybe not even being here so he will be counting his lucky stars really.”
Everton FC boss David Moyes ready to unleash the 'proper' Mikel Arteta
Aug 10 2010 by James Pearce, Liverpool Echo
MANAGER David Moyes believes Everton fans will now see the “proper” Mikel Arteta as he warned rival clubs to forget about trying to lure his stars away from Goodison. The Spanish midfielder ended speculation about his future by agreeing a new five-year deal last weekend. Moyes feared the uncer-tainty was affecting Arteta’s form in pre-season but with the issue resolved he’s backing him to shine in Saturday’s Premier League opener at Blackburn. “Mikel had two years left on his contract so we knew he couldn’t go anywhere anyway, but it’s nice to get rid of the speculation and make sure he is a part of future years here,” Moyes said. “When you have good players there is always a feeling you can lose them to other clubs. But we are a good team now and I think the players realise that. “Mikel is a massive part of that. Hopefully his focus will be a bit better now. “He has been a little mixed up in recent weeks with different things. “He got married and there’s been the stuff about his contract. “But now we can start getting him focused and get the proper Mikel back.”
Moyes believes the fact the Blues turned down the chance to make a massive profit on the £2million they paid Real Sociedad for Arteta in 2005 proves they are serious about challenging for honours this season.And it also sends out a message to clubs contemplating a swoop for any of his players. Moyes is determined to keep the current crop together as he admits he’s unlikely to bring in any more new faces before the transfer window closes. “We aren’t going to allow people just to take our players on the cheap,” he added. “If they want them, they are going to have to come with bags of money. “We have put together a squad we want to keep, we have a good team and we don’t want to get rid of it. “If the club needs money, then yes, we have players we can sell so they can get their money back. But we don’t need to do that. We don’t need money. We don’t have any money, but we don’t need any right now.
“We are happy with our squad and the team we have got has got a really good chance of doing well. “There’s nobody leaving as far as I’m concerned unless we get a sack of money. I can hardly answer it any other way. I can’t see us bringing anyone else in. We don’t have any cash, and that’s the way it is.” Meanwhile, Everton goalkeeper Iain Turner has been called up to the Scotland squad for tomorrow night’s friendly against Sweden in Stockholm. Turner replaces injured Cardiff keeper David Marshall.
New deal will help Everton FC star Mikel Arteta produce his best, says David Moyes
Aug 10 2010 by David Randles, Liverpool Daily Post
DAVID MOYES believes Everton can now unleash the “proper Mikel Arteta” after admitting the Spaniard had become affected by the speculation surrounding his future.
Arteta was heavily linked with a move away from Goodison before reaffirming his commitment to the club at the weekend by agreeing a new five-year deal at the club.
Moyes is convinced the rumours and conjecture had unsettled the 28-year-old during pre-season preparations that were also disrupted by the player getting married.
But with Arteta’s future now sorted, the Goodison manager is convinced Everton will once again see the best of the talismanic Spanish schemer. “It’s nice to get rid of the speculation and make sure he is a part of future years,” said Moyes. “When you have good players there is always a feeling you can lose them to other clubs. But we are a good team now and I think the players realise that. “Mikel is a massive part of that. Hopefully his focus will be a bit better now. He has been a little mixed up in recent weeks with different things. “He got married and there’s been the stuff about his contract. But now we can start getting him focused and get the proper Mikel back.”
Moyes reckons Arteta’s new contract reinforces the message to any potential suitors that Everton have no intention of letting go of any of their most-prized assets unless tempted with vast sums of money. “We aren’t going to allow people just to take our players on the cheap,” he said. “If they want them, they are going to have to come with bags of money. We have put together a squad we want to keep, we have a good team and we don’t want to get rid of it. “If the club needs money, then yes, we have players we can sell so they can get their money back. But we don’t need to do that.
“We don’t need money. We don’t have any money, but we don’t need any right now.
“We are happy with our squad and the team we have got has got a really, really good chance of doing well.” Moyes has worked under tight financial restraints this summer, with Jermaine Beckford and Jan Mucha arriving on free transfers and young French striker Magaye Gueye for just £1m. The manager has instead concentrated on keeping his squad together, with Arteta joining Tim Cahill, Jack Rodwell, Leighton Baines and Seamus Coleman in signing a long-term contract. And Moyes added: “There’s nobody leaving as far as I’m concerned unless we get a sack of money. I can hardly answer it any other way. “But I can’t see us bringing anyone else in now.
“We don’t have any cash, and that’s the way it is.” Meanwhile Seamus Coleman has paid tribute to Shane Duffy, who returned to action at the weekend after suffereing a life threatening injury last season. Duffy figured alongside Coleman in a pre-season friendly against Sligo Rovers on Sunday months ahead of schedule of his anticipated return. The young defender was left fighting for his life after a freak accident in a practice match with the Republic of Ireland senior squad in May left him with serious internal bleeding. Duffy was expected to be out for six months but displayed remarkable powers of recovery to help an Everton XI to a 2-0 win over Coleman’s former club at the Showgrounds. “It’s brilliant to see Duffy back,” saidColeman, who has picked up the FAI Under 21 Player of he Year Award. “I think a lot of people actually realise how lucky he is and he was very close to maybe not even being here so he will be counting his lucky stars really.” Meanwhile, Iain Turner has received his first call-up to the full Scotland squad. The Everton goalkeeper has been drafted in to Craig Levein’s squad ahead of Wednesday’s friendly against Sweden in Stockholm. Turner has represented Scotland at Under-21 and B level and joins the senior set-up as a replacement for the injured Cardiff goalkeeper David Marshall.
Mark Lawrenson: Mikel Arteta’s new deal at Everton FC puts Steven Pienaar under the microscope
Aug 10 2010 by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Daily Post
MIKEL ARTETA signing a new five-year contract at Everton is great news for the club but the pressure is now on Steven Pienaar. Arteta has become the latest in a long line of Goodison stars to commit themselves to a new deal this summer following contract extensions by the likes of Jack Rodwell, Tim Cahill and Leighton Baines.
Bids for Phil Jagielka have also been thrown out so with everyone else committed to a long-term future with Everton, all eyes are now firmly fixed on Pienaar with the question ‘what are you going to do?’ Pienaar had a really good season last year but he didn’t have a good World Cup. He was under a lot of pressure spearheading the hosts’ charge in the first ever African tournament but after his summer disappointments there might be a few previously interested clubs who have decided they won’t now take him. I’ve spoken to David Moyes and we all know there’s a really good contract offer on the table from Everton. So Pienaar could sit on his current deal for a year but does he really feel that he’s going to join anyone better?I guess Everton will now be quite relaxed about it. There’s the deal if you want it, if you sign it ‘great’, if you don’t then take your chance. I know he’s been impressive at club level for a while now but with the competition Everton have in midfield he’s not necessarily guaranteed his place in the team. At least Everton didn’t shell out massive money to sign Pienaar which would soften any blow of him going for nothing in a year’s time. They’ve cashed in big time in the past on the likes of Wayne Rooney and Joleon Lescott when the players decided they want to go and some you win and some you lose.
Going back to Arteta, I think he’s had a look around and has seen how fortunate he is at Everton. There’s a great team spirit, he knows how they play and he’s got the money he wanted. I’m sure the likes of Manchester City and Arsenal were interested in a big way but perhaps Cesc Fabregas staying at the Emirates has helped.
The whole summer transfer market has been delayed by the World Cup and you’d have expected more deals to have been done by now but once one or two big deals are completed you’ll get that knock-on effect that gets the cash flowing. One deal that seems immanent is James Milner’s departure from Aston Villa to Manchester City which will have played a big part in Martin O’Neill’s resignation. He was presumably against it from the start but we’d heard a few weeks back from Villa that he could go if their asking price was met. Martin is a great man of principle and if he think’s that Villa have just become a selling club then he’s probably thought ‘what’s the point?’ He’s like that –very strong-willed and determined – and to be honest his departure doesn’t surprise me. Something else that wasn’t much of a shock was the double international retirements this week of Blackburn goalkeeper Paul Robinson and Manchester United defender Wes Brown – after they’d been picked in Fabio Capello’s England squad to face Hungary tomorrow. Players like that might think that if they cut out the travelling and commitment that goes with the England team with six-to-eight games per year then they might just get an extra year or two on their club contract. We said last year that these international friendlies just days before the domestic season starts are daft but doing it just after a major tournament is ridiculous. Harry Redknapp was right when he said that after over a month together at the World Cup, most of the England players are probably sick of the sight of each other.
Everton to launch £13m bid for Nice star Loic Remy as West Ham prepare raid for Yakubu
Aug 10 2010 Daily Mail
Everton are making an audacious £13million move for Loic Remy - and will help fund it by selling Yakubu to West Ham. Nice striker Remy, 23, has turned into one of the hottest transfer properties this summer and is due to make his France debut against Norway on Wednesday. Nice and easy: Everton are preparing a swoop for Remy with Yakubu bound for West Ham West Ham have been at the forefront of the chase but have been unable to come up with the necessary cash and realise £8m-rated Yakubu is a more realistic target. Tottenham and Stoke have also shown interest but have other targets and Remy acknowledges Everton represent his best opportunity of coming to the Premier League. Although Everton have been struggling to find funds, the club's backers want to give manager David Moyes the chance to break back into the Premier League's top four. They see Remy as the man to give the side the clinical touch they are missing.
Hailing a hero of the Rovers!
By: Robert Cullen
Aug 10 2010 Sligo Weekender
THE match against Everton was an occasion if nothing else.
With Sligo Rovers having cemented their fourth-place spot in the Airtricity League Premier Division with a win against Bray Wanderers (at least until Sporting Fingal play their game in hand), this friendly encounter last Sunday evening was a chance to unwind and play the standard of football often in evidence in The Showgrounds this season. Paul Cook rested some players, notably John Russell and Joseph Ndo, while Romauld Boco, making his home return debut, played up front alongside a fit Matthew Blinkhorn. All eyes for the first 15 minutes at least were on Seamus Coleman. The former Sligo Rovers fullback had a few deft touches and showed at least one flash of the brilliance which made him beloved of the local fans, before his substitution. Neither side showed too much in the opening exchanges, but Gavin Peers had an early header blocked over the crossbar and Gary McCabe was unfortunate that his route to goal was blocked by the outstretched leg of substitute Aristote Nsiala. In the 28th minute Sligo Rovers found a breakthrough. A straightforward ball from Peers to Blinkhorn was taken on the chest by the lofty striker who turned and delivered a superb first-time ball for John Dillon. The winger, moving in from the left, found space between Shkodran Mustafi and Republic of Ireland international Shane Duffy to send the ball low beyond the reach of Iain Turner.
Ciaran Kelly, possibly still smarting at not being chosen as a first choice replacement for the sidelined Richard Brush, had a point to prove in front of Paul Cook and he made the first of several vital and commanding saves from the boot of Nathan Craig just minutes after the restart. Everton pressed forward for an equaliser and were unlucky to see Mustafi’s long clearance bounce awkwardly for Iarfhlaith Davoren, but be picked off by Kelly before Craig could pounce. After the break, Kelly was again called into action, denying striker Jose Baxter after he broke through the Derek Foran/Gavin Peers back line. At the other end the returning Boco was in the thick of it. He just failed to direct Alan Keane’s cross on target with a diving header in the 51st minute and two minutes later set up Gary McCabe for a chance which the alert Duffy blocked. Kelly again denied Baxter in the 58th minute when the striker’s speculative half-volley looked like dipping under the crossbar. And Kelly had to palm Duffy’s header in the 62nd minute over the crossbar, too. However, a double substitution for Sligo Rovers, Eoin Doyle and top scorer Padraig Amond entering the action, turned the tide once more in Sligo’s favour. Both substitutes linked up brilliantly in the 72nd minute, with a neat one-two which led to Doyle Holland native Nelson Vieira made his Sligo Rovers debut with 15 minutes to go, but by then the game was effectively over as a contest. Baxter had one final shot from distance that never looked like troubling Kelly while there was still time for Derek Foran to launch himself on a run from penalty box to penalty box, even if the eventual strike failed to trouble Turner.
Sligo Rovers: Ciaran Kelly, Alan Keane, Iarfhlaith Davoren, Gavin Peers, Derek Foran, Richie Ryan (Conor O’Grady 56), John Dillon (Nelson Vieira 75), Danny Ventre, Gary McCabe (Eoin Doyle 63), Romauld Boco (Jason McCartney 81), Matthew Blinkhorn (Padraig Amond 63) Subs not used: Jim Lauchlan, John Gibson
Everton: Iain Turner, Seamus Coleman (Aristote Nsiala, 15), Shkodran Mustafi, Jake Bidwell, Shane Duffy, James Wallace, Adam Forshaw (Conor McAleny 62), Hope Akpan, Ross Barkley, Jose Baxter, Nathan Craig (Hallam Hope 56) Subs not used: Gerard Kinsella, Zak Thompson, Tom Donegan, Adam Davies
Attendance: 3,600
Everton FC's Jack Rodwell runs show for England under-21s
Aug 11 2010 Liverpool Echo
FABIO CAPELLO witnessed a man of the match performance from Everton midfielder Jack Rodwell as England Under-21s overcame their Uzbekistan counterparts in a one-sided friendly at Ashton Gate. The England head coach has called up Jack Wilshere and Kieran Gibbs from the Under-21s for tonight’s meeting with Hungary at Wembley. But he must have been impressed by the showing of stand-in skipper Rodwell who left the pitch to a standing ovation when replaced by Henri Lansbury after 61 minutes. Capello watched proceedings alongside goalkeeping coach Ray Clemence and Football Association director of development Trevor Brooking before leaving his seat after 83 minutes. England knocked the ball around in confident fashion and Rodwell impressed in the centre of the park and one run took him past three challenges before Uzbekistan goalkeeper Sanjar Kuvvatov blocked his shot.
Rodwell continued to impress and one perfectly timed run ended with Kuvvatov bravely blocking his shot at close range. England’s dominance paid off as Tottenham’s Danny Rose broke the deadlock after 64 minutes with his second Under-21 goal. Sturridge’s initial shot was blocked but Rose was quick to react and his low left-footed drive from 20 yards out flew into the corner of the net. Uzbekistan squandered their best opportunity of the game when Islom Tuhtahujaev headed over from close range. England made sure of victory 11 minutes from time when another of their substitute’s, Liverpool’s Martin Kelly, headed in a centre from Kyle Walker.
Everton FC letters: Blues fans' reaction to Mikel Arteta's new deal
Aug 11 2010 by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Echo
MIKEL ARTETA’S commitment to Everton is the best news we’ve had all summer.
Arteta has proved time and time again to be one of Moyes’s best signings and I have no doubt he will continue to prove that in the future. David Robsill I AM absolutely made-up with this bit of news about Arteta. The guys at Finch Farm are starting to believe. If they play the attractive football that was seen in consistent bursts throughout the last campaign and avoid the deep injury lists then Everton could burst that glass ceiling. Robert Latchford BLUES chairman Bill Kenwright described Arteta as “one of the finest players ever to wear an Everton shirt”. For some Everton fans Mikel will have to be part of a trophy-winning side before he is worthy of such praise, but hopefully that will be some time in the very near future. If it is then Mikel will have earned his place amongst the Everton Greats and every penny of his record-breaking contract. Mark Lyness WELL done Bill Kenwright – thanks for being our chairman. You will go down as the man that not only saved our great club from vultures from far away lands but as the finest Everton fan of our time.
How anyone questions this man’s intentions when it comes to Everton is totally beyond me. soapy5
THE news that Mikel Arteta has committed his future at Everton is brilliant. Credit to Bill Kenwright as well for his part. Leyster ARTETA staying was the best bit of news all weekend. C'mon, Pienaar – you know what you have to do now!
Yakublue BILL KENWRIGHT is the genuine article and a true Evertonian.
We may not have much, but what we do have is ours. DEANOSOFF
I HOPE I am wrong but unless he bucks his ideas up, Distin could be a liability at the back this season. Bluewinner FOURTH place and the FA Cup will do nicely for the Blues this season. Joleon2
THE important aspect of the game against Everton Chile was the welcome return of Fellaini. His influence this season will be vital towards Everton's aspiration of a top five finish. Moreover, Gueye's contribution to the game was very encouraging, particularly his ability to cross the ball accurately. This culminated in two assists, one of which was an excellent set-up by Fellaini for Bilayletdinov to profit from. Equally, the finish from Beckford was impressive. David Moyes was talking about the different types of formations he could use this season 4-4-1-1, 4-4-2 etc but another due to the attacking full-backs we have at present in Coleman and Baines, why not try a 3-5-2 or a 3-6-1, with Heitinga as sweeper? David Kearns,Aintree
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger says Everton FC can compete for Premier League title
Aug 11 2010 Liverpool Echo
ARSENE WENGER has predicted the toughest Premier League title race in history and tipped Everton to compete for the top honours. The Arsenal boss believes up to seven teams could compete for honours, including Everton and even managerless Villa. Wenger said: “You expect Manchester City, who invest a huge amount of money, to be one of the contenders. Spurs can challenge, Aston Villa as well. You could have six or seven teams because Everton for me has a strong squad too.
“I believe we have a good chance. We have that belief.”
Is it time for football fans to take a stand against ticket prices?
Aug 11 2010
AMIDST all the excitement of the new football season, the latest rises in ticket prices have almost gone unnoticed.
The cost of a season ticket a couple of decades now often equates to the price of attending a single match today - there has never been more money in the game but how much of it is actually enriching the match-going experience for supporters.
Long-time season ticket holder and ECHO Jury contributor Damian Kavanagh has outlined his concerns over the issue and what fans should do about it here - do you agree with him? Log in below and have your say
West Ham to make fresh approach for Everton FC striker Yakubu
Aug 11 2010 by James Pearce, Liverpool Echo
EVERTON have received a bid of around £7.5million from West Ham for striker Yakubu. The Hammers have been linked with the Nigerian frontman all summer and have already had one offer rejected. Upton Park boss Avram Grant, who previously worked with Yakubu at Maccabi Haifa, is desperate to be reunited with the 27-year-old. The Blues were remaining tight-lipped last night but sources in London confirmed West Ham had submitted an improved offer. Manager David Moyes, who recently insisted all his star names were staying put, must now decide whether to do business with the Hammers. The striker, who cost Everton £11.5million from Middlesbrough in 2007, has scored 32 goals in 93 appearances for the club.
Last August he returned to action after nine months out with an Achilles injury and endured a difficult season as he found the net just six times. Yakubu made his first pre-season appearance for the Blues last Saturday when he came off the bench for the last 14 minutes of the 2-0 friendly defeat to Wolfsburg. He could find himself down the pecking order at Goodison this season with new signing Jermaine Beckford vying with Louis Saha for a starting spot. Meanwhile, Steven Pienaar’s business manager Rob Moore says the South African midfielder, who has entered the final year of his contract, is unlikely to pen a new deal if his future is not resolved by the end of August. Pienaar has so far failed to agree terms with the Blues and Moore says he’s frustrated the saga is dragging on after Mikel Arteta was snapped up on a new five-year contract. “It is great news for the club that they have secured Arteta for the next five years, and it shows that they are able to move quickly when they want to,” Moore said. “But in the case of Pienaar it is surprising that he is the player with the least amount of time remaining on his contract, yet the last to be tied up with a new deal.
“You have to ask yourself, ‘does this mean Everton actually want to sell him?’ But there is nothing we can do about it. “Obviously if he does not sign a new deal before the end of the transfer window on August 31 then the chances of him doing so are greatly reduced because he will be in the last year of his current deal and able to start negotiating with other clubs in January. “He would be a very attractive proposition for them on a free at the end of the season. “But the player has never said that he wants to leave and he is not the kind of person who goes knocking on the manager’s door halfway through a contract demanding more money and revised terms. “That is why it is frustrating that it is taking so long to sort it out now.” THE Blues will discover their Carling Cup second round opponents when the draw is made tonight.
Everton boss David Moyes rubbishes link with Aston Villa job
Aug 11 2010 by James Pearce, Liverpool Echo
EVERTON boss David Moyes today rubbished rumours linking him with the vacant manager's job at Aston Villa and insisted: "I am loyal to Everton." The Scotsman has been mentioned as a possible replacement for Martin O'Neill at Villa Park but Moyes has ruled himself out of the running. "I am loyal to Everton," Moyes said. "I've always said that. It is a really good club and this year we have a really good team and we have a good chance of doing well."
Everton FC bemused by West Ham Yakubu bid
Aug 11 2010 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
EVERTON were left bemused last night when West Ham United made a fresh bid for Yakubu – for less than their rejected initial offer. The Hammers have been tracking the Nigeria international all summer having seen a £6million bid dismissed by the Goodison outfit six weeks ago. However, the Londoners returned yesterday with a new offer of £5m to sign the 27-year-old. And an astonished Everton have slammed the approach as derisory, particularly given manager David Moyes’ insistence this week that he has no intention of letting players leave on the cheap. Having seen Mikel Arteta agree a five-year contract earlier this week, Everton manager Moyes said it sent out a message Everton were no longer a selling club and didn’t need to part with any of their players. But new West Ham manager Avram Grant is keen to bolster his strikeforce with Yakubu, having worked with the forward when in charge at Israeli side Maccabi Haifa. The Londoners are now prepared to try their luck again but will be rebuffed unless they improve their bid, with Moyes looking to recoup most of the £11.25m fee paid to Middlesbrough to sign Yakubu three years ago. Yakubu has been restricted during pre-season to a brief substitute appearance against Wolfsburg on Saturday following his World Cup exertions with Nigeria. And with the summer arrival of Jermaine Beckford on a free transfer from Leeds United, the striker faces increased competition for a starting role. Another Everton player whose future remains the subject of speculation is Steven Pienaar, with talks over a new deal having been on hold since before the World Cup. Although an offer has been on the table for some months, representatives of Pienaar yesterday claimed frustration in the player’s camp at the current impasse. That feeling was apparently heightened with the news Everton have negotiated a lucrative new deal for Mikel Arteta, who still had almost two years remaining on his contract. By contrast, Pienaar has now entered the final 12 months of his present contract and, should the status quo persist, would be able to talk to foreign clubs in the New Year with a view to a free transfer next summer. And the South African’s business manager Rob Moore said: “It is great news for the club that they have secured Arteta for the next five years, and it shows that they are able to move quickly when they want to. “But in the case of Pienaar it is surprising that he is the player with the least amount of time remaining on his contract, yet the last to be tied up with a new deal. “You have to ask yourself, ‘Does this mean Everton actually want to sell him’? “But there is nothing we can do about it.” Moore added: “Obviously if he does not sign a new deal before the end of the transfer window on August 31 then the chances of him doing so are greatly reduced because he will be in the last year of his current deal and able to start negotiating with other clubs in January. “He would be a very attractive proposition for them on a free at the end of the season. But the player has never said that he wants to leave and he is not the kind of person who goes knocking on the manager’s door halfway through a contract demanding more money and revised terms. “That is why it is frustrating that it is taking so long to sort it out now.” Despite the uncertainty surrounding two of his players, Moyes believes Everton are much better equipped for the new season in comparison to last season, when the Joleon Lescott saga and a raft of injuries prompted a 6-1 opening-day home defeat to Arsenal. “We are much better prepared than we were last season because we have roughly got a settled squad of players and no major injuries,” said the manager. “Obviously, the World Cup has had an impact but that has been the same for many other teams. “Overall I’ve been pleased with where we are at. “We do have a bit to go with what I want us to do, but I’m relatively happy. “I’ve got a more or less full squad to choose from and that puts me in a strong position.” Meanwhile, Fabio Capello witnessed a man of the match performance from Everton midfielder Jack Rodwell as England Under-21s overcame their Uzbekistan counterparts in a one-sided friendly at Ashton Gate. Liverpool’s Martin Kelly wrapped up the victory when he headed in a centre from Kyle Walker in the 78th minute, to add to Danny Rose’s opener. Manager Stuart Pearce said: “Would Capello be happy with that? “There was some great play.”
Rodwell keen to seize England opportunity
Aug 12 2010 by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Echo
JACK RODWELL has been inspired by the promotion of Jack Wilshere and Kieran Gibbs to the senior England squad and wants to emulate the Arsenal duo. Wilshere and Gibbs both featured as substitutes for Fabio Capello’s side in last night’s friendly international with Hungary at Wembley. Everton midfielder Rodwell turned in a man-of-the-match performance for England Under-21s against Uzbekistan at Ashton Gate on Tuesday, when he was made captain by coach Stuart Pearce. Capello witnessed the display of the 19-year-old, who now has his sights set on progressing further up the international ladder. Rodwell said: “There is a new sense of opportunity amongst the players at this level. “I think there is a lot of opportunity for young English talent to break through. “A few people have broken into the into full squad like James Milner, Joe Hart, Adam Johnson and now Jack Wilshere and Kieran Gibbs. “Those of us now playing in the Under-21s look at that and we are inspired by that and we all want to do that. “As a kid it is your dream to play for the England senior side so every time you put the shirt on you are playing to progress as a player and as a team. “It was good to play well in front of (Capello) as well.” Rodwell is one of the few members of Pearce’s side to play first-team Premier League football and believes he is reaping the benefits. He said: “It makes a massive difference to be playing first-team football, if I’m honest, in terms of progressing quickly. “To get Premier League experience at such a young age has made my game improve leaps and bounds over the last couple of years. “Hopefully this season I can get a few more games.”
Everton FC Jury: Blues fans give their thoughts ahead of the season opener at Blackburn
Aug 12 2010 by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Echo David Wallbank
THE new season is almost about to begin with a trip to Blackburn, a venue where Everton haven’t done themselves enough justice in recent years. An injury-time goal secured a 3-2 win last term, and for us to measure improvement, we must collect three points to set the benchmark for the long season ahead. With no major transfer activity, the mood surrounding Everton is surprisingly upbeat, and players like Rodwell and Arteta signing long-term deals have showed a real statement of intent. Beckford could be the catalyst for success, and it wouldn’t surprise me if he hits the ground running and fires in the goals early on. Expectation levels are as high as they have been for years – can this be the season the Toffees bring home some silverware?
Mike Williamson
NOT since the mid-1980s has a new season been so eagerly anticipated for the Blues – and with good reason! The pre-season build-up has been excellent and with the likes of Arteta and Rodwell signed-up long-term, we have to be looking for a Champions League spot and a good cup run is also overdue. However, we must be cautious. The squad size is still inadequate by comparison to most clubs and injuries to just one or two key players could see us facing the same frustration as last year. I remain utterly baffled at why foreign billionaires seem oblivious to our existence but imagine what it would mean to us to have that kind of money to spend. But we are where we are and I wouldn’t want to be anywhere but Goodison Park come the first home game.
We need to break the pattern of the past few seasons and get off to a decent start.
If we do – and stay clear of injuries – we could be on the verge of something special.
Richard Knights
FOOTBALL'S coming home, it's coming home... but not this season.
In 1990 Gazzamania gave football a welcome boost. A successful World Cup always impacts on the domestic game. So, 2010? Some of the direst games imaginable in the qualifying rounds, a disgraceful final and the worst England performances since, well, the last World Cup. On Planet Everton, Moyes has made some canny, bargain basement signings and the five-year deal for Arteta means that there won't be a repeat of the Lescott shenanigans that destabilised the team at the start of last season.
In truth, though, Everton are still amongst the paupers of the Premier League; we couldn't afford £10m for Landon Donovan. Still, it's a new season and hope, as ever, springs eternal.
Lee Molton
THE new season is finally upon us and Evertonians are feeling very optimistic.
The Blues now have a great squad with the return from injury of Arteta, Jaglieka and Fellaini. There is competition for places throughout. Arteta staying for another five years is excellent news. A good start is needed this season starting with three points at Blackburn. Rovers will make it tough but the Blues can win. Thousands of Evertonians will be cheering them on – we have been looking forward to this for months. The signing of Jermaine Beckford could be the buy of the season. He looked sharp in pre-season and he has already bagged three goals. He will put pressure on the likes of Saha, Vaughan and Yakubu. This could be the year that David Moyes’s men bring a trophy back to Goodison and make all Evertonians delighted
Phil Jagielka still smiling and determined after scoring own goal on England debut
Aug 12 2010 Liverpool Echo
PHIL JAGIELKA left Wembley a happy and determined man last night after finally playing his first full game for England. The Everton defender won his first cap against Trinidad & Tobago in May 2008 and added to his haul against Spain and Ukraine in the spring of 2009 but has been out of Fabio Capello’s plans since rupturing his cruciate ligament 16 months ago. However, Capello has always held Jagielka in some regard and rewarded his return to fitness with a place alongside John Terry in a 2-1 win over Hungary that was secured thanks to the brilliance of skipper Steven Gerrard.
England had trailed to a debatable own goal by Jagielka – television replays showed his 62nd minute deflection had not crossed the line – but that slight mishap had no effect on a performance that was measured throughout. But Jagielka does not want this to be a one-off and is ready to show Capello he can play a role in the Euro 2012 qualification campaign, which starts three weeks on Friday at Wembley against Bulgaria. “I’m delighted, as you can tell by the smile,” said Jagielka, who crept into Capello’s thinking for the World Cup finals. “The own goal isn’t going to affect my confidence one little bit. I was just delighted to get the nod and then get 90 minutes.
“It’s been a long time since I played for England and it’s the first time I’ve started at Wembley. And I’ve always wanted to score here too! It was made all the more special by the fact the captain turned up and won us the game. “It would be nice to be in for Bulgaria and Switzerland. It was a boost to get in for the first squad of what is supposed to be a new era; he (Capello) might even bring in a few more faces for the qualifiers. “But I was desperate to get back and I’m desperate to stay in. I probably came back a month too late to really be considered for the World Cup. I’d have loved to have been there but maybe having a break has done me the world of good.”
As victory will have done the team some good, it was a testing evening and a number of players came in for flak, not least Terry, Ashley Cole and Wayne Rooney, who appeared to sarcastically clap the crowd when he was substituted. But Gerrard’s goals – which came in a devastating four minute spell midway through the second period – ensured the exercise could perhaps be viewed in a positive light and Jagielka feels England’s players showed admirable character. Serious questions would have been asked of Capello had it finished 1-0 but Jagielka feels England can take a step forward now, as they prepare to chart a path that, hopefully, will take them to Ukraine and Poland. “It was quite easy to settle back in,” said Jagielka, whose sights have now turned to Everton’s Premier League opener at Blackburn. “Training has been good, very sharp and I’ve enjoyed every minute. It was nice to come away for a few days.
“It all turned out fine. The fans were great considering how they could have been. They might have hurled a lot more abuse but I think for the majority of the time, they were very positive towards us. “It was a bit edgy when we went behind but if we had got the goal early on, it would have been different; we would have been able to pick them off, as they would have had to come out and attack us. “As it was, they had a game plan and stuck to it. There are no easy games in international football and after scoring the goal that wasn’t, they tested our character. Thankfully we had Stevie to rescue us.”
David Moyes: It will take big money to prise away Yakubu from Everton FC
Aug 12 2010 by James Pearce, Liverpool Echo
EVERTON boss David Moyes insists it will take a “really big” offer for the club to consider selling Yakubu. West Ham have already had two bids for the Nigeria international rejected and their chairman David Sullivan last night claimed the Blues are holding out for £8million. Sullivan has scoffed at that valuation and says the Hammers will now focus on other targets. Moyes says Yakubu remains a key member of his squad ahead of Saturday's Premier League opener at Blackburn and he has no desire to off-load the frontman. “Yakubu is an integral part here,” Moyes said.
“We paid a lot of money for him and if you look at his record in the Premier League he’s up there with the best. “He scores goals every year – it’s nearly guaranteed with Yak. “At the moment we’re certainly not looking to sell unless we get a really big offer.” Sullivan, who has been chasing Yakubu all summer, now claims the striker is only worth a quarter of the price Everton have apparently quoted. “We have cooled on Yakubu,” he said. “When you have a good hard look at him, we want younger and quicker and better. Everything has a price. You want to get Yakubu for £1million to £2million and they are quoting £8million and that is far too much. “They have to be more realistic. If they said £1million to £2million we might go back.”
Moyes certainly won't entertain letting Yakubu leave for such a low fee and will want to recoup most of the £11.25million Everton paid Middlesbrough for him three years ago. Meanwhile, the Goodison boss has rubbished speculation linking him with the vacant manager's job at Aston Villa. Moyes has been touted as a possible replacement for Martin O'Neill but insists he's not interested in a switch to the Midlands.
“I am loyal to Everton,” he said. “I’ve always said that. It’s a really good club.
“This year we have a really good team and we have a good chance of doing well.
“I am happy at Everton and that’s where I’ll be this season.” Moyes believes he will go into the new campaign with the strongest squad he's had during his eight-year tenure at Goodison. “We have got really good players at Everton and lots of clubs want our players,” he added. “We wanted to keep them all together and we've done that. This is probably as strong a squad as I’ve had. “We haven't got injury problems like we did last season and I'm looking forward to taking this team forward.
“Money is tight but what we’ve got at Everton is a bit of stability which a lot of other clubs don’t have. “After the way we finished last season, with only two defeats in 24 games, we'll go into this season with confidence and looking to continue that form.”
Tim Cahill is a fitness doubt for Saturday's trip to Blackburn. The midfielder missed Australia's 2-0 defeat in Slovenia last night with a knee injury. EVERTON will entertain Huddersfield Town in the second round of the Carling Cup.
Tranmere's reward for a 1-0 victory at Walsall is a home tie with Championship outfit Swansea. The ties will be played week commencing August 23.
Full draw: Accrington Stanley v Newcastle United; Portsmouth v Crystal Palace
Leeds United v Leicester City; Wolverhampton Wanderers v Southend United; Blackburn Rovers v Norwich City; MK Dons v Blackpool; Tranmere Rovers v Swansea City; Everton v Huddersfield Town; Peterborough United v Cardiff City; Reading v Northampton Town; Scunthorpe United v Sheffield Wednesday; Brentford v Hull City; Sunderland v Colchester United; Leyton Orient v West Bromwich Albion; Morecambe v Burnley; Birmingham City v Rochdale; Crewe Alexandra v Ipswich Town; Watford v Notts County; West Ham United v Oxford United; Southampton v Bolton Wanderers; Bradford City v Preston North End; Fulham v Port Vale; Millwall v Middlesbrough; Stoke City v Shrewsbury Town; Hartlepool United v Wigan Athletic
Blackburn Rovers v Everton FC pre-match preview
Aug 12 2010 Danny Masters Blackburn Rovers last five games:
August 8 Friendly: Celtic 1 Blackburn Rovers 2
August 7 Friendly: Hearts 1 Blackburn Rovers 1
July 31 Friendly: Sydney FC 1 Blackburn Rovers 2
July 28 Friendly: AEK Athens 2 Blackburn Rovers 1
July 25 Friendly: Rangers 2 Blackburn Rovers 1
Everton last five games:
August 8 Friendly: Sligo Rovers 2 Everton 0
August 7 Friendly: Vfl Wolfsburg 2 Everton 0
August 4 Friendly: Everton 2 Everton de Vi¡a del Mar 0
July 31 Friendly: Norwich City 2 Everton 4
July 24 Friendly: Preston North End 0 Everton 3
Past meetings:
April 4, 2010 Premier League: Blackburn Rovers 2 Everton 3
September 20, 2009 Premier League: Everton 3 Blackburn Rovers 0
March 4, 2009 Premier League: Blackburn Rovers 0 Everton 0
September 24, 2008 Carling Cup: Blackburn Rovers 1 Everton 0
August 16, 2008 Premier League: Everton 2 Blackburn Rovers 3
Ones to watch:
Blackburn Rovers:
Steven NZonzi - The 21-year-old had an outstanding first season for Rovers, eventually being awarded the fans player of the year, and looks to be a real prospect for the future. A real workhorse in midfield, the Frenchman will look to disrupt Evertons flow and try to match his 30-yard screamer the last time the sides met.
Everton: Jermaine Beckford - The jury is still out on Beckford as, even though a shrewd signing by Moyes with the striker arriving on a free transfer from Leeds, it as yet to be seen whether he can cut it a the highest level. Having scored more than 30 goals in each of the last two seasons in League One he certainly has the eye for goal but how he adapts to the Premier League will be critical to success at Everton.
Injuries:
Blackburn Rovers: Martin Olsson - knee injury (expected return: unknown)
Everton: Victor Anichebe - knee injury (expected return: Aug 14)
Blackburn Rovers win 13/8, draw 11/5, Everton win 11/8
Match fact:
These sides began their 2008/09 season with a reverse of this fixture, ending in Blackburn nicking a last minute winner courtesy of Andre Ooijer. Mikel Arteta and Yakubu were on the score sheet for the Blues, putting them 2-1 up, before Roque Santa Cruz added to David Dunns early goal before a gut-wrenching finish for the Merseysides - however Everton repaid the favour in similar style last season as Tim Cahill capped off another classic between the sides with 90th minute goal of his own.
The 08/09 fixture was also the Premier League debut of starlet Jose Baxter, coming on as a 78th minute substitute.
Everton FC manager David Moyes not keen on Aston Villa job
Aug 12 2010 by David Randles, Liverpool Daily Post
DAVID MOYES has ruled himself out of the running for the vacant Aston Villa manager’s job. Martin O’Neill resigned from the post on Monday, just five days ahead of the new Premier League season. According to a poll conducted by a Birmingham newspaper, Moyes is second favourite among Villa fans to succeed O’Neill.
Ajax manager Martin Jol is the number one choice, polling 28% of the votes in a survey carried out by the Birmingham Mail. Moyes attracted 16.8% of the votes, with former Germany and Bayern Munich boss Jurgen Klinsmann in third spot with 12.1%.
However, the Everton manager was quick to distance himself from any links with the Midlands club insisting he was more than happy at Goodison Park. “I am loyal to Everton, I’ve always said that,” said Moyes, who is entering his ninth season with the Toffees. “It is a really good club and this year we have a really good team and we have a good chance of doing well.”Former Villa captain Gareth Southgate, Birmingham boss Alex McLeish and Swede Sven Goran Eriksson have all been linked with the Villa Park post. Meanwhile, Tim Cahill is a doubt for the Premier League opener at Blackburn Rovers on Sunday. Cahill was forced to withdraw from Australia’s squad for last night’s friendly against Slovenia due to a minor knee injury.
That leaves him with a race against time to be fit for the trip to Ewood Park.
Instead of risking the player, Moyes could decide to hand one of his new signings a Premier League debut. Frenchman Magaye Gueye has been in impressive form in pre-season since moving to Goodison from Strasbourg and can occupy an attacking midfield role similar to Cahill. Another option is Jermaine Beckford. The former Leeds striker has also caught the eye in pre-season, scoring three goals.
Meanwhile, Everton face a testing encounter with League One big spenders Huddersfield Town in the second round of the Carling Cup in the week beginning Monday, August 23.
Former Everton FC defender Philippe Senderos ruled out of action for six months with ruptured Achilles tendon
Aug 12 2010 Liverpool Daily Post MARK HUGHES could make a first foray into the transfer market as Fulham boss after defender Philippe Senderos was ruled out for around six months with a ruptured Achilles tendon. Senderos is due to undergo surgery in Finland, where he will be treated by the same specialist who oversaw David Beckham’s Achilles operation in March.
Lee Clark’s delight as Huddersfield Town are handed trip to Everton in Carling Cup
Aug 12 2010 by Dougie Thomson, Huddersfield Daily Examiner
LEE CLARK welcomed the prospect of a trip to Everton in the Carling Cup and predicted: “It should be a great night for the club.” Town were pre-drawn to be away in the seeded second round, and will face the Merseysiders in the week beginning August 23. It’s the second clash between the pair in the competition, with Everton winning 3-2 on aggregate in 1998-99, when the second round took place over two legs. It will be decided on the night this time, and Clark, whose side were 1-0 winners in their first-round clash at Carlisle United on Tuesday, said: “You always want to be at home, but if you have to be away, it’s good to be going to a club of Everton’s stature.
Phil Jagielka dismisses Arsenal rumours
12.08.10 London Evening Standard
A move to north London would be a step up for Jagielka given that Arsena Wenger can offer the defender Champions League football this season. However Jagielka, who signed for the Toffees from npower Championship side Sheffield United in 2007, denies that he is seeking a move away from Goodison Park. "There's nothing I can do about the speculation, but the gaffer has pulled me aside and told me I'm not going anywhere," Jagielka told talkSPORT. "I'm happy with that. I'm an Everton player, I love playing for the club, and I'm just going to get on with my job there."
Jagielka to stick with Toffees
Thursday August 12 2010
Irish Independent
Everton defender Phil Jagielka has scotched rumours linking him with a move to Arsenal. The 27-year-old, who made his second England start in last night's 2-1 win over Hungary, has been linked with a summer move to the Gunners, who are struggling for centre-backs following the departures of Sol Campbell, William Gallas and Mikael Silvestre. "There's nothing I can do about the speculation, but the gaffer has pulled me aside and told me I'm not going anywhere," Jagielka told talkSPORT. "I'm happy with that. I'm an Everton player, I love playing for the club, and I'm just going to get on with my job there." Jagielka marked his fourth England cap by unwittingly scoring the own-goal which put the Three Lions behind in their first match since their embarrassing World Cup exit to Germany. The former Blades defender's woes should have been avoided however, with replays showing the shot was cleared by Michael Dawson before all of the ball had crossed the line. Jagielka was one of eight players not involved in South Africa who played Wednesday night's game, which England won courtesy of two superb goals from captain Steven Gerrard. He now hopes to be part of a new era under Capello, who is determined to win a trophy with England before his contract runs out after Euro 2012. "It did feel like a new era definitely," said Jagielka. "If you looked at the team that finished the match then there won't have been many caps between us which is nice to see. "We have a lot of good English talent coming up and I'm sure that the manager will put young and old together and hopefully we can kick on for the European Championships."
I'm perfectly happy at Everton FC despite reported Arsenal interest – Phil Jagielka
Aug 13 2010 Liverpool Echo
EVERTON defender Phil Jagielka has scotched rumours linking him with a move to Arsenal. The 27-year-old, who made his second England start in Wednesday night’s 2-1 win over Hungary, has been linked with a summer move to the Gunners, who are struggling for centre-backs following the departures of Sol Campbell, William Gallas and Mikael Silvestre. A move to north London could appeal given that Arsene Wenger can offer the defender Champions League football this season. However, Jagielka, who signed for the Toffees from Championship side Sheffield United in 2007, denies that he is seeking a move away from Goodison Park. “There’s nothing I can do about the speculation, but the gaffer has pulled me aside and told me I’m not going anywhere,” Jagielka said. “I’m happy with that. “I’m an Everton player, I love playing for the club, and I’m just going to get on with my job there.”Jagielka marked his fourth England cap by unwittingly scoring the own-goal which put the Three Lions behind in their first match since their embarrassing World Cup exit to Germany.
The former Blades defender’s embarrassment should have been avoided however, with replays showing the shot was cleared by Michael Dawson before all of the ball had crossed the line. Jagielka was one of eight players not involved in South Africa who played in Wednesday night’s game, which England won courtesy of two superb goals from captain Steven Gerrard. He now hopes to be part of a new era under Capello, who is determined to win a trophy with England before his contract runs out after Euro 2012. “It did feel like a new era definitely,” said Jagielka. “If you looked at the team that finished the match then there won’t have been many caps between us which is nice to see. “We have a lot of good English talent coming up and I’m sure that the manager will put young and old together and hopefully we can kick on for the European Championships.” The Manchester-born defender said that the own goal will not overshadow his first international start at Wembley. He said: “The goal was unlucky but overall it was a massive experience for me. “It was the first time I’ve played at Wembley and the first time I’ve got some game time,” “The lads did well to be out there and I was just as proud as punch to be out there.The fans pay their money to come and watch us and hopefully they’ll keep coming.”
Everton are ready for action, says excited skipper Phil Neville
Aug 13 2010 by James Pearce, Liverpool Echo
THE waiting is nearly over and for Everton skipper Phil Neville, 3pm tomorrow can’t come soon enough. During six weeks of hard toil everything has been geared towards ensuring the Blues make a flying start to their Premier League campaign at Blackburn Rovers. Fitness has been built up, injuries have been avoided and a sense of anticipation has been building at Finch Farm all week. Neville may have spent 15 years playing at the highest level but the experienced campaigner admits he’s been like an excited schoolboy counting down the days to the big kick-off. “Saturday’s game is the moment we’ve been waiting for since we came back for pre-season training on July 1,” Neville said. “All the running, all the tests and all the friendlies have been about getting ready for August 14. “It’s such an exciting time to be a player. I still get that nervousness and anticipation. “You don’t know how the season is going to go or how your form is going to be. That’s part of the reason why we love football so much.” The 33-year-old’s excitement has been fuelled by a promising pre-season schedule which had yielded five straight wins prior to last weekend’s 2-0 defeat to Wolfsburg. Key players are fighting fit and Spanish midfielder Mikel Arteta provided a welcome boost by agreeing a new five-year contract.It’s all in stark contract to last summer when the Blues went into the season dogged by injuries and with Joleon Lescott’s transfer saga rumbling on. The result was a 6-1 thrashing at the hands of Arsenal on the opening day. “It’s been more settled and smooth this summer,” Neville admitted. “It’s probably one of the most enjoyable pre-seasons we’ve had since I’ve been here. “We’ve had good friendlies and some outstanding training. I’ve seen a big change this year. “We may have lost to Wolfsburg but I think that was a blessing for us. It was the little jolt we needed because before that everything had been plain sailing. “Maybe we had just slipped into a little bit of a comfort zone and that was a wake-up call. “Wolfsburg were probably the best team we’ve played. It was a reminder that if we’re not 100 per cent focused and not on our game then we’ll get beaten.” With cash in short supply at Goodison, the transfer window was always going to be about holding on to what Everton had rather than splashing out big money on new recruits. It’s been mission accomplished so far and Neville is hoping South African midfielder Steven Pienaar, who has entered the final year of his current contract, will follow Arteta’s lead and pen a new deal. Neville said: “It was great news about Mikel as I think we were all getting a little bit edgy. We didn’t want another situation like what happened with Joleon Lescott. “Mikel realised how much he’s loved here. I think every one of us told Mikel how we felt about him. “At every friendly he was the name on the lips of the fans singing his name. “When you’ve got that kind of respect I think it’s very hard to leave and the club has done brilliantly securing him for five more years. “You can’t say to someone you’ve got to sign but what you can do is tell them how highly you rate them and how highly they are valued in the team. “That’s what we did with Mikel and that’s what we’re doing with Steven Pienaar. “It’s not up to us what he does in his career. All we can do is support him and give him the kind of attention and support we feel he deserves. “He’s a valuable player for us and we love Steven Pienaar here. I know the fans love him. “I think he knows we see him as a vital player in this team. When he plays well, we play well – that’s how important he is to us.” Signings have been thin on the ground but Neville believes manager David Moyes has landed two gems in the form of striker Jermaine Beckford and French youngster Magaye Gueye. Beckford was snapped up on a free transfer after scoring 31 goals for Leeds in League One last season, while Gueye cost just £1million from Strasbourg. Both have impressed in pre-season with Beckford following up a double at Preston with his first strike at Goodison against Everton Chile last week. Neville said: “The new lads have settled in well, with Jermaine and Magaye especially outstanding. “Jermaine has got his goals and Magaye has impressed everyone with his freshness and enthusiasm. “He’s a bright young kid who plays with a smile on his face and has given us something a little bit different – a left-sided player who can score a goal. “Maybe Magaye won’t start the season in the team but don’t be surprised if he makes a big impact.” Beckford is in contention to make his Premier League bow at Blackburn tomorrow. And Neville has got no doubt the 26-year-old frontman can handle life in the top flight. “First and foremost he can score goals and that’s a vital commodity,” he added. “He’s got the hunger and more importantly he has joined the right club. He’s come to one where he’s got the platform to play. “Jermaine’s got all the tools and a great environment. It’s up to us to create chances for him. If we do that I’ve got no doubt he’ll put them away because he’s razor sharp.” Having lost just two of their last 24 league games last season, there’s a real sense of optimism ahead of Everton’s new campaign. The target is to improve on eighth place and bring European football back to Goodison. However, Neville is refusing to make any bold predictions and his focus is on ensuring there is no repeat of the slow starts which have hampered the Blues in recent years. “There’s definitely a spring in the players’ steps and we want to carry on where we left off,” he said.
“We took a lot of plaudits last season and rightly so but this is a new start.
“Every team in the Premier League has got a clean slate now and we have to ensure we improve again. “Rather than set a target of where we aim to finish, let’s break the season down into smaller categories. “First, we have to start well – that’s something we’ve notoriously not done. Let’s get through that first barrier, start well and see where we are in October/November. “Then we have to get through the tough Christmas period with everyone still fit and in form. “Then come January/February we can asses where we’re at and see what’s realistic. “But a good start is crucial. That will give us a great platform to attack the rest of the season.”
Mikel Arteta: I want to help establish Everton in top four
Aug 13 2010 by James Pearce, Liverpool Echo
MIKEL ARTETA has vowed to help establish Everton as a top four Premier League club. The Spanish midfielder ended speculation about his future last week when he agreed a new five-year deal.
Arsenal offered Arteta the chance to play Champions League football this season and Manchester City a massive pay rise – but he opted to remain at Goodison. The 28-year-old is confident he can achieve his dream of playing in Europe’s top club competition with the Blues. “I could have gone somewhere with Champions League but I really value what we have got here,” Arteta said. “I feel respected here. I really love the players and the staff and I think this is the moment we have been waiting for in the last four or five years. “This club has the ability to make you feel at home. When you are at home and you are building a beautiful house and you are close to completing it, you want to enjoy that house. “You don’t want to move away, and that is how I felt about Everton. We have been working really hard and I have been complaining to the chairman about how we need to improve this and that. The club has done it and now is the moment to enjoy it. That was a big part. “The manager and chairman were both saying they needed me for a big project, and not to walk away. The manager told me he has been in a similar situation and he decided to stay. This was my time to acknowledge that they have been unbelievable with me, when I was injured or had problems. It was the moment for me to step forward and say ‘it is my time now’. “I am at a stage in my career where I want to win things and I want to play in the Champions League. I want to make sure that when I leave this club they are in the top four at least. “If I was not convinced about enjoying success with Everton I would not be staying.” Arteta’s close bond with his team-mates was highlighted by the fact Tim Cahill was his best man when he got married in his homeland last month.
The 28-year-old was granted permission by boss David Moyes to leave the pre-season tour of Australia early to tie the knot. “Leaving the tour is something I feel really bad about,” Arteta said. “I don’t think it was right but, originally, we were due to be in Liverpool at that point. “I went to the gaffer last year and told him the place we wanted to get married in had only one date available. He said: “You only get married once in your life – you can have two days off.” Seven months later the club changed it’s plans and decided to go to Australia. “There was no way I could go to and from Australia and get married in 48 hours. I was in big trouble now! “I had to explain to the gaffer and he was very understanding and gave me six days off. It wasn’t nice to leave my team-mates while they were all working hard but I had arranged my wedding a year before and it was impossible to tell 250 guests to go home. “Tim was my best man and I wanted to have everyone at the wedding but we couldn’t do it. “We have spent a long time together and have had a lot of good and bad moments together. Not just on the pitch but off it, the people here have played a big part. The spirit here is something very special.”
Nobody’s spot is safe in the team now says Everton FC captain Phil Neville
Aug 13 2010 by James Pearce, Liverpool Echo
PHIL NEVILLE believes increased competition for places will inspire Everton to greater heights this season as he warned: “No-one’s spot is safe.” The Blues skipper admits there is a buzz around the squad ahead of tomorrow’s Premier League opener at Blackburn Rovers. In contrast to last season when Everton were dogged by serious injuries, manager David Moyes has a wealth of options at his disposal. And Neville is confident the battle for a starting spot will bring the best out of the Blues. “The squad looks strong and there are two good players for nearly every position now,” he said.
“No-one’s spot is safe and the manager has got a really difficult job picking 11 players for Saturday. “When you’ve got that kind of competition, the quality levels go up no end, not just in games but also in training because everyone is fighting to get into the team. The quality of training this summer has been as good as I’ve seen since I’ve been at the club. “Players like competition and they like being pushed. If we’re going to be successful this year then we have to challenge ourselves and raise the bar.
“We’re also going to have to accept a rotation type policy. We’ve never had it here before because we’ve always had a small squad. “But now the club has moved forward and we have to move with it. Not many players can expect to play every game. With the options the manager has he can rest players with niggles and ensure there’s always a freshness about the team.” Everton clinched a 3-2 victory at Blackburn back in April when Tim Cahill grabbed a dramatic last-gasp winner but Neville is wary of the threat posed by Rovers. He said: “Blackburn had a fantastic season last year on limited resources and I’ve got the utmost respect for Sam Allardyce – I’ve always thought he’s a top manager. “We had a good result there last year but they are always tight games there. Although we played really well, they made us fight right to the final minute when we got that winner. “It will be tough again on Saturday but it’s important we hit the ground running and start with a victory.”
The Blues will be roared on by 5,000 travelling fans in the Darwen End tomorrow and Neville is expecting a special atmosphere. “It’s one of our favourite away trips,” he admitted. “You come out of the tunnel and see one end packed full of Evertonians. They make so much noise it feels like a home game at times. “I’m sure it will be like that again on Saturday. It never ceases to amaze me the following we get. “We’re going into the season quietly confident but let’s keep under the radar for the moment and let other people do the talking. We’ve got to do our talking on the pitch. MORTEN GAMST PEDERSEN thought about quitting Blackburn this summer but eventually decided the grass is not always greener on the other side. “It is always a temptation when other clubs are interested in you and you are in the position I was,” he said. “You can be tempted to think the grass is greener. But when I sat down and thought about it, I knew the right thing was to stay. “I have a love for the club.”
Champions League belief fuelled decision to stay at Everton FC – Mikel Arteta
Aug 13 2010 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
MIKEL ARTETA has revealed he is staying at Everton to help leave the legacy of a club regularly competing for Champions League qualification. And the Spaniard has urged his team-mates to possess the belief to end a trophy drought that stretches back to 1995. Arteta will today officially put pen to paper on a five-year deal that will extend his Goodison commitment to more than a decade. The Spanish schemer made the decision to remain at Everton despite strong interest from a host of potential suitors including Barcelona, Manchester City, Arsenal and Sevilla. Despite an encouraging pre-season, the 28-year-old admits the big spending of their main rivals means David Moyes’s side face a difficult task in breaking into the Premier League top four. But Arteta is determined to win bring silverware to Goodison Park and a return to Europe’s elite competition. “I want to win things,” said the midfielder. “I want to play in the Champions League and I want to make sure that when I leave this club they are in the top four at least. “You can see that when you walk in the streets because everyone is really excited about this season. “The truth is that it will be a hard season trying to get into the Champions League because of the competition with the other teams spending a lot of money. “But if I was not convinced about enjoying success with Everton I would not be staying. “I don’t think the chairman (Bill Kenwright) has to convince me or any player; we have to be convinced ourselves because if we are not we are never going to do it.
Ian Doyle's season preview: Can Liverpool FC and Everton FC manage those great expectations?
Aug 13 2010 Liverpool Daily Post
On the eve of the new Premier League season, Daily Post chief football writer Ian Doyle runs the rule over what the campaign has in store for Everton and Liverpool
EVERY new football season is a big season on Merseyside. But some are bigger than others. So it is for this year as both Liverpool and Everton prepare to embark on what could well prove their most defining campaign in many years. For differing reasons, the Merseyside duo will find every step met with intense scrutiny, hopes and expectations affected by a summer of shock, encouragement and intrigue. First to Everton. Not since clinching Champions League qualification in 2005 have supporters been quite so hopeful going into a new campaign after the strong showing in the second half of last season was followed by a quietly efficient summer. Certainly, the Goodison outfit are in a much better shape than this time last year. Back then, the promise of the FA Cup final appearance against Chelsea months earlier swiftly evaporated once injuries and the Joleon Lescott saga took hold to prompt a 6-1 opening day home defeat to Arsenal. David Moyes’s side were hovering above the relegation zone come November, but once the treatment room began to empty and heads were cleared and focused, the results started to flow with a run of just two defeats in 24 Premier League games – a sequence which included memorable victories over Chelsea and Manchester United – saw them come close to a fourth successive European qualification. Now a Europa League berth would appear the bare minimum given the positive vibes that have been emanating from Goodison during pre-season.
Small wonder. Mikel Arteta’s decision to sign a new five-year deal was the apex of a summer in which Moyes has made tying the spine of his squad to long-term contracts a priority, Tim Cahill, Jack Rodwell, Seamus Coleman and Leighton Baines also penning fresh deals. Steven Pienaar’s signature remains tantalisingly out of reach, although the longer the South African and his representatives decline the offer on the table, so the player may find himself increasingly marginalised.
On the eve of the new Premier League season, Daily Post chief football writer Ian Doyle runs the rule over what the campaign has in store for Everton and Liverpool
That Everton are in no mood to be compromised says much about the confidence in the foundations laid down by Moyes, chairman Bill Kenwright and the club’s board.
The next test, though, is to transfer that over the course of a whole season, preferably picking up some silverware for the first time since 1995 on the way. Indeed, the manner in which Everton struggled to cope with the expectation five years ago and their notoriously slow starts to recent campaigns makes it imperative they come out of the blocks flying at Blackburn Rovers tomorrow. They will be helped be a favourable fixture list in which the only genuinely testing away trip during the first four months is October’s visit to Tottenham Hotspur. Moyes would obviously it rather wasn’t the case, but there can be no doubt Everton’s focus and fitness will be helped without the added pressure of European football. However, it could prove a double-edged sword, and having done well to retain his squad – notwithstanding the controversial departure of Dan Gosling – it will be interesting to see how Moyes manages to keep such a relatively large playing staff happy, while determining what his best team actually is.
Of course, that’s a welcome headache after the travails of 12 months ago. And with summer arrivals Jermaine Beckford, Jan Mucha, Magaye Gueye and Joao Silva all bought to bolster the supporting cast, it will be the same tried and trusted stars on which Everton lean upon once again this season. It will be a similar case across Stanley Park at Liverpool who, like their neighbours, will not be complaining the status quo has largely been maintained on the pitch. Off the field, though, is where the greater changes have come, with takeover talk reaching a crescendo and Roy Hodgson replacing the deposed Rafael Benitez as manager. Hodgson’s first job was to address the futures of Fernando Torres and Steven Gerrard. And having helped persuade the pair to stay put, the manager then pulled a rabbit out of the hat with the capture of Joe Cole on a free transfer. Soon, the depression around Anfield began to lift, although it won’t be enough to prevent Javier Mascherano from seeking pastures new. Christian Poulsen is the Argentine’s cut-price replacement, but Cole is the standout of a summer recruitment drive in which precious little cash has been spent on young pair Jonjo Shelvey and Danny Wilson and Serbia international Milan Jovanovic, while Fabio Aurelio left and returned without having gone anywhere.
On the eve of the new Premier League season, Daily Post chief football writer Ian Doyle runs the rule over what the campaign has in store for Everton and Liverpool
Factor in the fallout from the World Cup and an early start to the Europa League adventure and Hodgson has barely had time to make himself comfortable in the Anfield hotseat given his largely successful first weeks of fire-fighting. However, few genuinely know what to expect when Liverpool start their Premier League season at home to Arsenal on Sunday, where Torres’s likely injury-enforced absence underlines the need for another senior striker before the transfer window closes at the end of the month. With a trip to Manchester City the following week sandwiched by the Europa League qualifier against Trabzonspor, Hodgson’s men have no option but to hit the ground running. Cole could provide the sprinkling of stardust that was sorely lacking from Liverpool’s staid play during the death throes of the Benitez era, but otherwise it is Torres and Gerrard who will carry the burden of expectation on their shoulders once more, although Cole’s arrival may see the latter in a more withdrawn central midfield role. Some weaknesses remain, notably at left-back and on the flanks, while the lack of senior depth make it imperative youngsters such as Dani Pacheco and Martin Kelly continue delivering on their great promise. What would be a success for Liverpool this season? While it would be some achievement to surpass the disappointment of the previous campaign, Hodgson knows that the players at his disposal, if in form and motivated, are more than capable of challenging for a Champions League place.
Four years without a trophy has left supporters itching for some silverware, and a decent cup run, particularly in the domestic competitions that have been largely overlooked in recent years. But one thing is for certain. Hodgson, like his Goodison counterpart Moyes, will find expectations as important to manage as his players this season.
On the eve of the new Premier League season, Daily Post chief football writer Ian Doyle runs the rule over what the campaign has in store for Everton and Liverpool
Ian Doyle's predictions
TITLE WINNERS: Manchester City. Having said Chelsea would win it for the past three years, and finally being correct last time around, the crown will definitely not be going to Stamford Bridge this season. Manchester United are too old, Arsenal too soft, Tottenham Hotspur too, well, Tottenham and Liverpool too far behind. Which leaves City’s billions, and there’s too much quality in Roberto Mancini’s squad not to succeed provided they gain that priceless quality – mental strength. GOING DOWN: Wolverhampton Wanderers, Sunderland, West Ham United and promoted Newcastle United will all struggle, but Blackpool and West Bromwich Albion are destined to go back whence they came while Wigan Athletic, lucky to say up last season, won’t survive. SURPRISE PACKAGE: Tottenham Hotspur. Professional Cockney Harry Redknapp has already been complaining about fixture congestion before the season has even started, so expect to be shocked by how badly Spurs do once they actually start playing some games. PLAYER TO WATCH: Poised to play in the central position where he forged his reputation as a youngster, the new Liverpool man will be asked to supply the ammunition for Fernando Torres. If he avoids injury, will prove a revelation. That’s some if, though. MERSEY VIEW: Everton begin with high expectations after their strong finish to last season and possess their best squad in arguably 20 years. But there comes a point where being happy to compete in the top six is not enough, and either a consistent challenge among the top four or silverware must be delivered. For Liverpool, pretty much the same demand. Roy Hodgson may only be starting out at Anfield but the immense underachievement of last season makes it inconceivable it could be any worse this year. Champions League qualification is realistically a must to keep hold of players such as Torres (left).
I'm the real life Forrest Gump, says former Blackburn Rovers star
Friday 13th August 2010
By Andy Cryer (Lancashire Evening Post)
I AM almost like the Forrest Gump of football, it was like I have been at every point of history with the clubs I have been at. It was unbelievable luck the way everything happened. It is amazing.” Former Blackburn Rovers stalwart Mick Rathbone reflects on the last 35 years in professional football with an understandable sense of pride and gratitude but, if he had the chance to do it all again, he admits he might well have chosen a different path. He started his career playing under Sir Alf Ramsey at Birmingham City and towards the end was Everton’s physio in the 2009 FA Cup final but in between that Rathbone has experienced his fair share of hard times – as well as a number of highs. The 52-year-old, who has now quit the game to start up his own business ‘Crossing the White Line’ in Blackburn, had always dreamed of being a doctor and, while he got the best of both worlds having spent the last 18 years as a physio, there are still regrets. He said: “When I was at my grammar school in Birmingham in the 1970s I wanted to be doctor. I was in the top stream and got the highest qualifications and could have gone to university, which only one in ten did then. “I also got the chance to play for Birmingham City though and I decided to join them. It was okay because I had played so many games. But when I look back I turned down the guaranteed opportunity to go to medical school and be a doctor and the lifestyle and the wealth that would bring. “I opted to risk it in professional football where very few players make the grade. “The fact I made it to a certain degree has worked out well but if I had my time again I think I would have done it differently, I think I would have gone to university and become a doctor.” Rathbone will be at Ewood Park tomorrow to see former clubs Rovers and Everton go head to head in the Premier League opener, with a wealth of memories that will last him a lifetime.
He made more than 300 appearances for Rovers between 1979 and 1987, experiencing relegation and promotion, before enjoying spells at Preston, Halifax and Everton as a player and then physio - spending the last eight years at physio at Goodison Park.
“I have been lucky, when I was 16 I joined my local club and they had Trevor Francis, Howard Kendall, Kenny Burns. I had a unique grounding from there through the divisions the wrong way, all the way to dropping out of the league with Halifax and then coming back up again as a physio. “There was that realisation at 33 I had no savings, no quali-fications, a big mortgage – what am I going to do next? Then that awful sitting in a classroom to 37 and having to retrain. “Then starting right back at the bottom as a physio at Halifax when we got paid late every month. Then gradually hauling yourselves back with Preston in the fourth and the third then second then to Everton. I have been so lucky because everywhere I have been something was happening. “I have been to the States eight times and Australia twice and every country in Europe. I have run Bondai beach with Tim Cahill, crossed balls for Tim Howard at Soldier Field in Chicago. I can’t tell you how lucky I have been.”
Since signing for Rovers on loan from the Midlands back in 1979, Rathbone has always lived in the town and insists it will always be classed as home. He said: “I have the best memories at Blackburn Rovers. I love the geography, the people, the gravy on the chips, Thwaites’ beer, the extra half an hour opening of the pubs, the flat caps, the cobbled streets - I loved everything about Lancashire. “We were not the best players but we had the best team spirit I have ever come across in football. When I came here they were already essentially down. John Pickering had taken over as a caretaker manager and in that period of 13 games - although we were doomed - we went to Stoke who were top and won and Sunderland who were second and won.
“It was completely different in those days. There was a lot less preparation, it was perhaps a bit more real, it was earthy. It was trays of beers on the bus, everyone out on a Thursday night, cross country runs until you collapse.” After spending the last eight years as a physio at Goodison Park, Rathbone believes the time was right to take on a new challenge as he focuses on his new business venture. ‘Crossing the White Line’ offers a range of bespoke public speaking services including motivational speaking for corporate audiences, sports injury lecturing at schools, universities and colleges, sports injury consultancy for football clubs and after dinner speaking at social events.
He said: “In the early days of my career as a physio I did every facet of the job. I loved that because it gave me an air of indispensability. It is different now, players are reluctant - and I completely agree with this because I would be if I was worth £10million - to take a risk with the body that generates enormous incomes.
“I have my biggest challenge yet now. It is exciting though and I am enjoying that extra spare time. "Over a period of time it burns you out because essentially I had worked every single day for 18 years. That takes some doing.”
Blackburn Rovers v Everton early team news
Friday 13th August 2010 (Lancashire Evening Post)
Blackburn Rovers manager Sam Allardyce has to make a decision on whether to include new loan signing Mame Biram Diouf in his squad for tomorrow’s first Barclays Premier League match at home to Everton. The Senegal international, who scored for his country in midweek, has played only 45 minutes for his new team but did score in last weekend’s friendly victory over Hearts. Midfielder Vince Grella (calf) is the only absentee. Tim Cahill is expected to be fit for Everton tomorrow when they face Blackburn at Ewood Park. The Australian midfielder sat out his country’s defeat by Slovenia in a friendly in midweek because of a slight knee problem. Victor Anichebe is ruled out through injury and former Leeds striker Jermaine Beckford could be on the bench.
Blackburn (from): Robinson, Salgado, Chimbonda, Jones, Givet, Nelsen, Samba, Olsson, Jacobsen, Emerton, Dunn, Nzonzi, Andrews, Kalinic, Pedersen, Hoilett, EH Diouf, MB Diouf, Brown.
Everton (from): Howard, Mucha, Hibbert, Yobo, Jagielka, Distin, Baines, Heitinga, Bilyaletdinov, Arteta, Cahill, Neville, Pienaar, Osman, Fellaini, Rodwell, Saha, Yakubu, Vaughan, Beckford, Gueye.
Experienced striker still a priority for Blackburn Rovers
Friday 13th August 2010
By Andy Cryer Blackburn Rovers reporter (Lancashire Evening Post)
BLACKBURN Rovers will not add to their squad before tomorrow’s Premier League opener against Everton at Ewood Park – but are still in the market for an experienced, physical striker before the transfer window shuts. Mame Biram Diouf’s season-long loan arrival in East Lancashire, added to Jason Roberts’ almost certain departure, has seen Rovers look for a seasoned campaigner to help the young forward talents already on their books. Manager Sam Allardyce has already revealed he has one or two irons in the fire and could be ready to make a new bid for a striker over the weekend. Rovers were previously prepared to gamble on youth again in their striker search but, with Roberts ready to quit Ewood Park, Allardyce knows experience is needed to help young guns Nikola Kalinic and Mame Biram Diouf progress. Former Manchester City striker Benjani is still training at Brockhall and could yet prove some of the solution to Rovers’ lack of striking experience – with a short term deal one possibility for the Zimbabwe international. The 31-year-old still has a lot to prove although it is believed his fitness is better than has been suggested in some quarters.
Rovers are also believed to have had scouts watching Nantes midfielder William Vainqueur in Monday’s match against Le Mans on Monday night, but any addition of a midfielder is only of secondary importance. Andranik Teymourian’s short term signing appears to be dead now, with the Iranian international struggling to obtain a work permit.
Huddersfield Town keep watch on Carling Cup rivals Everton
Aug 13 2010 by Peter Barrow, Huddersfield Daily Examiner
TOWN will be keeping an eye on Carling Cup rivals Everton as the Goodison club open their Premier League campaign at Blackburn Rovers tomorrow. The second-round clash seems set to be staged at Everton on Wednesday, August 25, and Lee Clark and his staff will be monitoring the progress of David Moyes’ side, who play their first home game of the campaign against Wolves a week tomorrow. However, Moyes is currently working hard to ensure he keeps his squad intact before the transfer window closes at the end of the month. The Scot has insisted it will take a “really big” offer for Everton to consider selling striker Yakubu. West Ham have already had two bids for the Nigeria international rejected and their chairman David Sullivan has claimed the Blues are holding out for £8m. Premier League opening games (3pm unless stated) Saturday: Aston Villa v West Ham, Blackburn v Everton, Bolton v Fulham, Chelsea v West Brom (5.30), Sunderland v Birmingham, Tottenham v Manchester City (12.45), Wigan v Blackpool, Wolves v Stoke.
Sunday: Liverpool v Arsenal (4.00) Monday: Manchester United v Newcastle (8.00)
Everton ticket details announced by Huddersfield Town
Aug 13 2010 By Mel Booth (The Huddersfield Daily Examiner)
HUDDERSFIELD Town have today announced ticket details and selling for the Carling Cup second round tie at Everton on Wednesday, August 25, which kicks off at 8.00. The 6,000 tickets will go on sale as follows: Monday August 16 (9.30am) - Town Season-ticket holders who are also Blue & White Foundation members and Patrons. Tuesday August 17 and Wednesday August 18 (9.30am) - Season-ticket holders. Thursday August 19 (9.30am) - general sale. Tickets are priced at £10 adults, £7 seniors & £5 juniors for season-ticket holders (this discount applies until Friday August 20 subject to availability). After that it's £12 adults, £9 seniors and £6 juniors for non-season ticket holders. Coach travel: £12, departing 4.45pm.
Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson predicts improved season for Everton FC
Aug 14 2010 Liverpool Echo
MANCHESTER UNITED manager Alex Ferguson thinks Everton are the dark horses in the Premier League top four challenge this season. The Scot feels that particular battle could turn out to be very tightly fought after Tottenham gate-crashed the party last season, with Liverpool desperate to get back in. Manchester City have once again flexed their financial muscle while, with Phil Jagielka and Mikel Arteta free from injury, Ferguson expects major improvement from Everton. “I would expect Liverpool to improve with Roy Hodgson. Tottenham are on the upswing given their fortunes last season and Harry Redknapp’s experience,” said Ferguson. “The interesting one is Everton because they have got all their players back.”
Sam Allardyce: I love Everton FC way
Aug 14 2010 Liverpool Echo
BLACKBURN boss Sam Allardyce has paid tribute to Everton counterpart David Moyes and his club for the stability they have created in a cut-throat managerial world. In the past week Martin O’Neill has resigned at Aston Villa and Steve Coppell has quit Bristol City, for differing reasons, but Moyes is one of the longest-serving managers at the same club. The Scot, in his eighth year with the Toffees and who was linked with the Villa vacancy, will arrive at Ewood Park today for their Premier League opener with a ringing endorsement from Allardyce. “It is a rarity now and Everton are extremely fortunate to have kept David where he is because of the work he has done and how hard he has worked to turn the club around from what was a difficult position when he took over,” said Allardyce. “David and the club fit very nicely and they are reaping the benefits of stability and the backing of a manager and good working relationships. “It is something that lots more clubs in the Premier League, and certainly the Football League, should take notice of because without that stability you are not going to bring any sort of success to a club. “It tells you about the enormous pressure of being a manager. We make the decisions we make because people don’t see it in the same light we see it. “In Steve’s case it is the second time it has occurred where he is not comfortable in the surroundings – it happened at Manchester City a few years ago. “Rather than it lingering on and damaging the club or him they have decided to part company. Martin has decided it is not longer viable for him to carry on at Aston Villa.” Allardyce’s side lost twice to Everton last season, including a thrilling 3-2 defeat at Ewood Park, but he believes his squad is stronger this season. One of the reasons is the acquisition of Manchester United striker Mame Biram Diouf on loan. “Anything we get against Everton this year will be a bonus because we got nothing from them last season,” added Allardyce, who confirmed Ryan Nelsen will continue as club captain while fellow centre-back Christopher Samba will skipper Rovers on the pitch. “It is all-out to win but we can’t abandon caution and if we can’t win we have to make sure we get a point on the board.”
Senegal international Diouf has played only 45 minutes of a friendly against Hearts last weekend but he scored and was on target for his country in midweek.
“Diouf is inexperienced in the Premier League. Manchester United plucked him from Norway and Alex wants him to play first team football – which is limited for him at United,” said Allardyce. “His genuine pace is something we haven’t got and having scored two goals in two games this week we hope he continues that sort of form.
“He is a different sort of player from the ones we have got and that makes us stronger on the forward line.” The 22-year-old is confident he can quickly adapt to his new surroundings and become a proven Premier League goalscorer. “It doesn’t matter where you play, the only thing that matters is that you have time to play and the manager (Ferguson) thinks this is the best option,” said Diouf. “I want to play a lot of games, score goals and help the team. “As a striker if you don’t score goals there is no need to play football any more so I am confident.”
Barry Horne: Perhaps Mikel Arteta wants it more than Steven Pienaar
Aug 14 2010 by David Randles, Liverpool Echo
TYING a host of our key players to new contracts has capped a good summer for the club. Jack Rodwell, Leighton Baines, Tim Cahill and Mikel Arteta have all committed themselves to Everton, which says a lot for the direction we’re heading in. Despite his five-year deal, I would hope the Rodwell situation will continue to be the subject of speculation, with the likes of Chelsea and Manchester United linked with him.
That being the case, it will mean Rodwell is doing well for Everton. I was surprised to see Jack Wilshere picked ahead of him to make his senior England debut this week, particularly when you saw Rodwell’s man-of-the-match performance as he captained the Under-21s the night before. I saw an interview with Mikel Arteta this week in which he displayed his obvious affection for the club. It was interesting to hear how straightforward his contract negotiations were and how both parties were happy to keep it low key. I also read with interest comments made by Steven Pienaar’s business manager, Rob Moore. The inference was that Everton had acted much more quickly to get Arteta’s contract sorted out than they had on Pienaar’s. It takes both sides to sort out these things, however, so perhaps the fact Arteta’s deal has been sorted out first is down to the player as much as it is the club. There has to be common willing on both sides. It is a case of meeting somewhere in the middle and reaching an agreement.
Maybe Arteta’s contract was arranged with the minimum of fuss, not because the club tried harder than they have with Pienaar, but because the player was more willing to commit his long term future to Everton.
Barry Horne: Everton FC fans have every right to be optimistic
Aug 14 2010 by David Randles, Liverpool Echo
TYPICALLY the vast majority of football fans are optimistic about their team’s chances as we wait for the main event to kick off today. Everton supporters can justifiably feel more excited and confident than most. A terrific second half to last season has been backed up with an almost perfect summer for David Moyes.
The only blemishes have been a disappointing defeat in Wolfsburg and the lack of a resolution to the Steven Pienaar saga. Other than that, six wins from seven is an impressive run. Saying that, pre-season form is a notoriously poor indicator as to how a team will fare when the real action starts. But every player, manager and supporter would prefer to go into the campaign on the back of a good pre-season and Everton, by and large, have looked good. Last season our main problem was a crippling injury list. David Moyes and his players did magnificently just to compete during that period. If we have a little luck in terms of injuries this season then I see no reason why our optimism should not be realised. David Moyes has been very astute in the transfer market. Everton are now in the fortunate position of not having to rely on any of the new signings to do anything extraordinary this season. We’ve signed a very experienced goalkeeper in Jan Mucha and three youngsters with great potential.
Magaye Gueye, Joao Silva and Jermaine Beckford can all be viewed in the developmental stage of their careers. If they come in and do well as and when they get their chance in the first team, it will be seen as a bonus. Other teams have been signing players most of whom will be expected to come straight in and do well.
As we saw last season, Everton’s squad is already strong enough to compete when everyone is fit. In that sense, there is no extra pressure on the new players. In particular, Jermaine Beckford excites me. I’ve seen him playing for Leeds and he is a player with raw talent and ability. People have questioned his attitude and consistency but one of the great strengths of Everton is that David Moyes has instilled a great squad mentality in the dressing room that brings out the best in people. Beckford could turn out to be a really, really good signing for Everton but, if not – because of his reputation as a natural goalscorer – he will always make money for the club because he arrived on a free. It was a shrewd piece of business by the manager but also a move that highlighted the players’s determination to come to Goodison ahead of a host of other clubs interested in him.
Royal Blue: Current Everton FC side must secure their legacy
Aug 14 2010 by Chris Beesley, Liverpool Echo
AS OF today the new Premier League season is upon us and for once Evertonians are going into the big kick-off with smiles on their faces. A year ago the spectre of Joleon Lescott’s impending transfer to Manchester City cast a dark shadow over Goodison Park on the opening day and an ill-prepared Everton side, decimated by injuries, were dismantled 6-1 by a clinical Arsenal outfit in their pomp. Now, 12 months on, there is a growing feeling – and rightly so – that something special is about to happen at the club. The 2009/10 campaign was in effect two separate seasons within a nine-month period for the Blues. After hovering above the drop zone in those dark days of autumn, Everton blossomed in the new year – albeit with the pressure off – to lose just two of their final 23 Premier League matches. Unfortunately amongst this run their were a couple of stinkers at home to Birmingham City in the FA Cup and in Lisbon against Sporting in the Europa League which meant that a crack at silverware for a side that had finished FA Cup runners-up the previous term remained tantalisingly out of reach for David Moyes. Of course you’d always rather be in European competition and Moyes, unlike some of his peers, has always treated continental competition with the full respect it deserves, but a concentration on domestic matters this season can help his troops finally close in on that elusive trophy they crave so much. The Scot himself has admitted that for all his magnificent achievements at Goodison, the lack of a cup on his CV remains a glaring omission. Everton’s 1995 team was undoubtedly not as strong as the current squad and Joe Royle’s short-lived tenure did not lay down the strong foundations that Moyes has established but the boys of 15 years ago wrote themselves into Everton folklore with their victory over Manchester United at Wembley and subsequently forever won a place in Evertonians’ hearts. The key word for the current Everton side and their manager is ‘legacy’ – what they’ll be remembered for at the club in the years to come. It’s widely acknowledged now that this is the strongest Everton squad since they were last champions in 1987. Talented players such as Tim Howard, Leighton Baines, Phil Jagielka, Tim Cahill, and Mikel Arteta need to be achievers at Goodison Park, not nearly men who finished their time with the Blues empty handed. The feeling that the time of turning potential into winning a competition is now imminent has seen the likes of Cahill, Baines, and now Arteta commit themselves to new long-term deals at the club over the summer, while Jagielka has shrugged off interest from Arsenal. The glaring omission remains Steven Pienaar. The South African said at the end of last season that he’d be back at Goodison this term if ‘God wanted him to’. Well he’s apparently raring to go after his short-lived World Cup exploits but it’s his commitment beyond the current campaign that still remains unresolved. Despite a lucrative contract to put Pienaar amongst the club’s top earners having been on the table for several weeks, he has yet to put pen to paper with his business manager Rob Moore continuing to spout a series of baffling riddles over his future. This week’s bizarre offering from Moore in the wake of the Arteta deal included: “In the case of Pienaar it is surprising that he is the player with the least amount of time remaining on his contract, yet the last to be tied up with a new deal. “You have to ask yourself, ‘Does this mean Everton actually want to sell him? ‘ “ But there is nothing we can do about it.” As talented as Pienaar is – most Blues would be delighted to see him extend his time at Goodison – whether or not he finds a pen and is able to do something about it, there is now enough quality in the squad to adopt a more relaxed approach to his long-term future. Such is the current mood amongst Blues, the chuckles over Moore’s remarks were followed up by giggles over West Ham chairman David Sullivan’s insistence that Nigerian striker Yakubu is only worth ‘£1-2million’ and the belly laughs that Aston Villa wanted David Moyes to quit his job at Goodison Park to become their new manager.
Royal Blue: Everton FC fans get shirty with Mikel Arteta
Aug 14 2010 by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Echo
EVERTONIANS’ affections for Mikel Arteta have been proven by the news that the Spanish midfielder’s name is the most popular on replica shirts amongst Blues fans.
Less than a week after he agreed a new five-year deal at Goodison, Arteta has raced to the top of shirt printing for Everton jerseys. Second most popular is Tim Cahill while Jack Rodwell is third. Making up the top five are Phil Jagielka and Diniyar Bilyaletdinov.
Royal Blue: Everton FC mascot Changy will never forget his lessons with Louie Spence
Aug 14 2010 by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Echo
EVERTON mascot Changy the elephant swapped his football boots for dancing shoes this week. Fresh from his visit Down Under to Australia with Everton on their pre-season tour in July, Changy travelled to London this week to film an advert for Sky.
Changy, the mascot of Everton's main sponsor Chang Beer, joined flamboyant choreographer Louie Spence at Pineapple Dance Studios for a pre-season dance lesson, which was filmed to promote Sky Sports’ first full season of football coverage in 3D. The loveable character was also joined by a selection of other club mascots who all strutted their stuff at the famous dance studios in Covent Garden. Changy will make his next appearance at Goodison Park when Everton take on Wolves on Saturday August 21.
Snap of Everton FC's Steven Pienaar with Liverpool FC players gets ECHO photographer shortlisted for award
Aug 14 2010 By Jo Kelly
LIVERPOOL ECHO photographer Gareth Jones has been shortlisted for the Barclays photographic award for his snap of Everton's Steven Pienaar standing among Liverpool FC players during February's derby match.
The competition was open to photographers worldwide and a huge number of entries were received by Barclays, the main sponsor of the Premier League.
Gareth was shortlisted along with nine other photographers. Images included Man United's Gary Neville and Paul Scholes kissing, Steven Gerrard surrounded by fans and Sunderland striker Darren Bent's shot being deflected off a beachball and past Liverpool goalkeeper Pepe Reina. Gareth calls his image of the Liverpool and Everton derby "Red mist at Anfield". He said: "The image shows Everton's South African winger Steven Pienaar trying to calm down the situation after tempers were raised in the derby at Anfield back in February. "A thick mist had engulfed Anfield just before the lunchtime kick off and as the game played out the heat was not only evident from the pitch but from the players heads as well. "In recent years the derby has become more tense on and off the pitch with more red cards in recent years and the fans showing less love for their neighbour than before. "It was taken on a Nikon D2hs camera using a 300mm lens. I think the shot works well because it is backlit and has the added mist." If successfull Gareth will win £5,000 along with the Shot of the Season title, which went to Graham Chadwick of The Daily Mail in 2009 for his picture of Fulham goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer failing to deny Blackburn Rovers' Jason Roberts from scoring under the floodlights of Craven Cottage. The judging panel includes Barclays Sponsorship Director Matt Appleby, Chairman of the Football Writers Association Steve Bates, Sky Sports Commentator Martin Tyler, and last year's winner Tom Jenkins.
Everton FC riding in as the Premier League’s dark horses
Aug 14 2010 by James Pearce, Liverpool Echo
Everton FC riding in as the Premier League’s dark horses
THE Premier League’s big hitters are sensing a new threat on the horizon. During a week when Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger backed a resurgent Everton to challenge for honours this season, Manchester United boss Alex Ferguson then tipped David Moyes’ men to gatecrash the top four. Any hopes of sneaking under the radar at the start of the campaign have been well and truly dashed. The secret is out. The Blues boast their strongest squad in years and after a settled pre-season expectations are high. However, rather than groan at extra pressure being heaped on their shoulders, Moyes believes his players should be inspired by all the plaudits coming their way.
And the Goodison chief believes clubs are right to be wary of his side ahead of today’s opening clash at Blackburn. Moyes said: “I think that’s Alex’s mind games at the start of the season working on us! No, I don’t think he’s trying to kid anyone. He recognises we’ve got a good group of players. “If we perform well and play to our potential we have a chance to compete with the top teams. “But I’m not setting any big targets. There’s nothing on the wall saying ‘let’s do this and that’. Let’s just try to win the first game and see where it takes us.” It’s been a summer full of positives for Everton. Despite a flurry of interest from rival clubs, Moyes has successfully managed to hold on to all his key players. Mikel Arteta became the latest star to put pen to paper on a new deal when he signed a five-year contract yesterday. The injuries which wrecked the last campaign have cleared up and the manager believes his side are ready for duty. “Pre-season has gone well and the players have gone about their jobs well,” Moyes said. “It’s been the first close season for a while when we’ve really been able to work with the players. “Two years ago in Switzerland we only had about seven or eight players. Last summer we were waiting on players to come back and then picked up more injuries after the start. It was a difficult period for us. “We all feel confident because we have a strong squad. We haven’t added to it much but the squad who finished last season did really well and we want to keep that going. “Mikel was always going to be one of the big deals we had to do. He’s so important to us and he showed that when he came back last season. “We knew there was a chance he might leave but the chairman’s persuasive talks helped keep him here. “We don’t have much money to go out and buy so we had to keep our best players here. If we let our better ones go we would be back to rebuilding again. “I’ve been here nearly nine years and want to have a good crack at it this season.” There were times last season when Moyes was struggling to find 11 fit senior players. The Scotsman now has a very different selection headache and admits he has some difficult decisions to take ahead of the clash at Ewood Park. “Now we’ve got the squad fit there will be some people not involved in matches,” he said. “I’ve explained to the players about it. I’ve told them how I expect it to work and I think they all understand. “They have been wanting a situation like this as well. They’ve been wanting a good squad. They understand there will some weeks when some of them aren’t playing. Some people will be better suited to certain games. “I’m able to make those kind of changes this season and with us not being in Europe we don’t have as many midweek games so I can sit back and look at it a bit better. “There is no guarantee for anyone to start. They are all in the same situation where it comes down to performances. “I’ll pick a team to start with at Blackburn and we’ll go from there but I’ve certainly got more options than I’ve had before. “The hope is that competition will spur players on. We will see the ones who it inspires and those who maybe fold, who can’t deal with that competition.”
Huddersfield Town’s former Everton duo Peter Clarke and Gary Naysmith up for the Cup
Aug 14 2010 by Dougie Thomson, Huddersfield Daily Examiner
PETER CLARKE says he and Town teammate Gary Naysmith are looking forward to returning to Everton in the Carling Cup. But he insists their full focus will be on the two League I matches before the Goodison game on Wednesday, August 25, for which Town have 6,000 tickets. Lee Clark’s side have their first home outing against Tranmere this afternoon, then visit Peterborough next Saturday. “We’re really pleased with the start we’ve made,” said skipper Clarke of the 3-0 win at Notts County and 1-0 Carling Cup first-round success at Carlisle. “But it is just a start, and we know Tranmere will give us a tough test, because they will be well drilled, well organised, and especially considering (manager) Les Parry’s background as a physiotherapist, very fit.” Southport-born Clarke started out at Everton, winning eight Under 21 caps before joining Blackpool in 2004. His defensive colleague Naysmith was at Goodison from 2000 to 2007. “It will be my first return to Everton, and the club has a special place in my life because it was where I started out,” said centre-back Clarke, 28“The playing roster has changed a fair bit, but a lot of the backroom staff are still in place, and it will be good to catch up. “The fans were good to me as well, and I’m sure Gary will get a great reception, because he gave the club seven years of very good service.
“But neither of us are going there to reminisce. Everton are in the past for both of us and we’ll go there to show what we’re all about and give them a game.” Admission for the cup-tie has been slashed to £10 adults, £7 seniors & £5 juniors for season-ticket holders who buy before close of business on Friday and £12 adults, £9 seniors & £6 juniors for non-season ticket holders. Tickets will go on sale on a pyramid basis, starting at 9.30am on Monday to season-ticket holders who are also Blue & White Foundation Members or Patrons. It’s season-ticket holders from 9.30am on Tuesday and general sale from 9.30am on Thursday. “We’ll have a great backing, and they’ll enjoy going,” added Clarke. “Goodison is a historic ground, and the atmosphere is good for both players and supporters.”
David Moyes backs Jermaine Beckford to get Everton off to a flyer
Aug 14 2010 by James Pearce, Liverpool Echo
DAVID MOYES is backing “hungry” new boy Jermaine Beckford to help Everton get their campaign off to a flying start. The Blues striker, who signed on a free transfer from Leeds this summer, is set to make his competitive debut for the club in this afternoon’s Premier League opener at Blackburn. Beckford is expected to start on the bench with Louis Saha as a lone frontman, but after seeing the 26-year-old find the net three times in pre-season Moyes has been impressed. “It’s a massive jump for Jermaine but he has settled in well,” Moyes said. “We’re giving him the chance to see how he does in the Premier League and one thing he can definitely do is score goals.
“If we give him the right supply I don’t think that will change. “What will be different for him is other parts of his game which will be required in the Premier League. Can he link us up, hold the ball up and help us out in other situations? “Jermaine has terrific movement in and around the box. He offers us something different. He is a hungry player. “He has come from non-league to Leeds. You hope he retains that hunger and remembers where he was not too long ago and how far he has come. I hope he shows that in his performances.” Moyes is in confident mood ahead of the trip to Ewood Park. It’s the start of his ninth full season with the Blues and he’s looking to secure an opening day win for only the third time during his tenure.
“I’m really happy with the squad and it’s great I am not talking about a lot of injuries,” he said. “It’s been a pretty good summer. I’ve got lots of players who want to play and some who are more prepared than others. “It’s important we get off to a good start. Blackburn had a great home record last season and we were one of only three teams to win there. Sam Allardyce’s teams are always hard to play against and it will be tough for us.” Tim Cahill is a fitness doubt due to a knee injury, while Moyes must decide whether to draft in John Heitinga. The Holland defender has played no part in the friendlies due to his extended break following the World Cup final.
“Tim has a bit of patella tendonitis in his knee and we will see how he is on Saturday,” Moyes added. “He has some fluid at the front of his knee. We have to hope it’s something that isn’t going to get worse. “We’ve got one or two with knocks and bruises but nearly all the midweek internationals seemed to be strolls with nothing that competitive. The big problem is some of the journeys they have had to make.
“John Heitinga will travel in the squad and I’ve got a few decisions to make.”
Meanwhile, Moyes revealed the bid Everton rejected from West Ham for Yakubu this week was only £5million. The Hammers were expected to come back in with an offer of £7.5million for the Nigerian but bizarrely offered less than the £6million that was turned down last month. Moyes has no desire to offload the striker and insisted: “Yak’s record in the Premier League is as good as anyone’s and while he’s still here I will certainly use him.” l Steven Gerrard has revealed he would “love” Everton counterpart Mikel Arteta to come into the England fold. Arteta, who is from the Basque Country and is Spanish by nationality, has never been capped by the reigning European and world champions. He qualifies for England through the residency rule like his compatriot Manuel Almunia, the Arsenal goalkeeper. And Liverpool skipper Gerrard admits he would welcome his Merseyside rival into the England camp.
He said: “I’d certainly love nothing better than to see Mikel Arteta available for England. “You want to play with the best players, and if it makes the England squad better, of course I’d like to see it.”
Blackburn 1, Everton 0
Aug 14 2010 by David Randles, Liverpool Echo
EVERTON got the new Premier League campaign off to a losing start as they went down 1-0 to Blackburn. A Tim Howard mistake gifted Rovers the points at Ewood Park as the Toffees failed to reproduce their pre-season form when it mattered most.
The Blues won six of their seven build up matches and looked in great shape coming into the new season. That is until they faced a resilient Blackburn side who fought tooth and nail to guarantee a winning start for Sam Allardyce. What you see is what you get with Blackburn and what they lack in invention they make up for in industry.
In truth, though, Everton did not do enough to trouble their hosts. Prior to a fantastic double stop from Phil Jagielka and then Jack Rodwell right at the death, the only notable save Paul Robinson had to make came from Steven Pienaar towards the end of the first half. Instead it was Howard among the headlines for a nightmare slip he will want to forget in a hurry. Always favourite to get to El Hadji Diouf’s hopeful flick on ahead of Nikola Kalinic, Howard somehow managed to drop the ball at the Croatian’s feet, gifting the home side a 14th minute lead. The hope was that there was plenty of time for Everton to retrieve something from this game, but as Blackburn got men behind the ball and attempted to hit the visitors on the counter, David Moyes’ side struggled to break them down. While Everton’s garish away shirts stood out, it was Blackburn who made the brighter start when Martin Olsson clipped the ball over Howard onto the roof of the net after being played in by David Dunn in the second minute. Dunn lasted just seven more minutes; the Rovers playmaker forced to withdraw holding his groin to be replaced by Steven Nzonzi. With Rovers in front, the first real threat from Everton came after 20 minutes – nice link up play with Saha bringing Phil Neville into play on the right. The skipper’s cross found Tim Cahill inside the area, whose knock down picked out Leon Osman’s run. Under pressure, Osman’s snatched effort was blocked by Samba before the danger was cleared.
The next Everton attack of any purpose came 10 minutes before the break when Osman was fouled five yards away from the penalty area. Arteta’s curling freekick was deflected for a corner from which Steven Pienaar forced Robinson into his first save, the Blackburn keeper gathering at the second attempt. A breakdown in communication between Neville and Jagielka at the start of the second half allowed El Hadji Diouf to steal between the pair and get a cross in. Fortunately for Everton Leighton Baines was there to block Nzonzi but once again the Blues were the architects of their own problems. A powerful burst forward from Baines broke down when Louis Saha’s misplaced pass failed to find Cahill. With Everton producing little in the final third, Moyes opted to shake it up on the hour, introducing Jermaine Beckford for his Premier League debut. The striker replaced Osman with Cahill switching to the right and Beckford spearheading the attack with Saha dropping deeper. A minute later, Allardyce did likewise and handed loan signing Mame Diouf his Blackburn debut in place of scorer Kalinic. It took just five minutes for the Manchester United man to issue a warning. Latching on to another long ball up field, Diouf forced a good save from Howard – the Everton keeper diving at the feet of the striker to smother his shot. Blackburn then stepped up the pressure when Ryan Nelsen, up for a corner, blazed a half volley over the cross bar from 10 yards out.
Diniyar Bilyaletdinov replaced Saha with 17 minutes remaining as Moyes paired Cahill and Beckford in attack. Jack Rodwell came on for Fellaini in the 77th minute but it was Blackburn who threatened when Nzonzi missed a gilt edged chance to double the lead when he headed El Hadji Diouf’s cross over the bar. A fine double save by Robinson with just minutes to spare thwarted Jagielka from long range before Rodwell tried his luck with an acrobatic overhead kick.
Blackburn: Robinson, Olsson, Samba, Givet, Nelsen, Dunn (Nzonzi 9), Kalinic (Diouf 60), Diouf, Gamst Pedersen, Salgado, Jones Subs: Bunn, Emerton, Andrews, Hoilett, Chimbonda
Booked: Gamst Pedersen 42
Everton: Howard, Baines, Jagielka, Saha (Bilyaltedinov 73), Arteta, Distin, Cahill, Neville, Pienaar, Osman (Beckford 59), Fellaini (Rodwell 77) Subs: Mucha, Hibbert, Heitinga, Gueye,
ATT: 25, 869
FULL TIME: Blackburn Rovers 1 Everton 0
Saturday 14th August 2010
By Andy Cryer Lancashire Evening Post
NIKOLA Kalinic has got Blackburn Rovers' Premier League campaign off to a flying start by firing them to a 1-0 win over Everton. The Croatian striker took advantage of Tim Howard's fumble to smartly turn the ball home from the edge of the area on 14 minutes for the only goal of the game. Rovers fully deserved the victory and had chances to score more through Steven Nzonzi, Mame Biram Diouf and Phil Jones.
Paul Robinson was rarely tested but brilliantly kept out Phil Jagielka's long range strike in the dying seconds.
Blackburn 1-0 Everton: Sunday Mirror match report
15/08/10 By Michael Morgan Sunday Mirror
It is 10 years on Tuesday since much-loved Blackburn benefactor Jack Walker passed away. The former owner’s millions might have been responsible for putting up the new stands, but it is the team that Sam Allardyce is building which looks to be heading Rovers into a bright new future on the pitch. Allardyce said: “This was a fantastic three points for us. We created chances, and our defence is so tight as a unit now that we have that belief that one goal can win us games. “Especially if they come via a brilliant finish like the one Nikola Kalinic pulled out today. It will be overshadowed because of Tim Howard’s mistake, but for Nikola to show the presence of mind to capitalise showed just why we bought him. “This was a big statement by us because Everton did the double over us last term. If Jack Walker is looking down on us, I hope this will have put a big smile on his face.” Everton manager David Moyes admitted: “The problem was we just didn’t play as well as we can. We didn’t flow and I was disappointed we didn’t create more chances.” Both Allardyce and Moyes resisted the temptation to throw any of their summer signings into their starting line-ups. But Big Sam included striker Mame Biram Diouf, on loan from Manchester United, among his substitutes, while Moyes had Jermaine Beckford, brought in on a free from Leeds, and Magaye Gueye, who cost £900,000 from Strasbourg, on the Toffees bench. Rovers were dealt a cruel early injury blow when David Dunn was forced to hobble out of the action after only nine minutes with a groin problem.
But their sorrow turned to joy just five minutes later when Kalinic pounced on that horror clanger from Howard to strike what proved to be his side’s winner. When El Hadji Diouf arrowed a header into the Everton box, Howard looked a firm favourite to snuff out the danger as he dashed from his line to gather the ball. But, having comfortably got there first, the United States international somehow contrived to drop it at Kalinic’s feet. The Croatian striker kept his composure admirably to guide a low drive into the corner of the net. Everton regrouped impressively, but it was not until the half-hour mark that home keeper Paul Robinson was called into anything like serious action and, even then, it needed no more than a routine save to keep out Steven Pienaar’s low shot on the turn. Robinson, though, had more difficulty in dealing with Pienaar’s next strike on goal seven minutes later. Ryan Nelsen had the chance to double Blackburn’s lead on 68 minutes, but he hoisted a 14-yard half-volley over the bar. And Everton’s hopes of snatching something out of this fire were finally extinguished when Robinson reacted brilliantly to keep out a vicious drive from Phil Jagielka in stoppage time.
Blackburn 1-0 Everton: Howard error sees Toffees off to sticky start
15/08/10 By Mirror Football (The Sunday Mirror)
Blackburn striker Nikola Kalinic grabbed the winner to stun Everton at Ewood Park.
The industrious front man took advantage of a blunder from goalkeeper Tim Howard in the 14th minute and that was enough to give his side victory. Everton went into the match with high expectations as they a fully fit squad to call on. Instead they failed to get going and it was only late in the game goalkeeper Paul Robinson was tested.
Blackburn remained solid throughout with Morten Gamst Pedersen and Phil Jones taking control of a crowded midfield. They almost opened the scoring after two minutes against an Everton side dressed in pink. Pedersen's clever chip released Martin Olsson but with only goalkeeper Howard to beat he hoisted his shot over the top. Howard was again called into action four minutes later and dealt comfortably with a header from El-Hadji Diouf following a long ball from Gael Givet. Blackburn, however, were forced to make a change after nine minutes with Steven N'Zonzi replacing David Dunn, who appeared to have suffered a groin strain. Sam Allardyce's side then took the lead in the 14th minute following a mistake from Howard.
He raced out his goal to try and clear his lines but instead spilled the ball and Kalinic was on hand to sweep it home. It was just the boost Blackburn wanted so early in the game but Howard was left distraught. Everton responded but Michel Salgado made the clearance with Tim Cahill, who had recovered from a slight knee problem, lurking close by. Blackburn found themselves on the back foot after 29 minutes when Cahill made space in the area only to scuff a shot into goalkeeper Robinson's arms.
Everton were beginning to pick up the pace of the game and Louis Saha got away from Christopher Samba five minutes later. The French striker cut inside only to see his effort blocked. Then Mikel Arteta's free-kick was deflected before Steven Pienaar tested the goalkeeper, who saved at the second attempt after the ball bobbled up in front of him. It was now Everton who had the momentum and were beginning to string their passes together. Sylvain Distin launched a free-kick into the area after 42 minutes and Cahill escaped his marker but his header failed to trouble Robinson.
Phil Jagielka then tried his luck from distance after 57 minutes but his effort went wide of the post. Two minutes later manager David Moyes switched things around by introducing former Leeds striker Jermaine Beckford for the ineffective Leon Osman.
Allardyce followed suit in the 60th minute by handing Mame Biram Diouf, on loan from Manchester United, his debut. He replaced Kalinic, who had put in a hard shift.
Mame Biram Diouf was looking lively after coming on and saw his shot cleared by Howard, only to be ruled offside. Then Phil Jones raced forward and skipped into the area but his effort was blocked by Distin. Play switched down the other end and Saha got into a good position but sent his shot high and wide. Blackburn nearly extended their lead in the 78th minute when Nzonzi got on the end of a cross from El-Hadji Diouf but headed marginally over the bar. Everton kept pushing forward and substitute Jack Rodwell made space to get in a header two minutes from time but it went wide of the post. Then Jagielka thumped in a shot in stoppage time but Robinson was equal to it and prevented the visitors from equalising.
Phil Jagielka: I'd never quit on England
Aug 15 2010 by Tom Hopkinson, The People
PHIL JAGIELKA could never withdraw from an England squad ... because he’d get a clip round the ear from his parents if he did. Blackburn goalkeeper Paul Robinson and Manchester United defender Wes Brown embarrassed the FA last week when they announced their international retirements AFTER Fabio Capello had named them in his squad for the game against Hungary. But Everton defender Jagielka insists that the thought of quitting his country to try to prolong his club career had never crossed his mind. Jagielka said: “No, I’ve never been tempted – my mum and dad would have beaten me up if I had. “I’m not going to criticise anyone for pulling out of the squad. You don’t know what they’ve been through, what their circumstances are, they could have family reasons. “If that’s what they need to do to prolong their career or keep it moving in the right direction, that’s up to them. “But all I know is I’d be in serious trouble if I did it. “I am proud as punch to be English and as long as I keep getting called up and I am fit and healthy, I will keep turning up and asking for a game.
“I’ve never given away any of my England shirts either, my parents like to collect them. That’s just the way we are. “My dad’s Polish but he’s just as patriotic about England as I am. What does he do? He’s just a bandit on the golf course now he’s retired.” Jagielka’s return to the England fold has been a long time coming. He won his first cap against Trinidad & Tobago in 2008 and his second against Spain in 2009.
Injury prevented him from adding to those and his return to the Everton side in February came too late to convince Capello he should be at the World Cup. But his 45 minutes on Wednesday have left him wanting more. Jagielka added: “It took me so long to get fit last season with the prize at the end of it and I was gutted when I didn’t make the World Cup squad. But now the gaffer has changed things round and I was delighted to be called up.” Such was the former Sheffield United star’s form at the end of last season that Arsenal have been linked with a move this summer. But he said: “I don’t take any notice of speculation. I have other things to concentrate on, like getting myself back to being as fit and sharp as I possibly can be. “If anything happens, it happens, but I am an Everton player and I am proud to play for them.”
Fabio eyes Jack Rodwell for new-look England
Aug 15 2010 by Alan Nixon, The People
ENGLAND boss Fabio Capello is ready to call up Everton teenager Jack Rodwell for the Euro qualifiers with Gareth Barry fighting for his future. Capello is worried that his midfield blend is not right and is looking at Goodison youngster Rodwell as the shock solution to the role of ‘sitter’ in his side. Rodwell has done well at Under-21 level. He is liked by coach Stuart Pearce and Capello has also been impressed when seeing him in action. The 19-year-old is not even a regular in David Moyes’s side and was overlooked for the Hungary friendly. But Capello is now talking privately about catapulting him into his team. Capello was unimpressed with Barry’s display against Hungary. He gave the Manchester City star a rocket for going out of position and ignoring orders. Bringing in Rodwell from nowhere will be a shock, but Capello is in the mood to change things.
Blackburn 1-0 Everton: Tim Howard slip hands Rovers the points
Aug 15 2010 by Richard Gibson, The People
TIM HOWARD opened the Premier League goal rush with an uncharacteristic blunder to gift the points to Rovers. America’s World Cup goalkeeper served up the top-flight’s opening strike this season on a plate as Everton’s longest unbeaten run since 1986 finally ended. Croatian Nikola Kalinic could not believe his luck as Howard presented him with an open goal in the 14th minute. Everton had not lost at Ewood Park on their previous six trips but lacked the quality up front to level.
With all their star names now fit, and entering the new season on the back of an 11-game unbeaten stretch, there was plenty of hype surrounding the challenge the blue half of Merseyside might pose in the quest for Champions League places this season.
They had also inflicted Blackburn’s only home defeat of 2010 on their last visit here four months ago. But manager David Moyes was left to rue Howard’s howler as his side failed to match that afternoon’s display. “These things happen but obviously it cost us dearly,” said Moyes. “He has been really good for us but it was the deciding moment of the game. “It was a real physical battle and that goal changed things a little bit and gave them something to hang on to.” Blackburn triumphed with their first opening day clean sheet for eight years, extending their own good form from the end of the last campaign. And their power undoubtedly lies on their own manor – Everton were one of only three teams to win at Ewood in the whole of 2009-10. “Our home record is telling everybody it ain’t going to stop,” insisted Rovers boss Sam Allardyce.
“We have started this year where we finished off last year and this time around we played very well in stages and defended exceptionally well in the latter stages of the game.” They even had to overcome the loss of the talismanic David Dunn inside the opening 10 minutes to a groin pull. Dunn, nine-goal top scorer for Blackburn last season despite injuries restricting him to just 20 Premier League starts, was replaced by last season’s player of the year Steven Nzonzi, who had surprisingly been consigned to the bench. But it did not disrupt Rovers’ gameplan and when El-Hadji Diouf’s innocuous header squirmed out of the grasp of Howard, the alert Kalinic swivelled to guide the ball inside the far post. Celebrated Rovers’ faithful celebrated a rare goal for the £6million signing – he scored just twice last term in the league.
But Blackburn created the better chances throughout, starting when Martin Olsson chipped narrowly over in the second minute. Only twice did Everton force Paul Robinson into action in the first half, but shots from Tim Cahill and Steven Pienaar lacked venom. And when Phil Jagielka let fly in second- half injury-time, Robinson fisted out to give Blackburn the chance to toast the passing of their club saviour.
Tuesday is the 10th anniversary of the passing of Sir Jack Walker, the man whose millions delivered the Premier League pot in the mid-1990s. “Jack’s anniversary is a big thing for a lot of people,” said Allardyce. “If this has helped in any way that is fantastic.”
BLACKBURN ROVERS CASH IN ON TIM HOWARD'S ERROR
BLACKBURN 1 EVERTON 0
Sunday August 15,2010
By Peter Edwards (Sunday Express)
BLACKBURN 1 EVERTON 0. BLACKBURN ROVERS might be getting new owners – but no amount of money can buy them the luck that helped get their season off to a flier. It is 10 years on Tuesday since Jack Walker, whose mega-bucks transformed Rovers into a Premier League force in the 1990s, passed away. That was remembered before the game – but Everton goalkeeper Tim Howard will try to forget about this match after his dreadful clanger. Everton’s American keeper seemed to have the ball under control when he jumped ahead of Nikola Kalinic to claim the ball after 14 minutes. But he dropped it at the striker’s feet and Kalinic hammered home. Ahsan Ali Syed, the head of Bahrain-Swiss investment firm Western Gulf Advisory is looking to pump £300million into the Lancashire club if his takeover plans go through. But you can bet that Howard will not be one of Rovers’ new recruits. Everton were fast asleep early on as Morten Gamst Pedersen played Martin Olsson in on goal and his lobbed effort landed on the roof of Howard’s net. Blackburn’s afternoon took a nosedive when they lost David Dunn after just nine minutes. Last season’s top scorer injured his groin going for a challenge and was replaced by Steven Nzonzi but, just as the Ewood faithful were starting to lose their nerve, Howard gave them a huge helping hand. Leon Osman felt he deserved a penalty after Ryan Nelsen clattered into him when winning a header but Phil Dowd waved aside appeals. Tim Cahill attempted a shot soon after but his scuffed effort never looked like beating Paul Robinson in the Rovers goal. Louis Saha barely got a look in up front as Everton failed to break down Rovers for most of the game. New strikers Jermaine Beckford and Magaye Gueye must have been desperate to get on to try their luck. They could not have done any worse than the 11 who started for Everton. Their bright kits might be offi cially labelled as ‘Lighting Pink’ but there was nothing electric about Everton in After the break, events did not get any better. Everton threw everything they had at Rovers, whose backline refused to crumble. Sub Jack Rodwell and Diniyar Bilyaletdinov both squandered good chances as they attempted to get Everton back into it. But they lacked the touch of class to make that happen. Everton boss David Moyes said: “Tim’s mistake was costly but it happens. He’s been really good for us but this time it was decisive.”
Blackburn's Nikola Kalinic ends Everton's unbeaten run
Premier League
Richard Gibson at Ewood Park
The Guardian, Sunday 15 August 2010
El-Hadji Diouf of Blackburn competes for an aerial ball with Everton's Leighton Baines during the Premier League match at Ewood Park. Photograph: Clive Brunskill/Getty Images The club that Jack rebuilt continues to prosper on its solid foundations. Blackburn supporters will raise a glass to Sir Jack Walker on Tuesday, the 10th anniversary of his passing, having begun the season with another Ewood Park victory. They may also choose to toast the Everton goalkeeper Tim Howard, whose inexplicable 14th-minute blunder presented Nikola Kalinic with the first goal of the Premier League season and the solitary one in the match. Blackburn's top-half finish last season was forged on their home form – Everton are the only team to have won at this Lancashire stronghold this year – and this time David Moyes's side were unable to overcome their robust hosts. "Our home record is telling everybody it ain't going to stop," was a smiling Sam Allardyce's warning of the physical welcome awaiting here. "We have started this year where we finished off last year – we battered Arsenal in the end – and this time around we played very well in stages and defended exceptionally well in the latter stages of the game." Everton lacked the slickness that sealed the 3-2 victory in the corresponding fixture four months ago, when Mikel Arteta provided a matador's interpretation of the midfield art amongst Blackburn's bulls. Allardyce's tactical victory here included positioning the emerging centre-back Phil Jones as a defensive midfield buffer. This was surprising given it meant last season's player of the year, Steven Nzonzi, began on the bench, but it was also a masterstroke as wave after wave of attacks crashed on Jones the rock. Nzonzi was thrust into action early as the injury-plagued midfielder David Dunn departed in the ninth minute with what appeared to be a groin . niggle. Last season Dunn proved the richest source of goals for Rovers with nine in 20 league starts and his loss caused a reshaping of the side.
It mattered not, however, as Everton's longest unbeaten run for 24 years was unpicked by a howler. The Croat Kalinic, a £6m signing from Hajduk Split last year, will not score an easier goal all season. The USA international Howard leapt to intercept a header forward by El-Hadji Diouf but somehow let it squirm out of his grasp as he planted his feet. Kalinic showed remarkable alertness to swivel and hook the ball into the empty net in a flash. It was enough to terminate Everton's 11-game sequence without defeat, their best since 1986. Blackburn also missed the better chances thereafter as the subs Nzonzi and Mame Biram Diouf failed to display the same assurance in front of goal. "These things happen but obviously it cost us dearly," bemoaned Moyes, the Everton manager. "Tim has been really good for us but it was the deciding moment of the game. It was a real physical battle and that goal changed things a little bit and gave them something to hang on to." Only twice did Everton force Paul Robinson into action during the first half but shots from Tim Cahill and Stephen Pienaar both lacked venom. There was no lack of it in Morten Gamst Pedersen's late challenge on Arteta, however, which merited the first of three cautions from Phil Dowd. Significant previous between the pair – Arteta poked the Norwegian in the eye early in April's away victory on the same ground – spiced things up whenever their paths crossed. But there was no such piquancy in the visitors' attacks until Phil Jagielka stung Robinson's fingertips with a long-range drive in injury time.
English and proud: Phil Jagielka could never give up on England like Wes Brown and Paul Robinson
By Sportsmail Reporter Sunday Mail
15th August 2010
Phil Jagielka could never snub England like Paul Robinson and Wes Brown, no matter how many times he has been overlooked. ‘My mum and dad would beat me up if I quit,’ said the Everton defender, who won his fourth cap in last week’s friendly win against Hungary. Under pressure: Jagielka's parents wouldn't let him give up England role ‘Some families might be different, but I’m proud to be English. As long as I’m fit, I’ll keep asking for a game.’
Tim Howard escapes the wrath of Everton FC boss David Moyes after costly mistake against Blackburn
Aug 16 2010 Liverpool Echo
EVERTON manager David Moyes refused to condemn Tim Howard after the goalkeeper’s error helped Blackburn Rovers get their season off to a flying start.
Howard raced out of his goal in the 14th minute to make a clearance, only to spill the ball for Rovers’ Nikola Kalinic to take advantage and slide the ball home for a goal that was enough to seal victory. Moyes said: “The goal changed things. It happens. It was costly, though, a deciding moment in the game. But Tim has been really good for us.” Everton went into the game with high expectations given they had a full squad to pick from but apart from Phil Jagielka’s shot late on they lacked a cutting edge.
Moyes added: “It was a tough game, a physical battle and Blackburn got the ball forward at every opportunity. “We didn’t play as well as we can. We didn’t flow and our forward play was poor. We had very few opportunities. “We didn’t put Blackburn under any sustained pressure except in the last 15 minutes. It was a game which came down to one small thing but we will move on.” Blackburn manager Sam Allardyce, meanwhile, is backing Kalinic to make his mark in the top flight this season.
The goal was a huge boost for the player, who scored only two goals in the Premier League last season following his £6million move from Hadjuk Split. Allardyce said: “It was a great piece of ability by Kalinic and maybe overshadowed by Tim Howard’s mistake. “To capitalise on it fully with a really good swivel and finish was obviously why we bought him. “It gives him huge confidence to score more goals in the Premier League. I think he will providing we can give him the opportunity to do so.”
Blackburn remained solid and the victory came on an emotional day with the club marking the 10th anniversary of former owner Jack Walker’s death. Allardyce said: “It’s a big thing for a lot of people. If this has helped in anyway that is fantastic.
“We asked the players to start like they finished off last season. Everyone on the pitch did their jobs. “There was a great chance for Martin Olsson before the goal while Mame Biram Diouf and Steven Nzonzi could also have scored. “Everton did the double over us last season and to take three points off them is a big statement. Our expectations are about focusing on the first 10 games.” Blackburn’s win was achieved even though influential midfielder David Dunn came off early with a groin strain
Allardyce said: “It was a disappointment to lose David so early as he was our leading goalscorer. “That was a concern.”
Blackburn 1, Everton FC 0: Greg O'Keeffe on the return of opening day blues for David Moyes and his team
Aug 16 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
LIKE these miserable British summers, failing to win the opening game of the season is one of life’s inevitabilities Evertonians have learned to grin and bear.
The form book will tell you that anything can happen elsewhere – just look at Blackpool romping to victory at Wigan and sitting pretty in second place. But it doesn’t seem to matter much for David Moyes. This current team has generated more pre-season optimism than any other during his reign. Yet the Goodison boss could only grimace as the Blues slipped up in their Ewood Park curtain raiser, making it seven failures to win their opening fixture in Moyes’ nine seasons as manager.
It’s not a pretty statistic, but it is hardly cause for mass lowering of expectations either. Throughout pre-season the Everton boss has emphasised the importance of a positive start, and he will be exasperated by this latest setback. But if the reversal offers anything, it could be the short, sharp, shock his side need. Optimism, expectation, and glowing words are well and good – but to fulfil its potential this squad needs points on the board early and consistently. Mikel Arteta got it about right before kick-off in Lancashire, when he predicted Rovers would make the Blues suffer.
To the Spaniard’s list of abilities with a football, multi-linguistic flair, and easy charm add a touch of psychic insight. Arteta admitted he did not expect the game at Blackburn to be any easier than last year’s first match, that torrid 6-1 thrashing against Arsenal. “The league is so competitive. It is so hard to go and play against any team away from home,” he said. “Blackburn are really tough. I just want to get three points from that first game.” His team-mates will do well to remember those words. What looked an inviting early run of fixtures on paper could turn out to be anything but without the right degree of perspiration. There will be no shortage of teams in the Premier League mirroring Sam Allardyce’s route one, teak-tough tactics. Everton must match their work-rate and then find a way to defeat such opponents or they will drop too many points. Of course the early setback which left Everton chasing the game in Blackburn owed more than a little to misfortune. Costly errors from Tim Howard are rare, and this was as inexplicable as Mario Balotelli’s attempts at winning over Manchester City fans. The first goal of the Premier League season came when El Hadji Diouf flicked a header into Everton’s area, and Nikola Kalinic challenged Howard for the ball. The American appeared to have made a routine catch, but it squirmed from his grasp and dropped for the quick-thinking Rovers striker to steer into the empty net on 14 minutes. The home side could have already been ahead. With only two minutes gone Martin Olsson was played through by David Dunn, but lifted his chip over the bar. Louis Saha was asked to lead the line for Everton, with the usual support from Tim Cahill. But the Frenchman had a quiet afternoon, spending too much time outside the box and failing to take the game by the scruff of the neck, even if he received patchy service at best. The pattern of play was increasingly in Rovers’ favour, with Morten Gamst Pedersen hurling in Rory Delap-style long throws. Blackburn’s approach was blunt but effective, Allardyce asking a centre-half, Phil Jones, to shore up his midfield and shackle Mikel Arteta which he did effectively.
Moyes resisted starting any of his summer signings, but the strength of his bench alone illustrated why supporters are dreaming of a special season. Diniyar Bilyaletdinov, Tony Hibbert, John Heitinga, Jermaine Beckford, Magaye Gueye and Jack Rodwell all sat ready to enter the fray and that was without Seamus Coleman and Yakubu. The Blues’ football had more purpose after the break, and on the hour Moyes gave Jermaine Beckford his Premier League debut, with Cahill switching to the right.
Yet still most of the things Everton tried failed. Their frustrations were summed up when Arteta squared a free-kick to Pienaar which the South African failed to even connect with. Moments later it could have been worse when Manchester United loanee Mame Diouf went one on one with Howard from a long ball, but spared Everton with a tame effort. It fired up Rovers who almost scored again when Phil Jones embarked on a mazy solo run. Then Ryan Nelsen volleyed a clear effort over the bar from a corner. Further changes from the Everton bench did little to disturb the home team’s stride, but as Rovers tired Arteta exerted more influence. The Spaniard had a sweetly struck effort saved, and then a back heel from Pienaar allowed Leighton Baines to whip in a cross and win a corner. Then the Blues had a couple of half chances during a prolonged game of pin ball in the Rovers area, but again the home side held tight. Watching from the VIP seats, new Liverpool boss Roy Hodgson left his seat early with the result looking beyond doubt. But in the dying moments Everton could have snatched an equaliser when Tim Cahill teed up Phil Jagielka to unleash a thunderbolt which Paul Robinson stopped with a great reflex save. Jack Rodwell’s attempted overhead kick from the rebound was held comfortably, and Everton’s opening day malaise was cemented for another season. There is no need to screw up those fourth-place betting slips just yet. This was a million miles from that horror show against Arsenal last season, and victory against Wolves at Goodison next weekend will keep heads high. Everton may continue to struggle on their first day of term season after season, but they are still on course for top marks this season.
What they said... “We need better penetration and to find a way to get more people in and create more chances." DAVID MOYES knows his midfield is capable of creating far more chances than their paltry showing at Ewood Park. “We've had a terrific piece of ability from Niko Kalinic which might go unnoticed because of the mistake which Tim Howard made. That was no mean piece of skill he showed, swivelling and volleying it and capitalising fully.” SAM ALLARDYCE enthuses on a neat piece of opportunism from his new striker.
BLACKBURN: Olsson, Samba, Nelsen, Salgado, Jones, Givet, Kalinic (61, Diouf), Pedersen, Diouf, Dunn (Nzonzi, 9). Not used: Bunn, Emerton, Andrews, Hoilett, Chimbonda.
EVERTON: Howard, Neville, Distin, Jagielka, Baines, Arteta, Fellaini (Rodwell, 77), Osman (Beckford, 59), Pienaar, Saha (Bilyaletdinov, 73), Cahill. Not used: Mucha, Hibbert, Heitinga, Gueye.
Everton FC in hunt for Craig Bellamy - but Cardiff emerge as favourites
Aug 16 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
EVERTON have joined the race to sign Manchester City’s out-of-favour striker Craig Bellamy on loan – but look like losing out to Championship club Cardiff. Blues boss David Moyes wants to bring the 31-year-old to Goodison Park, after City manager Roberto Mancini confirmed the Welsh international would not make their 25-man Premier League squad. Any move for Bellamy, who has admitted considering retiring during a torrid spell at Eastlands, would be a loan deal with the Blues likely to be priced out of a permanent switch. But Moyes is facing competition from several clubs – most significantly from Cardiff City, a club Bellamy has publicly stated he wishes to join in a city where his wife and children still live. Bellamy suggested last week that he would be open to a move to club he supported as a boy. At a press conference in Cardiff prior to Wales’ friendly against Luxembourg, he said: “I have always wanted to play for Cardiff. I’ve never been shy in saying that. “My wife and kids live here, I’ve missed them now for the last five or six years, so that would have more of a pull to me than most. “I will have to wait and see and see what options are possible but I certainly wouldn’t rule it out. “Would I love to get Cardiff City to the Premier League? Of course I would. “I feel I’d have more of an impact doing that than playing 100 games for Wales. For us to move forward as a nation football-wise, we need a Premier League team.” Bluebirds manager Dave Jones has also spoken of his desire to lure Bellamy to south Wales, but admitted the club were likely to face stiff competition for the player’s signature. Speaking after his side’s 2-1 victory at Derby on Saturday, Jones said: “If it happens, it would be fantastic and we would all love him to be here but there are bigger fish for him.” New Fulham boss Mark Hughes, who has signed Bellamy twice before, at Blackburn and City, and was also his manager when in charge of Wales, along with Harry Redknapp’s Spurs are the striker’s other suitors. But Bellamy has made no secret of his admiration of the Everton manager either. City launched an internal investigation in March after Mancini’s touchline bust-up with Moyes, amid claims Bellamy had voiced his support of the Everton boss as he went down the players’ tunnel. Celtic are also keen to take the forward on loan for a second time, while he has also been linked with Sunderland.
Bellamy, who had a four-month spell with Celtic in 2005 while on the books of Newcastle, is surplus to requirements at Eastlands after a summer of heavy spending.
He has scored 15 goals for Manchester City in 51 appearances since joining from West Ham in a £14m transfer in January 2009. Meanwhile, Newcastle are mulling over a move for Victor Anichebe. The Magpies have made an enquiry for the 22-year-old, posing the Toffees a dilemma over whether to cash in on a player whose contract is due to expire next summer. As things stand, Anichebe, who missed the season opener at Blackburn on Saturday with a knee injury, would be free to talk to other clubs from January and leave for nothing at the end of the season. And although he has insisted he is happy to stay put, the arrival of Jermaine Beckford has further strengthened competition for a striking place at Goodison and Anichebe could seek first-team football elsewhere. Newcastle, who are scouring the market for attacking firepower, can offer him the chance to forge a partnership with Andy Carroll at St James’ Park. Meanwhile, Phil Neville insists Tim Howard won’t be affected by his mistake at Blackburn. A rare error by the USA international lead to Rovers’ winning goal on Saturday as the Blues slipped to a 1-0 opening day defeat. But Howard’s goalkeeping has been exemplary since he arrived at Everton four seasons ago.
Neville said: “There’s no need to rally round him, he’s allowed a few more of them before we start to get on his back. “He has pulled us out the mire many a time. We have to move on, we are all human and that is football. We win together and we lose together.” Everton’s next game is against Wolves at Goodison on Saturday and Neville is calling for improvement from his side. “It was really frustrating. After all the hype and expectation it feels a bit flat,” he said. “We have got to accept it and move on. They didn’t have many chances, we didn’t either and we couldn’t really find our rhythm. “Our passing wasn’t up to scratch and we didn’t play with enough speed – that is something we need to improve on.”
Blackburn Rovers 1 Everton 0: Everton FC fail to make opening day statement at Blackburn
Aug 16 2010 by David Randles, Liverpool Daily Post
FOR a few hours, Blackpool surged to the top of the Premier League at the weekend.
A 4-0 win over Wigan culminated in the improbable sight of the Seasiders perched at the top of the tree come Saturday tea time. Chelsea’s rout over West Bromwich Albion in the late kick-off soon restored order, but, for a short time at least, the Tangerines could dare to dream. It was the kind of statement Evertonians had hoped for at Blackburn. Instead, they trudged away from Ewood Park wondering where it all went wrong. Of course, the first day of the season is much too early to make bold predictions, and this was a million miles from the doom and gloom that descended on Goodison Park in the wake of last year’s abject opener against Arsenal. But not for a long time has there been the sense of anticipation among the club’s supporters for a new campaign to get underway than this one. With everyone fit, it was a rare luxury trying to second guess David Moyes’ team selection prior to kick-off. The return to competitive action for Marouane Fellaini meant no place in the starting line up for England Under-21 captain Jack Rodwell following his man of the match performance against Uzbekistan in midweek. Seamus Coleman didn’t even make the squad, whereas Yakubu was innocuous by his absence, fuelling speculation the Nigerian striker is on his way to West Ham. Meanwhile, the Everton bench boasted a World Cup finalist. John Heitinga was joined by Diniyar Bilyaletdinov and new boys Jan Mucha, Magaye Gueye and Jermaine Beckford. Such is Moyes’ contentment with the squad he has built, there were no immediate Premier League debuts for any of his summer signings. There is a feeling around County Road that, on their day, Everton’s strongest XI is a match for anyone in the Premier League. Chelsea, Manchester United and Man City – plus Arsenal at the Emirates – all testified to this at some point last season. So why they were so flat against one of the league’s lesser lights on Saturday is a mystery. Everton can play much better than this. We know it, they know it and Blackburn manager Sam Allardyce knew it. “Anything we get against Everton this year will be a bonus because we got nothing from them last season,” said Allardyce beforehand, referring to his side’s two defeats to Everton last time round. Now compare that to Moyes’ frank and honest assessment after seeing his team labour throughout this 1-0 defeat. “We didn’t play as well as we can,” he said. “We didn’t flow and our forward play was poor. We had very few opportunities. “We didn’t put Blackburn under any sustained pressure except in the last 15 minutes. It was a game which came down to one small thing but we will move on.” That it took 20 minutes for the visitors to even hint at threatening their hosts’ goal pointed to a worrying lack of urgency from Everton. By then, they were already a goal down after Tim Howard’s ghastly mistake gifted Nikola Kalinic a golden opportunity to register the first goal of the 2010/11 league campaign. Moyes and his captain, Phil Neville, refused to blow that ‘one small thing’ out of proportion afterwards, pointing instead to Howard’s impeccable form for the club. Still, the American will want to forget his uncharacteristic and costly error in a hurry. Always favourite to get to El Hadji Diouf’s hopeful flick on ahead of Kalinic, Howard somehow managed to drop the ball at the Croatian’s feet, handing the home side the lead and ultimately all three points.
With just 14 minutes gone, however, there was plenty of time for Everton to hit back.
The problem, though, was that it never looked likely. Prior to a fantastic double stop from Phil Jagielka and then Rodwell at the death, the only notable save Paul Robinson had to make came from Steven Pienaar towards the end of the first half. Louis Saha struggled at the pinnacle of a 4-5-1 formation as Blackburn squeezed the play between their well drilled banks of four and five in defence and midfield respectively.
What you see is what you get with Blackburn and what they lack in invention they make up for in industry. A typical Allardyce side, allowing them to steal the lead is the worst thing you can do. After that, Blackburn simply resorted to a policy of containment and route one tactics. Drawing Everton in, they quickly got 10 men behind the play when not in possession and worked tirelessly for each other to win second balls after lumping it forward. That will have left the ineffective Fellaini with a sore neck yesterday as the game bypassed the Belgian midfielder in the air.
When Everton did manage to get the ball on the ground, they were too often wasteful.
With Blackburn happy to confine the play to the middle of the pitch, the game was crying out for width. You lost count of the amount of times Leighton Baines was forced to perform a u-turn on the overlap, venting his frustration at not receiving the ball after busting a gut to provide an outlet on the left. On the right, Leon Osman was often forced to come inside in search of the ball when his teammates again failed to spread the play. If there are 4,000 holes in Blackburn, Lancashire, none of them existed in the Rovers’ defence on Saturday. With an abysmal away record last season, Rovers lost just three league games at Ewood Park; a consequence of their defensive solidity here. The way to get at them is down the flanks, something Everton simply neglected. It was the stark lack of service that left Saha flailing his arms at times and Beckford without as much as a sniff at goal after replacing Osman on the hour.
While neither goal was ever exactly under siege, the better chances were created by Blackburn. Martin Olsson had already squandered an early chance by the time Kalinic unwrapped his present. In the second half, on loan striker Mame Diouf forced Howard to save at his feet, Nzonzi misplaced a close range header and Ryan Nelsen blazed a half volley over the bar from just 10 yards out. Had all of those gone in, Blackpool would have had a real fight on their hands for top spot.
BLACKBURN: Robinson, Olsson, Samba, Nelsen, Salgado, Jones, Givet, Kalinic (Diouf 61), Pedersen, Diouf, Dunn (Nzonzi 9). Subs: Bunn, Emerton, Andrews, Hoilett, Chimbonda.
BOOKINGS: Gamst Pedersen, Salgado
EVERTON: Howard, Neville, Distin, Jagielka, Baines, Arteta, Fellaini (Rodwell 77), Osman (Beckford 59), Pienaar, Cahill, Saha (Bilyaletdinov 73). Subs: Mucha, Hibbert, Heitinga, Gueye.
BOOKING: Cahill
REFEREE: Phil Dowd (Staffordshire)
ATT: 25, 869
NEXT GAME: Everton v Wolves, Saturday, August 21, Premier League.
Loss to Blackburn Rovers ‘a kick up the backside’ says Phil Neville
Aug 16 2010 by David Randles, Liverpool Daily Post
PHIL NEVILLE believes the opening day defeat at Blackburn will provide the short, sharp shock Everton need to get the new season up and running. A rare Tim Howard mistake allowed Croatian striker Nikola Kalinic to capitalise and hand Rovers all three points at Ewood Park on Saturday. Neville refused to point the finger at Howard but instead held everybody accountable for a lacklustre team performance in which Everton rarely threatened. Blackburn goalkeeper Paul Robinson was largely untroubled until the final moments when he made an excellent double save from Phil Jagielka and substitute Jack Rodwell. Everton manager David Moyes was able to pick his team from a fully fit squad but the display failed to live up to the expectation placed on the Toffees coming into the season. Afterwards, Neville made a rallying call to his teammates, who he insists will bounce back from this disappointment. “It was probably a kick up the backside for us,” said the Everton captain. “We’ve got good players. We’re a good team and are better than what we’ve shown today. We’ll prove that. There is a lot of hunger in that dressing room. “You want to start the season well, with a victory or a good result, and today has been a kick in the teeth. “We know that Monday morning we will be back on that training ground and putting right what we didn’t do today. “We are not far away. It’s that last 10 or 15 per cent that is the hardest but it’s something we are more than capable of achieving.” A crippling injury list contributed to a slow start for Everton last season. However, with players returning from the treatment room, they strung together a sequence that yielded just two defeats from the final 24 league games of the season. It was a fantastic run that had led to a feel good factor around the club ahead of Saturday’s trip to Blackburn.
“That’s the disappointing thing about it,” said Neville. “But we’ve got to forget all about the optimism now. We’re in the big league now. It’s about getting points. Sometimes you’ve got to not play well and get the points, sometimes you play beautiful and win games. “We’ve got to get back to wining games now quickly. We know how a slow start can punish you in the league. “Our aim throughout pre-season was to hit the ground running but we didn’t do that today. “We will have to start again against Wolves next week, which will be a similar game to Blackburn.” There is no question of Howard losing his place for Wolves’ visit to Goodison on Saturday.
New signing, Slovakian international Jan Mucha is waiting in the wings but such has been Howard’s consistency throughout his four years at the club that his costly mistake at Ewood Park will be put down as an anomaly. “That’s probably the first mistake Tim’s made since he came to the club,” said Neville. “He’s been outstanding for us. He’s apologised to everyone in the dressing room afterwards but I don’t think anyone was looking to blame him. “Blackburn have had one or two chances in the game and didn’t really threaten our goal that much. “We found it difficult to break them down. That was the most disappointing thing. For all our possession, we didn’t create as many chances as we should have. “It was one of those games where we always felt in control but you know with Blackburn they are going to press and harass you and try to keep you on the back foot. “We couldn’t find any rhythm in the game because of freekicks and fouls. “Also (Paul) Robinson could come up and take his time putting the ball in our box so we were constantly under pressure throughout the game. “We came here at the back end of last season and played really well (winning 3-2). We tried to replicate that today but never found our rhythm at all. “It’s one of those opening day defeats that you just have to take and move one.”
David Moyes refuses to condemn Tim Howard for mistake at Blackburn Rovers
Aug 16 2010 by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Daily Post
EVERTON manager David Moyes refused to condemn Tim Howard after the goalkeeper’s error helped Blackburn Rovers get their season off to a flying start.
Howard raced out of his goal in the 14th minute to make a clearance, only to spill the ball for Rovers’ Nikola Kalinic to take advantage and slide the ball home for a goal that was enough to seal victory. Moyes said: “The goal changed things. It happens. It was costly, though, a deciding moment in the game. But Tim has been really good for us.” Everton went into the game with high expectations given they had a full squad to pick from but apart from Phil Jagielka’s shot late on they lacked a cutting edge.
Moyes added: “It was a tough game, a physical battle and Blackburn got the ball forward at every opportunity. “We didn’t play as well as we can. We didn’t flow and our forward play was poor. We had very few opportunities. “We didn’t put Blackburn under any sustained pressure except in the last 15 minutes. It was a game which came down to one small thing but we will move on.” Blackburn manager Sam Allardyce, meanwhile, is backing Kalinic to make his mark in the top flight this season. The goal was a huge boost for the player, who scored only two goals in the Barclays Premier League last season following his £6million move from Hadjuk Split. Allardyce said: “It was a great piece of ability by Kalinic and maybe overshadowed by Tim Howard’s mistake. “To capitalise on it fully with a really good swivel and finish was obviously why we bought him. “It gives him huge confidence to score more goals in the Premier League. I think he will providing we can give him the opportunity to do so.”
Blackburn remained solid and the victory came on an emotional day with the club marking the 10th anniversary of former owner Jack Walker’s death. Allardyce said: “It’s a big thing for a lot of people. If this has helped in anyway that is fantastic.
“We asked the players to start like they finished off last season. “There was a great chance for Martin Olsson before the goal while Mame Biram Diouf and Steven Nzonzi could also have scored. “The lads know each other better than they’ve ever done. Nzonzi was disappointed he was not even in the starting eleven. That’s the due to the emergence of Phil Jones. “Everton did the double over us last season and to take three points off them is a big statement. Our expectations are about focusing on the first 10 games.” Blackburn’s win was achieved even though influential midfielder David Dunn came off early with a groin strain. Allardyce said: “It was a disappointment to lose David so early as he was our leading goalscorer. “That was a concern.”
Blackburn Rovers 1 Everton 0: Big Sam plumps for little Nik
By Richard Gibson (Daily Mail)
Blackburn strikers with expanding waistlines used to be fined but manager Sam Allardyce has bought into Nikola Kalinic's bulking-up regime. Former Rover Benni McCarthy paid the price for missing weight targets last season, but not Croat Kalinic, who scored in the 1-0 win over Everton on Saturday. Nik of time: Kalinic beats Everton goalkeeper Tim Howard The 22-year-old, who pounced on keeper Tim Howard's 14th-minute error at Ewood Park, returned from an injury-hit summer looking considerably bigger than before. 'We've done core weights with him,' said Blackburn manager Sam Allardyce, of the £6million signing from Hajduk Split.
'He was like a little boy when he first came. We've tried to turn him into a man. He takes some stick, he's one mean man - and will get stronger.' Heads up: Blackburn's El Hadji Diouf chalenges Leighton Baines Kalinic lasted an hour before being replaced by debutant Mame Biram Diouf, on a long term loan from Manchester United. Everton, meanwhile, flunked their lines in their first audition for a top-four spot. Captain Phil Neville conceded: 'Talk is cheap. We have to show our mettle and if we have what it takes to get into that top four.'
LUCKY BLACKBURN MANAGE TO WIN FIRST MATCH AGAINST EVERTON
ABOVE: Blackburn Rovers' Steven Nzonzi challenges Everton's Mikel Arteta
16th August 2010
By Greg Adams
Blackburn 1 Everton 0 Daily Star
BLACKBURN Rovers might be getting new owners but no amount of money could buy them the slice of luck that got their season off to a flier. It will be ten years on Tuesday since Jack Walker, the mega-bucks owner who transformed Rovers into a Premier League force in the 1990s, died. That was remembered before the game – but after his dreadful early clanger Everton keeper Tim Howard will want to forget this game as quickly as he can. The American seemed to have everything under control when he jumped ahead of Nikola Kalinic to claim a regulation ball after 14 minutes.
But then he simply dropped the ball at Kalinic’s feet and the striker swivelled and hammered it home. Blackburn will not score an easier goal all season and Everton won’t concede a softer one. Rovers boss Big Sam Allardyce saw it differently and said: “I’m delighted for Niko because he showed a great piece of skill. “It will be overshadowed by Tim Howard’s mistake but it’s not easy when you have just a split second to react.” Ahsan Ali Syed, the head of Western Gulf Advisory, is looking to pump £300million into the Lancashire club if his takeover plans go through.
And it’s a safe bet to suggest he will not be trying to sign Howard after this. Everton were asleep early on when Morten Gamst Pedersen – easily the best player on the pitch – put Martin Olsson in on goal and though he neatly lobbed Howard his effort landed on top of the net. Blackburn’s day had taken a nosedive after just nine minutes when they lost the reliable David Dunn. Last season’s top scorer injured his groin and was replaced by Steven Nzonzi. But five minutes later, as the Ewood faithful were still cursing their luck, Howard give them his helping hand. After that, the match went back to bed. Leon Osman wanted a penalty when Ryan Nelsen clattered into him then Tim Cahill tried a shot that never looked like beating Paul Robinson in the Rovers goal. Everton hit-man Louis Saha barely got a look in and new boys Jermaine Beckford and Magaye Gueye must have been desperate to get on and try their luck. They certainly couldn’t have done any worse than the 11 who started. Everton’s new strip is officially called “Lightning Pink” but there was nothing electric about them in this match. Steven Pienaar’s long-range shot was saved by Robinson and that was about it for Everton. But Rovers were no better and half-time arrived to end the snoozefest. Both sets of fans deserved better. They have waited all summer for the return of the Premier League – the so-called “best in the world” – but Everton were anything but that yesterday. In the second half they threw everything they had at Rovers, to no avail. Mame Biram Diouf showed glimpses of skill for Rovers while Everton subs Jack Rodwell and Diniyar Bilyaletdinov both squandered good chances. Everton lacked that touch of class. It cost them dearly and boss David Moyes wasn’t happy. He said: “Our performance wasn’t as good as it might have been. Blackburn did a good job on us but our forward play was poor.
“Tim’s mistake was costly but it happens. He has been really good for us but this time it was decisive.”
Blackburn 1-0 Everton: Daily Mirror match report
15/08/10 By David Anderson Daily Mirror
Don't try to kid Phil Neville that this opening-day defeat is an improvement on last year’s 6-1 humiliation by Arsenal. As far as Everton’s plain-speaking skipper is concerned, it is another wake-up call for David Moyes’s men. Typically, Neville didn’t sugarcoat his words when he told his team-mates they must bounce back immediately from their third league defeat of 2010. The Blues have big hopes this season because Moyes has assembled the strongest squad seen at Goodison since the halcyon days of the mid-80s and their target is a Champions League place. Neville is mindful that Everton’s Euro dream was killed off last season by a dreadful start, with just four wins before Christmas. Then they had the excuse of injuries. This time Neville refused to hide behind Tim Howard’s uncharacteristic blunder, which gifted Niko Kalinic the only goal, and said everyone must improve on their poor display.
“That’s probably the first mistake Tim has made maybe since he came to the club,” he said. “He’s been outstanding. He apologised to everyone in the dressing-room, but I don’t think anyone is blaming him. “It’s a jolt and a kick up the backside, but we have the players, we have the team, and we are better than we showed here. “There’s a lot of disappointment in that dressing-room. We wanted to start with a good result and this is a kick in the teeth. We have to get back to winning games as quickly as possible because we know how a slow start can punish you.” Aston Villa and Manchester United are two of Everton’s next three opponents and Neville claims they must show they deserve to be talked about as a potential top-four side. “We have to show our mettle and how we bounce back will show whether we have what it takes to get into that top four,” he said. “Getting there takes everything you have and more. Simply having a good squad will never guarantee you anything. “Expectations are good. We wanted a big squad, we wanted two players for every position, and with that comes expectation. Now we have it we can’t go into our shell and become fearful.”
Up front was where Everton disappointed most – the combined talents of Louis Saha, Steven Pienaar, Mikel Arteta and Tim Cahill failed to make any impression on Blackburn’s well-organised defence. Not even the introduction of debutant Jermaine Beckford, Diniyar Bilyaletdinov and Jack Rodwell could spark the Blues into life and they only tested Paul Robinson late on through a Phil Jagielka shot. Sam Allardyce’s decision to push starlet Phil Jones, just 18, into central midfield in place of Steven Nzonzi wrong-footed Everton. The visitors never got into their passing rhythm and became the latest side to fail to breach the defences of fortress Ewood. Jones once again belied his tender age with a commanding performance – the newly-capped England Under-21 international looked like he had played that position all his career.
With Jones rampaging in midfield, Morten Gamst Pedersen was able to demonstrate his array of passing skills alongside the teenager. The Norwegian has been reborn since Allardyce moved him inside from the wing. With Blackburn so strong in defence and midfield, scoring goals remains their biggest concern. Kalinic pounced on Howard’s 14th-minute blunder to score and suggest he can supply more than the two goals he managed last season. But Allardyce is still searching for a striker in addition to loan signing Mame Diouf, who had an encouraging debut off the bench. Benjani is unlikely to be offered a contract when his trial at Brockhall ends, and Allardyce, who claims David Dunn’s groin injury is “not too bad,” can’t afford Fenerbahce’s £5million asking price for Dani Guiza. That may change come the next transfer window if Ahsan Ali Syed’s take-over is successful. The Indian businessman claims he is about to enter a four-week exclusivity period in talks, although club sources are more skeptical. Despite the uncertainty over the club’s ownership, what is clear is that Rovers’ Premier League prospects are bright this season under Allardyce.
MAGPIES APPROACH TOFFEES FOR STRIKER
Anichebe fits the bill
By Martin Hardy, 14/08/2010 News of the World
NEWCASTLE have approached Everton about signing striker Victor Anichebe.
Toon chief Chris Hughton wants to add a striker to his newly-promoted squad before the transfer window closes. And he believes the 23-year-old Nigerian international could be the man to score the goals to keep Newcastle in the Premier League.
Anichebe has just 12 months left on his contract at Goodison Park and Everton may be prepared to cash in on the player if they are offered around £1.5 million, which is inside Hughton's limited budget. The forward has been at Everton for seven years but has strikers Louis Saha and Jermaine Beckford ahead of him and needs first team football.
HOWARD'S GOT THE GREEN LURGY
Blackburn 1 Everton 0
News of the World
HOWLER: Howard is beaten by Kalinic
By Aidan Magee, 14/08/2010
MAYBE Tim Howard caught the 'fumbling' lurgy when he shook hands with Rob Green at full-time in Rustenburg two months ago.
The Everton goalkeeper stood in the opposite penalty area at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium in June when his England counterpart made the World Cup blunder that will haunt him for life. Thankfully for the American, his gaffe - dropping the ball and gifting Blackburn three opening-day points - was committed in the less scrutinised environment of Ewood Park. Even so, this was a winnable contest for David Moyes' Everton at the start of a season in which much is expected of them. And Howard's whoopsie leaves them waiting for their first point of the new term. For the first time in years, Moyes has the luxury of a near fully-fit squad which he hopes will fulfill its potential over the next nine months. Along with their hosts, they fielded a starting line-up that featured not one single new signing. Perhaps that's no surprise, given the apparent willingness of many clubs to tighten their belts and even bring a sense of financial reality back to the sport. Tim Cahill, Marouane Fellaini, Mikel Arteta, Louis Saha and Steven Pienaar are all free of injury, though. And after a summer in which the top four have not exactly broken the bank, Everton should have a clear run at showing the rest of the Premier League what they can do. But their season couldn't really have started in much worse fashion. In the ninth minute, Howard looked to have dealt with El-Hadji Diouf's header comfortably before inexplicably dropping the ball at the feet of a grateful Nikola Kalinic, who scored the league's first goal of the season. If the watching Sir Alex Ferguson had any doubts over his decision to let Howard leave Old Trafford four years ago, they were surely dashed once and for all - even if Fergie is growing increasingly frustrated at drawing blanks in his efforts to find a long-term successor to Edwin Van der Sar. After that horrible opening Everton just never got going. Instead Blackburn looked likelier to add to their single goal, even though some impressive defending secured the win. Moyes will be disappointed that with all his top players available they failed to create a clear-cut chance.
Rovers boss Sam Allardyce might have rued missed chances by Martin Olsson and substitute Mame Diouf - on a season-long loan from Manchester United - had it not been for a fine late save by the now former England international Paul Robinson from Phil Jagielka. Big Sam feels his best work in pre-season was carried out by committing promising young players such as Phil Jones and Grant Hanley to long-term deals. Jones gave an accomplished performance in the holding role, but more eye-catching was the display of Morten Gamst Pedersen - another who has just signed a new contract. The victory was achieved on the day Blackburn commemorated the 10th anniversary of the death of Jack Walker, whose cash and vision were chiefly responsible for the club being in the top flight today. The Lancashire club were going nowhere fast when his millions, earned through the sale of his steel company, were invested in his beloved team. Jack's dream reached fulfilment when Blackburn lifted the Premier League title in 1995 with Kenny Dalglish in charge. Rovers won't get close to repeating that feat this time around, but the early signs are there that they will again be competitive in much richer company. Everton will improve as the games pass by, even if they again suffer a slow start before building up momentum.
That still might not be good enough to make them even outside contenders for a place in the Champions League.
BLACKBURN (4-4-2) Robinson 6; Salgado 6, Samba 7, Nelsen 7, Givet 6; Jones 6; E Diouf 6, Dunn 5 (Nzonzi 9, 7), Pedersen 8, Olsson 7; Kalinic 7 (M Diouf 59, 6) SUBS: Emerton, Andrews, Hoillett, Chimbonda, Bunn
EVERTON (4-4-1-1) Howard 5; Baines 6, Jagielka 6, Distin 5, Neville 6; Osman 5 (Beckford 58, 6), Arteta 7, Fellaini 6 (Rodwell 77, 5), Pienaar 6; Cahill 5; Saha 5 (Bilyaletdinov 73, 6) SUBS: Hibbert, Heitinga, Gueye, Mucha
REFEREE: Phil Dowd (Staffs)
Blackburn 1 Everton 0
From PHIL THOMAS at Ewood Park
Published: 14 Aug 2010
THEY arrived at Ewood Park heralded as the men set to take the top four by storm.
The cut-price boys whose team spirit and character would carry them beyond the cash-flashers determined to buy their way to glory. So it was small wonder Everton skulked back down the M65 not so much reeling from a kick in the teeth - but needing a complete set of dentures. 3096034
1A flying finish to last season had sent Blue hopes soaring higher than ever.
Yet, once the talk stopped and the action began, all David Moyes' men had to show for enough possession to win comfortably was one decent shot on target - from defender Phil Jagielka in the final minute. Maybe Blue-noses should not have expected too much from their opening-day fixture. After all, in eight years they have now lost six and beaten only Wigan and Watford. But they do not do excuses or scapegoats at Goodison Park. Manager Moyes sets the trend on that - and is backed up by skipper Phil Neville. So neither of them were going to start now after Tim Howard's clanger gifted Rovers an early winner, spilling El-Hadji Diouf's nod forward and leaving Nikola Kalinic with a tap-in. Neville has been round the block too often to tell it any other way than straight. The Everton skipper warned: "We must remember we're in the big league and it's about gaining points. We have to start winning as soon as possible as we know a slow start can punish you. "Our aim was to hit the ground running and we didn't do that. So we'll have to start next week.
"Expectations are good, that's what we've wanted, and so we can't complain about them being higher now. "We wanted a big squad, we wanted two players for every position and with that comes expectation. Now we have it, we can't go into our shell and become fearful. "We must show our mettle and this will show whether we have what it takes to get into that top four. "Getting there takes everything you have and more - simply having a good squad will never guarantee you anything. "No one in this division has a divine right to finish fourth. Talk is cheap and we need to get back playing. "It's a jolt, a kick up the backside. But we have the players and we're better than we showed here." Rovers did what they are good at - pressing, closing down, frustrating and pouncing when the chance arises. Morten Gamst Pedersen stole the show with his marvellous all-round display, yet 18-year-old Phil Jones was not far behind. Rovers' win was ultimately down to keeper Howard's gaffe. But Neville said: "That's probably the first mistake Tim has made since he came to the club. He's been outstanding."
DREAM TEAM
STAR MAN - MORTEN GAMST PEDERSEN (Blackburn)
BLACKBURN: Robinson 7, Samba 7, Salgado 7, Jones 8, Olsson 7, Givet 7, Nelsen 7, Dunn 7 (Nzonzi 7), Kalinic 8 (M Diouf 7), E Diouf 7, Pedersen 8. Subs not used: Bunn, Emerton, Andrews, Hoilett, Chimbonda. Booked: Pedersen, Salgado.
EVERTON: Howard 5, Baines 6, Distin 6, Neville 6, Jagielka 7, Arteta 6, Cahill 6, Pienaar 6, Osman 6 (Beckford 4), Fellaini 6 (Rodwell 6), Saha 5 (Bilyaletdinov 5). Subs not used: Mucha, Hibbert, Heitinga, Gueye. Booked: Cahill.
David Moyes reads riot act after sloppy Everton bow to Blackburn
Tim Howard's blunder ends Everton's long unbeaten run
Nikola Kalinic sheds puppy fat to become lean and mean
Richard Gibson at Ewood Park The Guardian, Monday 16 August 2010
Blackburn's Nikola Kalinic pounces on a mistake by Everton's Tim Howard to score the only goal at Ewood Park. Photograph: Tim Hales/AP So intense is the battle for the top four expected to be this Premier League season that on its eve the learned campaigners Sir Alex Ferguson and Arsène Wenger both put forward Everton as potential gatecrashers. Not on the evidence presented at Ewood Park, however, and David Moyes acknowledged as much. Such was their vibrancy at the end of 2009-10 – including a sumptuous and rare away victory on this very turf – that Everton would not have wanted the season to end. Unbeaten in their final 11 matches, momentum was clearly with the blue half of the Merseyside divide. Yet despite the return of recuperated limbs, which has them at optimum strength, Everton hit a buffer upon the top-flight's resumption and the club's longest sequence without defeat for 24 years was terminated when Nikola Kalinic's predatory instinct exposed Tim Howard's clanger for the only goal. There were still 76 minutes remaining for Everton to muster a response and failure to do so irked Moyes most. Their attacking play, awesome in April, was abject in August. Of suggestions they can mount a serious challenge akin to Tottenham's monopoly-busting campaign of last year, Moyes said: "I think we can be but not on this performance and I have let the players know. I'm setting the bar really high. It wasn't what I wanted and it wasn't enough. We didn't show enough invention going forward and our play was too sloppy. "I don't think anyone can say we deserved to lose but the point of the matter is that we didn't do enough and I want my team to go out to win. What it reminds you of is that whoever you play in the Premier League you are going to have a hard task." Winning at venues such as Blackburn and Stoke are, as Spurs discovered last season, what Champions League qualifications are made of. But a lack of fluency, significantly contributed to by Blackburn's robust harrying in central areas, ensured Everton began their quest with a setback.
"Expectations are good, it's what we have wanted so we can't complain about them being higher now," the captain, Phil Neville, said. "We wanted a big squad, we wanted two players for every position and now we have it we can't go into our shell and become fearful. We have to show our mettle and whether we have what it takes to get into that top four. "There's a lot of disappointment in that dressing room – we wanted to start with a good result and this is a kick in the teeth." Blackburn might have been in front inside two minutes when Morten Gamst Pedersen's cute ball allowed Martin Olsson to beat the offside trap, but his chip cleared the onrushing Howard and the crossbar. In a game of few chances, the hosts also missed the best: Steven Nzonzi and Ryan Nelsen both off-target when unmarked in the second half. Sam Allardyce's team tenaciously clung to what they had, however, and although ruffled in the final quarter-hour, when Phil Jagielka's long-ranger was palmed out by Paul Robinson and substitute Diniyar Bilyaletdinov thrice flirted with the goal during a goalmouth scramble, secured three points thanks to their new-look Croat. Kalinic, 22, now cuts quite a contrasting figure to the spindly £6m striker snapped up from Hajduk Split last summer. "Strength-wise we've done core weights with him ever since he's been here," Allardyce said. "He was like a little boy when he first came, with rolls of puppy fat on him. We've tried to turn him into a man and you can see that physical presence now."
Man of the match Phil Jones (Blackburn)
PHIL NEVILLE: EVERTON NEED TO LIVE UP TO THE HYPE
No one blames Howards says Neville
Monday August 16,2010
By Chris Brereton
Blackburn 1 Everton 0
PHIL Neville warned Everton’s players that for all the anticipation of success this season they still have to produce on the only place which matters: the pitch.
Everton have been tipped for glory by luminaries including Sir Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger but they spectacularly failed to live up to the hype in a turgid encounter at Ewood Park. Tim Howard’s handling blunder after 14 minutes allowed Nikola Kalinic to sweep home, after the American keeper dropped the ball at his feet.
If that was not bad enough, the lack of reaction and invention from David Moyes’s side following the goal was worrying in the extreme. Put simply, teams that are supposedly top four contenders do not fail to turn up on the opening day of the season. Yet that is exactly what Everton did. Their garish away strip may well be officially known as “Lighting Pink” but there was nothing electric about a performance that consisted of only two half-chances. And as far as captain Neville is concerned, the Toffees need to prove their mettle before listening to the plaudits. He said: “That’s probably the first mistake Tim has made maybe since he came to the club. he has been outstanding. He apologised to everyone in the dressing room but I don’t think anyone is blaming him. “They’ve had one or two chances in the game, not really threatened our goal too much, but we just found it so difficult to break them down. “That’s what is really disappointing because for all our possession, we didn’t create as many chances as we should have. “It was one of those games where I always felt we were in control, but you know with Blackburn they will press and harass and try to keep you on the back foot. We came here late last season and played really well and tried to replicate that, but never found our rhythm at all. “We have to forget about this now and remember we are in the big league, and it’s about gaining points. We have to get back to winning games as quickly as possible because we know how a slow start can punish you. “Our aim all pre-season was to hit the ground running and we didn’t do that so we will have to start next week.” So how are Everton coping with their new-found top-billing as one of the Premier League’s best sides? Neville said: “Expectations are good, it’s what we have wanted so we can’t complain about them being higher now. “We wanted a big squad, we wanted two players for every position and with that comes expectation. Now we have it we can’t go into our shell and become fearful. “We have to show our mettle and this will show whether we have what it takes to get into that top four. Getting there takes everything you have and more - simply having a good squad will never guarantee you anything. No one in this division has a divine right to finish fourth. Talk is cheap and we need to get back playing. “It’s a jolt, a kick up the backside. But we have the players, we have the team and we are better than we showed here.” Morten Gamst Pedersen was the best player on the park as he provided the only glimpse of flair from either side. Martin Olsson and Mame Biram Diouf also showed brief moments of invention in what was otherwise a flat and listless encounter although Phil Jagielka’s late long-range drive did briefly raise the heart-rate. Yet despite the game’s inadequacies Blackburn manager Sam Allardyce, as always, was more interested in the result than the performance, praising Kalinic for taking his goal so well. He said: “Niko showed why we bought him with a great finish after a mistake by the goalkeeper. We’re very pleased we have taken three points off a team who did the double over us last season. “This boy is a tough boy, he takes some physical stick and then he starts giving it back. There’s no intimidation I’ve seen him take from any central defender in the Premier League - he’s one mean man.”
Blackburn (4-1-3-1-1): Robinson 7; Salgado 7, Samba 8, Nelsen 8, Givet 7; Jones 8; Olsson 6, Dunn (Nzonzi 9) 7, Pedersen 9; Diouf 6, Kalinic (MB Diouf 60, 8) 7. Booked: Pedersen, Salgado. Goal: Kalinic 14.
Everton (4-4-2): Howard 5; Neville 7, Jagielka 8, Distin 7, Baines 7; Pienaar 6, Arteta 6, Cahill 7, Osman 6 (Beckford 59, 6); Fellaini 6 (Rodwell 78, 7), Saha 5 (Bilyaletdinov 73, 7).
Booked: Cahill. Referee: P Dowd (Staffordshire).
Nikola can terrorise defences – Big Sam
Monday 16th August 2010
By Andy Cryer (Lancashire Telegraph)
Blackburn Rovers reporter SAM Allardyce has backed Nikola Kalinic to terrorise defences this season after seeing the Croatian fire Blackburn Rovers to the perfect Premier League start. The 22-year-old former Hajduk Split striker capped a battling individual display with the only goal in Saturday’s 1-0 home win over Everton and his boss insists he will only get better. Kalinic arrived in England last summer for £6million but, scoring just two league goals, took some time to adjust to the pace and physical demands of the Premier League. His pre-season campaign was also disrupted due to a thigh injury but, despite lacking match fitness, Allardyce insists his work over the past 12 months is now coming to fruition. He said: “Strength wise, he is a different person to how he was when he came. He was like a little boy when he came here with a lot of puppy fat on him. “We have tried to turn him into a man and you can see that physical presence there. This guy is a tough boy. He takes the stick and then he starts giving it back. “There is no intimidation that I have seen from any central defender in the Premier League and to be able to stand up to that at his age, he is one mean boy. “They are going to have a tough time marking him when he gets even stronger and fitter than he has.” Kalinic took advantage of Tim Howard’s rare 14th minute howler on Saturday to smartly turn home Rovers’ winner from the edge of the penalty area. It was no more than Allardyce’s hosts deserved, with Martin Olsson, Mame Biram Diouf and Steven Nzonzi all missing golden chances – but the Rovers boss hopes his young striker has shown signs of things to come. Allardyce said: “Niko Kalinic showed why we bought him with a great finish off a mistake from the goalkeeper and we are very pleased we have got three points against a team who did the double over us last season. “He is obviously going to get better from here. The confidence he is going to get from that, will take his mentality up a level and take his confidence up a level and when the next one comes around he will take it without thinking about it. “Hopefully he will go on a bit of a roll from there. We were all hoping when he hit the shot because when he was hitting shots last season they were hitting the post and coming back out. “This time it went in the far post. He is a young man who is hopefully progressing. If you score the first goal it means it will kick start you off on a good little run.” Kalinic was replaced by Manchester United loanee Mame Biram Diouf on the hour mark and the Senegalese international showed the impact he could have at Ewood Park this season. While Allardyce continues his search for a front man, he also revealed he has plans of unleashing Kalinic and Diouf as a two-pronged attacked at some point this season. “For us we can hopefully see Niko and Mame playing together at some stage,” he said. “You have Mame’s pace and Niko’s holding up and retaining the ball so maybe later on they might get on as a pair that would be exciting.” Colombian international Edixon Perea will be the first of several trialists at Brockhall this week as Allardyce’s striker search continuues The former Bordeaux man is a free agent after leaving Brazilian club Gremio, while Rovers are studying several scouting reports on other potential targets as well.
Ian Snodin: Why I couldn’t turn the Liverpool Echo down
Aug 17 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
ALTHOUGH I’ve done lots of work in radio and TV, this is my first newspaper column. When I got the call from the ECHO I couldn’t say no – because Everton are my club. I’ve become a fan now as well as playing for them for eight years, and I feel the same way as anyone in the Gwladys Street. A lot of people think I’m a Leeds United fan because I played there, but although it was an honour to captain them, it was only for 18 months and the memories I’ve got of my time at Goodison are priceless. I hope this column covers a special season when the club finally gets the silverware it deserves.
Ian Snodin: Craig Bellamy for Everton FC
Aug 17 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
REPORTS that Everton are looking at a deal for Craig Bellamy have got me excited – I’d take him for the blues tomorrow. My brother Glynn coached Craig when they were both at West Ham and he had nothing but good things to say about him.
He said he is an absolute pleasure to coach, first on the training ground every day and usually last off. He will tell the other lads if he thinks they’re slacking off and doesn’t mind being shown things himself. It was very different from the public perception of him as a troublemaker who has to change clubs all the time. More importantly he has got pace, and that is so vital for teams these days – especially on the counter attack.
If a player is quick it usually adds £2m to their price tag straight away, and if you have a nippy player up front it can cause defenders plenty of headaches. If David Moyes does manage to pull off a loan deal for Bellamy, and it looks like it won't be easy with othr steams interested, I’m sure it can only be a boost for our ambitions this season and add goals and a further winning mentality to what is already a very special squad.
Ian Snodin: Everton FC's defeat at Blackburn a real disappointment
Aug 17 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
THE defeat at Blackburn was a real disappointment but it can’t be compared to the start to last season when we were thrashed by Arsenal. Not only were the scores and performances miles apart, this time around Everton can have no excuses if things aren’t turned around fast. It’s not panic stations by any means – but just look at the strength of Everton’s bench on Saturday and you know that under-performers won’t be tolerated. David Moyes can generate a real battle for places this season. He can afford to replace lads who haven’t performed in the first two or three games.
We’ve needed the chance to shake up the team with quality subs for a while and now we have it. The problem against Blackburn was that the Blues didn’t match Rovers’ early work-rate and tempo. We needed to win all of our individual battles for the first 20 minutes, then when the game settles down we can take the game to the opposition.
If you want to compete for a top four place, and I think Everton have a realistic chance this season, they need to grind out results against teams like Blackburn away.
We’ve got a manager that likes to play properly and players in Arteta, Fellaini, and Osman who are skilful enough to play a nice passing game. But you have got to remember to mix that with the right physical approach. Getting a lot of points early in the season is vital for us this time around. There can be no repeat of the slow starts which have taken the momentum away from other Everton sides during Moyes’ time.
But it’s not the time to be getting down. It’s far too early to be worrying. Things should feel entirely different after Wolves have visited Goodison Park this weekend.
We need to build up the fortress element of our home ground more than ever this season too - Everton must revive the unbeatable spirit which makes Goodison such a tough place to come to for away teams. The amount of players who’ve told me they used to hate coming here as an away team is mad. When the atmosphere is just right, it can be very intimidating and off-putting - many of the current Chelsea team said as much last season.
Everton FC defender Sylvain Distin says the Blues are still high on confidence despite opening day loss
Aug 17 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
SYLVAIN DISTIN insists Everton are not doubting their credentials despite a deflating opening day defeat. The French defender believes his team-mates will provide the perfect response to the 1-0 reverse at Ewood Park by beating Wolves at Goodison on Saturday. Distin is confident the Blues will get back on track thanks to the home support. He said: “I’m not going to start doubting now – definitely not. If we win at the weekend everyone will forget we had a bad start. The most important thing is to have a good reaction at home. We have to, we have no choice. “It wasn’t a good start but it is just a start so we’re not hung up on it. We are disappointed but we know what we have to do. It’s not like we don’t have the quality, and we need new players. It’s all there but it’s just time to get it together. “Everybody is looking forward to proving this was just a blip. We just have to change one or two little things and get to Goodison. We’ll be OK.” The 32-year-old centre-back was disappointed the Blues could not carve out more chances against Blackburn, and believes they need to adapt to playing against physical sides. He said: “Neither side created that many chances but we really didn’t put them in any dangerous positions. Obviously that made life easier for them. “They play on their strengths and who can blame them for that? It got them three points. They did it well. But the problem is how we played and how we created so few chances. “There were a few positives, the way we defended as a team was good. It’s just getting it right in the last third but that will come. We’ve seen it was there before and will get it right.” Distin is confident Tim Howard in particular, will be able to put the frustration of defeat at Ewood in the past. He said: “It’s football. The game is made with mistakes and we all make them. It doesn’t make you a bad player, and Tim has saved us so many points and goals. “It would be ridiculous to jump on his back and blame him for that. We are a team and we win and lose as one.
“Together. I told him to put it behind him and carry on. It has happened to me before, and will happen to me again.”
Everton FC target Craig Bellamy opts for Cardiff City switch
Aug 17 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
EVERTON target Craig Bellamy is poised to sign for Cardiff City on loan today.
A news conference is set to be held this afternoon to confirm the Championship club's capture of the unsettled Manchester City striker. Bellamy spent Monday in talks with an unnamed club and had been given permission to train with Cardiff. Manchester City must name a 25-man Premier League squad by 1 September and Wales star Bellamy, 31, had already been told he was surplus to requirements He had also been linked with moves to Tottenham, Fulham and Celtic. Bellamy said last week he would be happy to play for Cardiff as his wife and children are based there and the club said they "would love" to sign him. The Eastlands outfit would prefer him to move to the Championship rather than a Premier League rival - and the huge wealth of his current club means they have an unprecedented amount of control over the future of a player whose colourful career has taken in eight clubs already, and who has cost a near total of £45m in transfer fees.
We must learn to cope with pressure, says Everton FC skipper Phil Neville
Aug 17 2010 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
PHIL NEVILLE admits Everton must learn how to cope with greater expectations if they are to realistically challenge for Champions League qualification.
David Moyes’s side have been touted as strong contenders for a top-four finish following their impressive ending to last season in which they lost only two of their final 24 Premier League games. However, they began the new campaign in hugely disappointing fashion by slipping to a 1-0 defeat to Blackburn Rovers on Saturday.
The Goodison outfit will look to bounce back from that loss when they host Wolverhampton Wanderers in their opening home game at the weekend.
And Neville accepts Moyes’s men have to start handling the pressure that comes with scrapping among the leading Premier League contenders. “Expectation is good,” said the Everton skipper. “That’s what we’ve wanted so we can’t complain about it now. We’ve wanted a big squad and two players for every position. “With that comes expectation. Now that we’ve got it we can’t suddenly go into our shell and become fearful. “Now it’s another step. It will show our mettle. It will show if we’ve really got what it takes to get into that top four. “To get into the top four in this league takes everything you’ve got and more. Having a good squad doesn’t just guarantee you a top four place. “We’re going to have to get back to playing and we’re going to have to earn everything we get this season. Nobody has a divine right to finish in fourth position. “Talk is cheap. We just need to get back playing and winning games.”
Sylvain Distin admits Everton must produce a positive response against Wolves to the defeat at Ewood Park, which brought an end to a club-record 11 Premier League games unbeaten. “I think we are all looking forward to the next game,” he said. “We have to put the Blackburn game behind us and focus on the next game. “The most important thing is to have a good reaction at home. We have to, we have no choice. We were disappointed obviously because we lost three points.” A rare mistake from Tim Howard gifted Blackburn their winner, but Distin has become the latest Everton player to give the goalkeeper their backing. “Tim is okay, he was disappointed obviously,” said the French defender. “It is a mistake but it doesn’t change his quality. The guy has saved us so many goals and so many points.”
Everton on verge of signing Sporting Lisbon's Marat Izmailov in £4m deal
By Ashley Gray
Daily Mail August 17 2010
Everton are said to be closing in on the £4million signing of Sporting Lisbon midfielder Marat Izmailov. Reports in both Russia and Portugal claim the clubs are in advanced talks about a player who has previously interested Goodison Park boss David Moyes. Izmailov, who can play on the right wing or more centrally, has fallen out with his Sporting bosses, particularly since a row last season over his fitness to play in a Europa League match against Atletico Madrid. The 27-year-old was close to a move back to former club Lokomotiv Moscow in March, but Sporting used reported interest from Manchester City to push their asking price to a prohibitive £10m.
With no takes at the inflated price tag, Sporting are now ready to accept a similar fee to that which they paid for his services three years ago. At Everton, he would team up with former club-mate Diniyar Bilyaletdinov.
Everton lead the chase for Belgium midfielder Dries Mertens after opening day defeat
Daily Mail August 17 2010
Everton are considering making a £3.2m offer for Belgium international Dries Mertens according to reports in the Netherlands.
The FC Utrecht midfielder has caught the attention of Everton boss David Moyes as looks to bolster his squad following his side's opening 1-0 defeat to Blackburn Rovers in the Barclays Premier League. Although Dutch daily newspaper Elf Voetbal says Moyes could face competition for the 23-year-old from PSV Eindhoven and Dutch champions Twente Enschede. However, Mertens, who has won two caps for Belgium, says he is committed to playing in the Netherlands for now, telling Elf Voetbal, 'At this moment, I am very happy at FC Utrecht .'
Everton FC: Fans’ forum
Aug 18 2010 Liverpool Echo
A DISAPPOINTING start to the season at Blackburn, with an uncharacteristic error by Tim Howard. It would be easy to blame him solely for the defeat but he has been one of Everton's sound performers since joining the club. Specifically, there were enough creative players on the pitch to salvage a point. However, consistency cannot be said of Louis Saha who sadly, looks way past his best and it would be appropriate now, to sell and potentially bring in someone like Peter Crouch. Equally, Heitinga's omission was a surprise considering Blackburn's known tactics and Fellaini's lack of match fitness. Everton's performances will undoubtedly improve as the season progresses but it is vitally important that the personnel are played in their favoured positions. Primarily, Pienaar, Osman and Bilayletdinov are central midfielders.
Furthermore, it would be prudent to bring in specialised wide players who can cross the ball accurately. Alternatively, why not try a 3-5-2 formation with Coleman and Baines as wing backs. Everton need to end the huff and puff tactics and start to winning games starting with Wolves.
David Kearns, Aintree
IT was a poor showing by the Blues at Blackburn, and obviously the team can only get better. Rovers got everyone behind the ball and we couldn’t break them down.
Blackburn would have been happy with a point at the start, but had something to bite on to after getting the gift. I cannot understand why Leon Osman started on Saturday. He’s a squad player at best. It was a bit of a negative set-up anyway. We should have selected a more attacking side and gone for it at the off; after all, we lost anyway.
Still, it’s early days.
bluebri
IT WAS a very fortunate three points for Blackburn on Saturday. Let's see where we both are after the first 10 games!
bluewinner
DAVID MOYES has avoided a lot of headaches with Craig Bellamy not joining Everton. Bellamy is undoubtedly a good player but has too much baggage.
jdx
AS the late Sir Bobby Robson said of Craig Bellamy: “He could start an argument with himself!”
lexystar
SYLVAIN DISTIN should be dropped in favour of John Heitinga. The latter may not be left-footed, but he's a better defender who doesn't lash the ball upfield at every opportunity.
stay gold
Tim Cahill delighted Mikel Arteta has signed new Everton FC contract
Aug 18 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
TIM CAHILL has spoken of his delight when best pal Mikel Arteta committed his future to Everton. The pair have struck up a friendship since they became teammates in January 2005 when the Spaniard arrived at Goodison Park. They have also developed into two of the Toffees’ key performers over the last five years, and both signed new deals this summer. Cahill had already signed a new deal until 2014 before Arteta followed his example, penning a new deal which committed himself to Everton until 2015 last week. Arteta’s new deal came after a summer of uncertainty when the play-maker was linked to big-money moves to Arsenal and Manchester City.
The Australian, who played for his country in the World Cup this summer, said: “We have spent a hell of a lot of time together over the summer. “He is someone who thinks the world of Everton, like myself. “I was always in his ear and when he put pen to paper I was one of the first people he spoke to and I was over the moon.”
Cahill is also excited about Everton’s game with Wolves on Saturday, which is the Toffees’ first home game of the season and a chance to make amends for their opening day defeat by Blackburn Rovers. He said: “There is so much anticipation for the home game. It is another hard game but it is exciting just to play and see what happens.” Meanwhile, Everton’s sponsor Chang Beer, the iconic Thai lager brand, has announced a three-year partnership with ESPN Star Sports. Earlier this month, Paul Choong, senior vice president of Chang beer producer ThaiBev, declared himself “happy” with Everton’s eighth place finish and indicated that talks would commence on extending the deal with the Blues. ESPN Star Sports’ coverage of the Premier League is Asia’s most watched sport across the region. TICKETS for the first home game of the current campaign are selling quickly. Tickets are available to buy through Everton’s online ticketing service at www.evertonfc.com/eticketing, or can be purchased by phone on 0871 663 1878. Fans can also visit the box office in person and purchase tickets from our friendly Fan Centre staff at Goodison Park.
Everton FC target Craig Bellamy heads home to Cardiff
Aug 18 2010 by David Randles, Liverpool Daily Post
DAVID MOYES was forced to end his pursuit of Craig Bellamy after the controversial striker joined Cardiff City on loan. The Everton manager was keen on trying to tempt Bellamy along the M62 when it became clear the player’s future lay away from Manchester City. Bellamy’s wife and children still reside in Cardiff, however, and the Wales international returned to the Welsh capital at the weekend following a high profile bust-up with City manager Roberto Mancini. The 31-year-old publicly criticised Mancini, claiming a breakdown in communication meant they had not spoken for six months. Teenage striker Mario Balotelli’s arrival from Inter had pushed Bellamy further down the pecking order at City, alerting several clubs including Everton to the player’s availability. City were said to be interested in offloading the former Liverpool striker but did not want to do business with any of their top four Premier League rivals, namely Tottenham who were also monitoring Bellamy. New Fulham manager Mark Hughes was also in the hunt for the player he had worked with at City and Wales but Moyes was hopeful of enticing Bellamy to remain in the north west. However, the lure of being reunited with his family while playing for his hometown club, was too big an attraction for Bellamy who has decided to drop down a division to the Championship. After being banned from City’s training ground earlier this week, Bellamy started training with Cardiff whom he has now joined on an initial season long loan deal. Meanwhile, Tim Cahill has spoken of his delight at Mikel Arteta committing his future to Everton. After months of speculation about his future the Spaniard put pen to paper on a new deal last week that will keep him at Goodison Park until 2015. “We have spent a hell of a lot of time together over the summer,” said Cahill, who also penned a new contract until 2014 this summer. “He is someone who thinks the world of Everton, like myself.
“I was always in his ear and when he put pen to paper I was one of the first people he spoke to and I was over the moon.”
Will Batchelor: The night Mikel Arteta became a true Englishman
Aug 18 2010 Liverpool Daily Post
STEVEN GERRARD says he would “love nothing better” than for Mikel Arteta, a Spaniard, to play for England. Cynics claim such a move – which is theoretically possible due to residency laws – would be a crass manipulation of the rules. Not me. I think it is the stuff of boyhood dreams . . . “There’s only one Mike Arthur!”
The chant rang around the Maracana stadium as England’s midfield general placed the ball on the penalty spot. It was the deciding kick of the 2014 World Cup final: England versus Spain. “Theeth ith it,” thought Arthur. “Theeth ith what my whole career hath been about.” And what a career it had been. Like all boys growing up in Donostia-San Sebastian, Mike Arthur – then known as plain old Mikel Arteta – dreamed of playing for England. “No, YOU be Emilio Butragueno,” they cried. “I want to be Terry Butcher!” It had not been easy for Arthur to reach his dream. First, he had to live in England for five years. Sadly, he played at Glasgow Rangers for two seasons before realising he was actually in Scotland. Devastated by his error, he fled to Real Sociedad. But during every inch-perfect pass and flowing attack, Arthur yearned for brutal Route One football. Each night he prayed for the chance to play alongside true geniuses, like James Beattie and Marcus Bent. He had almost given up hope when his prayers were answered. Everton FC wanted to sign him! Arthur played his heart out for Everton, always hoping to spot the England manager in the crowd. But whenever they came, they never seemed to notice him. Some nights, Arthur would weep into his tapas: “Eeth no fair! What doth Leighton Baines have that I don’t?” Then, following a spate of international retirements after the 2010 World Cup, Arthur received the phone call that every English patriot dreams of. “Hey, Mikel? This Signore Capello. You want for play England? Me have no player.”
“Si, signore!” he replied. “Err, I mean, Si Senor! No, I mean, yeth, meesther!”
That day, the boy from Donostia-San Sebastian became a true Englishman. He changed his name to Mike Arthur, bought a dog, stopped sleeping during the day, and requested that his wife serve all his tapas at the same time, four hours early, on a single plate. By the time of the 2014 World Cup, Arthur was loved by the fans and team alike. Only occasionally, in the dead of night, did he wonder if he was truly entitled to wear the Three Lions crest . . . He stepped up and smashed the ball high over the crossbar. As the Spanish players celebrated wildly, Arthur knew his journey was complete. “Yeth,” he thought. “Now I am true Englithman.”
Ancelotti wants to make Jack his lad as Chelsea boss drops hint over Everton youngster Rodwell
Aug 18 2010 Daily Mail
Carlo Ancelotti has given the clearest indication yet that he would be keen on signing Jack Rodwell. The Everton midfielder has been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge in the past with reports that a £16m bid had been turned down last year.
And Ancelotti will have caused concern in the Goodison Park boardroom with his comment yesterday, in which he talked of his praise for the 19-year-old. 'Rodwell of Everton is a good player,' said the Chelsea manager, who is aware that his squad contains players nearer the end than the beginning of their careers. Everton boss David Moyes is lining up a £4m bid for Sporting Lisbon winger Marat Izmailov.
The Russian attacking midfielder, 27, wants out of Lisbon following a bust-up with coach Paulo Sergio.
The Jury: Everton FC fans give their views on the opening day defeat at Blackburn
Aug 19 2010
TONY SCOTT, Walton
SO who would have thought this back in May? Bill Kenwright finding a million pounds for Moyes to spend, Liverpool have a manager with a bit of dignity, Man City spending more money on junk, Rooney, Torres and Messi not finding a goal between them at the World Cup and England’s big egos being embarrassed by German kids.
It’s great to be back but most Evertonians I know would be happy this season to just finish above Liverpool. I don’t want that because it would mean us finishing about 6th or 7th and this current group of players are capable of better. As much as I love Tim Cahill and Phil Neville for what credit they give to the club, no place is certain and if they play like they did at Blackburn again they should be replaced by Coleman and Rodwell. The Premier League isn’t all that as its made out to be by our “Sky” friends as was proved in the summer, so The Everton squad know themselves they should not fear anyone this season.
MIKE DRUMMOND, Speke
SO our first match of the season ended in defeat, nothing new there then! Fair enough our passing was decent but at the end of the day, that’s pointless if you’re not going to put your chances away. I won’t go on about Tim Howard’s blunder either – he has saved us more than he has cost us over the years and if he had to mess up any time in the season, I would say let it be the first game. Looking ahead to Saturday’s match, this is the time to make our mark, on our home turf and to quickly get over the defeat at Blackburn. The home crowd should be geared up for the visit of Wolves, first home game of the season on the back of a good pre-season, with a quality group of players to choose from (in contrast to what we had this time last year). No disrespect to Wolves, they will give us a game like they did last season but I just think that we’re too strong for them and the three points will be ours come 4.45pm this Saturday.
DEBBIE SMAJE, Upholland
TYPICAL Everton. After a rare upbeat summer at the club, a poor opening day showing at Blackburn has brought us right back down to earth! The team didn’t show enough urgency against Rovers, and that is something that dogged our away form last season, a big mistake we need to learn from to improve this season. I think sometimes too, Moyes just needs to have a little bit more faith in some players and know when to leave some favourites out. I love Leon Osman, but with a fully fit squad, he should not be starting out wide. He can do us a job there when we are short of a few players, but with Bily and Gueye sat on the bench, it was a baffling selection. Likewise the inclusion of Phil Neville after an impressive pre-season from Seamus Coleman.
If there was a positive though, it was Marouane Fellaini’s return – . Until his lack of fitness began to show towards the end, he played like he’s never been away, and it is good to finally have him back.
COLE FRASER, Litherland
ONCE again all the optimism gathered during a great summer break was shot-down by a dismal opening display. True, it was only the first match of what will be a long and gruelling campaign, but it really does put a dampener on things when the expectations surrounding Everton have been so high. The past few weeks have seen us being mentioned in the same breath as the title challengers, all of whom will be expected to take three points from Ewood Park. Saturday’s performance was poor, but we can only improve and I think we can pick ourselves up on our return to Goodison.
Although the stats suggest that we had a lot of chances against Blackburn, we never really looked convincing in or around the penalty area. We lacked any real firepower up front. If we’re letting the Yak go then we need to try and offload him quickly and bring in a replacement. If not then we need to get him involved.
Mikel Arteta will never give up on international call-up for Spain
Aug 19 2010 by James Pearce, Liverpool Echo
THE size of the challenge facing Mikel Arteta has never looked tougher but the Everton midfielder isn’t about to give up on his Spanish dream. The 28-year-old from San Sebastian has been overlooked by national team bosses since he arrived at Goodison five years ago. Arteta made a dozen appearances for Spain’s under-21s but has never achieved international recognition at senior level. The former Barcelona trainee was on the brink of a first call-up in February 2009 but a cruciate knee ligament injury he suffered at Newcastle meant his name was removed from the list before the squad was announced. Despite playing a starring role in Everton’s strong finish to last season, Arteta could only sit and watch as Spain followed up winning Euro 2008 by lifting the World Cup for the first time in South Africa this summer.
With the likes of Barcelona trio Andres Iniesta, Xavi and Sergio Busquets as well as close friend Xabi Alonso and Cesc Fabregas ahead of him in the pecking order, he faces an uphill task to force his way into Vicente del Bosque’s plans for the upcoming Euro 2012 qualifiers. Having lived in England for more than five years, Arteta also qualifies to play for England through residency rules. Steven Gerrard recently said he would love to line up alongside him for Fabio Capello’s men. However, Arteta insists he will never stop striving to achieve his goal of a first cap for his homeland.
“It’s really hard and I don’t know if the chance will ever come,” Arteta said.
“Maybe I’m not good enough. We have unbelievable players in my position who are playing for big teams. “In the World Cup final I think there were seven players from Barcelona in the team who play together every week. “Iniesta is unbelievable. I have known him since he was 13 at Barcelona and you could see at that time he would be fabulous. We have so many more in that position too so it’s hard to get in.
“But you need to have aims. If you don’t think you can do something then you’re never going to do it. “I still think I can do it. The coaches phoned me a few times after I did my cruciate. It’s a shame because I know I’ve been really close. “I’m still at a good age to achieve it but it is really tough.” There were suggestions this summer that Arteta would need to move from Everton to boost his hopes of playing for Spain.
Arsenal offered him Champions League football and big-spending Manchester City attempted to lure him with a massive pay rise, but he opted to remain at Goodison and signed a new five-year contract. Arteta believes he can catch the eye of del Bosque with his performances for the Blues. “Some people were saying, if you go there you will get in the Spanish team,” Arteta said. “But no-one is going to secure that just by going somewhere else. There is no guarantee of getting in the Spanish team.
“You could go to a new team and not play or not play as well as you could.
“Okay, in the Champions League you will be in the headlines and on the TV much more, but I hope I can get that here. “I don’t see any reason why I can’t get in the national team from playing for Everton.” Arteta had spells at Paris St Germain, Rangers and Real Sociedad after leaving Barcelona before he arrived at Everton in January 2005. And he insists the spirit and cammaraderie in David Moyes’ squad is unique. He added: “I’ve never been five and a half years at a club before.
“Before I only had short spells at clubs. There were reasons for that, like I was unhappy and wanted to leave, but as you get older you realise what you have and I realised I had to stabilise my life here. “The main thing we’ve got here is the group of players and the staff. When I came we had the likes of David Weir, Alan Stubbs and Kevin Kilbane who were unbelievable. “When they left, the next lot of players carried on in the same way, trying to help the next ones. You got an education.
“I have never experienced spirit like this before. It’s really rare, especially when you think that we have a lot of nationalities. “When I first arrived it was more English but now we have players from eight or nine different countries. “I think the manager likes to know the type of people he’s signing and the behaviour they have and the kind of things they have done in the past. “Everyone tries to help each other and that is a good thing and it will continue. Even Marouane Fellaini has been here only two years but you would think he’d been here five or six years with the way he acts and speaks to people. Johnny Heitinga is the same. The players are very open with each other and comfortable together.”
Everton FC’s Phil Neville tips Mikel Arteta to succeed him as captain
Aug 19 2010 by James Pearce, Liverpool Echo
PHIL NEVILLE believes Mikel Arteta has all the qualities needed to succeed him as Everton captain. The versatile 33-year-old has skippered the Blues since David Weir left Goodison to join Rangers in January 2007. Neville is fiercely proud of wearing the armband but when the time comes to step down he believes manager David Moyes has the ideal replacement in Arteta. The Spaniard recently ended speculation about his future by signing a new deal to keep him with the Blues until 2015. “I see Mikel as a true leader for this team,” Neville said. “He’s someone who will be a fantastic captain for this club. “He’s that type of player and he’s that influential in the team. People listen to him and respect him – he has that aura about him. “When he does something he leads by example and when he says something people listen. That’s why it’s so important we managed to keep hold of him.” Meanwhile, Neville has called on England boss Fabio Capello to promote Jack Rodwell to the full international squad alongside Blues team-mate Phil Jagielka for next month’s Euro 2012 qualifiers against Bulgaria and Switzerland. Rodwell skippered England Under-21s to a 2-0 victory over Uzbekistan last week, 24 hours before Jagielka impressed in the senior side’s 2-1 friendly win against Hungary at Wembley. “Jack excites me every time I see him play,” Neville added. “He’s one of my favourite young players and if I was England manager I would be looking to get him into the full squad.
“Jack looks the type to me that the bigger the occasion, the better he gets. I know the captaincy for the under-21s gave him a boost and took his game to another level.
“He looked awesome and I think he’s made vast strides this summer. With young players you are always going to have peaks and troughs but Jack is definitely one of the best youngsters around.” Neville believes Everton will reap the rewards of Jagielka being handed a chance to shine by Capello after he was left out of the squad for the World Cup. “It was a difficult occasion to come into with a strange atmosphere post-World Cup but I thought Jags was really good,” he said. “He will have learned an awful lot from playing the full 90 minutes. “There’s a new dawn with England now and we’ve got to give opportunities to younger players to freshen up the team.
“I’m not saying discard all the older players but we need to integrate younger players.
“We’ve got two years to the next Euros to give them the chance to gain experience at that level.”
Diniyar Bilyaletdinov looks for Everton FC response against Wolves
Aug 19 2010 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
DINIYAR BILYALETDINOV admits Everton must come racing out of the blocks at Goodison on Saturday following their false start to the season. The opening-day defeat at Blackburn Rovers last weekend has done much to temper enthusiasm among fans after an impressive end to the previous term was followed by an encouraging pre-season. David Moyes’s side will look to bounce back when they open their home campaign against Wolverhampton Wanderers. And Bilyaletdinov acknowledges the importance of a victory against opposition whom he scored his first-ever Everton goal.
“I am looking forward to the game because it is the start of our season at Goodison Park,” said the Russian winger. “We lost the last game at Blackburn so it is very important we get three points. “We have big plans for this season and we want to go back to the top of the table. This year we need to not lose at home and get more wins away. We need to start by beating Wolves.” Bilyaletdinov’s late strike in the corresponding game last season, which ensured a 1-1 draw for Everton, was the first of seven goals the 25-year-old has netted since arriving from Lokomotiv Moscow almost a year ago. “There were five minutes to go and I scored the goal,” he said. “There was a big noise in the stadium after I scored and I think it is the best feeling when you score and see the happy faces in the stands. “But I want to score more goals and see more happy faces. Every player likes to score goals but the important thing is getting the result for the team. That is why the supporters come to the games.”
Wolves also frustrated Everton later in the campaign at Molineux, and those four dropped points could ultimately have earned the Goodison outfit a Europa League berth. It’s a point not missed by skipper Phil Neville, who anticipates another tough afternoon against the Black Country side. “You look back at last season and wonder why we didn’t qualify for Europe, and it’s because we couldn’t beat teams like Wolves,” said Neville. “They were dropped points. Wolves did well last season, they bought well over the summer and have a quality strikeforce, and they are always tough games against Wolves. “Mick McCarthy sets his sides out to be disciplined and strong, and last season they also played with a freedom that kept them in the league and I’m sure they will want that to be the same this year.”
Mark O'Brien: Everton FC boss David Moyes must answer doubters after campaign’s faltering start
Aug 19 2010 by Mark O'Brien, Liverpool Daily Post
WELL then, it’s probably fair to say that wasn’t quite what we all had in mind for the season’s curtain raiser. And while Ewood Park is renowned for being one of the Premier League’s fortresses – we won’t be the only decent side to get turned over there this season – it was the nature of the performance more than the result that left the travelling Evertonians feeling as if their summer parade had been well and truly rained on. Sam Allardyce’s Blackburn have a reputation for feisty physicality but in truth we couldn’t even point the finger at that as the reason for the poor showing by Everton. Resplendent – if that’s really the right word – in their new, bright pink shirts, the Toffees simply never did any of the things that they are good at; the things that supposedly make them better than teams like Blackburn and dark horses for Champions League qualification. For all the talk before the season about David Moyes having his strongest squad ever, he still sent out a team on the opening day containing a patently unprepared Marouane Fellaini in central midfield and with Leon Osman deployed out wide where he very rarely excels. Tim Howard’s inexplicable blunder was obviously the key moment in the match, but still, his teammates had over 75 minutes to save his blushes and proceeded to waste all of them until Phil Jagielka finally forced a save out of Paul Robinson in injury time. The manager already has some key decisions to make before Saturday then, when we face an awkward Wolves side that caused all sorts of problems at Goodison last season.Will he bring Johnny Heitinga back into the line-up, for a start? And if so, where? In place of Fellaini in midfield, where he did such a sterling job last season, or at centre-half, the position he plays for Holland? There’s already a growing desire amongst the supporters to see more of the dynamic Seamus Coleman on the right, too, and his absence from even the bench at Ewood Park left many scratching their heads. The right wing is also clearly an issue, and so it’s no real surprise that we are being linked with a £4 million move for Sporting Lisbon’s Marat Izmailov. In the meantime though, does Moyes persist with Osman, give Diniyar Bilyaletdinov a start, or take a chance on the untested Magaye Gueye instead?Whatever he does, he needs to be decisive and restore some of the preseason confidence that took a fair-sized dent in Lancashire at the weekend.
Wolves aiming to build on their winning start when they travel to Everton FC
Aug 20 2010 Liverpool Echo
WOLVES captain Karl Henry believes the club is now considerably stronger than when they returned to the top flight last year. The Molineux side began their second season back in the Barclays Premier League with a hard-fought but deserved 2-1 home win over Stoke last weekend. Their challenge this term is to better last season’s 15th place and Henry is confident of improvement. The Wolverhampton born midfielder, 27, said: “Twelve months’ experience is a long time in this league. “Some of the games we played, and some of the hidings we got, I think we have all learned from.
“We’re definitely a stronger team and added to that are a few new signings. “It’s a great start we’ve made. “We’re not going to get carried away but nonetheless it is a great start.”
Howard Kendall: Everton FC must make Goodison a fortress again
Aug 20 2010 Liverpool Echo
IT’S important that Goodison becomes an all-conquering fortress again this season.
The Blues should push their opening day defeat to the back of their minds and go at Wolves tomorrow with vigour from the whistle. To get right up there near the top you have to pick up points consistently away from home, but wining your home games is massive too. Anyone who comes to Goodison will find it difficultand the entertainers like Arteta and Pienaar are still around which is a positive sign for the crowd in the first Saturday home game. The team must keep the fans going and vice verse like it’s always been.
Superstars failed to shine in poor World Cup
MESSI, Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo all wilted under the pressure of hype during a very disappointing World Cup. Opponents found ways to combat their individual brilliance by pressing each of their teams relentlessly and stopping them from getting the ball, instead of trying old-fashioned man marking jobs. It was an effective but dour way of ensuring the big names didn’t quite light games up as we’d hoped. A shame as I was looking forward to it.
Everton FC star Leighton Baines believes the Blues must deliver after pre-season praise
Aug 20 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
LEIGHTON Baines might smile at talk of Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger’s praise for Everton, but he still wishes neither men had opened their mouths. The Toffees left-back reflects the ethos of his team in his personal manner; preferring to get on with things quietly and competently away from the limelight. And although being touted as potential top four candidates this season by the Manchester United and Arsenal bosses is praise indeed, Baines knows that Everton must first do the business on the pitch, starting at home against Wolves tomorrow, to justify the glut of positive predictions showered on them all summer. “In a way we wish they hadn’t said anything,” he says. “We prefer to fly under the radar and go about our business quietly. Their comments made headlines and it makes results like the weekend at Ewood Park even worse. “When people with the calibre of them say it, it makes others look and believe.” Not that the 25-year-old believes Everton can’t cope with expectations, he simply knows how futile the habit of performing against the big sides and underwhelming against mid-table outfits which developed last season can be.
“If you picked two managers from the league at the moment, they’re the two everyone respects so it’s a real positive,” he says. “For them to be talking about us is big. It’s a compliment, but it means nothing if we don’t produce. Yes they have seen our potential to do something last season, but we need to get back to do it. “There’s an international break coming up, so the aim for us has got to be to go into that with points on the board. That’s our short term aim.” Baines was speaking after an Everton foundation event which was part of the club’s Premier League into Work training course. The Kirkby-born defender spent an hour chatting with local people seeking jobs who had signed-up for extra confidence training, and employment help. During an informal Q and A, one course member asks Baines where he thinks the Blues can finish, and once again he replies with a European place as a bare minimum.
It is an aim, he feels, that is boosted by Everton’s ability to be a Premier League switch hitter – a boxer who can confuse opponents by switching styles. Baines believes this team’s mixture of brains and brawn is a winning combination. “We feel we’re a bit different from a lot of teams because we can do the physical part; that’s been what Everton has done over recent years, we can match anyone for that, but we can also play football now like we proved against the top sides,” he says. “That’s why a lot of them struggled against us last season, because we’re not one dimensional. We weren’t a team who just knocked it up and relied on being physical. “They didn’t know how to play against us because sometimes we’d do it tough and other times we’d play. That gave us the extra edge, a dimension some other teams didn’t have and it kept them guessing.” Yet Baines knows that the opening day defeat by Rovers was an example of when his team-mates did not show their two sides enough. “We are beyond the days of just mixing it up, but we’ve still got to be prepared to do it,” he says. “To match the effort and enthusiasm some of the other teams will come and show, then add our football can really be the difference again.” Ultimately, the England left-back knows that a performance against Wolves as underwhelming as last weekend could see players being dropped by a manager with an abundance of options.
“It’s a good problem to have too many players,” he says. “The manager might have to leave people out some weeks, he doesn’t want to. His selection process is much tougher. “Last season the team picked itself at times but for us on the training ground now, maybe there’s an extra 10 or 15% that has to go in every day. The manager can bring you off and replace you if you’re not at the right level, and you can be replaced the following week.”
Howard Kendall says David Moyes must fire Everton FC’s creative juices.
Aug 20 2010 Liverpool Echo
THE expectation levels haven’t been so high before the start of an Everton season for a good while. But last Saturday brought many people down to earth with a bump.
The fans accept Everton can’t win every game, even with the squad they’ve built up, but they were entitled to be disappointed by the performance at Ewood Park. Its’ very rare that Tim Howard makes such big mistakes, but his gaffe should not have been as costly. There was more than enough time for the Blues to equalise. The lack of creativity in the Everton midfield was baffling and there was a distinct lack of punch up front too. With successful teams the manager sends them out every week and essentially knows what he’s going to get. Everton need to find that sort of consistency.
They need to play well enough to overcome awkward sides like Blackburn, who are tough to beat. There is no point just lumping the ball into the box. Players like the Rovers centre back Christopher Samba will head it all day. He’s lucky that modern balls are so lightweight or he’d be showing signs of Alzheimer’s. The good thing for David Moyes is that he can bring on added impetus and creativity from the bench.
He was able to freshen things up with Diniyar Bilyaletdinov last weekend and Jack Rodwell, two names who can have a big impact on their day. It’s not like Manchester City where you have too many players fighting to get into the first team, and there is certain to be poor morale at times. Moyes has not been able to splash the cash like Mancini but instead he has carefully built his squad to a peak.
Leighton Baines: Everton FC must focus to turn season into a success
Aug 20 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
LEIGHTON Baines has warned his Everton team-mates to eradicate the ‘what-if’ factor if they want to achieve something this season. The defender is determined the Blues do not fail to live up to expectations, and wants to get last weekend’s opening day defeat by Blackburn out of his system with three points tomorrow at Goodison.
Baines, who will once again hope to use his club form as a springboard to international recognition this season, said: “It’s all well and good beating Man U, Chelsea and Man City last season but then we let ourselves down in other games.
“It’s no use looking at those games wondering where we might have been. We don’t want to do that again. It’s vital we beat the sides we’re expected to.
“We expect to win all our home games but we struggled against the likes of Wolves and Stoke at home last season. It’s about time we started doing it now. No more room for what ifs.” Baines, who was an ever-present for manager David Moyes last term, hopes his team-mates rise to the challenge of a hard-to-beat Wolves outfit, which held Everton to two draws in the last campaign. He said: “The Blackburn game was a reality check. It puts things into perspective and makes you realise that every game is tough. We had some great results against some of the top sides last year and struggled against some of the sides you’d expect us to beat. “That was an area you’d want us to improve upon this time around, and we didn’t at Ewood Park. With all due respect, now we’re at home to Wolves and it’s a game you’d expect us to win, so it’s important we actually do it this time rather than being another one of those games.”
Meanwhile, Steven Pienaar is reported to have spoken out on his ongoing contract impasse with Everton. The South Africa international's future at Goodison Park has been the subject of much debate over the summer with several other Premier League clubs said to be interested, with only a year left on his current deal. But Pienaar, 28, is reported to have said he is happy to stay with David Moyes's side and will sign a new contract – if the right offer is on the table. “There's been a lot of speculation about a transfer but I've never once said that I want to leave Everton,” he said.
“I love playing for Everton. “It's a great club with real tradition and history. You can see that at Goodison Park, an old stadium which is always full and where the fans really know their football. And you read about the history of the club too, the trophies and the old stars. “I'll be honest. I have a year left on my contract. I'm happy to sign a new one, but at my age it has to be right and fair. The only difference I've had with the club has been over what's right.” Joseph Yobo is one player who could be facing a temporary Goodison exit on loan. The defender was not on the bench against Blackburn Rovers at Ewood Park, and Everton are understood to be willing to loan him to a Scottish side.
Pre-match preview: Everton FC v Wolverhampton Wanderers, Premier League
Aug 20 2010
Everton last five games:
August 14 Premier League: Blackburn Rovers 1, Everton 0
August 8 Friendly: Sligo Rovers 2 Everton 0
August 7 Friendly: Vfl Wolfsburg 2 Everton 0
August 4 Friendly: Everton 2 Everton de Vi¡a del Mar 0
July 31 Friendly: Norwich City 2 Everton 4
Wolves last five games:
August 14 Premier League: Wolves 2, Stoke City 1
August 7 Friendly: Wolves 2, Atletico Bilbao 1
August 3 Friendly: Hearts 0, Wolves 2
July 31 Friendly: Leeds Utd 3, Wolves 1
July 27 Friendly: Reading 2, Wolves 1
Past meetings:
October 17 2009: Everton 1, Wolves 1
November 22 2003: Everton 2, Wolves 0
October 30, 1991: (League Cup 3) Everton 4, Wolves 1
April 23 1984: Everton 2, Wolves 0
January 28 1969: Everton 4, Wolves 0
Ones to watch:
Everton
Jermaine Beckford will be looking to build on his impressive pre-season form in a Blue shirt and bag his first competitive goal for Everton as he eyes a Goodison debut. Diniyar Bilyaletdinov ended the last campaign in fine style with a stunning strike against Portsmouth with the last kick of the season - he scored his first Everton goal when grabbing a late equaliser against the Molyneux men at Goodison last October.
Wolves Southport-born David Jones started off on Manchester United's books and opened Wolves' account for the season with a stunning free-kick opener in last week's impressive win over Stoke. New signing Stephen Fletcher marked his debut following his £3m move from Burnley with the second against the Potters and will be looking to build on such a positive start. If fit, Irish internationals Kevin Doyle and Stephen Hunt will need to be handled carefully. Injuries Kevin Doyle (calf) has trained all week and Ronald Zubar (groin) is also available again but Jelle Van Damme (ankle) is a doubt and Dave Edwards (groin) won't be travelling. Steven Fletcher is still suffering from a badly bruised instep which saw him withdrawn during the first half of the opening day win against Stoke but may return to training today.
Victor Anichebe's knee injury is the Blues only doubt.
Latest odds from Betfred:
Everton 1/2 Draw 3/1 Wolves 7/1
Match fact:
Everton v Wolves will be the Blues' 2,499th competitive home match in all competitions
Video: Everton & Wolves legend Andy Gray
In Royal Blue
Steven Pienaar wants to stay at Everton FC – if terms can be agreed
Aug 20 2010 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
STEVEN PIENAAR has broken his silence over contract talks by declaring he wants to stay at Everton – but only if any new deal is “right and fair”. Pienaar has now entered the final year of his current agreement with negotiations having stalled over an extension. An offer has been on the table for the South African for some time, although talks were put on hold before the player’s participation in this summer’s World Cup in his home country. There has been little progress since, however, with Pienaar admitting he is at odds with Everton over certain aspects of the proposed deal.
And the 28-year-old has intimated he will only pen a new deal if certain assurances are met. “I’ll be honest,” said Pienaar. “I have a year left on my contract. I’m happy to sign a new one, but at my age it has to be right and fair. “The only difference I’ve had with the club has been over what’s right. “There’s been a lot of speculation about a transfer but I’ve never once said that I want to leave Everton. “I love playing for Everton. It’s a great club with real tradition and history.
Steven Pienaar wants to stay at Everton FC – if terms can be agreed
Aug 20 2010 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
STEVEN PIENAAR has broken his silence over contract talks by declaring he wants to stay at Everton – but only if any new deal is “right and fair”. Pienaar has now entered the final year of his current agreement with negotiations having stalled over an extension. An offer has been on the table for the South African for some time, although talks were put on hold before the player’s participation in this summer’s World Cup in his home country. There has been little progress since, however, with Pienaar admitting he is at odds with Everton over certain aspects of the proposed deal.
And the 28-year-old has intimated he will only pen a new deal if certain assurances are met. “I’ll be honest,” said Pienaar. “I have a year left on my contract. I’m happy to sign a new one, but at my age it has to be right and fair. “The only difference I’ve had with the club has been over what’s right. “There’s been a lot of speculation about a transfer but I’ve never once said that I want to leave Everton. “I love playing for Everton. It’s a great club with real tradition and history. “You can see that at Goodison Park, an old stadium which is always full and where the fans really know their football. “And you read about the history of the club too, the trophies and the old stars. “We have a good team and the manager is a superb influence.” Pienaar was one of several Everton players to have under-performed at Blackburn Rovers last weekend when David Moyes’s side began the Premier League campaign with a disappointing 1-0 defeat. And Tim Cahill accepts there are likely to be changes when Wolverhampton Wanderers visit Goodison on Saturday afternoon. “It’s exciting because there are so many great players to play and so many different formations; you could pick two or three different teams from this squad of players. “It’s exciting to play and see what happens and if selected do as well as you can.” Wolves held Everton to two draws last season and began the campaign with a 2-1 home victory over Stoke City. And Cahill anticipates another testing occasion. “All Mick McCarthy’s teams are well drilled and fight very hard and they have a bit of flair as well,” said the Australian. “We have to make sure we are firing on all cylinders and ensure that as a squad we are ready for a good Wolves outfit.
Kevin Doyle unfazed by Everton test
Friday 20th August 2010, By Martin Swain (Express and Star newspaper Wolves)
Wolves will walk into a white hot atmosphere at Goodison Park after Everton’s opening day setback at Blackburn. But striker Kevin Doyle believes it is experience, and not adrenalin, which will be the key to his team-mates coping tomorrow.
Powered by the momentum of their defeat of Stoke, Wolves are full of beans as they provide the opposition for Goodison’s first game of the new campaign – a stadium which remains a favourite for Premier League players up and down the country.
Doyle is among them, relishing the crowd remaining tight to the pitch and noise generated by as passionate a group of fans as English football provides. But as the Republic of Ireland striker and Wolves’ Player of the Season prepares to take his bow, he believes it is an occasion ready-made for his team to prove they have learned from their debut campaign. He said: “In the second season you cannot rely on the adrenalin of playing in the Premier League giving you an edge any more. “We won’t be playing in these stadiums for the first time or playing against these players for the first time. Now our experience is important. This game at Everton is a perfect example of what I’m talking about. “It’s a fantastic stadium to go to play in, the sort of place I love. The crowd is right on top of the pitch and the atmosphere is fantastic. It’s not your normal new stadium which we see more and more of. “But we’ve had that experience of handling it now. We did well there last season. We should have that bit of belief that experience gives you. We’ve got through that first season in this division and now we have to make that count. “I don’t like to keep harking back to Reading but it is a good comparison. We opened our second season by drawing at Manchester United and then beating Everton at home. We were so confident and thought we had arrived as a Premier League team. “But we probably got complacent. We were mid-table by Christmas and then relegated by May. Hopefully, that complacency won’t set in here.
“To be honest, I can’t imagine a manager such as Mick McCarthy allowing it to.”
Everton, though, do admit they were jolted by their sluggish start at Blackburn and have spent the week steeling themselves to take out their frustrations on Wolves.
When McCarthy’s side earned a confidence-boosting point in the same fixture early last season, Everton were fighting their way through a shortage of numbers because of injuries. That doesn’t apply this time around and midfielder and dangerman Tim Cahill acknowledges they have to respond quickly and successfully to the Ewood defeat. Cahill said: “I am looking forward to the game because it is the start of our season at Goodison Park. We lost the last game at Blackburn so it is very important we get three points. “We have big plans for this season and we want to go back to the top of the table. This year we need to not lose at home and get more wins away.
“We need to start by beating Wolves.” It’s the likes of Wolves that cost Everton a European place last season – according to their captain Phil Neville. He said: “You look back at last season and wonder why we didn’t qualify for Europe, and it’s because we couldn’t beat teams like Wolves. They were dropped points. “Last week was probably a kick up the backside for us – we must make it count now.”
With none of last season’s injury woes to concern him, Everton boss David Moyes can certainly mix it up if he wants to with England prospect Jack Rodwell and summer signing Jermaine Beckford among those starting on the bench last week.
The feeling is Moyes will not abandon faith just yet in the starting line-up he chose for the first game. But Wolves boss McCarthy is expected to make changes, either enforced or otherwise. Having been confident of their prospects of playing earlier in the week, McCarthy yesterday suggested he was now not so sure Jelle Van Damme and Steven Fletcher would be available – although the striker was due to press his case in training today. George Elokobi is the obvious replacement for van Damme if the Belgian international does not recover from an ankle twist while Doyle, of course, is expected to come in regardless of Fletcher’s availibility.
By Martin Swain
Greg O'Keeffe: Mexico’s World Cup coach Javier Aguirre spotted buying Everton FC replica shirt
Aug 21 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
EVERTON’S status in Latin America is obviously growing after this month’s friendly against their Chilean namesakes. On Thursday Mexico’s World Cup coach Javier Aguirre was spotted buying a Blues replica shirt! The former Mexican international midfielder – who played for his homeland when they hosted the 1986 World Cup before going on to coach them at both the 2002 and 2010 finals – was seen measuring the new home jersey for size against his arms before purchasing it at Everton 2, Liverpool One. Spotted with his wife and teenage son, Aguirre is no stranger to the city having been here in for a Champions League match at Anfield in 2008 when coaching Atletico Madrid – perhaps that’s why he favours Moyes’ men!
Greg O'Keeffe: Job event at Everton FC
Aug 21 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
THE ongoing good work of the Everton Foundation should never be underestimated.
This week 16 participants in Everton's Premier League into Work training course met Leighton Baines (pictured) for a question and answer session in Goodison's Brian Labone suite. Designed to provide training opportunities, boost confidence and help people into jobs, the course has never been more necessary in these times of austerity. Since the scheme was launched in September 2009, 49 participants have completed three courses, with 48% finding jobs as a direct result of the training they received from The Everton Foundation. Over a 10-week period, the participants attend Goodison Park to take part in various activities to prepare them for employment, including a two-week work placement with one of 30 Merseyside employers, including the Merseyside Coalition, Jaguar Land Rover and Liverpool One. Students interested in the programme should ask their Job Centre Plus advisers for more information
Greg O'Keeffe: Everton FC manager David Moyes has a right sided dilemma
Aug 21 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
THE days of old-fashioned dyed-in-the-wool wingers might be over, but David Moyes is entitled to still be pining for them. Having a player who could dazzle down the right-hand side of his midfield has been a priority for some time, and evidently the candidate is yet to fully emerge. It’s not that the Everton manager doesn’t have options. He has a handful of midfielders who are capable of playing there, but none who can consistently provide the balance and penetration which he craves to turn his current Everton side into a truly potent attacking outfit. It is why fanciful stories, like the one which suggests Everton are close to paying £4 million of money they don’t have on Sporting Lisbon's Russian winger Marat Izmailov, persist. The Portuguese giants may well be looking to cash in on the Russian international, but even if he wanted to, Moyes is unable to buy unless he sells. He has been able to spend £1m on Magaye Gueye, a young player who can operate on the right of midfield, but the Frenchman is too inexperienced to provide the long-term solution, even if he does show promise. It’s why Everton again lined up at Ewood Park last weekend with Leon Osman on the right. Osman is a natural centre midfielder, and showed his class there against Manchester United last season with a man of the match display. But like Mikel Arteta before him, Ossie is shuffled wide because he is willing and able.
Osman, like fellow model professionals Tony Hibbert and Phil Neville, would play anywhere their manager asked them too. But it doesn't to make the situation any fairer on them, or any more satisfactory for Moyes. It’s not like the Blues boss hasn’t tried experimenting. He has deployed Diniyar Bilyaletdinov on the right, with occasional effect. Although a left-sided player, Bily also showed against United the potential surprise package he provides when cutting inside from the right and striking with his left foot. But as the Russian continues to find his feet in England, he is yet to have done enough to be considered a long-term solution either - and ultimately be asking a square peg to remain jammed in a round hole. Even Tim Cahill has, at times, been asked to fill a gap down the right. It might not be a deal-breaker dilemma like Liverpool’s lack of a decent left-back - but the Toffees would benefit massively from a natural right sided player.Evertonians need only cast their mind back to Landon Donovan’s enormously successful three-month cameo at Goodison to see how effective a dynamic, attacking player can be. Without the American there is nobody you could imagine tying a left-back with the quality of Ashley Cole up in knots.
It is no coincidence Everton’s strongest spell of the last campaign came when Donovan was providing some much-needed balance. So, with the absence of anything resembling a war-chest at present, what does Moyes do? Victor Anichebe remains a strong option. He reminded everyone during the club’s tour of Australia what a headache he can be for defences in that role, and looked to build on his gradual transformation into an attacking wide player from last season. So far this term he remains nursing an injured knee, with his manager hoping he will one day be able to coax a solid string of games from him. Or the answer could be under his nose.
Seamus Coleman has all the hallmarks of a top full-back, but at present his attacking abilities marginally outweigh his defensive experience. The Irishman looks great charging down the right flank fearlessly, overlapping with whichever midfielder is there at will. Could Coleman be the answer? It’s a puzzle Moyes knows could hold the key to breaking into the top four.
Barry Horne: I can see exactly why Everton FC target Craig Bellamy joined Cardiff City
Aug 21 2010 by Barry Horne, Liverpool Echo
HAVING watched Craig Bellamy play for Wales regularly and also at club level I can vouch for all the testimonies that came his way over the past week or so.
Only recently – and as if to prove a point to Roberto Mancini – he produced a remarkable performance against Luxembourg. Admittedly, Luxembourg are some way from being the greatest team in the world. Nevertheless, Craig’s pace, work rate, vision and terrific skill were in evidence. He scored a brilliant goal and had a hand in the other four of a 5-1 win for Wales. It came as something of a surprise, therefore, that there didn’t appear to be an almighty scramble from Premier League clubs desperate to secure his services. I’m sure many enquired but it was significant for me that, amid reports of top flight clubs being interested in him – Everton included – Craig settled on Cardiff City very quickly. It is a decision that may have disappointed any Premier League clubs dithering over a deal. Many people have questioned the move but it makes perfect sense to me. Not only is Cardiff Craig’s hometown but it is also a great city with passionate football supporters.The impact Craig can have there will probably mean much more to him than what was on offer elsewhere.
Look at his other options. Once Man City made it clear they were unwilling to do business with any of their Premier League competitors, that effectively ruled out six or more clubs. Tottenham were seen as the main target of City’s thinking but you could also include the likes of Everton and Aston Villa as well as the assumed big four up at the top of the table. That left Craig with the likes of Fulham as a possible destination.
While he has a great relationship with manager Mark Hughes and his assistant Mark Bowen, Fulham, with all due respect, could have offered him little more than Premier League football. For a player who has won few major honours in his career, Cardiff offer Craig the opportunity to really make his mark and leave a legacy. I can see exactly where he is coming from.
Everton FC boss David Moyes hopes his strikers answer doubters with goals
Aug 21 2010
NOBODY doubts the strength of Everton’s current squad - but even the manager admits that some question marks still linger in key areas. As he prepares his players to hit the ground running against Wolves at Goodison Park today, David Moyes will be hoping his strikers start answering some of their doubters. Main man Louis Saha has all the ability, but his goals largely dried up in the second half of the last campaign. Jermaine Beckford is untested at this level, and Yakubu is not yet fit after his World Cup campaign with Nigeria and has suffered his own slump in form lately.
It’s a dilemma in a key part of the field which may not cause the Everton boss sleepless nights, but he accepts is far from ideal. "Louis is up there with the best players I’ve worked with," he says. "He’s a top, top player and he’ll play his part. Last year we got our value from him and if we hadn't kept him where would we have gone and got another striker of his class? "He got 12 or 14 goals last season, but he needs to get back among the goals. They came in the first half of the season last time. He needs to get back to trying to score. "We’ve said before that if we had big money we'd go out and try to buy a top quality centre forward but we don't have that, so we have to look at other routes and get the best with what we have." When what you’ve got is very little, a free transfer for a player with Jermaine Beckford’s potential made sense, and Moyes is hoping it proves to be another diamond unearthed. "Beckford is settling in fine," says Moyes. "We’ve given him a chance from the lower leagues and I keep saying that nobody is 100% sure where it’ll go, but he wanted the opportunity and I wanted to give it to him. "He looks fine in training, he scores goals in training and he’ll see plenty of match time and from that we’ll decided if he’s been able to step up.
"He knows the club has done it before. There’s a feeling that if they can do it Everton will give them the chance to show it. He gives us an option. "The best way for him to come in is to break in slowly into the Premier League. and he’s well in contention.
If he plays and didn't play well it doesn't mean he wasn’t good enough - it takes time. It’s the same with most players." Then there is the player who causes Evertonians to scratch their heads regularly, Yakubu. More than capable of scoring plenty of goals at the top flight, yet struggling for form and fitness, his future at Goodison remains in doubt after interest from West Ham. "At the moment it looks like he’s staying," he says. "Yak’s getting into shape, and if he’s still here after the deadline then he will be used. "My gut feeling is that he will stay here. He is getting back into shape. We need him in the best shape as we can and then when we do we’ll get him playing. I don't think the boys who played in the World Cup have all shown it, maybe not physically too bad but maybe mentally not there just yet. "It’s not the World Cup alone that has affected them, it’s the length of the season, the length of the tournament, the short holiday and then nearly straight back into it. "It’s not just here. Players like Wayne Rooney might take a while to get back their form and their focus as much as anything but they’ll come good." It is not only the strikers who Moyes will ask for more from against Mick McCarthy’s side. His midfield was stifled at Ewood Park last week, and failed to create enough chances to open up a tough Blackburn defence.
"We need the creative players to play," he says. "They didn’t last week and we weren’t progressive enough. I’m looking for better. "In truth Mikel Arteta is probably not 100%, and Fellaini certainly wasn’t quite there but we needed him to do a job in the circumstances at Blackburn. "Steven Pienaar’s probably not quite right since he got back from the World Cup yet, so we had a few ongoing things but we knew that.
I thought we defended well and did the job. We dealt with the long throws and balls in the box but it was the other end we didn't do it." As he attempts to find the right starting eleven, Moyes has more options than almost ever before during his reign.
But can this have an adverse effect? "I’d prefer to have the bigger squad," he says. "This time last year with the amount of injuries we had we were really fighting to put teams out. "We had lots of different problems. Yes (having a big squad gives you some problems) but none of which I’m concerned about." One aspect of a bigger squad the manager ruefully admits is the ability to perform well in European competition, an avenue not available to him this season. And Moyes remains unsure that missing out, due to the eighth place finish last term, can be considered a benefit.
" I would always say I’d like to be in Europe. If you said to me would I take it now - I definitely would and now we would have had players fit and able to make it work.
"Last year we didn’t. I think if we were in Europe there might have been a reason to add more players, but I don't think we need to at the moment."
Barry Horne: A Wolves mauling will help Everton FC forget Blackburn woes
Aug 21 2010 by David Randles, Liverpool Echo
AFTER all the talk of Everton chellenging for a Champions League place after an excellent pre-season, we came crashing down to earth with a bump at Ewood Park.
Blackburn were decidedly average and didn’t show anything to suggest they will be more than a mid-table side this season, which in itself would be a real achievement.
However, the reason Everton lost was not because Blackburn did anything special.
There’s no getting away from the fact the team was disappointing when great things were expected. Most of us would have selected eight or nine of the players David Moyes went with, plus the same 4-5-1 formation that has served him so well at places like Ewood Park. But Everton lost because too many of those players had an off day and simply didn’t perform. Alan Ball always used to say that having one or two players off colour can make life difficult, but three or more and you almost certainly won’t win. Last week it was probably easier to count the few that didn’t perform badly than those who did. Saying that, Tim Howard’s clanger came at a point when Everton were looking to get a foothold in the game. Instead, the confidence was knocked and crucially gave Blackburn something tangible to cling on to. The most alarming statistic for me was how few chances Everton created. Other than a scuffed Steven Pienaar effort, and a long range shot from Phil Jagieka, Paul Robinson had nothing to do.Saying that, Howard wasn’t too busy either. We can play much better than that and will be looking for an instant response against Wolves this afternoon.
Wolves provided two of our most disappointing results of last season - 1-1 at Goodison and 0-0 away. They had a terrific opening day result against Stoke last weekend and will arrive at Goodison on a high. Mick McCarthy has been very astute in the transfer market this summer but, for me, the two players to watch were already at the club. Striker Kevin Doyle looks to have won his fitness battle to be in contention again today, while wide man Matthew Jarvis can cause problems with his pace
Steven Pienaar’s contract offer won’t be improved by Everton FC
Aug 21 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
DAVID Moyes today told of his unstinting desire to keep Steven Pienaar at Everton, after admitting he missed out on a loan deal for Craig Bellamy due to a shortage of funds. The Goodison boss has underlined his determination to hold onto the South African midfielder this season, even if it means ultimately missing out on a transfer fee when the final year of his current deal expires. And Moyes hinted that the lucrative contract on offer to the 28-year-old is unlikely to be enhanced, after he was unable to find the cash to make a season-long loan deal for Bellamy a reality. The Wales international joined Championship side Cardiff City last week, with Manchester City agreeing to pay the vast majority of his wages - a luxury which did not extend to his Premier League suitors. Roberto Mancini was willing to make Bellamy’s move down a division go smoothly, but would not subsidise a move to a club which could rival City in the top flight. Moyes said: “We had a genuine interest but we just couldn’t quite afford the whole thing.” And the Scot, who has already tied Tim Cahill, Mikel Arteta and Jack Rodwell to new deals this summer, warned clubs interested in prising Pienaar from Goodison that it would take a massive offer to make him re-consider his stance. He said: “We’ve not had an offer for him and we’re not encouraging any for him. If anyone did offer they’d need a sackful of cash. I’m in no hurry to sell anyone.
“He was our player of the year last year and we don't want him to go, and from what he’s said I don’t think he wants to go. We’ve made him a really good offer.
“I think he doesn’t accept what we’ve offered. It’s as simple as that. I don’t know where it goes from there. “He has been made a brilliant offer. It’s been on the table for some time, and it’s up to him.” It comes after the former Ajax star admitted he wants to stay at Everton, if his new deal is “right and fair”. Meanwhile, Moyes denied reports that Celtic have made a bid for Nigerian defender Joseph Yobo, insisting there had been no contact from the Old Firm club. The Everton boss, who has doubts over Phil Neville and Victor Anichebe ahead of today’s Goodison clash with Wolves, also revealed Ian Holloway’s Blackpool had failed in their bid to sign James Vaughan on loan. He said: “They would like to but they can’t quite conclude it.”
Everton 1 Wolves 1
Saturday 21st August 2010, Express & Star
Sylvan Ebanks-Blake bagged Wolves a point after they survived an Everton onslaught to launch a late raid. Tim Cahill’s first-half opener had broke Wolves’ resistance but the visitors felt aggrieved referee Lee Mason awarded a free-kick against Stephen Ward in the build-up. Everton bossed the game but Ebanks-Blake equalised, turning in Kevin Doyle’s cross after a quick break on 74 minutes. It was the visitors’ first effort on target after they rode out heavy pressure but Wolves’ rearguard action merited some reward, much to Everton’s chagrin. Steven Fletcher was sidelined with the foot injury picked up on his debut against Stoke last week, but Wolves were buoyed by the return of Doyle. George Elokobi replaced ankle injury victim Jelle Van Damme and was quickly under pressure, as Everton attacked from the off.
Diniyar Bilyaletdinov ballooned over on six minutes, after Mikel Arteta’s free-kick was only half cleared as the hosts opened well. The Toffees saw plenty of the ball with creator-in-chief Arteta impressing as Leighton Baines bent a 25-yard free-kick over but, despite their dominance, the hosts failed to breakdown a stubborn Wolves defence. Jody Craddock and Christophe Berra flung themselves into last ditch challenges to halt Everton more than once, before goalkeeper Marcus Hahnemann came to the rescue. Everton worked the ball out to Johnny Heitinga 25-yards out mbut the Dutch defender was denied by Hahnemann’s sprawling one-handed save.
From the resultant corner, Cahill headed over with Wolves struggling to get a foot-hold in the game. Matt Jarvis’ lob drifted harmlessly wide after 34 minutes, before Steven Pienaar flashed one over after excellent work by Cahill. Wolves were on the rack as Everton probed and Bilyaletdinov drilled a snap-shot wide, before the hosts finally made the breakthrough three minutes before the interval. Ward bundled Arteta over a yard inside the box but referee Mason – who was right on the spot – somehow awarded a free-kick outside the area. But when Arteta’s shot was blocked, Cahill whipped the ball off Craddock’s toes and fired into the roof of the net from six yards.
The Toffees proclaimed justice was done, but it was hard for Wolves after they battled to keep the hosts at bay for so long. For all their first-half superiority Everton created few clear-cut openings and Wolves were still in the game but needed a break going forward. Adlene Guedioura replaced Elokobi – who took a knock in the first half – on 53 minutes and the visitors began to briefly press but failed to find much forward momentum. Ward had to be alive to stop Jermaine Beckford after Everton broke before Jarvis fired over but, with 16 minutes left, Wolves stunned Goodison Park with an equaliser. Guedioura challenged Louis Saha before robbing Heitinga on the half-way line and fed Doyle. Suddenly Wolves were three-on-two and Doyle crossed for the unmarked Ebanks-Blake to stroke in at the far post, but the goal owed everything to Guedioura’s industry. There could have been a winner, as Ebanks-Blake curled one into goalkeeper Tim Howard’s arms. Then Saha’s header landed on the roof of Hahnemann’s net with three minutes remaining and Jarvis almost won it for Wolves at the death, curling wide in injury time.
Everton 1 Wolves 1
Aug 21 2010 By Mark Staniforth, Birmingham daily Post
Sylvan Ebanks-Blake struck in the 75th minute to salvage an unlikely point for Wolves and leave David Moyes' Everton still searching for their first win of the season. Tim Cahill's 43rd-minute strike seemed set to get the home side's campaign up and running, but with the visitors' first shot on target Ebanks-Blake coolly slotted home a cross from Kevin Doyle. With Moyes' men desperate to claim the three points they poured forward, with both Cahill and substitute Louis Saha coming close, but the visitors' smash-and-grab point was secure. Mick McCarthy's men had barely mustered an attack of note until their goal as Moyes' men showed every sign of atoning for last week's miserable defeat at Blackburn. Diniyar Bilyaletdinov looked bright in the early stages and had the first real chance for the home side after five minutes when he booted Mikel Arteta's half-cleared free-kick over the bar. In the best chance negative Wolves had to offer, Matt Jarvis fired in a long-range free-kick which was easily held by Tim Howard, who for much of the game was a virtual passenger. Neat work from Tim Cahill down the right played Sylvain Distin into the box in the 16th minute but the impressive Jody Craddock swept the ball off his toes. As the home side continued to press, it was Leighton Baines' turn to curl a set-piece inches over the bar after Karl Henry was adjudged to have hauled down Steven Pienaar. For all their attacking intent Everton were repeatedly let down with the final ball, with Cahill the offender on 22 minutes after a weak cross which was cleared by George Elokobi. The home side had their best chance in the 25th minute when John Heitinga smashed a shot from 25 yards which was acrobatically tipped over the bar by Marcus Hahnemann.
Pienaar came close on 35 minutes with a rising shot which just cleared the bar, then Elokobi plucked the ball off Cahill's toes in the box and referee Lee Mason waved away penalty appeals. The first half threatened to end in controversy when replays clearly showed Mikel Arteta had been fouled by Stephen Ward in the box, only for referee Lee Mason to award a free-kick. But it hardly mattered as moments later Arteta's low set-piece struck the Wolves wall and rebounded for Cahill to slam left-footed into the roof of the net. It was business as usual after the break with the home side showing all the attacking intent and going close through Jermaine Beckford who slipped while shooting in the box. Then Bilyaletdinov missed a simple chance to grab a second goal when the busy Cahill headed down in the box and the Russian completely miskicked with only Hahnemann to beat. In an all-too-rare foray forward, Wolves won a corner in the 63rd minute which Jarvis fired in low but Craddock could only find the sidenetting with his attempted back-heel flick-on. Beckford should have done better on a swift counter-attack in the 71st minute, but after racing half the length of the pitch he allowed Ward to get in a saving tackle. Wolves found their equaliser out of nowhere and there was an air of controversy about it after substitute Adlene Guedioura won the ball in a hard challenge on Heitinga. Guedioura then released Kevin Doyle to charge down the right and with the home defence nowhere he hit a low cross for Ebanks-Blake to sweep home from close range. Moyes made a double substitution in a desperate bid to claim back the points. Cahill went close with an attempted flick, and then Saha headed on to the roof of the net.
MOYES DENIED CASH SPLASH
McCarthy enjoys 'brilliant' tackle
22/08/2010 News of the World
EVERTON have taken out a £14million loan - but manager David Moyes will not be making a big splash in what is left of the transfer window.
The club have borrowed the money from leading bank Investec against some of the media rights cash that they are due to receive this season. But £9m of the loan will go to repay a similar mortgage taken out last year. The rest has been used to sign Magaye Gueye and to fund new deals for Mikel Arteta, Tim Cahill, Jack Rodwell, Leighton Baines and Seamus Coleman. After watching his side denied victory against Wolves through a late equaliser, Moyes said: "I expected more from the first two games.
"We played fine in the first half and the victory looked like it was going one way.
"We did well, but when it's only one goal you can see the possibility of them coming back and they did." Mick McCarthy hailed the controversial challenge that helped his side grab a late point at Goodison Park as "brilliant". Everton players were furious with referee Lee Mason for not calling a foul when sub Adlene Guedioura flattened John Heitinga and from the subsequent move, Wolves equalised. McCarthy said: "They complained about the tackle on Heitinga but I thought it was brilliant.
"I thought he nailed him and it was a good goal. We deserved to equalise. "Sylvan Ebanks-Blake was terrific today. He put a shift in. I'm delighted to get a point here, expecially considering the first-half performance. "But then at the end of the second half, when the board goes up with four minutes left, I'm not sure it was a real cheer from their fans. "We were on top then and I fancied us winning. We had the chances. We got in their faces and we were better."
MOYES' HOPES RUN INTO A MICK WALL
Everton 1 Wolves 1
News of the World
By Martin Hardy, 22/08/2010
SIXTY seconds remained on the clock and Mick McCarthy was at his barking best.
Screaming at his players to get back - they had just wasted a corner - waving his arms like a madman and looking for moral, if not necessarily vocal, support from his No 2 Terry Connor. Except that the Wolves manager's players weren't listening, not really.
And not because they were worn out or were unwisely fancying a bit of toe-to-toe in the dressing room with one of Yorkshire's finest. But because at that point, with the game level after a finely worked second-half equaliser from Sylvan Ebanks-Blake, they had Everton's number. They could smell blood and sense a bit of drama for the noisy travelling fans tucked in the far corner of Goodison Park. An hour of labouring and blocking had just about broken Everton's spirit. If not that, then it had certainly ended their creative powers. The nice, intelligent, passing triangles had stopped and after landing a devastating blow through their equaliser - coming 16 minutes from time - Wolves somehow were in control. Their hosts had run out of ideas against a team that will, all truth be told, be pleased once more to start next season in the Premier League. And therein is why David Moyes will have had a slightly troubled night's sleep. Because this is the season when Everton defy financial logic and apply old-fashioned work ethics that have been the cornerstones for all great football clubs for years to take the next step forward. Or at least that's how it was supposed to go.
The league table instead shows one point from two games, and it was supposed to be an easy start as well. Next up is Aston Villa away and then Manchester United are at Goodison, hardly the ideal games to kick-start your season. Matches where niggling questions can begin to become problems, such as does Moyes have the firepower to blast out the likes of Manchester City, Tottenham and Liverpool, their direct competition? Is there a Fernando Torres, a Mario Balotelli or a Jermain Defoe at Goodison? It should be Louis Saha who, when fit, requires top billing. But his form is such that he was overlooked in favour of Jermaine Beckford, who was a League One player last season. Beckford went off after 70 minutes, Saha came on, but by then the drip, drip of confidence draining away had robbed his team-mates of the kind of creative courage required to overcome such resolution. Wolves deserve great credit for their work ethic, their tenacity and a spirit that grabbed them a point.
But don't pretend they were pretty. Not that McCarthy could give a monkey's, but if yesterday had been a purist's day, then Everton would have built on the 43rd-minute opener that looked as if it would send them on their way. Even that was surrounded in refereeing chaos. Banging on about referees has never floated my boat but Lee Mason needs to have a word with himself and stop making the criticism so simple.
Two minutes before half-time, Stephen Ward appeared to foul Mikel Arteta about a foot inside the penalty area. Ref Mason was on top of it but appeared not to act. Arteta, by now felled, put his hands on the ball, just on the edge of the penalty area. It now looked a handball to Wolves. From somewhere, a compromise perhaps, Mason gave a free-kick to Everton on the edge of the Wolves penalty area. Bemusement was everywhere, then came the real sting in the decision. Arteta's free-kick struck the wall but was not cleared and Jody Craddock could not clear under pressure from Tim Cahill, with suggestions of another foul, before the Australian crashed a shot past Marcus Hahnemann. Before that it had been all Everton, but the American goalkeeper was hardly troubled, only once in the half being roused to make a spectacular if fairly simple save to tip over a rising John Heitinga shot from 20 yards. There had been plenty of clever play from Everton. There had been half-chances created and then squandered by Diniyar Bilyaletdinov, Steven Pienaar and Cahill. CONFUSION: Everton were frustrated And in that period, when Wolves - who by McCarthy's own admission were struggling because of his tactical tinkering - Everton had to seize control. That was the time to show the teeth of a top-four side in the making.
There is much to admire in what Everton boss Moyes has done over a period of years, gradually rebuilding a fine old football club. But they need more teeth and more of the snarl that has been used to claw their way back to being a side who expect European competition. Certainly McCarthy looked correct in his assertion that the controversial tackle which led to the equaliser was hard but fair when Adlene Guedioura wiped out Heitinga. There was still much to do, though, as the tackle - which followed Guedioura easily dispossessing Saha - was inside Wolves' half.
But the midfielder, freshly off the visiting substitutes' bench, looked like a man with a point to prove. He strode forward, finding Kevin Doyle racing away on his right.
The Irishman crossed low to the edge of the six-yard area, Guedioura could not quite make it but that proved to be fortunate as Ebanks-Blake arrived at the far post to slip a low shot past Tim Howard. From there Wolves went for it. Almost. Ebanks-Blake saw an effort saved and Matthew Jarvis shot wide of an Everton upright.
Sandwiched in between was a looping Saha header that landed on top of Hahnemann's net. That has been the story of Everton's start.
SURPRISE NEW BIDDERS FOR N'ZOGBIA
Fiorentina enter race for French winger
August 22 2010 News of the World
FIORENTINA are preparing a £9million bid for Charles N'Zogbia and hope to snap him up from under the noses of Sunderland, Birmingham and Everton.
The Serie A club are ready to offer the 24-year-old France international a four-year contract. N'Zogbia scored five goals in 36 games for Wigan last season but is desperate to leave the DW Stadium - although the club rejected an £8m offer from Birmingham earlier this summer. The flying winger started the game with Chelsea after missing the season opener amid talk that he had gone on strike.
Everton 1 Wolves 1: S*d fair play, fumes Mick McCarthy
Aug 22 2010 by Alan Nixon, The People
Mick McCarthy left no-one in doubt about his spirit and determination with a show of touchline fury that inspired his men to a snatch a point.
McCarthy performed a war dance of fury when one of his players kicked the ball out as TWO Everton men – Steven Pienaar and Tim Cahill – lay on the turf needing treatment. The Wolves chief was livid and yelled at his team that there was a game to win. That message clearly got across as sub Adlene Guedioura smashed into John Heitinga minutes later to set up the shock leveller. Heitinga lay on the ground in agony as Guedioura ran away and played a lovely ball to Kevin Doyle, who crossed for Sylvan Ebanks-Blake to finish. David Moyes and Heitinga howled in anger that ref Lee Mason had waved the game on, but it was one of the whistler’s better decisions.
McCarthy said: “Too right I was angry. I wanted us to play on when their men were down. Guedioura had been kicked in the nuts in front of me a few minutes before and they played on. “So why don’t we do it? I am not into that Fair Play unless it works both ways. If not, then sod them. “Then Everton were complaining about the tackle by Guedioura for our goal but I thought it was brilliant. He nailed him but he won the ball.” Moyes was philosophical afterwards and said: “I don’t want to get rid of tackling from the game. I think it is important. “The boy has jumped in and was on top of the ball when he got it. “I would have liked us to come out with the ball but it went to them. Some refs would give a free-kick and some wouldn’t. “But Heitinga should never have been in a situation where he was having to make a tackle. “We had possession and should have been going for a second goal, but we played a couple of under-hit first-time passes that led to it.” Wolves did not take any prisoners and matched Everton physically as well as goals. The game was often ugly but Everton let Wolves come storming back after failing to punish the visitors when they were on top. For all the Everton pressure, it was midfield sitter Heitinga who had their first shot, forcing Marcus Hahnemann into a flying save from his thumping 20-yarder.
Wolves frustrated the home fans with their tactics, with George Elokobi eventually earning a booking for a kick at Arteta although the 35th-minute card was a bit late from charitable ref Mason. The official made a shocking mistake when he watched Stephen Ward trip Arteta in the box, took his time and then gave a free-kick outside the box when it was a certain penalty. It just got worse for Mason when Everton controversially forced their way in front from the Arteta set-piece. Jody Craddock had his heels clipped by Cahill as he went to clear. Aggrieved Cahill smashed the loose ball into the roof of the net as Mason gave the goal and the aggrieved Wolves players ran after him and his assistant. The nature of the goal kept the game spiky, with too many fouls littering the action. Mason was having a hard day. Wolves raised their game as they chased an equaliser. There is plenty of honesty in their ranks but they are going to need it in the months ahead to make up for some deficiencies.
Everton could not complain. They dipped badly in the second half and all the talk about them being title contenders seemed ludicrous as they staggered and stuttered the longer the match went on. One point and one goal from two games tells another story entirely. Wolves could have sneaked a late winner too with tricky Matthew Jarvis denied and Ebanks-Blake smashing a shot into Phil Jagielka’s body.
McCarthy said: “We could have won it at the end, but I admit they deserved to be out of sight in the first half. We were hopeless and that was my responsibility.
“I was trying to stop them and fiddled around with the team, none of which worked. I had a jib at the ref about their goal but I have seen it since and am not so convinced – I have apologised to him.”
Mikel Arteta tells Fabio Capello to pick him for England
Aug 22 2010 By David Gladwin, The People
Mikel Arteta has told Fabio Capello he is ready to play for England. Everton’s Spanish star, 28, made the shock announcement after Capello watched him play in yesterday’s 1-1 draw against Wolves at Goodsion. Arteta said: “If one day the opportunity comes obviously I would have to consider it very seriously.
“I don’t know what Capello’s thoughts are. “I know some people have been talking about it, but I haven’t said anything yet because the offer is not there at the moment.”
Arteta qualifies to play for the Three Lions through residency, having lived in England since moving to the Toffees from Real Sociedad in 2005. And despite being one of the Premier League’s most consistent performers, he has amazingly never been capped by his country of birth. Capello was in the stands yesterday and had the opportunity to run the rule over the talented playmaker. The under-fire Italian next weekend announces his England squad to kick off their European Championship qualifying campaign and Arteta insists he would be interested in being part of it.
Arteta’s inclusion would provide a boost to England fans still seething at their side’s dismal World Cup showing in South Africa but would be a controversial move given his Spanish background. Last year, Arsenal goalkeeper Manuel Almunia also expressed an interest in playing for England – despite being born and raised in Spain.
EVERTON'S TIM CAHILL RESCUES THE REF
Everton's Tim Cahill (left) battles for the ball with Wolves's Adiene Guedioura
Sunday Express, Sunday August 22,2010
By Richard Jolly, at Goodison Park
Everton 1, Wolves 1
TWO months ago at the World Cup, he broke down in tears because of a referee – deeming the official’s decision the saddest moment of his career. And on his second appearance for Everton, he was sent off for celebrating a goal. Tim Cahill and the men in black aren’t exactly natural friends. So of all the players to come to the rescue of a blundering referee, the Everton midfielder wasn’t the obvious candidate. But that’s just what he did. When Lee Mason wrongly awarded a free-kick when he should have given a penalty, it was Cahill who turned a half-chance into a goal. What had been ref justice on Everton was rendered irrelevant as Cahill exacted his own revenge, ruthlessly and clinically. Not that it was the end of an eventful afternoon for Mason.
When Wolves equalised with their first shot on target, Sylvan Ebanks-Blake slotting in Kevin Doyle’s cross, Everton thought Johnny Heitinga had been fouled by Adlene Guedioura in the build-up. Not the reward Everton deserved for a dominant display.
Not what Cahill merited after coming to the official’s assistance so dramatically.
Because this is a player whose summer was marred by the men in the middle. His World Cup was barely half an hour old when Cahill was shown a red card for Australia against Germany. He recovered to score against Serbia when his suspension ended. But that is Cahill in a nutshell, a man who can trouble opponents and officials alike. Instead, Mason had grounds to be grateful to the irrepressible Australian. Three minutes before half-time, Mikel Arteta’s trickery drew two defenders towards him. One of them, Stephen Ward, tripped him. It was clearly inside the box. To widespread bemusement, Mason awarded a free-kick. Everton had a right to be aggrieved. Instead, they made amends. Arteta’s effort rebounded off the wall but Cahill was the winner of a bout of penalty-area pinball, taking the ball under control and powering a shot past Marcus Hahnemann. It strengthened the case for video technology. But while Mason’s eyesight may be faulty, Cahill’s footwork was faultless. It was just as well. Mason was rapidly becoming the most unpopular man at Goodison Park. He rejected three penalty appeals in 35 minutes. First, when David Jones challenged Diniyar Bilyaletdinov as the Russian was about to shoot; then, when George Elokobi seemed to shove Cahill in the back; and finally, when Arteta was fouled and Everton made the breakthrough. Before then, Leighton Baines, Bilyaletdinov and Steven Pienaar had all shot over the bar and Heitinga was denied by Hahnemann, who tipped a rising effort away. It was the Dutchman’s first game since he was sent off in the World Cup final. He, at least, may have been pleased to see Mason rather than Howard Webb. He didn’t finish this game either, but only because he was replaced by Marouane Fellaini in the search for a winner. Inevitably Cahill came closest, Hahnemann denying him. So for Everton, beaten at Blackburn last week, there is a danger of repeating last year’s slow start to the season. Manager David Moyes had rung the changes, bringing in Heitinga, Bilyaletdinov, Tony Hibbert and, for a full debut, Jermaine Beckford. The former Leeds and Wealdstone man had the chance to cap it with a goal but Ward denied him with a well-judged sliding tackle when Beckford should have passed. Apart from one Matt Jarvis effort that went wide, Tim Howard was a spectator in the first half. Indeed, he had little more to do after the interval. Jody Craddock met a Jarvis corner but touched his shot into the side-netting. But then Wolves broke at pace. With Heitinga on the ground and Everton troubled by the quick counter-attack, Mick McCarthy’s two strikers combined. Doyle and Ebanks-Blake had done little until then, but they denied Everton victory.
Everton 1-1 Wolves: Sunday Mirror match report
Published By Derick Allsop
Sunday Mirror Aug 22 2010
Top four contenders? Not on the evidence of Everton’s stuttering campaign so far.
All the pre-season propaganda suggested they now had the squad, fit and capable of challenging the established Premier League order. Their form in the second half of last term fed that optimism, but an inability to close out this match indicated blatant flaws.
They had the initiative and momentum against a cautious Wolves, yet could not capitalise on Tim Cahill’s controversial goal and instead yielded an equaliser in a similarly contentious incident. Cahill was accused of muscling his way to the breakthrough goal, while Everton looked in vain for a free-kick, as Adlene Guedioura triggered the move that led to an equaliser from Sylvan Ebanks-Blake.
But Everton boss David Moyes had no complaint about the tackle that led to Wolves’ goal, directing his criticism at his own players. “We should have won the ball and attacked their goal,” said Moyes. “Rugged play is part of football.
“I did expect to have more points from the first two games, but that’s football. You have to take your chances.” Wolves, by contrast, are totally satisfied with their four points so far and might even have won this match as Everton’s nerves became frayed.
Manager Mick McCarthy admitted: “We were hopeless in the first half, abject, and that was my fault, trying to stop them playing, none of which worked.
“I thought it was a foul for their goal, but now I’m not convinced and I’ve just apologised to Lee Mason for having a go at him. And I don’t think our goal came from a foul – it was a good tackle.” Wolves started nervously and needlessly conceded a succession of early free-kicks. The deliveries of Arteta – captaining the team in place of the injured Philip Neville – forced a chance for Diniyar Bilyaletdinov, who carelessly lofted over the bar. It took a 25-yard blast from midfield anchor John Heitinga to give Wolves goalkeeper Marcus Hahnemann his first test – and the American reacted splendidly. Cahill cleverly set up Steven Pienaar, who shot just over, and then had an effort of his own blocked by the over-worked Wolves defence.
Everton’s persistence eventually had its reward in the 43rd minute, even if it was by dubious means. Referee Mason deliberated as Arteta tumbled under a challenge from Stephen Ward. He finally awarded a free-kick just outside the area, although the offence was clearly committed a couple of feet inside. Everton’s dismay turned to delight after Arteta’s strike came off the wall to Cahill, who spun and lifted it high into Hahnemann’s goal. Now Wolves were the team fuming, claiming Cahill had unfairly hustled their defence to win the ball and score. Wolves, content to contain and counter up to that point, were suddenly challenged to change their strategy.
McCarthy’s side duly tried to engage Everton in a genuine contest, yet could have found themselves further behind in the 61st minute. Again Cahill played a vital role, winning the ball in the air and nodding down for Bilyaletdinov, who somehow miscued with the goal his mercy. Jermaine Beckford, anxious to prove himself at this level, selfishly went for glory and wasted a breakaway opportunity. Those misses became all the more costly when Wolves created their first authentic chance of the match. Everton were left protesting that sub Guedioura fouled Heitinga to win the ball in midfield. The referee waved play on and Kevin Doyle squared from the right to give Ebanks-Blake a tap-in for the equaliser. Both teams had opportunities to win the game after that, as Louis Saha headed over and Matt Jarvis almost teed up Ebanks-Blake.
Everton FC 1, Wolves 1: Ian Doyle sees pressure build on the Blues after another slow start to the season
Aug 23 2010 Ian Doyle
MAKING a flying visit to Liverpool last week to promote her forthcoming pantomime stint at the Empire, Pamela Anderson was asked where her football allegiance will lie during her time in the city. “I have a hat from one team and a scarf from the other, but I am not a Red or a Blue, not yet,” responded television's most famed slow-motion subject. “We will just have to see who is cuter!” And on the early evidence thus far, this season is looking pretty unattractive for David Moyes and his Everton players.
Defeat at Blackburn Rovers on the opening day did much to dampen the enthusiasm among supporters that had been engendered by the impressive second half to the previous campaign and an encouraging pre-season. But it was Saturday's disappointing draw with Wolverhampton Wanderers that prompted sections of the frustrated home crowd to break out in jeers at the final whistle. Not the way to begin a new Goodison campaign. And most certainly not the way to disprove the widespread belief that Everton are notoriously slow out of the blocks. There have, of course, been mitigating circumstances in the past, most notably 12 months ago when the problem of a litany of serious injuries was further complicated by the hangover from the Joleon Lescott saga. There can be no such excuses this time, though. And while this was better than last week's Ewood Park disappointment, it still was far from good enough.
Having played just two games, there is still plenty of opportunity to regain the momentum even if the fixture list, with Aston Villa away and Manchester United at home next up, suggests matters will not become easier any time soon. Indeed, the main headache for Moyes at the moment is how to best maximise his resources given the rare luxury of a full squad from which to choose. Decisions, decisions. Louis Saha, so ineffective at Blackburn, was dropped to the bench allowing Jermaine Beckford a full debut for his new club since arriving on a free transfer from Leeds United in the summer. Moyes admits Everton's financial restraints prompted him to take a chance on Beckford, who until his substitute appearance last week had never played in the Premier League and made just a solitary start at Championship level while at Elland Road. Beckford, then, is making quite a leap, and Moyes acknowledges it will be some time before any realistic assessments can start to be made. And first impressions indicate the striker remains an understandably raw talent, relishing the blood and thunder physical battle with the Wolves defence but on occasion betrayed by naivety, most notably in the second half when Beckford led a swift counter-attack but went for glory rather than send the unmarked John Heitinga racing clear and was ultimately tackled by Christophe Berra. Moyes will hope Beckford learns, and learns quickly. Saha can no longer carry the strike threat on his own, and with Yakubu not ready, Victor Anichebe injured and James Vaughan out of the picture, the new boy may find plenty more first-team opportunities coming his way in the near future. England coach Fabio Capello, watching from the directors' box, will have noted solid performances from Phil Jagielka and Leighton Baines, although Jack Rodwell surprisingly remained shuffling his feet on the substitutes' bench.The frustration among the Goodison faithful at their team's performance on Saturday had already been growing due to the frankly woeful officiating of referee Lee Mason. To be fair, Mason was equally poor towards both sides but Everton could argue they were on the wrong end of decisions for both goals, particularly their own two minutes before the break. Mikel Arteta was clearly hacked down just inside the Wolves box, only for the referee, standing mere yards away, to wave play on until the prone Spaniard forced the issue by placing his hand on the ball. No penalty, said Mason, who instead bizarrely awarded a free-kick on the edge of the area. Justice was eventually done, however, when Arteta's fierce shot pierced the Wolves wall and struck Jody Craddock, allowing the loitering Tim Cahill – pressed into effectively a striking role alongside Beckford – to snaffle a trademark goal by firing into the roof of the net beyond visiting goalkeeper Marcus Hahnemann. Everton deserved the lead, and only poor finishing meant it hadn't come sooner. Moyes, having berated his team's creativity at Blackburn the previous week, was instead on Saturday left bemoaning their profligacy. Diniyar Bilyaletdinov set the tone early on when wastefully ballooning over from 12 yards after Arteta's set-piece delivery was only half-cleared by the Wolves defence. Leighton Baines curled a free-kick off target, Heitinga solicited a decent save from Hahnemann with a 20-yard drive, but Pienaar – once again way below the high standards he has set himself during the last two years – should have done much better when blazing over Cahill's lay-off. Wolves had shown zero ambition in the first half but, scalded by Mick McCarthy's half-time rebuke, were significantly more competitive after the break. despite rarely called Tim Howard into any meaningful action. But, with chances going astray at the other end, Everton were always open to the sucker-punch. And so it proved on 74 minutes when Wolves, aided by another Mason gaffe, drew level. As Everton pressed forward, the referee deemed Adiene Guedioura's studs-up challenge on Heitinga to be fair, and the Wolves substitute initiated a counter-attack that ended with Kevin Doyle crossing low from the right for the unmarked Sylvan Ebanks-Blake to sidefoot home at the far post.
And that was that. As with last season, Wolves left Goodison with a deserved point having given Moyes plenty of food for thought. The same old story, then. But with Ms Anderson not due on Merseyside until December, Everton have time to get their make-up right.
Everton FC boss David Moyes admits he is still searching for the right blend as pressure begins to build
Aug 23 2010 Liverpool Daily Post
DAVID MOYES admits he is “still finding the right blend” after Everton's slow start to the season continued at the weekend. The Goodison outfit are still seeking their first win after they opened their home campaign with a 1-1 draw against Wolverhampton Wanderers. Tim Cahill gave Everton the lead two minutes before the break only for Sylvan Ebanks-Blake to earn the visitors a point 16 minutes from time.
Although an improvement on the opening-day defeat at Blackburn Rovers, Moyes's men missed a host of chances to secure victory long before Wolves equalised.
And the manager accepts his team have no reason not to do better. “There are no excuses this season, although I hope we didn't make any last season,” said Moyes. “There are no arguments this season as we have a really good squad to pick from.
“At the moment we are just slightly under-performing from what we were. We don't want to be catching up all the time, no. “We're still finding the right blend. We're a little bit short in the wide areas, but we know that.“We changed from last week to see if we could be more creative and in the main we were. There were bits which were okay and other bits which weren't. “I actually felt our start to the season was quite a tough one. I think our first nine or 10 games are quite difficult.” Moyes was unhappy at a possible foul by Wolves substitute Adiene Guedioura on John Heitinga in the build up to the visitors' goal, but instead pointed the finger at his own side's profligacy for the failure to register all three points. “Some weeks referees give that kind of thing and some weeks they don't,” said Moyes. “I think when all the referees look at that together, the majority of them will say that was a free kick. "But maybe they won't. At the end of the day we didn't get it and I am certainly not whinging or moaning over a tackle in the middle of the park. "The frustration is that we didn't go on and continue our dominance in the second half, which we had enjoyed in the first. "We always give Wolves an opening, a chance that they can get back in. "I have said that maybe we are a bit short at the top end of the pitch but we are quite aware of that.” Moyes added: “I thought in the second half we made a really poor mistake. I know Wolves had picked up, but in the main we were coping with most of it. It always looked more likely that we would go on and get a second so that changed the mood of the whole place when the mistake led to a goal. “Bad decision, concentration, all those things work into it. People don't go out to make wrong decisions, they go out to get things right.
“In the main we weren't at our best in the second half, but we were in control. It was just that we didn't do enough to cause enough problems at the other end.”
Wolves are now unbeaten in their last four games against Everton and the draw built on their opening-day win over Stoke City. But manager Mick McCarthy is keeping his feet firmly on the ground, with staying in the Premier League his primary aim.
“I would take what we had last year,” he said. “That led to some derision from a few numpties who tried to get Wolves fans to write and ring in and all the Wolves fans said 'Mick's dead right!' “Because, without that reality, we are trying to do the stadium up and we can only do that by staying in the league. I am not being negative when I say that. “I would love to finish 10th but I am a realist. So, absolutely 100%, the aim is to retain Premier League status – but maybe with seven games to go this time, rather than two or three. “But I know that from speaking to everyone at the club that if we just finish in the Premier League, they will all be delighted. We will then be able to plan for another season and keep progressing.”
Mikel Arteta eyes England call as he demands better from Everton FC
Aug 23 2010 Liverpool Daily Post
MIKEL ARTETA admits Everton are putting pressure on themselves with their slow start to the season – as he revealed he would consider being selected by England.
Hopes of bouncing back from the opening Premier League defeat at Blackburn Rovers were dented when David Moyes’s side were held to a 1-1 draw at home by Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday. Tim Cahill gave Everton the lead two minutes before the break, but the Goodison outfit were made to pay for a host of missed opportunities when Sylvan Ebanks-Blake netted an equaliser on 74 minutes.
After Wednesday’s Carling Cup tie against Huddersfield Town, Everton’s next two top-flight games see them travel to Aston Villa on Sunday before returning from the international break with a home clash against Manchester United. And Arteta accepts Moyes’s men cannot afford to already start falling behind the leading clubs and need a first victory of the campaign as soon as possible. “We need to analyse things, but we don’t need to panic because we could have won comfortably against Wolves,” said the midfielder. “It is a disappointing result. I thought we had done enough to win the game. “It puts a lot of pressure on yourself if you are always playing catch-up, we are playing Villa away from home now and the Carling Cup in midweek, so we just need to get that win and those first three points. “We know that a lot of teams will come here and sit and defend and make it difficult for us but that is the challenge.
“We should have controlled the game better in the second half and taken the chances to add to the first goal. No-one is happy. “The most important thing was to get three points today and start building the confidence up, but we haven’t done that. The pressure grows when other teams are winning and that is why we need to start as soon as possible.” Arteta’s international future has become an issue of debate as England coach Fabio Capello seeks to rebuild his squad following the World Cup debacle in South Africa. The 28-year-old has earned British citizenship having been resident in England since joining Everton from Real Sociedad in 2005, and is free to play for his adopted country having not yet earned a call-up to the full Spain squad.
Capello, in attendance at Goodison on Saturday, has previously ignored a similar case to include Arsenal’s Manuel Almunia on the grounds the goalkeeper is Spanish.
Nevertheless, Arteta has admitted he would consider switching allegiance to England, and said: “There were some words saying I wouldn’t do that which I never said. I just want to make it clear. “That chance is not there yet. But if, one day, they come to me and say, ‘listen would you do that?’ I would consider that. “I have a lot of respect for everyone in this country and for everything they have done for me. At the moment it is not there, but if one day that chance comes I will have a look at it and see.” Arteta was heavily involved in Everton’s opener on Saturday. He appeared to be fouled inside the area only for referee Lee Mason to give a free-kick on the edge of the box from which Arteta’s shot was deflected into the path of Cahill to score. And the Spaniard said: “It was a penalty. It was very clear. It doesn’t really matter about all those things, we played much better than we did last week and we can take a lot of positives from the first half. But in the end we wanted a clean sheet and three points.”
Everton FC boss David Moyes refuses to blame referee Lee Mason after Wolves draw
Aug 23 2010 by Chris Beesley, Liverpool Echo
EVERTON manager David Moyes believed that Adlene Guedioura’s tackle on John Heitinga that led to Wolves’ equaliser would have been penalised by most officials – but refused to blame referee Lee Mason for the Blues dropping two points in their first home game of the Premier League season. The Algerian substitute’s feet were off the floor when he caught Heitinga with a wild lunge in the centre of the pitch but as the Dutchman laid flat out on the Goodison Park turf, Mason waved play on and Wolves broke free to net through Sylvan Ebanks-Blake and earn a share of the spoils.
Moyes said: “Some days the referees will give it and some days they won’t.
“When the referees all look at that together I would probably think the majority would say it’s a free-kick. Maybe they wouldn’t? At the end of the day we didn’t get it and I’m certainly not whinging over a tackle in the middle of the park.
“The frustration is that we didn’t go on and capitalise on our dominance in the first half and continue it. We gave Wolves an opening and there was always a chance they could go and do it. “There were a lot of similarities to the games in which we’ve played them before.” Moyes was more concerned with his own substitute Louis Saha giving away possession cheaply in the build-up to the move which led to Heitinga having to contest the loose ball with Guedioura. He said: “In the second half we made a really poor mistake. Yes, Wolves had picked up a little bit but in the main we were coping with most of it and it looked likely that we would go on and get a second goal somewhere in it. “When the mistake led to the goal it changed the whole mood on the field. “It was a bad decision and a lack of concentration. But people don’t go out to make wrong decisions, they go out there to try and get it right. “We didn’t do enough to cause problems at the other end.” Despite bossing play for long periods, Everton failed to capitalise on their dominance and Moyes admits that his side’s lack of a cutting edge is a concern. He said: “We may be a bit short at the top end of the pitch – that’s something we’ve said. We’re quite aware of that. “I wanted to play Tim more as a striker so it was a bit more 4-4-2, to play him even higher than he normally would for us and I thought it worked well in the first half. “We’re still finding the right blend. We’re a little bit short in the wide areas in what we want – we know that.
“We changed from last week and we tried to be more creative and in the main we were. There were a lot of balls in and around the box so there were bits of our play that were okay and others that weren’t.” After a successful pre-season on and off the pitch, with Moyes retaining his key players, hopes were high that this could be a successful season for the Blues but given the poor start his injury-ravaged side made last season, the Scot is wary that his team don’t fall too far behind their rivals after picking up just one point from their first two Premier League matches this term.
He said: “I hope we never made excuses last year. We’ve got a really good squad to pick from and at the moment we’re just slightly under-performing from what we want.
“We don’t want to be playing catch-up. We always knew that our start to the season was quite a tough one.”
Christopher Beesley: Everton FC’s slow start is tough one to tackle
Aug 23 2010 by Chris Beesley, Liverpool Echo
YOU remember tackling don’t you? It’s something that has fallen out of fashion in the game since the 1970s. Tackling is a bit like playboy footballers who enjoy a smoke, it’s not very PC to condone it in the year 2010 – especially when the tackle in question is a lunge with the player’s feet off the floor. Michel Platini would probably ban it if he ever got the chance but both David Moyes and Mick McCarthy are cut from quite a different cloth to the UEFA president. Wolves boss McCarthy never shirked a challenge in his playing days while as a lower division centre-half for most of his own career, Moyes knows all about the more physical aspects of the game.
Most observers at Goodison Park on Saturday felt that the flying lunge that Adlene Guedioura inflicted on John Heitinga in the build-up to Wolves’ equaliser was a foul but crucially there were no complaints from either manager or the referee.
Moyes was more concerned with his side’s inability to make their earlier dominance count and Louis Saha losing possession cheaply, ensuring that Heitinga was forced to go into the challenge in the first place. McCarthy admitted that Guedioura had ‘nailed’ Heitinga but still said he thought it was an excellent tackle. Match official Lee Mason...well he had already given a free-kick instead of a penalty when stood at point blank range as Christophe Berra brought down Mikel Arteta inside the area so who knows what he might have been thinking? Moyes was right though. It shouldn’t have come down to this. The game should not have been riding on a single 50-50 in the centre of the field. By the time Wolves did grab their unlikely equaliser, Everton should have been out of sight and riding off into the sunset. Lying prostrate on the Goodison turf as the visitors cantered upfield to equalise, the move proved a low point in Heitinga’s return to the starting line-up following his World Cup exploits with the Netherlands in South Africa. It could have been all so different for Heitinga though and if fate had been kinder, he could well have been the Blues’ hero.
Before the game, he commented in the match programme: “It’s been a long time since I (previously) went an entire season without scoring and I can’t wait to score my first goal for Everton.” In the first half, a 25-yard scorcher by Heitinga was spectacularly tipped over the bar by Wolves keeper Marcus Hahnemann while soon after the break he was stood unmarked in a central position in front of goal only for Jermaine Beckford to keep the blinkers of a striker on and fail to pass to him in a better goalscoring position. A lack of a cutting edge in the final third has cost the Blues dearly in their two Premier League matches to date and on his own first start of the campaign, Beckford showed that he still has a big step up to make if he is to transfer his prolific marksmanship at League One level into the top flight. The ex-Leeds frontman looked razor sharp at times in pre-season, showing a varied portfolio of finishing techniques with his goals coming via a cool one-on-one, a thunderous volley and a classic centre-forward’s header. However, on this occasion he often seemed to lose his footing at the crucial moment and while you might get away with sticking in one chance in five in the third tier, you’ve got to be much more clinical when playing against the big boys. Everton too must learn as a unit to start dispatching stubborn but limited opponents such as Wolves who have now held Moyes’ men to a draw three times in the past 10 months, including twice at Goodison. Yes, the best two sides in the land, Chelsea and Manchester United, were both felled at ‘The Grand Old Lady’ last season but the likes of Stoke, Birmingham and West Ham all escaped with a point. If the Blues are to improve on their eighth place finish in 2009/10 then these kind of encounters are going to have to be put to bed early because they almost sleepwalked to defeat in a game that had earlier looked like a routine three points.
Everton FC 1, Wolves 1: Greg O'Keeffe sees the Blues suffer from becoming a Premier League scalp
Aug 23 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
ISAAC NEWTON wasn’t talking about football when he said every action has an opposite and equal reaction, but his famous truism is haunting Everton’s early season efforts. Because those fine victories over Manchester United, Chelsea and Manchester City last term are causing a reaction this time around which the Toffees are struggling to cope with. Make no mistake, the rest of the Premier League sat up and took notice of those victories, and they look set to set their stall out against Everton accordingly.
First Blackburn and now Wolves have taken points from David Moyes’ side, with performances which have focused on knocking Everton out of their stride and beating them in terms of aggression and perspiration. This, coupled with a worrying habit of not converting their chances, explains why pre-season optimism is in danger of slumping faster than sales of that orange paint in Blackpool. But first the good news – part of the problem is fixable. No Evertonian wants their side to stop trying to play football, but more often than not those scintillating displays last season mean they are going to come up against teams with 10 men behind the ball. When the Blues adapt to this, and find ways to play through it, the points will follow. The first half against Wolves was already an improvement on the subdued showing at Ewood Park. Everton were bright, purposeful and created plenty of chances. In truth, they should have gone into the break with more than a one-goal cushion and that’s something which will continue to worry Moyes. With Louis Saha out of sorts against Blackburn, the Bues boss handed Jermaine Beckford his Goodison league debut, and, while the former Leeds man ran tirelessly and got himself into good positions, he will take time to adapt to the top flight. His composure in the area was lacking at times, but Beckford is entitled to plenty of patience.Everton were controlling possession throughout the first half, winning free-kicks in dangerous areas and attempting to unlock the Wolves defence. For their part, Mick McCarthy’s side were combative, with Christophe Berra getting stuck into Beckford and trying to rough up home side. Then after some smart possession from the Blues Cahill teed up returning John Heitinga who unleashed a howitzer from 20 yards which Hahnemann did well to save. It began to seem like their efforts, before watching England boss Fabio Capello, were going to be in vain until a contentious breakthrough minutes before the interval. Referee Lee Mason denied the Blues a penalty when Stephen Ward tripped Mikel Arteta in the area, but the official inexplicably awarded a free-kick on the edge of the box. But the Blues capitalised regardless. Arteta’s blast was blocked but as Jody Craddock tried to clear, Cahill nipped in and blasted home from close range. Mason continued to endear himself to neither set of fans in the second period, allowing too much of Wolves’ rough-house tactics to go unpunished while the away side were fuelled by a sense of injustice over a perceived foul by Cahill before his goal. Bilyaletdinov, who was full of energy, wasted a glorious chance from a Cahill knock down in the area but slowly the Midlands outfit began to out-fight Everton, and they struck through a combination of misdemeanour and desire. Saha, on for Beckford, sloppily lost possession, and Adlene Guedioura was first to the ball via a reckless tackle on Heitinga which could have broken the Dutchman’s foot. The Wolves sub carried on and fed Kevin Doyle who fired a cross into area for Sylvan Ebanks-Blake to stroke home. Moyes was entitled to a sense of injustice at the equaliser, but even more entitled to expect his team to respond effectively. Instead they mustered only a few half-chances, most notably a Saha header that just dropped over the crossbar. Wolves might have sneaked it when Matthew Jarvis was denied, and the tricky midfielder gave the home crowd another scare steering a shot wide in injury time. In the end there was further deflation to the pre-season optimism; put into context by how enthusiastically the away fans celebrated their point. Everton’s progress last season has not just made an impression on Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger. Teams will take on the Blues determined to stop their dynamic football finding its rhythm and many will approach fixtures here like they would trips to Old Trafford or the Emirates. Everton need to accept this, fast, and then find a winning combination up front before too many points have slipped away for their lofty ambitions to be met.
What they said..
“You could have seen victory going only one way in the first half but the Premier League can do that to you.” DAVID MOYES ruminates on the second half slump which saw three points slip through his grasp.. “In the second half we stopped them playing. In the end it was a well earned point in the second half.” MICK McCARTHY reflects on a game-plan the blues are going to have to get used to from opponents this season.
EVERTON: Howard, Hibbert, Jagielka, Distin, Baines, Heitinga (Fellaini, 82), Areteta, Cahill, Bilyaletdinov (82, Osman), Pienaar, Beckford (Saha, 71). Subs: Mucha, Saha, Gueye, Coleman, Rodwell..
WOLVES: Hahnemann, Elokobi (Guedioura, 53), Craddock, Henry (capt), Ebanks-Blake (Stearman, 90+), Ward, Jones (Halford), Berra, Jarvis, Doyle, Foley. Subs: Hennessey, Keogh, Milijas, Zubar, Guedioura.
GOALS: Cahill 43; Ebvanks-Blake 81.
CARDS: Booked – Heitinga (fEveton). Elokobi and Halford (Wolves).
REFEREE: Lee Mason.
ATTENDANCE: 37,767.
Everton FC must click into gear and fast - Leon Osman
Aug 23 2010 Greg O'Keeffe
LEON Osman today admitted Everton need to click into gear fast if they want to succeed in a tougher-than ever Premier League. The midfielder revealed that there was a widespread disappointment in the dressing room after the Blues failed to take all three points against Wolves at Goodison on Saturday. But he insisted the Toffees must learn to relax if they are to return to their impressive form of last season.
He said: “Everyone is desperate for that first win. The fans, ourselves, everyone. We’re all so desperate for that, but we need to relax and let it come. We’re a good team and it will come. “You’d have to say this will be one of the most competitive seasons ever. Teams like Blackburn and Wolves, most teams in the league, are going to scrap their way towards points. “We’ve always said there are no easy games in the prem but this season it’s truer than ever. It’ll be tough. Teams will fight and are capable of getting points.” Osman rued the blues inability to build on a promising first half display against Mick McCarthy’s men. He said: “I think we started well, the way we wanted to play and the tempo was spot on and going well.“There were some dubious decisions but it’s disappointing for us to have had so much control in the first half and come away without all three points. “It’s very disappointing. We’ve only got one point from six but the season is 38 games long. There are 36 left and we need to get up and running as quickly as we can, and once we hit our stride we’ll be a force to be reckoned with. We need to work harder in training until we get going.” Meanwhile, West Ham United have reportedly cooled their interest in signing Yakubu Ayegbeni. The Hammers have been tracking the African all summer, but value him at far less than Everton would want before considering a move. West Ham are reluctant to increase their bid, though, and could now turn their attention elsewhere. Co-owner David Sullivan believes the Londoners will now look at signing a younger player, than the 27-year-old striker. He said: "We have cooled on Yakubu. When you have a good, hard look at him, we want younger and quicker and better." Finally, Mikel Arteta has suggested he would consider playing for England one day. The Spaniard is yet to be capped by his national team, and now qualifies to play for England having gained British citizenship during his five years at Everton. He said: “If one day the opportunity comes obviously I would have to consider it very seriously.”
Pre-match preview: Everton v Huddersfield Town, Carling Cup
Aug 23 2010 By Sean Bradbury
Everton's last five games
August 21- Premier League: Everton 1 Wolverhampton 1
August 14 - Premier League: Blackburn Rovers 1 Everton 0
August 8 - Friendly: Sligo Rovers 2 Everton 0
August 7 - Friendly: Vfl Wolfsburg 2 Everton 0
August 4 - Friendly: Everton 2 Everton de Vi¡a del Mar 0
Huddersfield's last five games
August 21 - League One: Peterborough 4 Huddersfield 2
August 14 - League One: Huddersfield 0 Tranmere 0
August 10 - Carling Cup: Carlisle 0 Huddersfield 1
August 7 - League One: Notts County 0 Huddersfield 3
August 4 - Friendly: Fleetwood Town 1 Huddersfield 0
Past meetings
Sep 23, 1998 - Everton 2 Huddersfield 1
Goals from Olivier Dacourt and Marco Matterazzi gave the Blues a 2-1 win on the night - and a 3-2 win on aggregate - in this League Cup clash.
Feb 6, 1971 - Everton 2 Huddersfield 1
A Joe Royle brace guided Harry Catterick's Everton to victory in a Division One tie.
Apr 7, 1954 - Huddersfield 8 Everton 2
The Blues were on the wrong end of an 8-2 thrashing, with two goals from Dave Hickson their only consolation.
Ones to watch
Everton:
Despite an inauspicious start to their season, the Blues will be hoping new recruit Jermaine Beckford can continue to flourish in cup games as he did for Leeds United and help register his side's first competitive win of the campaign. The striker netted five times in eight domestic cup games for Leeds last season and in 2008/09 his figures were even more impressive: a hat-trick in his solitary FA Cup appearance and four goals in four League Cup matches.
Huddersfield:
Huddersfield have covered all possible outcomes in their first three league games this season, with a win, a draw and a loss leading them to a current position of tenth in League One. Their star man so far has been young forward Jordan Rhodes who has scored two league goals as well as grabbing the late winner at Carlisle which saw his side through to the second round of the Carling Cup.
Team news
Phil Neville (ankle/foot) and Victor Anichebe (knee) remain sidelined for the Blues.
Latest odds from Betfred
Everton 2/5 - Draw 7/2 - Huddersfield 7/1
Match fact
Current Huddersfield captain and last year's player of the season Peter Clarke began his career with Everton, making a handful of first team appearances before moving on in 2004. Another Everton-Huddersfield double agent was midfielder Barry Horne, whose 30-yard belter against Wimbledon in the last game of the 1993/94 season was crucial in helping the Blues avoid relegation:
McCarthy hails Wolves turnaround to grab point at Everton
Aug 23 2010 Birmingham Daily Post
Wolves manager Mick McCarthy praised his side for battling back from a first half he described as "hopeless" and "abject" to snatch a point at Goodison Park.
Sylvan Ebanks-Blake slotted home the equaliser in the 75th minute with the visitors' first shot on target to cancel out Tim Cahill's early strike. The goal maintained Wolves' unbeaten start to the new season and McCarthy insisted: "We got up the pitch and got in their faces and I thought we deserved a point. "We were hopeless in the first half and that is my responsibility because I was trying to stop them playing and fiddling around with the team - none of which worked. "They should have been out of sight at half-time. They could have been 5-0 up but at the end of the second half I'm not too sure I wanted it to end - I fancied us winning. "I was considering making substitutions but I thought they were the best lot who started and they showed that to me. I thought we deserved our equaliser." Such was McCarthy's bright mood he took the unusual step of issuing a public apology to referee Lee Mason for the ear-bashing he gave him after Everton's goal. McCarthy thought Cahill had tripped Jody Craddock in the process of scoring but admitted: "I was having a bit of a go about it because I thought it was a foul. "But I've looked at the replays and I'm not as convinced now. I apologise to the referee Lee Mason because I was having a right whinge about it."
Everton 1-1 Wolves: Daily Mirror match report
By David Anderson
August 23 2010
Heard the one about the England team, an Italian, and a Spaniard who wants to play for them? Fabio Capello has, but no-one is laughing. Mikel Arteta’s admission that he would consider playing for England threatens to turn the Three Lions into a bigger joke than they already are. That’s no dig at Arteta – under FIFA’s farcical rules the Everton star is eligible for British citizenship having been resident in England for over five years. The little Basque’s thinking is understandable and he is ready to turn his back on Spain because he has been consistently frustrated in his attempts to break into their squad. Arteta made a point of denying he had ruled out playing for England when asked about Steven Gerrard’s comment that he would love to play alongside him. “There were some words saying I wouldn’t do it but I never said that,” he stressed. “I just want to make it clear, the chance is not there yet. If one day they came to me and said ‘would you do it?’ then I would consider that. I really appreciated Steven Gerrard saying that. That’s all I can say.” There is no suggestion from the FA that Capello would consider Arteta and calling him up would surely expose England to yet more ridicule after their World Cup debacle. Capello was at Goodison to check up on Phil Jagielka, Leighton Baines and Jack Rodwell but he would have been most impressed with Arteta. Handed the captain’s armband in place of the injured Phil Neville, he had a big hand in Everton’s goal two minutes before half-time.
Referee Lee Mason bottled it when Stephen Ward brought Arteta down in the box and fudged his decision by awarding a free-kick a foot further back on the edge of the area. When Arteta’s free-kick hit the Wolves wall, Tim Cahill pounced on the loose ball to ram it into the roof of the net with the visitors appealing in vain that the Aussie had fouled Jody Craddock. The 1-0 lead was the least Everton deserved for their first-half dominance. Diniyar Bilyaletdinov blazed over, while Baines, Cahill and Steven Pienaar went close and Johnny Heitinga stung Marcus Hahnemann’s hands with a rasping shot. Everton were made to pay for their wastefulness when Wolves equalised with their first effort on target on 74 minutes. Adlene Guedioura robbed Heitinga on the halfway line with Everton claiming a foul and fed Kevin Doyle, who crossed for the unmarked Sylvain Ebanks-Blake to score from six yards out.
David Moyes will not have been happy at the way his side, tipped as Champions League contenders a week or so ago, lost their composure and shape after that.
Everton were booed off and one point from their opening two games is well below expectation levels at Goodison. “If we’d won it would be a different picture,” said Arteta. “It puts a lot of pressure on yourself if you’re always playing catch-up but we don’t need to panic because we could have won comfortably. “The most important thing was to get three points and start building the confidence up, but we haven’t done that. Pressure grows when other teams are winning and that’s why we need to start as soon as possible.” Wolves boss Mick McCarthy refuses to raise his sights higher than survival, despite four points from two games. “I’ve said I would take what we had last year,” said McCarthy. “I’m not being negative when I say that. I would love to finish 10th, but I’m a realist. That attitude has served me well in the past and I’m not going to let anyone change me.”
DAVID MOYES: NO EXCUSE FOR EVERTON'S PERFORMANCE
23rd August 2010 Daily Star
By Kevin Francis
EVERTON 1, WOLVES 1. DAVID MOYES admits there are no excuses he can put forward for Everton’s miserable start to the new campaign. With just one point from six, there were final-whistle boos from a frustrated Goodison Park crowd after this far-from-convincing performance. Unlike last season, where injuries really hampered the Merseysiders in the opening half of the campaign, the Everton medical team are having an easy time. It all left a somewhat baffled Everton boss Moyes saying: “There are no excuses this season. There are no arguments as we have a really good squad to pick from. “At the moment we are just slightly underperforming from what we were. We don’t want to be catching up all the time.” But, unless Moyes can get his team firing on all cylinders as quickly as possible, they look likely to be spending much of their time in the wrong half of the table. And occupying such a position can make everyone jittery – something that captain Mikel Arteta acknowledged.
The Spaniard said: “It puts a lot of pressure on you if you are always playing catch-up. We just need to get a win. “If we had won against Wolves, it would be a different picture. We need to analyse things, but we don’t need to panic because we could have won comfortably.” Arteta figured in one of the game’s two controversial moments – thanks to the sheer incompetence of referee Lee Mason. The Bolton official produced one of the most woeful performances I have seen for many years. He blundered badly two minutes before half-time when Stephen Ward upended Arteta a couple of feet inside the penalty area. Mason was right there and saw the incident but dithered so long that Arteta, lying on the floor, put his hands on the ball. Mason then looked as though he was going to give Wolves a free-kick for that offence but came up with a ludicrous compromise. He gave Everton a free-kick OUTSIDE the area. Thankfully, justice was done when Arteta’s free-kick struck the wall and was not cleared amid suggestions of Jody Craddock having his heels clipped. No foul was given and Tim Cahill crashed a shot into the roof of the net to give Everton the lead. It really was a baffling decision from Mason that left Moyes saying: “The foul was in the box. If he didn’t think it was a penalty for us, why didn’t he give a free-kick the other way when Mikel put his hand on the ball?” Mason’s incompetence was again shown in the build-up to the Wolves equaliser when he badly blundered for the second time. Substitute Adlene Guedioura went in on John Heitinga with his right boot raised, leaving him on the ground in the middle of the pitch, and carried on upfield.
Mason awarded no free-kick and Guedioura fed the ball to Kevin Doyle, whose low cross was fired home by Sylvan Ebanks-Blake. It was another fine mess that Mason had created and it left Everton boss Moyes bemused again. He said: “Some weeks you will see a referee give that kind of thing and some weeks they don’t. “But I think when all the refs look at that together, the majority of them will say that was a free-kick.” The goal leaves Wolves with four points out of six, but manager Mick McCarthy is not getting carried away. He believes that survival in the Premier League is the target, saying: “I would take what we had last year. “I would love to finish 10th, but I am a realist. That attitude has served me well in the past and I am not going to let anyone change me. “It is the way I am and my lads know what I am after. People may not like the word ‘survival’, but that’s what it is. “So, absolutely 100 per cent, the aim is to retain Premier League status – but maybe with seven games to go this time, rather than two or three. “But I know from speaking to everyone at the club that if we just finish in the Premier League, they will all be delighted.”
Everton 1 Wolves 1
By PHIL THOMAS
23 Aug 2010 The Sun
DAVID MOYES has made too many canny substitutions in his Goodison reign to be slaughtered for one that blew up in his face.
Like bringing on Dan Gosling and Jack Rodwell and seeing both find the net in last term's memorable win over Manchester United. Or the time he sent Gosling into the heat of an FA Cup derby replay and watched him bag the winner against Liverpool.
Anyone who reckons Moyes' decision to replace Jermaine Beckford with Louis Saha was the reason things turned against them on Saturday needs a reality check of the highest order. Yes, that was one which backfired, as Saha's lapse of concentration just four minutes after coming on left John Heitinga in no-man's land and gifted Wolves a route back into a game that looked beyond them. But if it was a scapegoat the Toffees fans were after, then it was not Moyes who was sub- standard on Saturday - it was those who had already blown enough chances to win the game three times over.
Moyes knew it, every one of the men in the middle knew it - and so, deep down, did those who went grumbling their way out of Goodison. Quite honestly, Everton had enough possession and sights of goal in the first half alone to have been home and hosed by the break. So when Adlene Guedioura - himself stepping from the bench - left Heitinga in a heap and launched the perfect counter which saw Sylvan Ebanks-Blake sweep in a 74th-minute equaliser, the frustration was obvious. After last week's opening-day calamity at Blackburn, it was the last thing Moyes needed, especially with hopes so high after finally going into a campaign without a crock list longer than the end credits of Ben Hur. The Toffees boss admitted: "We made a really poor mistake. "I know Wolves had picked up but, in the main, we were coping with most of it. "It always looked more likely that we would go on and get a second, so that changed the mood of the whole place. "Bad decision, concentration, all those things work into it. People don't go out to make wrong decisions, they go out to get things right. "The frustration is we didn't go on and continue our dominance in the second half, which we'd enjoyed in the first. In the main we weren't at our best in the second half but we were in control. It was just that we didn't do enough to cause enough problems at the other end. "There are no arguments as we have a really good squad to pick from but we are slightly under- performing and we don't want to be playing catch-up all the time." How on earth Tim Cahill's 43rd-minute strike was all Moyes' men had to show for that totally dominant first half was one of the great footballing mysteries. OK, keeper Marcus Hahnemann had not been forced into too many serious stops but the openings had all been there if Everton had been shrewd enough to take them. Cahill scored after Mikel Arteta's free-kick rebounded off the wall. Wolves complained about a foul on Jody Craddock before Cahill shot - but, in truth, they should not have been in a position to moan as the free-kick should have been a penalty. Everyone could see Stephen Ward's trip on Arteta was inside the box, apart from ref Lee Mason. So justice was done when the free-kick resulted in a goal.
Whether Guedioura's challenge on Heitinga ahead of the equaliser was a foul is open to debate. Yet Moyes was not about to use that as the reason they are still seeking a first win. He added: "Some weeks refs give it, some don't. I am certainly not whingeing over a tackle in the middle of the park."
STAR MAN - TIM CAHILL (EVERTON)
EVERTON: Howard 6, Hibbert 6, Jagielka 7, Distin 7, Baines 6, Heitinga 7 (Fellaini 6), Bilyaletdinov 5 (Osman 6), Arteta 7, Pienaar 6, Cahill 8, Beckford 6 (Saha 5). Subs not used: Mucha, Gueye, Coleman, Rodwell. Booked: Heitinga.
WOLVES: Hahnemann 6, Foley 6, Berra 7, Craddock 7, Elokobi 6 (Guedioura 7), Jarvis 8, Henry 7, Jones 6 (Halford 6), Ward 6, Ebanks-Blake 7 (Stearman 5), Doyle 8. Subs not used: Hennessey, Keogh, Milijas, Zubar. Booked: Elokobi, Halford.
REF: L Mason 4
Hands off my tasty Pie
By PHIL THOMAS
23 Aug 2010 The Sun
DAVID MOYES has warned clubs circling Steven Pienaar: It will take a sackful of cash to get him.
The South African winger has still to sign the £60,000-a-week new deal which has been on the table for NINE months. Spurs would like to get him and are considering a £6million bid, while North London rivals Arsenal have also shown an interest.
Yet despite Pienaar, 28, having just one more season left on his contract, Moyes is keen to keep hold of last term's star man. The Goodison boss said: "This time last year I said I would keep him no matter what - and that's still the case.
"We have not had an offer for him and we are not encouraging one. If anyone did come in, they would need a sackful of cash because I am happy to go with the players we have here this year. "The board certainly are not telling me to sell Pienaar.
"He was our player of the year last season - we don't want him to go and I don't think he does either." Moyes also revealed Everton did try to bring Craig Bellamy to Merseyside, but Manchester City did not want the Wales striker to go to another Premier League club.
Mikel: I could be a Lion Art
23 Aug 2010 The Sun
MIKEL ARTETA has admitted he would "seriously" consider playing for England.
The Spanish playmaker, 28, is a British citizen after five years with Everton.
And Three Lions vice-captain Steven Gerrard claims he would "love" to see Arteta picked. But England boss Fabio Capello has yet to reveal his views and Arteta admitted: "I don't know what his thoughts are. "If one day the opportunity comes, obviously I would have to consider it very seriously. "I know some people have been talking about it. "But I haven't said anything yet because the offer is not there at the moment." Arteta knows he has little chance of selection for his World Cup-winning home country. And his artistry would certainly offer Capello a fresh approach in midfield.
Wolves' Sylvan Ebanks-Blake ensures another false start for Everton
By Andy Hunter
The Guardian Monday August 23 2010
Everton's rich history is now told in a continuous seam of panels around Goodison Park, from their formation in 1878 to the present day. 2011, they hope, will record the first trophy of David Moyes's reign and a season befitting the club's finest squad since the 1987 panel showing Kevin Ratcliffe with the league title. So far it would simply read: 'another false start'. The 'Everton Timeline' - as it is called - is certainly effective, as collisions between fans with their eyes fixed sideways and general astonishment at the inclusion of a picture of Nick Barmby testified on Saturday. The Everton team is not. Early days, of course, yet already Moyes's side are struggling with the weight of expectation and have only themselves to blame for trailing the leading pack once again. Frustration is settling in on the campaign where under-achievement will be less tolerated. "Two games and only one point is not good enough for us," Mikel Arteta admitted. "We need to start winning and getting points because there are big teams ahead of us who are winning." By contrast Wolves are progressing according to plan. Mick McCarthy spent big this summer in the context of Molineux's recent history and in comparison with many Premier League peers. He was without two players acquired to push Wolves further away from trouble this season, Steven Fletcher and Stephen Hunt, but that target looked comfortably attainable without them here.
That McCarthy's team were well-drilled, unyielding and resilient was no surprise to Everton, who dominated first-half possession but lacked the guile or finishing touch to make immediate amends for their opening day defeat at Ewood Park. But they were subdued far too easily by Wolves' desire to take the game to their hosts after the break.
The introduction of the Algeria international midfielder Adlène Guedioura for George Elokobi, the left-back, gave Karl Henry the added bite required to wrest control of midfield. Indeed the visitors rightly sensed victory once Sylvan Ebanks-Blake converted a fine counterattack to equalise with 15 minutes remaining. Only desperate blocks on Matthew Jarvis by Everton's central defenders, Sylvain Distin and Phil Jagielka, prevented their second successive 2-1 win. McCarthy, who blamed himself for Wolves' first-half retreat, said: "We could have been out of sight in the first half but we defended really well in front of Marcus Hahnemann. Marcus didn't have much to do but the back four, the midfield and the front two were all bollocksed with all the work they had to do." Everton's performance petered out towards the inevitable boos on the final whistle. Whether injury-plagued, fully fit, complete with new signings or soldiering on without, they have struggled to hit the ground settled or running under Moyes. With Aston Villa and Manchester United to come in the Premier League, they needed another of their belligerent responses to keep this season's aspirations intact.
The sum total of their dominance in the opening period was a sliced Diniyar Bilyaletdinov shot, a save by Hahnemann from Johnny Heitinga, a close shave from Steven Pienaar and, finally, after the referee Lee Mason somehow failed to award a penalty for a foul by Stephen Ward on Arteta, a scrambled goal from Tim Cahill from the subsequent free-kick. Controversy surrounded both goals, with Wolves appealing for a foul by Cahill on Jody Craddock and Everton likewise when Guedioura caught Heitinga in a 50-50 challenge before Ebanks-Blake levelled. It was instructive that Moyes refused to give the benefit of the doubt to his players, preferring instead to question Heitinga's commitment to the tackle and the lazy loss of possession by Louis Saha that demonstrated why he was demoted to the bench in the first place. The Everton manager said: "We were on the attack but we got involved in overdoing it with one-touch passes. We shouldn't have had to make the tackle but I still would have hoped we'd have come out with the ball." The afternoon was uninformative for Fabio Capello, with Phil Jagielka and Leighton Baines subdued and Jack Rodwell strangely left on the bench throughout. In the absence of outstanding homegrown talent it was left to Arteta to admit that, now he is eligible for British citizenship, England is a possibility. "If one day the opportunity comes obviously I would have to consider it very seriously," said the Spaniard. Not on current form.
Ross Barkley saves Everton FC reserves in season opener at Chelsea
Aug 24 2010 Liverpool Echo
ROSS BARKLEY rescued a point for Everton in their season opener at Chelsea last night. The home side took the lead at Stamford Bridge through Fabio Borini but Barkley struck 10 minutes into the second half. EVERTON: Mucha, Nsiala, Mustafi, Duffy, Bidwell, Silva (Wallace 46), Baxter, Akpan, Gueye (Craig 61), Barkley, Vaughan.
Ian Snodin: It’s been a shaky start to the season but don’t give up on Everton FC yet
Aug 24 2010
IT’S certainly not been the start to the season we all hoped for but there’s no reason for anyone to panic. The 1-1 draw with Wolves was disappointing and one point from two games isn’t great. I thought we would be at least three points better off than we are and we’re playing catch-up already. But I don’t go along with the idea that expectation is weighing heavily on the players’ shoulders. That expectation is there for a reason and that’s because we’ve got a very good squad this season.
With the quality we’ve got I’m sure there are much better performances to come and we’ll soon climb the table. The opening two results haven’t shaken my belief that it’s going to be a good season for Everton. In the first half on Saturday we played some good stuff. We got down the flanks well, played at a decent tempo and it looked like we were going to be comfortable winners. I couldn’t believe we didn’t get a penalty when Mikel Arteta was fouled in the box. But justice was done when Tim Cahill scored from the resulting free-kick. It was the goal our possession and play deserved but in the second half it was a different game. I think we have to give credit to Wolves boss Mick McCarthy and his assistant Terry Connor. They had clearly told their players to get in our faces. They started closing down a lot better and in the end they deserved their equaliser. In fact we were hanging on a bit in the last 10 minutes and were maybe fortunate to get away with a point. Even in the first half we didn’t really create enough. Jermaine Beckford needs balls down the sides of defenders but he didn’t get the right kind of service. Some fans were saying Beckford should have stayed on when Louis Saha came off the bench and we should have switched to 4-4-2. But with the likes of Marouane Fellaini and Cahill getting forward to support I still think 4-5-1 suits us better with the players we’ve got. I’m sure David Moyes will make several changes for tomorrow night’s Carling Cup tie against Huddersfield at Goodison. I wouldn’t be surprised if keeper Jan Mucha gets his debut and I expect to see the likes of Seamus Coleman, Magaye Gueye, Jack Rodwell and Yakubu involved. Yakubu needs games to build up his match fitness and a couple of goals would put him in the reckoning to face Aston Villa on Sunday. I’ve heard good reports from the coaching staff about Gueye and I’m looking forward to seeing the young Frenchman in action. A lot of Premier League clubs undermine the Carling Cup by putting out under strength teams but the competition still matters. As a player you want to play in Wembley finals and win trophies. With the squad he’s got now, David will be able to make changes without really weakening the side and for those who come in it’s a great opportunity to impress. Huddersfield boss Lee Clark has assembled a decent side who play in the right way and they will be no pushovers.
The Terriers have got two ex-Blues in their ranks with Gary Naysmith and Peter Clarke returning to Goodison. I’m sure they will get a great reception. I never got the chance to go back to Goodison as an opposition player after I left Everton and it will be a special night for them.
Huddersfield's Peter Clarke back at Everton on a Carling Cup quest
Aug 24 2010 by David Prentice, Liverpool Echo
PETER CLARKE has warned his old Everton mates he’s not coming back to Goodison on a nostalgia trip. A resolute centre-half Clarke grew up at Everton, playing at every level from schoolboy to first team. Forced to leave Goodison in the pursuit of regular first team football Clarke, now 28, will skipper a Huddersfield side hoping to cause a Carling Cup upset tomorrow night. Also in the Huddersfield team will be Gary Naysmith, who spent seven seasons at Goodison from 2000 to 2007.
But Clarke warned: “Neither of us are going there to reminisce. Everton are in the past for both of us and we’ll go there to show what we’re all about and give them a game.
“It will be my first return to Everton, and the club has a special place in my life because it was where I started out. “The playing roster has changed a fair bit, but a lot of the backroom staff are still in place, and it will be good to catch up. “The fans were good to me as well, and I’m sure Gary will get a great reception, because he gave the club seven years of very good service.” Up to 6,000 supporters are expected to travel with the League One side and Clarke added: “We’ll have a great backing, and they’ll enjoy going. Goodison is a historic ground, and the atmosphere is good for both players and supporters.” Capped by Engl- and at schoolboy, youth, under-20 and under-21 levels Clarke made a memorable Blues debut in January 2001.
Everton travel- led to Coventry at the height of an injury crisis for a crucial relegation battle – with Walter Smith down to 11 fit senior players. That quickly became 10 when Alec Cleland limped off after 31 minutes, but Clarke raced on and helped inspire the Blues to a remarkable 3-1 victory. He had to wait more than 12 months for his full debut and it was a harsh introduction for a youngster, the traumatic FA Cup quarter-final at Middlesbrough which precipitated Walter Smith’s sacking.
Despite occasional appear- ances under David Moyes – his final selection was out of position at right-back in the catastrophic FA Cup exit at Shrewsbury – he couldn’t nail down a regular place. After loan spells at Blackpool, Coventry and Port Vale, he moved to Blackpool permanently. After two years at Bloomfield Road he moved to Southend – where he scored a famous FA Cup equaliser at Chelsea. More than 6,000 Southend fans celebrated along the King’s Road after that shock, and almost as many Huddersfield suporters are expected to make the equally short trip to Goodison Park from Yorkshire tomorrow night. Everton have slashed ticket prices for the game. Adult tickets cost £12, OAPs £9 and juniors £6.
Everton FC up for Carling Cup says Leighton Baines
Aug 24 2010 David Prentice
LEIGHTON BAINES wants a long Carling Cup run to make up for the absence of European football at Everton this season. The Blues have been handed a home draw against League One Huddersfield tomorrow night – a draw which sees Goodison old boys Gary Naysmith and Peter Clarke return to Goodison. And with no Europa League commitments following last season’s eighth place finish – plus a near fully fit squad to select from – David Moyes will have less need for squad rotation than in recent seasons. “There is no Europa League for us this year, so want to be in those cup competitions for as long as we can, obviously with the aim of making the final and winning the competition,” said Baines. “The early rounds are the ones which can sometimes prove to be tricky fixtures and we have come unstuck in some games against lower league opposition in the cup games in the past. “I think the final is around March so it means the Carling Cup competition tends to rattle through quite quickly and if you win a few games before you know it you are in the latter stages and things can start getting pretty exciting very soon. “I remember getting to the final with Wigan and obviously we had a decent run as well so hopefully we can go on a good run and get to another cup final this season. “We want to be in the cup competitions as long as we can and our ultimate aim is to win them. “Hopefully, being at home will serve as an advantage to us and we will be able to progress.” Huddersfield will come to Goodison with former Blues Gary Naysmith and Peter Clarke in their ranks.
“I think a few of our lads are friends with a few of the lads at Huddersfield so we know a few things about some of the individuals there,” Baines added.
“I think they will be tricky opponents, when they come to Goodison it is almost their Cup final already. “We know we have to be on our mettle and match them for enthusiasm and work rate before we earn the right to play our football.
“Hopefully we can do that and play our stuff and come out on top. “They will be excited I’m sure about coming to Goodison and getting a chance to showcase themselves and it is up to us to match all that enthusiasm and come out on top.”
Ross Barkley hits back for Everton FC reserves
Aug 24 2010 by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Daily Post
CHELSEA RESERVES 1 EVERTON RESERVES 1: Ross Barkley rescued a point for Everton in their season opener at Chelsea last night. The home side took the lead at Stamford Bridge through Fabio Borini but Barkley struck 10 minutes into the second half. EVERTON: Mucha, Nsiala, Mustafi, Duffy, Bidwell, Silva (Wallace 46), Baxter, Akpan, Gueye (Craig 61), Barkley, Vaughan.
Academy football: Canaries’ wings are clipped by Everton under-18s striker Hallum Hope
Aug 24 2010 by Chris Wright, Liverpool Daily Post
HALLUM HOPE’S first half strike saw Everton under-18s begin the new FA Premier Academy League season with a 1-0 victory over Norwich City at Finch Farm on Saturday. Neil Dewsnip’s side began the campaign on a winning note and although the coach is looking for improvement he was happy with the team’s efforts at the weekend. Hope headed home after being set up by Anton Forrester. The 16-year-old Manchester-born striker also had a couple more chances to increase Everton’s lead but couldn’t take them. While at the other end goalkeeper Adam Davies saved well when a Norwich forward bared down on goal. In the end Hope’s goal was enough to give Everton all three points and coach Dewsnip said: “With it being the first game the lads were really looking forward to it, the hormones were flowing and it was a high intensity game, although there were not too many real clear-cut chances for either side. “We played well and it is nice to get off to a winning start. The lads worked hard for the win but the quality of football could have been better. I‘m sure that will improve as the season goes on and the lads get more games and get used to playing as a team more.” He added: “It is obviously a newer team this year with some players moving up to the reserves and the schoolboys coming in. But most of them got experience last season and hopefully they can carry on where they left off.”
Midfielder Adam Forshaw was forced off against Norwich with a knee problem midway through the first half. He was only just back after injury and was hoping to get some practice ahead of a return to reserve team action. Unfortunately he will now be out for a couple of weeks at least. Everton, who finished second to Manchester United last season, will look to make it two wins from two matches when they travel to Birmingham City this Saturday (kick-off 11am).
EVERTON UNDER-18s: Davies, Thompson (Cummins 45), Garbutt, Murphy, Hammar, Thomas, Donegan, Forshaw (Dobie 25), McAleny (Orenuga 65) Hope, Forrester. Subs: Roberts, Lundstram.
David Moyes: Everton FC treat the Carling Cup with respect
Aug 24 2010 Liverpool Daily Post
DAVID MOYES admits he will never forget the manner in which Everton were treated in last season’s Carling Cup as he prepares for another tilt at the competition.
The Goodison outfit will seek their first win of the season when they entertain Huddersfield Town in the second round tomorrow. They will hope for better fortune than last year, when fixture congestion of three games in six days contributed to their 2-0 fourth-round defeat at Tottenham Hotspur. Carling Cup organisers scheduled the game to be played on a Tuesday, despite knowing Everton had played a Europa League game at Benfica the previous Thursday and a Premier League trip to Bolton Wanderers. Everton lost all three games and Moyes led a media blackout by the Goodison outfit after the exit at White Hart Lane. And Moyes is determined to treat the competition with more respect than he believes his team were shown last season.
“We will definitely treat the League Cup right,” said the Everton manager. “They let us down last season. I don’t forget how they treated us, but I will treat the game as well as we can. “We’re not in enough competitions to treat them any other way. I can’t turn round and say ‘we win plenty, so this one doesn’t matter’. We will do our best to try and get through.” Moyes is expected to shuffle his pack after a disappointing start to the season in which opening-day defeat at Blackburn Rovers was followed by Saturday’s draw with Wolverhampton Wanderers.
One player aiming for a starting place is Jack Rodwell. Moyes is confident the midfielder will have an important part to play this season. “Rodwell is in my thoughts now. He’s in contention to play every game we play at the moment. He had a good pre-season, but you must remember, he played the first 20 games of last season.
“It might be that his time comes later on. We want to make sure we are right and we’ve got some options. He will have plenty of opportunities.” With no European football, the knockout competitions – and the Carling Cup in particular – represent Everton’s most likely route to silverware. It’s a point not lost on Leighton Baines, who said: “As much as the league, the cup competitions are as important to us.
“There is no Europa League for us this year, so we want to be in those cup competitions for as long as we can, obviously with the aim of winning the competition. “The early rounds are the ones which can sometimes prove to be tricky fixtures and we have come unstuck in some games against lower league opposition in the cup games in the past.” Baines added: “Hopefully, being at home will serve as an advantage to us and we will be able to progress. I think the final is around March so it means the Carling Cup competition tends to rattle through quite quickly and if you win a few games before you know it you are in the latter stages and things can start getting pretty exciting very soon. “I remember getting to the final with Wigan and obviously we had a decent run as well so hopefully we can go on a good run and get to another cup final.”
David Moyes backs Jermaine Beckford to fire Everton into life v Huddersfield Town
Aug 24 2010 by Dougie Thomson, Huddersfield Daily Examiner
DAVID MOYES believes Jermaine Beckford can kick-start Everton’s campaign.
As Town fans wonder whether the former Leeds man will figure in tomorrow’s Carling Cup second-round clash at Goodison, manager Moyes has backed his new boy to turn around the Toffees’ sluggish start to the Premier League season after watching them throw away a golden chance of three points against Wolves. Moyes’ men, beaten by Blackburn in their first game, largely dominated, but a blunt attacking edge stopped them building on Tim Cahill’s opener before Sylvan Ebanks-Blake struck an equaliser out of nowhere 15 minutes from time. The Goodison chief was full of praise for the efforts of Cahill but he also believes free-transfer signing Beckford, who bagged 31 goals as Leeds won promotion from League I last season, will quickly adapt to Premier League life after showing flashes of class on his home debut.
Moyes, who withdrew Beckford to a standing ovation in the 71st minute, said: “I thought Jermaine gave us something else. “You can see he looks to be a threat and I’m sure he is going to get us goals. “You’ve got to take your chances when you get them.
“We had some great chances to make it 2-0 in the second half. “Tim Cahill played well but I don’t know if we gave their keeper enough to do.” Beckford, who bagged 85 goals in all for Leeds, was one of four close-season captures by Moyes.
Slovakian international goalkeeper Jan Mucha, French striker Magaye Gueye and Portuguese frontman Joao Silva have also arrived, and will be hoping for club debuts against Town.Meanwhile midfielder Leon Osman says Everton must relax a little.
“Everyone is desperate for that first win. The fans, ourselves, everyone. We’re all so desperate for that, but we need to relax and let it come. We’re a good team and it will come,” said the 29-year-old. “You’d have to say this will be one of the most competitive seasons ever. Teams like Blackburn and Wolves, and most teams in the league, are going to scrap their way towards points. “We’ve always said there are no easy games but this season it’s truer than ever. It’ll be tough. Teams will fight and are capable of getting points.” West Ham have reportedly cooled their interest in signing Everton’s Nigerian striker Yakubu. The Hammers have been tracking him all summer, but the two clubs’ valuations differ greatly.
Everton FC assistant manager Steve Round tips Jack Rodwell to shine in Carling Cup.
Aug 25 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
BEFORE too much optimism disperses after Everton’s sluggish start to the season, consider Jack Rodwell. How many managers in the Premier League would kill to have a player of his vast potential still unused, primed and ready to make his impact on a season. That is the refreshingly positive scenario facing David Moyes as he prepares to ensure Everton have a successful Carling Cup campaign, starting tonight against Huddersfield Town. Moyes’ assistant manager Steve Round was delighted with the Southport teenager’s progress in pre-season, and revealed he has been pencilled in to start against the League One side. “David said ‘I will definitely start with Rodwell’,” says Round. “Jack has been terrific in pre-season and is champing at the bit to play. He is a young player and his time will come. The manager’s track record at blooding young players and bringing them through at the right rate is very good and Jack will come through. “There is no doubt he will be a top Premier League player and eventually a top international player but he is only 19 so has some way to go yet.”
Rodwell is not the only player set to feature tonight after an impressive pre-season. French attacker Magaye Gueye is in the frame along with a possible part to play for new keeper Jan Mucha. “Jan is in the squad and Magaye played 60 minutes for the reserves on Monday night and came through so he could feature at some stage,” says Round, who insisted the atmosphere around the training ground is good despite the slow start. “The mood has been very good, training has been excellent. I think if they had played poorly and lost that would have changed the mood, but they feel they played very well, especially in the first half (against Wolves) and they feel if that continues then results will follow. I’m very pleased with the mood actually.”
But while he is satisfied with the mood in the camp, Round accepts the Blues should have made victory safe against Wolves by converting more than one of their many chances. “I think the very best clubs have a two-goal mentality, like Manchester United,” he says. “I went to watch them against Newcastle United. For 30 minutes Newcastle looked like a really good outfit but United then wore them down. They kept playing and after getting the first goal the second came a few minutes later and that’s it. “That’s what the best clubs do and that is what we have to try and emulate. We had the opportunities but didn’t take them and then you always leave yourselves vulnerable. “I think it is the final pass from everybody at the minute. We need a bit more quality, but that will come because we have quality players and I think we have forwards who will score. “Louis Saha will be a regular scorer in the Premier League, Yakubu will always score when fit and playing and I think Jermaine Beckford is a regular goalscorer even if an unknown quantity at the minute. “But if he gets the opportunities then I think he will score, no matter what league he is in.” Round predicts that Beckford, another tipped to feature tonight, will transfer his prowess from the training ground onto the pitch quickly. “I think he is ready and from what I’ve seen in training he looks sharp and he is very very quick. “When he gets a chance in training he scores. You always have to take weight of the forwards by others scoring as well, like Tim Cahill and Marouane Fellaini. I think the rest of the team must take on the responsibility to score. Nobody blamed Tim Howard for the mistake at Blackburn because we win as a team and lose as a team and it’s the same with scoring; we score as a team and defend as a team.” Round admits the size of the current squad is a challenge, but one they will exploit to keep an interest in the league and both domestic cups. “It is a new challenge for Everton, because in the past we have had to work with very small numbers. “From my perspective it is about keeping those not playing fit. It is getting the training right and the manager’s perspective is about managing them as people and making them 100% with you all the time, because you never know when they will be called on.”
Everton FC fans face tunnel closure after Hudersfield Town match
Aug 25 2010 Liverpool Echo
FANS returning from Everton FC’s Carling Cup clash against Huddersfield Town tonight will find the Birkenhead (Queensway) tunnel closed from 10pm. The tunnel is closed in both directions overnight for maintenance work. Merseytravel is advising fans to use either the Wallasey tunnel, or use Soccerbus to get to the match.
A spokesman said all tunnel closures were notified on the website.
Football Forum: 'Donovan can replace Blues’ deadwood'
Aug 25 2010 Liverpool Echo
THEY do say that to win cups and medals, especially in the Premier League, it is vital to get off to a good start because if you fail to do so it becomes a struggle to achieve a top league position. Everton have failed to achieve the start required and the fans certainly won’t be too happy and realise it is an uphill task. No one on the treatment table, a full collection of players available, fans relishing a top four finish – the pressure is on David Moyes now. I also think the manager has made a mistake – a vital one – for he should have enlisted Landon Donovan – whatever the cost.
The reason for not recruiting Donovan was that he was too expensive – Everton could have sold a striker or two – he has those who don’t strike anymore. But he holds on to them and gives glowing reports. Move the deadwood and get Donovan in. He is the difference between success and failure.
Mr PJ Foley, Coventry
DISASTROUS start from the Blues once again. Why is Moyes sticking with his favourites Neville, Osman, Hibbert (who did play well against Wolves to be fair) when he has Rodwell, Coleman, pre-season talent Gueye and more at his disposal?
Tim Edwards, Huyton
COME ON Moyes sort out this terrible start. What is it with our lack of endeavour early doors? Saha and Pienaar aren’t even bothered.
James Cook, L1
MOYES will have to really go one to turn our poor start around this weekend at Villa Park. Already we’re on the back foot – he needs a radical rethink into some of his selections – why are Baines and Pienaar not paired like they were last season? Staggering.
John Simpson, Bootle
DEAR Ian Snodin, thanks for falling into line and taking the cliched response to Palace signing 37-year-old Edgar Davids, claiming it will stunt the development of Eagle youngsters and claiming it is nothing more than a marquee signing.
A quick bit of research (Neil Danns and Dan Pringle on Twitter, or even the official Palace site) would have revealed that, in fact, the players – youth and first team – are excited about Davids’ arrival and keen to learn from the Champions League winner.
And it’s hardly a ‘sad state of affairs’ when the Dutchman is only on a £5,000 pay as you play deal, the same sort of a wage packet a first teamer at Palace can expect.
Again, that would have required research. Signed really as more of a motivational tool, I’d be surprised if he plays more than a dozen games this season, but if he helps a newly assembled squad gel under George Burley it will be money well spent.
James Daly, Editor of Palace fanzine Five Year Plan
JOKE start from the Blue boys again. One point from two teams that will be chuffed to stay up. Here’s to another season of false optimism.
Len Keiths, Formby
Pre-match preview: Everton v Huddersfield Town, Carling Cup
Aug 25 2010 By Sean Bradbury
Everton's last five games
August 21- Premier League: Everton 1 Wolverhampton 1
August 14 - Premier League: Blackburn Rovers 1 Everton 0
August 8 - Friendly: Sligo Rovers 2 Everton 0
August 7 - Friendly: Vfl Wolfsburg 2 Everton 0
August 4 - Friendly: Everton 2 Everton de Vi¡a del Mar 0
Huddersfield's last five games
August 21 - League One: Peterborough 4 Huddersfield 2
August 14 - League One: Huddersfield 0 Tranmere 0
August 10 - Carling Cup: Carlisle 0 Huddersfield 1
August 7 - League One: Notts County 0 Huddersfield 3
August 4 - Friendly: Fleetwood Town 1 Huddersfield 0
Past meetings
Sep 23, 1998 - Everton 2 Huddersfield 1
Goals from Olivier Dacourt and Marco Matterazzi gave the Blues a 2-1 win on the night - and a 3-2 win on aggregate - in this League Cup clash.
Feb 6, 1971 - Everton 2 Huddersfield 1
A Joe Royle brace guided Harry Catterick's Everton to victory in a Division One tie.
Apr 7, 1954 - Huddersfield 8 Everton 2
The Blues were on the wrong end of an 8-2 thrashing, with two goals from Dave Hickson their only consolation.
Ones to watch
Everton:
Despite an inauspicious start to their season, the Blues will be hoping new recruit Jermaine Beckford can continue to flourish in cup games as he did for Leeds United and help register his side's first competitive win of the campaign. The striker netted five times in eight domestic cup games for Leeds last season and in 2008/09 his figures were even more impressive: a hat-trick in his solitary FA Cup appearance and four goals in four League Cup matches.
Huddersfield:
Huddersfield have covered all possible outcomes in their first three league games this season, with a win, a draw and a loss leading them to a current position of tenth in League One. Their star man so far has been young forward Jordan Rhodes who has scored two league goals as well as grabbing the late winner at Carlisle which saw his side through to the second round of the Carling Cup.
Team news
Phil Neville (ankle/foot) and Victor Anichebe (knee) remain sidelined for the Blues.
Latest odds from Betfred
Everton 2/5 - Draw 7/2 - Huddersfield 7/1
Match fact
Current Huddersfield captain and last year's player of the season Peter Clarke began his career with Everton, making a handful of first team appearances before moving on in 2004. Another Everton-Huddersfield double agent was midfielder Barry Horne, whose 30-yard belter against Wimbledon in the last game of the 1993/94 season was crucial in helping the Blues avoid relegation:
EFC assistant manager Steve Round tips Jack Rodwell to shine in Carling Cup
Aug 25 2010 Liverpool Echo
BEFORE too much optimism disperses after Everton’s sluggish start to the season, consider Jack Rodwell. How many managers in the Premier League would kill to have a player of his vast potential still unused, primed and ready to make his impact on a season. That is the refreshingly positive scenario facing David Moyes as he prepares to ensure Everton have a successful Carling Cup campaign, starting tonight against Huddersfield Town. Moyes’ assistant manager Steve Round was delighted with the Southport teenager’s progress in pre-season, and revealed he has been pencilled in to start against the League One side. "David said ‘I will definitely start with Rodwell’," says Round. "Jack has been terrific in pre-season and is champing at the bit to play. He is a young player and his time will come. The manager’s track record at blooding young players and bringing them through at the right rate is very good and Jack will come through. "There is no doubt he will be a top Premier League player and eventually a top international player but he is only 19 so has some way to go yet."
Rodwell is not the only player set to feature tonight after an impressive pre-season. French attacker Magaye Gueye is in the frame along with a possible part to play for new keeper Jan Mucha. "Jan is in the squad and Magaye played 60 minutes for the reserves on Monday night and came through so he could feature at some stage," says Round, who insisted the atmosphere around the training ground is good despite the slow start. "The mood has been very good, training has been excellent. I think if they had played poorly and lost that would have changed the mood, but they feel they played very well, especially in the first half (against Wolves) and they feel if that continues then results will follow. I’m very pleased with the mood actually."
But while he is satisfied with the mood in the camp, Round accepts the Blues should have made victory safe against Wolves by converting more than one of their many chances. "I think the very best clubs have a two-goal mentality, like Manchester United," he says. "I went to watch them against Newcastle United. For 30 minutes Newcastle looked like a really good outfit but United then wore them down. They kept playing and after getting the first goal the second came a few minutes later and that’s it. "That’s what the best clubs do and that is what we have to try and emulate. We had the opportunities but didn’t take them and then you always leave yourselves vulnerable. "I think it is the final pass from everybody at the minute. We need a bit more quality, but that will come because we have quality players and I think we have forwards who will score. "Louis Saha will be a regular scorer in the Premier League, Yakubu will always score when fit and playing and I think Jermaine Beckford is a regular goalscorer even if an unknown quantity at the minute. "But if he gets the opportunities then I think he will score, no matter what league he is in."
Round predicts that Beckford, another tipped to feature tonight, will transfer his prowess from the training ground onto the pitch quickly. "I think he is ready and from what I’ve seen in training he looks sharp and he is very very quick. "When he gets a chance in training he scores. You always have to take weight of the forwards by others scoring as well, like Tim Cahill and Marouane Fellaini. I think the rest of the team must take on the responsibility to score. "Nobody blamed Tim Howard for the mistake at Blackburn because we win as a team and lose as a team and it’s the same with scoring; we score as a team and defend as a team and that's the way it is at Everton." Round admits the size of the current squad d, and the bountiful options he and Moyes have to consider is a challenge, but one they will exploit to keep an interest in the league and both domestic cups. "It is a new challenge for Everton, because in the past we have had to work with very small numbers, and it becomes less of an issue with training the guys and more keeping them mentally right if they are not figuring. "From my perspective it is about keeping those not playing fit. It is getting the training right and the manager’s perspective is about managing them as people and making them 100% with you all the time, because you never know when they will be called on. "It’s difficult picking the team, he might not pick the same team every week and pick players more relevant to a particular game or opposition."
Steve Round: Yakubu and Joseph Yobo unlikely to leave EFC
Aug 25 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
EVERTON assistant boss Steve Round has revealed that Nigerian duo Yakubu and Joseph Yobo are unlikely to leave the club before the transfer deadline.
Moyes’ right-hand man insisted both players will be welcomed back into the first team fold despite taking time to recover from their involvement in the World Cup earlier this summer. West Ham have been linked with a bid for Yakubu, while Scottish giants Celtic were believed to be monitoring Yobo’s availability, but Round insists neither have been told they are surplus to requirements at Goodison.
Instead, the coach said Yobo, 29, is in the squad for tonight’s Carling Cup clash with Huddersfield Town, and Yakubu was in contention for a start until he suffered a knock in training on Monday. He said: “They came back from the World Cup a little bit later and have taken a bit of time to get fitter again. “Joe is in the squad and Yak would have been but he picked up a whack in training and is out. They are both in contention and will hopefully play a big part in us having a good season.” Round added that reports suggesting Moyes would allow Steven Pienaar to join Tottenham Hotspur in a swap deal involving Peter Crouch were false. He said: “There has been no contact. Steven Pienaar is a very, very important player for us. We value him very highly. He was our player of the year last year and he was terrific. “The manager has said all along that we want him to stay. He has signed with us, he is under contract and as far as we are concerned he will be an Everton player this season.”
Round added that both he and Moyes will continue to run the rule over potential recruits even after the transfer window has closed. He said: “Recruitment is an ongoing process always. So the window shuts but we will be at the international games to see who we could possibly sign in January, the following year, and you are forever looking.“Something might break this week but I think the manager is pleased with his squad. I think he is pleased with where he is at. That’s not to say nothing will happen, you never know. Watch the countdown.” Meanwhile, John Heitinga backed Everton to target Carling Cup glory, and himself to hit the back of the net soon.
He said: “It is the shortest route to a title, so we have to win the game on Wednesday and give everything we have got. We have to show our best and if we do we will win the game. “We need to win and hopefully it will be with good football, but if it is not with good football and you win, that is the most important thing. “A goal is coming. Last year was my first year without a goal all season and I am still trying. It will definitely come this season and not only one, there will be more than one.” There are still tickets available for Everton’s Carling Cup fixture against the Terriers on tonight. Adult tickets are £12 with juniors half price. To buy your ticket visit Evertonfc.com/eticketing, call 0871 663 1878, or visit the box office at Goodison Park.
Steven Pienaar 'staying at Everton FC this season'
Aug 24 2010 by Merseyside Sport, Liverpool Echo
Steven Pienaar will remain at Everton this season, according to the club's assistant manager Steve Round. The South African international, who is out of contract next summer, has been linked with a swap deal with Tottenham’s Peter Crouch.
However, Round responded: “The manager (David Moyes) has said all along he wants Steven to stay. “He is under contract and as far as we are concerned he will be an Everton player this season. “There is no truth in the speculation. "Steven has been a terrific player for us and is a terrific asset.” Having tied other big name players such as Tim Cahill, Mikel Arteta, Leighton Baines and Jack Rodwell to new long-term deals this summer, Everton have been eager for Pienaar to follow suit with an offer on the table for him for several weeks but despite the midfielder claiming he is happy to stay at Goodison, he has yet to put pen to paper.
Steve Round calls for Everton FC to spread the goalscoring responsibility
Aug 25 2010 by David Prentice, Liverpool Daily Post
THE Premier League has just set a new record for goalscoring.
Carlos Tevez’s penalty at Eastlands on Monday night took the tally to 64 in the first two rounds of games, just one behind the 1994-95 record – but there were 22 teams in the division back then. But studiously bucking the trend is Everton. The first two games involving David Moyes’ men have produced a measly three goals – only one of them scored by an Evertonian. But assistant-manager Steve Round is refusing to point the finger at Everton’s shot-shy strikers. With Yakubu and Victor Anichebe injured, Louis Saha without a goal since February 10 and James Vaughan being considered for a loan move – new signing Jermaine Beckford has been left to carry the club’s striking goal threat. Round said: “I think the rest of the team must take on the responsibility to score. Nobody blamed Tim Howard for the mistake at Blackburn because we win as a team and lose as a team and it’s the same with scoring; we score as a team and defend as a team and that’s the way it is at Everton. “I think it is the final pass from everybody at the minute. We need a bit more quality but that will come because we have quality players and once we get into that areas I think we have forwards who will score. “Louis Saha will be a regular scorer in the Premier League and Yakubu will always score when fit and playing and I think Beckford is a regular goalscorer but an unknown quantity at the minute. But if he gets the opportunities then I think he will score, no matter what league he is in. “I think he is ready and from what I’ve seen in training he looks sharp and fit and he is very very quick. When he gets a chance in training he scores and you always have to take weight of the forwards by others scoring as well like Tim Cahill and Marouane Fellaini.” Despite the disappointing start to the campaign, Round insists that the mood amnogst the players remains bright.
“The mood has been very good,” he added. “Training has been excellent and I think if they had played poorly and lost that would have changed the mood but they feel they played very well, especially in the first half against Wolves and they feel if that continues then results will follow. “I’m very pleased with the mood actually.”
David Moyes has a different challenge to confront this season.
In previous campaigns he has earned plaudits for engineering a winning side from meagre resources – cajoling outstanding performances from players used in unaccustomed positions.
But this season he has the strongest Everton squad he has ever had at his disposal.
“It’s a new challenge for Everton, a fresh challenge,” admitted Round.
“In the past we have had to work with very small numbers and it becomes less of an issue with training the guys and keeping them mentally right if they are not figuring.
“It is a challenge. But from my perspective it is about keeping those not playing fit. It is getting the training right and the manager’s perspective is about managing them as people and making them 100% with you all the time and with the team because you never know when they will be called on. It’s a difficult process picking the team. He might not pick the same team every week and picks players more relevant to a particular game or opposition. “It is exciting and something that the manager has wanted to have here and it’s taken him eight years to build it because we cant spend £500m. “It has taken a while to get to this position but it is something that he quite welcomes.” Ticket prices for tonight’s match (kick-off 8pm) have been slashed and adults can gain entry for £12 and juniors £6. Huddersfield will have former Everton players Gary Naysmith and Peter Clarke in their ranks, but Clarke has already warned his old pals: “Neither of us are going back to reminisce. Everton are in the past for both of us.”
Mark Lawrenson: At least it’s a good problem for Everton FC manager Moyes
Aug 25 2010 Liverpool Daily Post
EVERTON just can’t win early on in the season – in more ways than one.
In the past couple of years it’s been a lack of numbers that has cost them dear in the search for crucial early points to get on the board. Now it’s a case of having too many options that is the problem. David Moyes will need some time to work out how to accommodate his best players when they are all fit. In the past he has often had no choice but to play them out of position or play a formation which suits the bodies he has available. Now the problem is knowing that he has the capacity to change things.
Does he stick with what he has gone with so far or shake it up for the trip to Aston Villa on Sunday? Does he go to the chairman and maybe try to squeeze a few more transfer funds from him before the window shuts? After all, Everton have struggled to create a lot in their two games so far and one point from six is not the start many predicted. So Moyes has a predicament – but compared to previous years this is a very nice one to have.
Everton FC assistant boss Steve Round declares Steven Pienaar will stay at Goodison
Aug 25 2010 By Greg O'Keeffe
EVERTON assistant manager Steve Round has declared that Steven Pienaar will be staying at Goodison Park this season. Round rebuffed rumours that the South African, who is out of contract next summer, could be heading to Tottenham in a swap deal involving former Liverpool striker Peter Crouch. He said: "The manager (David Moyes) has said all along he wants Steven to stay. "He is under contract and as far as we are concerned he will be an Everton player this season. "There is no truth in the speculation. Steven has been a terrific player for us and is a terrific asset."
Pienaar’s fellow midfielder Jack Rodwell will be given the chance to kickstart his season tonight – but David Moyes will keep the rest of his Carling Cup selection secret ahead of tonight’s game. Huddersfield Town visit Goodison Park, cheered on by up to 6,000 travelling fans and aiming to cause a Cup upset. But Round explained that only Rodwell had been guaranteed a starting place. Left on the bench for Everton’s opening two matches of the season, the outstanding young prospect has been told he will be starting against Lee Clark’s League One visitors.
"The manager has not picked the team yet but the only definite that will start is Rodwell," explained Round. "David said ‘I will definitely start with Rodwell’.
"Jack has been terrific in pre-season and is champing at the bit to play. He is a young player and his time will come and the manager’s track record at blooding young players and bringing them through at the right rate is very good and Jack will come through. "There is no doubt he will be a top Premier League player and eventually a top international player but he is only 19 so has some way to go yet."
Round also hinted at possible appearances for new boys Jan Mucha and Magaye Gueye. "Jan is in the squad and Magaye played 60 minutes for the reserves last night and came through so he could feature at some stage." But missing for the third match in succession is striker Yakubu. While the Nigerian World Cup star was left out of the squad for the opening two matches of the season after failing to reach the required level of fitness after his post-World Cup break, he collected a kick in training this week which has forced him out of any involvement in tonight’s clash.
Round, meanwhile, wants to savour the joy of lifting the League Cup for the second time in his coaching career. The Everton assistant manager was part of Steve McClaren’s backroom staff at Middlesbrough in 2004 when they defeated Bolton in the final. Round has never forgotten the scenes which greeted the players after they returned home from Cardiff. He explained: "I was with Middlesbrough when we won it. I know what it can do to a club and what it can do to an area. "It really did revitalise the whole of Middlesbrough. It was an incredible experience. I remember going on the bus afterwards and there were thousands upon thousands of people lining the streets.
"The fans do see it as a chance to get some success – rightly so and so should the team. We have stressed how important it is. It is a trophy you want to try and win. We went to the FA Cup final the year before last and we know what it feels like.
"The players are definitely up for it. They understand what the fans want. They will be going out tomorrow with the right attitude. They really feel it is time we should deliver."Skipper Phil Neville will have a fitness test ahead of the match after being forced to sit out the 1-1 draw with Wolves at the weekend because of a foot injury.
Meanwhile defender Shane Duffy continued his comeback from a life-threatening accident by helping the reserves draw with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.
Duffy, 18, needed an emergency operation in May after severing an artery near his liver following a freak collision in a Republic of Ireland training session.
Round said: "Shane had a horrendous injury at the end of last season. It was touch and go whether he actually died. It was very, very close. "He played for the reserves last night and came through it very well. We are very pleased with his progress but he is not quite ready yet for the first-team squad. Hopefully over time he will come through." Huddersfield manager Lee Clark is looking forward to his first meeting with Premier League opposition as a manager with the pledge: "We will be determined, show desire and have good organisation." More than 6,000 fans will follow Town to Everton, where the club’s last win came back in 1937-38. Clark accepts his latest Carling Cup assignment will be tough, but says Town will be giving it their best shot as they bid for a first victory over top-flight opposition since Birmingham were toppled 2-1 in the FA Cup in 2007-08 – and a place in Saturday’s third-round draw. "We’ll be battling in one of the most famous arenas in the country against the highest-ranked side in the draw who have a team full of top-quality players and a top-quality manager," he said. "I have unbelievable respect for David Moyes. On one of my coaching courses he invited me to the Everton training ground and I came away so impressed by what he is all about. "For a young manager like myself, he is someone you aspire to be like. He is modest, but he’s the driving force behind Everton and what they have achieved." "But we are going there to try and do ourselves proud and win the game." Town, skippered by ex-Everton player Peter Clarke, have another former Goodison man, left-back Gary Naysmith, back from suspension.
Squad: Smithies, Peltier, Naysmith, Clarke, McCombe, Gudjonsson, Arfield, Pilkington, Roberts, Rhodes, Novak, Robinson, Garner, Carey, Croft, Johnson, Kay, Bennett.
We want to go all the way to the Carling Cup final says Everton’s Leighton Baines
Aug 25 2010 by Dougie Thomson, Huddersfield Daily Examiner
LEIGHTON BAINES says there’s no way Everton will take tonight’s Carling Cup clash lightly. The 25-year-old England international left-back says knockout football is just as important as Premier League action to the Goodison club. Everton have made two League Cup finals (1977 and 1984) but never won the competition – and the former Wigan man would love to put that right this season. “There is no Europa League for us this time, so we want to stay in the cups for as long as we can,” said Baines, who was in the Wigan side beaten 4-0 by Manchester United in the 2006 final.
“Our aim is obviously to win both the cup competitions we enter and we’ll be tuned in because we’ve come unstuck against lower-league opposition in the past.
“I think Huddersfield will be tricky opponents, and we’ll have to match them for workrate. “But hopefully being at home will be an advantage, and if you can win a few games, you seem to reach the latter stages quickly.”
Huddersfield Town will make Everton work hard predicts Barry Horne
Aug 25 2010 by Dougie Thomson, Huddersfield Daily Examiner
BARRY HORNE is backing Everton to beat Town in tonight’s battle between his old clubs. But the former Wales ace believes the men from Goodison will have to dig deep for victory. Horne, now 48, was playing for Town on the only other occasion the sides have met in the League Cup, in the two-legged second round of 1998-99.
It was 1-1 at the Galpharm, and the Toffees had a shock when Marcus Stewart gave Town an early lead at Goodison. Everton had Olivier Dacourt and Marco Materazzi to thank for turning the game in their favour. And Horne, who played for Everton between 1992-96 and Town from 1997-2000, recalled: “It was a bit strange because obviously we were the underdogs. “It was a close tie and I got a good reception at Goodison, but I didn’t enjoy not winning, so it was mixed feelings. “After Everton I had three really good seasons at Huddersfield. It is a good club, an old one with history and which is now on the up under a young manager. “I keep an eye on them because I enjoyed my time there and I am expecting them to get promoted this season.” Horne, a key man in Everton’s 1995 FA Cup winning side, continued: “The attitude then was to enjoy playing at a big ground against a big club. “I think it will be similar this time as well as fancying their chances of maybe causing an upset. I think Everton will progress but I don't think it will be easy.” Everton have suffered a defeat (at Blackburn) and draw (at home to Wolves) so far this season, but Horne is upbeat about their prospects. “I think this season is going to be a big one for them,” he said.
“They have a great chance of doing well in the league and have been close to winning silverware in recent years. “The Carling Cup is one which has gone to clubs other than the big four, so they need to go for it.”
Everton coach details for travelling Huddersfield Town fans
Aug 25 2010 by Dougie Thomson, Huddersfield Daily Examiner
COACHES taking fans to Everton through the Travel Club and HTSA will leave from the St Andrews Road end of the stadium. More than 25 will head to Merseyside, and fans can use the upper-level car park for their own vehicles. Travel Club coaches depart at 4.45, and fans are advised to arrive at least 15 minutes earlier and note the coach number on their ticket. On return to the Galpharm, vehicles should depart via the cinema entrance as the barrier into the St Andrews Road car park will be down.
Town will have more than 5,000 supporters at Goodison and tickets remain on sale until noon today.
Quick guide to Huddersfield Town’s Carling Cup opponents Everton
Aug 25 2010 by Dougie Thomson, Huddersfield Daily Examiner
GOALKEEPERS
Jan Mucha: Slovakia’s World Cup keeper newly arrived from Legia Warsaw.
Iain Turner: Third-choice stopper signed from Stirling in 2003 and on loan at Coventry.
Tim Howard: Experienced 31-year-old who impressed for USA in South Africa.
DEFENDERS
Tony Hibbert: Toffees veteran who provides back-up from the bench.
Leighton Baines: Former Wigan left wing-back with two England appearances.
Joseph Yobo: Nigerian World Cup centre-back who was David Moyes’ first signing.
John Heitinga: Everton’s reliable Dutchman who was sent off in the World Cup final.
Phil Jagielka: England-capped ex-Sheffield United man who is over his knee problems.
Sylvain Distin: The fit-again Frenchman is once again a fixture in defence.
Seamus Coleman: Irish full-back who was loaned to Blackpool last season.
MIDFIELDERS
Diniyar Bilyaletdinov: Russian midfielder who specialises in spectacular goals.
Mikel Arteta: Spanish ace who has delighted Evertonians by signing five-year terms.
Tim Cahill: This Aussie ace has been a big hit since moving from Millwall.
Phil Neville: Former Manchester United star who is an influential skipper.
Steven Pienaar: South African international with an as-yet unsigned contract extension.
Leon Osman: Youth product back from injury and playing in central midfield.
Marouane Fellaini: Belgian who is seeking a comeback following ankle problems.
Jack Rodwell: Teenage star who has matured quickly under David Moyes.
FORWARDS
Louis Saha: French dangerman (above) who was once a teammate of Lee Clark’s at Fulham.
James Vaughan: Youth product who has been loaned to Leicester and Derby.
Jermaine Beckford: Summer free-transfer signing who was a prolific scorer for Leeds.
Magaye Gueye: Young Strasbourg forward snapped up during the close-season.
Aiyegbeni Yakubu: Nigerian World Cup player who cost £11.25m from Middlesbrough.
Victor Anichebe: Compatriot of Yakubu’s who has been deployed as a winger.
Joao Silva: Young Portuguese striker freshly brought in from Desportivo Aves.
IN RESERVE
Defenders: Jake Bidwell, Shane Duffy, Luke Garbutt, Shkodran Mustafi, Aristote Nsiala.
Midfielders: Hope Akpan, Nathan Craig, Adam Forshaw, James Wallace.
Forwards: Kieran Agard, Jose Baxter, Conor McAleny.
Huddersfield Town player & Everton fan Gary Roberts on playing at Goodison
Aug 25 2010 by Dougie Thomson, Huddersfield Daily Examiner
GARY ROBERTS has had every incentive in his push for a return to the Town starting side for tonight’s Carling Cup tie at Everton. For the 26-year-old winger is a lifelong Toffees fan who has watched hundreds of games at Goodison Park – but never played there. “I was attached to Liverpool as a kid and I played at Anfield in a junior match, but I’m a huge Everton fan,” said the Scouser. “Big Duncan Ferguson was my favourite player, and to me, Goodison is one of the best grounds going – after ours of course! “Playing there is a great prospect, and I’m just hoping I can nick a place in the side.” Former Accrington Stanley and Ipswich man Roberts had to make do with a place on the bench at Peterborough on Saturday, but came on in the 60th minute, by which time Town were 3-2 down. Town ended up losing the League I game 4-2, and Roberts, who got his career back on course by shining for a string of Welsh non-league sides after his release by Liverpool, admitted: “There are no excuses because we didn’t play as we can do. “They got a goal at a good time for them, right on half-time, to cut our lead to 2-1, then scored twice in quick succession soon after half-time and we couldn’t seem to recover. “We played really well for most of the first half, and they were flat. If we had gone in at 2-0, it would have been a totally different game, but that first goal lifted them. “Even so, we were still in front, and we have to get back to defending as a team, which we had done in the previous three games. “We have to put this match out of the way and bounce back, because after tonight, we have successive home league games against Charlton and Bournemouth. “We all know how well we can play at home and we want the maximum six points to get us firmly back on track.”
Huddersfield Town boss: I respect Everton's Moyes - but want to beat them
Aug 25 2010 by Dougie Thomson, Huddersfield Daily Examiner
LEE CLARK looked forward to his first meeting with Premier League opposition as a manager with the pledge: “We will be determined, show desire and have good organisation.” More than 5,000 fans will follow Town to Everton, where the club’s last win came way back in 1937-38. Clark accepts his latest Carling Cup assignment will be tough, but says Town will be giving it their best shot as they bid for a first victory over top-flight opposition since Birmingham were toppled 2-1 in the FA Cup in 2007-08 – and a place in Saturday’s third-round draw. “We’ll be battling in one of the most famous arenas in the country against the highest-ranked side in the draw who have a team full of top-quality players and a top-quality manager,” he said.
“I have unbelievable respect for David Moyes. On one of my coaching courses he invited me to the Everton training ground and I came away so impressed by what he is all about. “For a young manager like myself, he is someone you aspire to be like. He is modest, but he’s the driving force behind Everton and what they have achieved.
“But we are going there to try and do ourselves proud and win the game.”
Huddersfield Town's Liverpool FC legend on Everton clash
Aug 25 2010 by Dougie Thomson, Huddersfield Daily Examiner
TERRY McDERMOTT knows all about playing at Goodison. And the Town assistant manager and Liverpool legend who made his Reds debut at the home of their arch-rivals Everton reckons tonight’s Carling Cup second-round clash with the Toffees provides the perfect chance to kick the disappointment of Saturday’s League I defeat at Peterborough United firmly into touch. “We’re looking forward to going there,” said former England midfielder McDermott, 58, whose Liverpool bow came in the 1-1 derby draw in November 1974. “Any footballer worth their salt wants to play at a higher level, and these kind of games give players a taste of what it takes.
“As a player, you look forward to going to the top grounds, and our lads are looking forward to Goodison. It will be a test for them, of course, but it will stand them in good stead. “As well as that, we’re taking a lot of supporters and we want to put on a show for them, which I believe we’re capable of doing.” McDermott, a League Cup winner with Liverpool in 1981 and 1982, urged Town fans not to overreact to Saturday’s League I setback. “For 40 minutes we were superb, we went two up and it could have been more, but we were sloppy for the first goal and they went in at 2-1 with fresh heart. “They equalised soon after the restart and we capitulated a little bit, but having said that, we created some great chances after going 4-2 behind.
“It was very disappointing, but it was game three of a long season. We’ve got a lot of new players and we are still gelling, and this was part of the learning curve.
“You don’t become a bad side because of one result. We’re a good side – I see these players every day of the week and I know what they’re about. “We need to find some consistency and keep doing the things we know we’re good at. If we do that, we’ll be fine. “Peterborough is over now, we can’t do anything about it. What we can do is hit back against Everton, then at home to Charlton on Saturday.”
Huddersfield Town's Arfield on international call-ups and Everton clash
Aug 25 2010 by Dougie Thomson, Huddersfield Daily Examiner
SCOTT ARFIELD says Under 21 call-ups for himself and Alex Smithies have provided the pair with the perfect tonic ahead of Town’s big Carling Cup tie at Everton tonight (8.00). Former England junior keeper Smithies is included at the higher level for the first time for the European Under 21 Championship qualifiers in Portugal on Friday week and against Lithuania at Colchester on Tuesday, September 7. Ex-Falkirk midfielder Arfield, with 14 Under 21 caps already, is in the Scotland party for their games in Belarus and against Austria at Aberdeen on the same dates.
The pair will miss Town’s League I home clash with Bournemouth on Saturday week.
Close-season signing Arfield said: “Representing your country at anything is a huge honour and a privilege. I’m proud to have been selected. “I’ve always enjoyed being a part of things at that level, and it’s great to get that extra experience. “They are both big games and hopefully I’ll play a part in helping us get to the finals.” The 21-year-old added: “I’m delighted for Alex as well, and I could see from our first day of pre-season that he is a quality keeper who will go a long way in the game.” First on the agenda, of course, is tonight’s Goodison showdown. “It’s the kind of game you want to be involved in week in, week out,” said Arfield. “We’re taking more than 5,000 fans, and given the setting, it should be a cracking tie played in a great atmosphere.
“We’ll be up against top players and really, it’s impossible not to learn something from matches like this.”
Five-star Everton FC saunter into the third round of the Carling Cup by crushing Huddersfield Town
Aug 25 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
EVERTON sauntered into the third round of the Carling Cup with a classy 5-1 victory over Huddersfield Town at Goodison Park. A Toffees line-up which included two debutants, in goalkeeper Jan Mucha and winger Magaye Gueye, had comfortably enough to ease past Lee Clark’s spirited League One outfit. As predicted David Moyes made several changes from the team which drew against Wolves in the Premier League on Saturday, and his shake-up yielded early benefit when new-boy Gueye delivered an inch-perfect cross for Marouane Fellaini to head home after just seven minutes. The early goal gave Everton the lift they needed after a subdued start to their league campaign, and they dominated possession despite a scare when Jan Mucha was forced to make a diving save from a thumping Jamie McCombe header. Any chances of an upset seemed remote when Jack Rodwell doubled the home side’s league seven minutes later. The hotly-tipped future England star drilled a low shot past Alex Smithies after beating his marker with ease to start Evertonians anticipating a rout. It wasn’t to be quite that easy however. Huddersfield struck back with five minutes of the half left, when Lee Peltier’s close range effort hit the bar and John Heitinga turned the ball into his own net under pressure from Theo Robinson. But the second half saw the Blues quickly restore their convincing lead, when Jack Rodwell was upended in the penalty area and Jermaine Beckford coolly converted the spot-kick for his first Everton goal. Seamus Coleman and Magaye Gueye went on to justify their starts; each causing the Yorkshire side’s back four to sweat, and Jack Rodwell signalled a serious challenge to David Moyes’ first choice midfield with some effortlessly classy footwork. Former Everton left back Gary Naysmith, joined by fellow ex Blue Peter Clarke in the red and black stripes of the opposition, was warmly applauded as he was replaced on 67 minutes. But there was no such charity from the boys in blue who continued to push for a fourth. Jermaine Beckford thought he had scored again when he bundled over from close range after a scramble, but referee Neil Swarbrick decided substitute keeper Ian Bennett had been fouled. But Coleman’s probing became more and more bothersome for Huddersfield, and former Liverpool academy player Lee Peltier ran out of ways to stop the young Irishman and hauled him down instead after yet another teasing run. Determined to allow their team-mate to score in the right end, Everton’s forward players allowed John Heitinga to take the kick but he will have to carry on waiting after his shot was well saved. Undeterred the Blues made it four thanks to a delightful move initiated by Osman. The midfielder slipped a smart pas into the area which Beckford laid off to Louis Saha, and the Frenchman caressed the ball past Bennett with his first touch of the game. And they wrapped things up nicely when Seamus Coleman turned provider with a wonderful cross which Osman neatly headed home in the dying stages. The young Irishman will certainly give Moyes pause for thought ahead of Sunday’s league clash with Aston Villa after a typical all-action display. And supporters can continue to dream of their first trophy since 1995 after an impressive display to re-ignite their optimism.
Steve Round up for Aston Villa test after Everton FC's convincing Carling Cup win
Aug 26 2010 by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Echo
ASSISTANT boss Steve Round hopes Everton can now kick on after crushing Huddersfield to record their first win of the season. David Moyes’ side ran out 5-1 winners over the League One side in an emphatic display at Goodison Park in which they also missed a penalty. After collecting just one point from their opening two Premier League games, the result – albeit in the second round of the Carling Cup – was a welcome one, although Round was confident a win would soon come.
Round said: “It was nice to get our first win but the team believe they will win regularly. That is the expectation within the squad. “It is a matter of taking this sort of performance in terms of goalscoring into the next game at Aston Villa on Sunday.
“It was a good result. I think the manager stressed the importance of getting off to winning ways. “We have played well enough in the other games to get wins and the big message was continue playing like they were playing and wins would follow.
“They went out to tonight and played the same and this time got the goals, so we’re very pleased.” Round added: “The manager has got selection dilemmas everywhere with the quality of squad we have put together. “There’s not only Jack but Seamus (Coleman) and Fellaini. “Up front you’ve got Jermaine Beckford, who’s now looking a real threat, and Louis Saha, who can win a game on his own at any stage.
“There are a lot of selection problems but it is something he welcomes and wants.”
Huddersfield had their moments, not least as they hit the woodwork twice and pulled the score back to 2-1 just before the break. Terriers boss Lee Clark said: “We played some good football, got a decent goal. But the game was over as contest when we went down to 10 men.”
Everton FC Jury: Fans views on what's needed to kick-start the Blues Premier League season
Aug 26 2010 Liverpool Echo
Lee Molton
IT’S a marathon not a sprint, but Everton need to get out of the blocks soon or they will get left behind. There is only Chelsea with maximum points so far though, so it is not all doom and gloom for The Blues. It could be a good time to play Aston Villa before they get a new manager in. Their confidence will be very low after Sunday’s defeat at Newcastle. We need to start creating more chances as we are not scoring enough goals. Jermaine Beckford had a good game on Saturday and deserves to keep his place in the team. It’s now time to start with Rodwell and Coleman and let’s get a few wins on the board. It’s not too bad though. We are still ahead of Liverpool in the table!
Debbie Smaje
IT hasn’t exactly been the most memorable of starts to the season. Okay, at least we haven’t joined the 6-0 club yet, but it has been pretty miserable stuff so far, in what will turn out to be two games against two teams who will struggle this season, and most teams with aspirations of the top four will beat. But until Moyes figures out his best team, we won’t be pushing for the top four. For the first time in Moyes’ reign, we have a brilliant squad and are absolutely spoiled for choice. So spoiled that Rodwell and Coleman can’t get a game when they probably deserve to, Gueye hasn’t been given even a sub appearance when he has the pace and tricks to change a game, and we can’t decide where Heitinga should play. Something that also needs resolving is Steven Pienaar. If his contract and the Spurs’ speculation has affected him, Moyes needs to make a decision on whether to let him go or not, because at the moment, he doesn’t look like the same player he was.
Mike Williamson
TWO games and one point against weaker sides is not a good start to the season and while there is no need to start going over the top yet, there are some worrying signs. This is a crossroads season for David Moyes.
He always produced the goods in times of adversity but with a full squad on Saturday he picked a team that was set up not to lose.
We have been found out with the one up front formation and to break up the Pienaar and Baines partnership for Billy made no sense.
Billy has to be dropped, Rodwell and Coleman have to start and Moyes has to show that he has the tactical awareness and courage to change the team’s play before the inevitable equaliser. That’s not exactly what we’ve seen a lot of from the manager, who may feel he’s gone far enough if we don’t challenge for a Champions League place by May.
David Wallbank
WELL it hasn't gone to plan and you get the feeling that it might take some time for the lads to get going. Disaster at Blackburn and a dreadful point at home to a Wolves side who wouldn’t know what to do if big Mick hadn’t told them just to kick and foul anything that moves! The Blues need to find a win, and it could be an ugly affair or a scrappy 1-0. Now I hate to bemoan some of David Moyes’ player selections, but the sooner players like Osman and Neville under- stand that they are squad players the better. Moyes must find the strength to pick his best players! Not picking players just because they are captain or nice guys, only the best SHOULD be good enough.
A tough trip to Villa on Sunday is a great opportunity to strike while the iron is hot! Let’s kick villa while they are down. A win would be a massive boost.
Everton FC legend Harry Catterick will gain Hall of Fame recognition at last – 25 years after his death
Aug 26 2010 by Nick Moreton, Liverpool Echo
MORE than 25 years after his death, Harry Catterick is to be inducted into the National Football Museum’s Hall of Fame next month. Catterick, best remembered as Everton manager during one of the Blues’ most successful winning periods, will be honoured alongside Kenny Dalglish as an outstanding team manager, while Ian Callaghan and Ray Clemence will also be recognised. Under Catterick’s guidance, Everton won the old First Division championship in the 1962/63 season and the 1966 FA Cup final, before dominating the 1969/70 season, winning the championship again by a point short of the record points total. And he enjoyed a healthy rivalry with Liverpool manager Bill Shankly, Catterick’s introvert, authoritarian nature contrasting strongly with the more extrovert, media-friendly Shankly. Catterick died of a heart attack shortly after watching Everton draw 1-1 with Ipswich Town in an FA Cup Final at Goodison Park in March 1985. He was 65-years-old. The Hall of Fame Dinner, at the Hilton Hotel in Manchester on September 23, is expected to attract stars of the sport and enthusiasts from across the UK.Also being inducted are Johnny Giles, Francis Lee, Stuart Pearce, Charlie Buchan, Sir Alf Ramsey and Clem Stephenson.
Former England manager Graham Taylor will also be honoured as a Community Champion. Chairman of the Trustees of the National Football Museum, Paul Dermody, said: “This will be a great evening for British Football and for the Museum.
“It is significant that this dinner, which will attract and honour some of the most famous names in the game, will be held in Manchester, the new home of National Football Museum.” Tickets for the event, which is being held in association with the Professional Footballers Association and North West Development Agency, are available from £130 for a single ticket with tables of 10 ranging from £1,100 to £1,800. To book, or for further information, visit www.mbnpromotions.co.uk or telephone 0161 870 1600.
Everton FC chairman Bill Kenwright sick of prospective investors who 'go missing'
Aug 26 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
BILL Kenwright’s search for a billionaire to takeover Everton is being hampered by time-wasting charlatans, the chairman has revealed. The theatre impresario said he has been misled four times in the last 10 months by potential owners who led the club to embark on costly negotiations before disappearing. Kenwright, speaking at the unveiling of a new Everton timeline at Goodison, said he was astonished at the repeated cons. He said: “There are many people out there who purport to have the millions, even the billions, who are ready to sign the cheque. But the minute you say OK show us the funds they go missing and you don’t here from them again.
“You can’t put a time frame on it. I’ve been saying this for four or five years. I’ve got what I thought was close four times in the last 10 months, but it was not even close enough. Not even near. There are people out there who would astonish you.
“They come to you and promise it’s going to be done, this is the one. They ask for it to happen quickly so they can get the funds in quickly, and David can have some funds. “But then the minute you ask to see the money you never see them again. To get to that stage each time is a lot of heart ache, hard work, and legal fees. It goes on and on. It’s quite extraordinary. “You wouldn’t believe half of the things that happen in football, and you wouldn’t believe 5% of the things that happen when you’re trying to raise funds.” Kenwright added that there are limited funds available to David Moyes, but he does not expect the manager to make any signings before the transfer window closes. He said: “We discuss it every day. Whether he wants new arrivals at the moment I’m not sure. There’s always money available, it’s not much I have to say this season. “We’ve made a few transfers and if the manager found someone he really, really wanted that was within a price range – or if he maybe did a bit of wheeler dealing. “But I don’t think that’s top of his list at the moment. He’s really pleased with the squad that he’s got. I don’t know a manager in the world who wouldn’t like to make the right kind of additions, but he’s pleased with what he has got and is not desperate to sign anyone.” The Everton majority shareholder stressed his relief at tying up extended contracts for key players Mikel Arteta, Tim Cahill, Seamus Coleman and Jack Rodwell already this summer, and insisted he is hopeful Steven Pienaar will follow their example. He said: “It was great signing up all those lads because that’s what we set out to do. We set out to keep that squad that was superb for the last six months of last season. It was quite involved.“Mikel was the last one to sign and it took a lot of negotiation, even though it wasn’t difficult negotiation. It was a case of, for him, was it the time to commit another five years to Everton and he decided it was. “There were other factors for Mikel too. The other boys; Tim jumped over the Sydney harbour bridge when he signed his contract. We’ve got a happy squad here, players that really want to play for Everton, and I seriously hope that next time we talk, Steven Pienaar will have signed his contract and will have an extended stay here. He loves it here, we love having him here and we’d really like him to stay.”
Kenwright said the timeline, officially opened alongside David Moyes before kick-off against Huddersfield Town yesterday, is an attempt to improve the exterior of Goodison Park after the club accepted it will remain its home for the short-term future. He said: “When it was verified that we would be staying at Goodison for several years yet we decided to do a few things to spruce up the old girl.
“The time line of some of our greatest moments was one of our first ideas. It goes right around the ground and finishes with what, to many people is one of the greatest games ever seen at this stadium, the 3-1 win over Bayern Munich. “I’m very pleased we’re staying at Goodison Park, but the reality is that we can’t stay here forever.
“Something has to happen; we can’t exist with this football stadium – certainly not in its present state so we are anxious to carry on searching, and talking to the authorities to get us a new home in the city boundaries.”
Everton FC 5, Huddersfield 1: Greg O'Keeffe sees the Blues tart Carling Cup trail with a five-star Goodison performance
Aug 26 2010 Liverpool Echo
DAVID MOYES and the Carling Cup have hardly shared much romance during his Goodison reign but they were caught flirting outrageously last night.
The Everton boss used his programme notes to bash the cup organisers who forced his side to play Spurs 48 hours after a league game last season, and one semi-final appearance against Chelsea in 2008 is as much as Everton have mustered of note in this competition. But he resolved to bury the hatchet and try again this time around, and was rewarded with a timely glut of goals in a convincing 5-1 romp which will go some way to lifting spirits after a subdued start to the Premier League season.
Before kick-off Moyes was present at the unveiling of a mural around Goodison to celebrate the club’s illustrious history. Yet while Chairman Bill Kenwright jokingly reminded him that there is yet to be a trophy in the cabinet during his reign, Moyes needs no reminding. His desire to bring silverware home to the blue half of Merseyside has never been greater, and with a squad finally large enough to sustain cup football, this could yet be his season. A team which included two debutants, in goalkeeper Jan Mucha and winger Magaye Gueye, had comfortably enough to ease past Lee Clark’s spirited League One outfit. As predicted Moyes made several changes from the team which drew against Wolves on Saturday, and his shake-up yielded early benefit when new-boy Gueye delivered an inch-perfect cross for the inspirational Marouane Fellaini to head home after just seven minutes.
The early goal gave Everton the lift they needed and they dominated possession despite a scare when Jan Mucha was forced to make a diving save from a thumping Jamie McCombe header.Any chances of an upset seemed remote when Jack Rodwell doubled the home side’s league seven minutes later. The hotly-tipped future England star drilled a low shot past Alex Smithies after beating his marker with ease to start Evertonians anticipating a rout. But first they had to cover their eyes and groan after irony decided to bite John Heitinga on the backside. Earlier in the week the Dutch international insisted it was only a matter of time before he opened his goal-scoring account for the Blues; yet his bungled own goal was almost certainly not what he had in mind. In response Fellaini went close with a deflected shot after riding two last ditch tackles, as the shell-shocked blues tried to restore their comfort barrier before the break. Everton started the second half with purpose, keen to re-establish their stride quickly. Forays from Gueye and Coleman had Huddersfield backs against the wall, before Damien Johnson’s woefully mistimed tackle on Jack Rodwell in the box yielded a penalty. Up stepped Jermiane Beckford to coolly convert his first competitive goal in royal blue. Sliding on his knee, with arms aloft the former Leeds man soaked up the adulation from the Gwladys Street, and almost had another shortly afterwards nearly lobbing the keeper when a blocked clearance fell kindly for him.
Cue a flurry of Everton chances, with Fellaini again probing for a second and skipper for the night Leon Osman steering a fine long range shot just wide. Despite the final score, Huddersfield did not let their impressive away support down. They kept going and winger Lee Croft could have scored but for a smart save from Mucha during an attack. But David Moyes’ will have been pleased with how his side finally began to hammer home their superiority. Beckford thought he had scored again when he bundled over from close range after a scramble, but referee Neil Swarbrick decided substitute keeper Ian Bennett had been fouled. Coleman’s probing became more and more bothersome for Huddersfield, and former Liverpool Academy player Lee Peltier ran out of ways to stop the young Irishman and hauled him down instead after yet another teasing run. Determined to allow their team-mate to score in the right end, Everton’s forward players allowed John Heitinga to take the kick but he will have to carry on waiting after his shot was well saved. Undeterred the Blues made it four thanks to a delightful move initiated by Osman. The midfielder slipped a smart pas into the area which Beckford laid off to Louis Saha, and the Frenchman caressed the ball past Bennett with his first touch of the game. And they wrapped things up nicely thanks to Seamus Coleman who turned provider with a wonderful cross which Osman neatly headed home in the dying stages. The young Irishman will certainly give Moyes pause for thought ahead of Sunday’s league clash with Aston Villa after a typical all-action display. Supporters can continue to dream of their first trophy since 1995 after an impressive display in a competition they may yet be warming too. And David Moyes will be praying those few blank panels on the end of the Goodison mural have been filled with images of up-to-date glory come next March.
Everton FC’s Carling Cup scorer Jack Rodwell knows his time will come
Aug 26 2010 Greg O'Keeffe
JACK RODWELL today insisted he can cope with the frustration of being benched for Everton’s opening Premier League games because he knows his time will come this season. The 19-year-old made it even harder for David Moyes to leave him out against Aston Villa on Sunday, after a fine performance in Everton’s third round Carling Cup rout last night. But Rodwell stressed that team spirit is so strong in the Toffees’ dressing room that nobody is complaining if they miss out.
Everton started their League Cup campaign with a 5-1 thrashing of League One side Huddersfield Town, as Moyes made six changes from the side which drew against Wolves last Saturday. Rodwell contributed with Everton’s second goal of the night, and said the team’s sights are set on an extended run in the competition.
The England under-21s midfielder said: “I know it’s a big squad now with plenty of competition. “Me and Seamus made our first starts as well as Magaye and we did well. Fellaini came in and did well too. “But whoever is left out of the team will support the lads who get picked. That’s the type of squad we’ve got here.
“It’s frustrating being sat on the bench but I’m still young. “I’m still learning the game and I’ve just got to keep doing what I do in training, working hard and take my chance. “The big squad will come into play when the games come thick and fast. There will be injuries and suspensions and hopefully I can play a lot of games this season. “We look at this cup as a great opportunity to get silverware we so badly want here. “We have started to convert the chances and I think now they’ve started coming they’ll carry on coming. We’ve got the game against Aston Villa on Sunday now, and hopefully we can take the form from the Huddersfield game into that game.”
The confident victory over Lee Clark’s side was only slightly marred by a missed penalty from John Heitinga in the second half, and Rodwell admitted the Dutchman was not the only one who wanted to take the spot-kick. He said: “I think there were a few of us who wanted it. “I wanted it myself and I thought either Beckford or Bainesy would take it, but Johnny was keen to get his first goal for Everton and it just wasn’t to be. “He’s usually trying on the free kicks so he went one further tonight. It was unfortunate it didn’t go in.”
Everton FC smash Huddersfield in five star show
Aug 26 2010 by James Pearce, Liverpool Daily Post
ON the night that Everton unveiled a timeline celebrating their glorious past, the current crop set about writing a new chapter in the club's illustrious history in emphatic fashion. The photographs around the outside of Goodison Park evoke memories of many great days since 1878 but there is room for more.
Chairman Bill Kenwright hopes another instalment will be added next summer and if that's going to happen he knows the Carling Cup represents Everton's best hope of silverware. For many Premier League clubs this competition is merely an unwelcome distraction but to David Moyes' men it means so much more. After 15 years without a trophy, the Carling Cup would do nicely and the road to Wembley began in style at Goodison last night. Everton put the disappointing start to their league campaign firmly behind them as League One side Huddersfield were ruthlessly dispatched with the minimum of fuss. First half goals from Marouane Fellaini and Jack Rodwell put Everton firmly in the driving seat. John Heitinga's own goal reduced the deficit before the break but in the second half it was one-way traffic. Jermaine Beckford claimed his first goal for the club from the penalty spot and Everton spurned a second spot-kick when keeper Ian Bennett thwarted Heitinga. It was awarded after the excellent Seamus Coleman was brought down by former Liverpool defender Lee Peltier, who was dismissed for a second yellow card. Up against 10 men for the final 20 minutes, Everton ran riot with Louis Saha coming off the bench to slam in the fourth before stand-in skipper Leon Osman headed home late on. Boss Moyes made six changes following Saturday's draw with Wolves including debuts for two of his summing signings, keeper Jan Mucha and Frenchman Magaye Gueye. There were also starts for Rodwell, Coleman, Osman and Fellaini as Moyes opted to rest Phil Jagielka, Tony Hibbert, Mikel Arteta, Diniyar Bilyaletdinov, Tim Howard and Tim Cahill, who were all named among the substitutes. Mucha arrived this summer on a free transfer from Legia Warsaw and has made no secret of his burning desire to wrestle the tag of Everton number one from Tim Howard. The Slovakia international, whose inclusion last night ended Howard's run of 109 successive domestic appearances for the club, was swiftly called into action when he had to claw Jamie McCombe's goal-bound header to safety. It was the wake-up call the home side needed as Everton soon stamped their authority on proceedings. Their first meaningful attack brought the first goal of the night in the seventh minute. Osman started the move as he swept the ball out to Gueye on the left. The £1million signing from Strasbourg has impressed Everton's coaching staff since he arrived at Goodison and he showed why as he whipped in the perfect cross for Fellaini to power home a header at the far post.
It was Fellaini's first goal at Goodison since the league win over Wigan in April 2009 and his first since he battled back from a serious ankle injury. The Belgian midfielder ensured Everton won the physical battle in the middle of the park, allowing those around him to press forward in support of lone frontman Beckford. It was no surprise when Everton doubled their lead in the 14th minute. Pienaar found Rodwell 25 yards and the England Under-21s skipper worked his way into space before unleashing a low drive past Alex Smithies into the bottom corner. Pienaar went close to adding a third just after the half hour mark but his strike flew just wide after being teed up by the impressive Fellaini.With their backs firmly to the wall, Huddersfield could have folded but Lee Clark's men battled back bravely. From Joey Gudjonsson's free-kick, Gary Roberts blazed over and then Lee Croft went even closer when his volley beat Mucha but bounced back off the post. Roaring on by a vociferous away following, Huddersfield continued to press and got their reward five minutes before the break.
Gudjonsson's curling cross was met by Roberts, whose effort ballooned up off the bar and under pressure from Theo Robinson, Heitinga could only knock the ball into his own net. The Dutch international raced to the assistant to protest that he was pushed but his protests were in vain. It's fair to assume when Heitinga recently pledged to end his year-long wait for a first goal for Everton this wasn't what he had in mind. He would be cursing his luck again late on. Having given Huddersfield renewed hope, the task in the second half was to kill off their challenge and Everton flew out the traps.
They penned Lee Clark's men back and got their reward within four minutes. Damien Johnson chopped down Rodwell in the box and Beckford made no mistake.
It was a special moment for the new boy in front of the Gwladys Street on a night when he got plenty of stick from the travelling fans for his former ties with Leeds United. Huddersfield brought on Ian Bennett in place of Smithies at the interval and the substitute keeper was overworked as Everton dominated. Bennett produced a stunning finger tip save to deny Beckford and then kept out Rodwell's snap-shot from inside the box. Mucha was largely a spectator but when he was called into action he pulled off a smart stop to keep out Croft's effort with his legs. Bilyaletdinov replaced Gueye and made an instant impression, picking out Rodwell in the box only for former Everton defender Peter Clarke to deflect his shot over the bar. Everton were handed another spot-kick with 20 minutes to go when Peltier pulled back Coleman in the box. The former Liverpool defender, who played against Galatasaray in the Champions League back in 2006, was deservedly sent off for a second booking. Heitinga stepped up to take it in a bid to end his goal drought but Bennett guessed right and pushed it away. Saha came on for Pienaar and swiftly opened his account for the season as in the 77th minute he put the finishing touch to a sweeping move involving Osman and Beckford with a sweet left-footed drive. The icing on the cake came five minutes from time when Osman nodded home at the back post after a marauding run from Coleman. Now the momentum must be maintained at Villa Park on Sunday.
Show me the money, demands Bill Kenwright but potential buyers are just ‘time-wasters’: Everton FC latest
Aug 26 2010 by James Pearce, Liverpool Daily Post
BILL KENWRIGHT has revealed his search for new investment at Goodison is being hampered by time-wasters. The Everton chairman, who was speaking at the launch of the club’s timeline last night, says he has come close to doing a deal over the past year, only to find potential buyers don’t have the cash to back up their bullish promises. “There are many people out there who purport to have millions, even billions, who are ready to sign the cheque,” he said. “But the minute you say ‘show us the funds’ they go missing and you don’t hear from them again. “You can’t put a time frame on it. I’ve been saying this for four or five years. I’ve got what I thought was close four times in the last 10 months, but it was not even close enough. Not even near. There are people out there who would astonish you. “They come to you and promise it’s going to be done. They ask for it to happen quickly so they can get the funds in quickly, and David (Moyes) can have some funds. “But then the minute you ask to see the money you never see them again. To get to that stage each time is a lot of heartache, hard work and legal fees. It goes on and on. It’s quite extraordinary..”
Kenwright insists there is some cash for manager David Moyes to spend prior to next week’s transfer deadline but he doesn’t expect any new arrivals. “There’s always money available, but it’s not much I have to say,” he added. “We’ve made a few transfers and if the manager found someone he really wanted we could maybe do a bit of wheeler dealing. But I don’t think that’s top of his list at the moment. He’s really pleased with the squad that he’s got.”The club’s majority shareholder was delighted to tie up Mikel Arteta, Tim Cahill, Seamus Coleman and Jack Rodwell on long term deals this summer. And he hopes Steven Pienaar will soon follow suit and sign the contract he has offered. “It was great signing up all those lads because that’s what we set out to do,” Kenwright said. “We set out to keep that squad that was superb for the last six months of last season. “Mikel was the last one to sign and it took a lot of negotiation, even though it wasn’t difficult negotiation. Tim jumped over Sydney Harbour Bridge when he signed his contract. “We’ve got a happy squad here, players that really want to play for Everton, and I seriously hope that next time we talk, Steven Pienaar will have signed his contract and will have an extended stay here. He loves it here, we love having him here and we’d really like him to stay.”
Kenwright officially opened the timeline with Moyes before kick-off and added: “When it was verified we would be staying at Goodison for several years yet we decided to do a few things to spruce up the old girl. The timeline of some of our greatest moments was one of our first ideas. I’m very pleased we’re staying at Goodison Park, but the reality is that we can’t stay here forever.”
Everton v Huddersfield Town: Lee Clarks' post-match reaction
Aug 26 2010 by Dougie Thomson, Huddersfield Daily Examiner
LEE CLARK surveyed Town’s 5-1 Carling Cup loss at Everton and admitted: “It was always going to be difficult, but we didn’t do ourselves any favours.” The manager – delighted to welcome big striker Alan Lee to the Galpharm on a two-year deal – was “frustrated and disappointed” at the way his defence was breached and he’ll begin the countdown to Saturday’s home League I clash with Charlton by working on the training ground today to put things right. Town will be without right-back Lee Peltier through suspension against the Londoners after he was red carded for two bookable offences. There are concerns over keeper Alex Smithies, who was replaced by Ian Bennett at half-time because of a dead leg, and Gary Naysmith (toe). Clark saw Bennett save a penalty from John Heitinga after being beaten from the spot by Jermaine Beckford and said: “I was pleased with Ian’s performance.” On the game, he added: “They had three genuine attempts in the first half and scored twice while we played some good football and got a goal. “But the game was over as a contest after we were reduced to 10 men at 3-1 down, although I have no complaints over either penalty or the red card. Everton are a quality side, but I’m frustrated and disappointed at the goals we’ve conceded in the last two games.” On Lee he said: “I’m delighted with the signing. He’ll give us physical presence up top, an old fashioned centre forward who competes well in the air, holds the ball up, wins free kicks and takes the pressure off his strike partners. “It’s great that he’s here.We’re all looking forward to Alan being in our side and being a positive impact around the place
Everton v Huddersfield Town: Doug's player ratings - and give us yours
Aug 26 2010 Huddersfield Daily Examiner
DOUG'S player ratings are below for the Everton v Huddersfield Town game.
Click on Huddersfield Town icon below Doug's ratings to have your vote on your own player ratings before 1pm today and we'll publish them online this afternoon.
ALEX SMITHIES
Under the cosh as Everton struck twice early on, but then looked more solid before coming off at half-time. 5
GARY NAYSMITH
Put in a solid shift at his old stomping ground and was applauded by both sets of fans on being subbed. 5
LEE PELTIER
A miserable return to Merseyside for the ex-Liverpool man, who was red carded for two bookings. 5
JOEY GUDJONSSON
Always looking for telling passes and never afraid to take a shot, but unable to impose himself. 5
PETER CLARKE
Town’s other ex-Everton man gave a wholehearted display, but won’t be happy at the five-goal concession. 5
JAMIE McCOMBE
The big centre-back came close with an early header and never shirked a challenge on a busy evening. 5
LEE CROFT
Continued from where he left off at Peterborough with a full debut full of running and decent deliveries. 6
SCOTT ARFIELD
Looked lively playing just behind Theo Robinson before switching to right-back after Peltier’s red card. 5
DAMIEN JOHNSON
Got through plenty of work in central midfield but will have been frustrated at condeding the first penalty. 5
THEO ROBINSON
Gave it his all as attack leader and his pressure forced Heitinga into scoring into his own goal 5
GARY ROBERTS
The Everton fan had a strong first half and took delight at his part in the goal, when he flicked the ball on. 6
Ian Bennett (for Smithies, HT) 6; Antony Kay (for Naysmith, 66mins) 5, Lee Novak (for Robinson, 75mins) 5.
Not used: Jordan Rhodes, Joe Garner, Jim Goodwin, Graham Carey.
Everton 5 - 1 Huddersfield Town
Aug 26 2010 Huddersfield Daily Examiner
PREMIER League pace and power told as Everton went nap to douse Town’s hopes of a cup upset. And to rub salt into the wounds, right-back Lee Peltier was sent off for two bookable offences. Lee Clark’s side produced a battling performance, and John Heitinga’s 40th-minute own goal, which reduced the arrears after early strikes by Marouane Fellaini and Jack Rodwell, provided hope. But the home team flexed their muscles in the second half, adding to their tally with a Jermaine Beckford penalty and goals by Clark’s old Fulham teammate Louis Saha and Leon Osman. Both managers made changes, with Clark handing a surprise first start of the season to Theo Robinson, recalling childhood Everton fan Gary Roberts for a dream first-ever outing at Goodison and handing a full debut to on-loan Derby man Lee Croft. Strikers Jordan Rhodes and Joe Garner dropped to the bench while Anthony Pilkington was left out to nurse a knock picked up in training. While new strike signing Alan Lee watched from the stand after completing his move from Crystal Palace, the Town team included ex-Evertonians Peter Clarke and Gary Naysmith, who were given a great reception by the home supporters. Everton’s David Moyes handed debuts to Slovakian World Cup goalkeeper Jan Mucha, in place of American ace Tim Howard, and French frontman Magaye Gueye, signed from Strasbourg. Osman, bright midfield hope Rodwell and Seamus Coleman also came in. Town’s 5,000-plus followers were in great voice early on, especially after Jamie McCombe tested Mucha with a fourth-minute header from Croft’s cross. But they were silenced in the seventh minute, when Fellaini headed Everton in front. The big Belgian midfielder had already had a shot blocked, but this time the ball arrowed into the net from Gueye’s pinpoint cross.
It was a big setback – and things got worse seven minutes later as Everton exploited gaps in midfield to go two up, Rodwell rifling home a low shot after slick approach play by the busy Fellaini and Stephen Pienaar. Town stuck to their task, however, and were playing some neat football while also closing Everton down more quickly.
Peltier drove a 17th-minute shot over after a Gary Roberts free-kick into the box was cleared by Fellaini, then Roberts robbed left-back Coleman and set up Robinson, only for the striker to be ruled offside. Joey Gudjonsson had a long-range free-kick blocked on 24 minutes before setting up Roberts, who beat Coleman to a low delivery but fired too high.Everton, having gone close through Rodwell, then had the Town defence scrambling as Sylvain Distin sent in a pacy cross which flew across the face of goal, and Pienaar drove an angled 33rd-minute shot over from Fellaini’s pull-back.
But Town were looking more of a threat, and Croft fired a low shot against Mucha’s left-hand post from a Naysmith centre before the stopper was finally beaten in the 40th minute. Gudjonsson delivered a looping ball from the left flank and Roberts’ header spun over Mucha, with Dutch World Cup finalist Heitinga attempting a clearance, but only succeeding in helping the ball over the line. It was just the lift hard-working Town needed, and Smithies ensured the deficit remained at just one goal with a smart save from Fellaini’s shot just before the break. Town replaced Smithies with Ian Bennett at the start of the second half and the debutant keeper was soon put on the spot as Everton restored their two-goal cushion with a 50th-minute penalty. Damien Johnson was ruled to have fouled Rodwell, ex-Leeds man Beckford firing home his first Everton goal from the penalty spot. Beckford looked set for another goal two minutes later, but this time Bennett pulled off a great save, tipping his rising shot over the bar. Mucha had to use his knees to block Croft’s shot in the 62nd minute, but the home side were soon attacking again, winning another penalty in the 72nd minute which led to the red card for Peltier, who brought down Coleman after earlier being booked for a foul on Gueye. Bennett pulled off a fine save to thwart Heitinga from the spot, but was beaten in the 75th minute when substitute Saha slotted home with his first touch after being set up by Beckford. And Osman completed the scoring in the 85th minute by heading home from Coleman’s cross.
Now have your say on the Huddersfield Town performances with our player rater - it takes just seconds to mark the players out of ten and we'll publish the collected results.
EVERTON MAKE EASY WORK OF HUDDERSFIELD
ABOVE: Everton's Louis Saha and Jermaine Beckford
26th August 2010 Daily Star
By Chris Brereton
EVERTON finally woke up last night as their five-star players walloped Huddersfield at Goodison Park. And assistant boss Steve Round believes the result will kick-start the Toffees season. After an opening-day loss to Blackburn and last weekend’s draw against Wolves, Everton’s term has got off to a typically sluggish start. But that all changed as goals from Marouane Fellaini, Jack Rodwell, Jermaine Beckford (from the spot), Louis Saha and Leon Osman sent the Terriers home with their tails between their legs. Johnny Heitinga’s first-half own goal and later penalty miss took some of the shine off the win. But Round said: “It was a good result and the manager stressed the importance of getting back to winning ways. We knew that wins would come if we kept performing so we are very pleased. The team thinks they will win regularly.”
Huddersfield went down to 10 men when Lee Peltier was dismissed for a second yellow after fouling Seamus Coleman. Boss Lee Clark said: “We played some good football and got a decent goal but it was over as a contest when we went down to 10 men. “We can be pleased with certain aspects but some of the goals we conceded were disappointing.”
Everton 5 Huddersfield 1
From DAVID FACEY at Goodison Park
26 Aug 2010
MAROUANE FELLAINI showed Everton what they have been missing as he finally kick-started their season last night.
Fellaini was back to his influential best with a match-winning display which was hailed by Goodison No 2 Steve Round. Round said: "Marouane is looking like the player he was before his bad ankle injury, which put him out for six months. "And you could see what a popular player he is from the way the lads surrounded him after he scored. "Seamus Coleman also looked fantastic going forward. "The lads are calling him Seamus Ramos and, although he still has a bit to learn defensively, it is great to see someone playing with that sort of innocence. "There were a lot of good things to come out of this." Boss David Moyes fielded a strong side in the hope a big Carling Cup win would boost his team's confidence after a couple of patchy Premier League performances. But the Toffees had to endure a few uncomfortable moments before confirming their superiority against League One Huddersfield. They did that chiefly through Belgian midfielder Fellaini, who was involved in everything and scored on seven minutes. But Moyes will know his men will need to up the ante when they take on Aston Villa, Manchester United and Newcastle in their next three matches. Huddersfield finished with 10 men after the 71st-minute sending-off of full-back Lee Peltier for a second yellow card, awarded when he pulled down Coleman to hand Everton their second penalty. Beckford converted the first but team-mate Johnny Heitinga saw his spot-kick saved by Terriers sub keeper Ian Bennett. It looked like it was going to be a cakewalk for Everton as they went 2-0 up after just 14 minutes. First, Fellaini headed home at the far post after debutant Magaye Gueye picked him out with a neat first-time ball. Then Jack Rodwell was also given far too much space to collect Steven Pienaar's pass on the edge of the box before blasting a right-foot shot into the far corner. But the hosts fell into the trap of believing it really was going to be all too easy. And apart from a Fellaini fizzer that flew over the bar, there was no urgency in front of goal. The visitors sounded a warning on 38 minutes when Lee Croft latched on to Fellaini's header and hit the foot of a post with a volley that had Everton's other newcomer - keeper Jan Mucha - beaten. And two minutes later the Yorkshire side deservedly pulled a goal back. The Everton woodwork was rattled again as Gary Roberts threw himself at Joey Gudjonsson's cross and the ball bounced off him on to the bar. Heitinga reacted quickest but, with Theo Robinson breathing down his neck, the Dutchman could only glance the ball in. Fellaini almost restored Everton's two-goal lead with an effort that was well held by starting keeper Alex Smithies. But it was Rodwell who gave the hosts some breathing space five minutes after the break. His clever turn in the box took him away from Johnson, who dived in rashly and ref Neil Swarbrick pointed to the spot. Beckford sent Smithies the wrong way. He wanted to take the second penalty too but Heitinga insisted - and failed. Moyes sent on Louis Saha - who rifled home with his first touch - and Leon Osman claimed a rare headed goal. Huddersfield boss Lee Clark said: "To test them we had to have everyone playing at their maximum for 90 minutes - and that clearly didn't happen."
DREAM TEAM RATINGS
STAR MAN - Jack Rodwell
Everton: Mucha 6, Coleman 7, Heitinga 5, Distin 6, Baines 6 (Hibbert 5), Pienaar 6 (Saha 6), Rodwell 8*, Fellaini 7, Osman 6, Gueye 5 (Bilyaletdinov 6), Beckford 6. Subs Not Used: Howard, Jagielka, Arteta, Cahill.
Everton 5-1 Huddersfield: Daily Mirror match report
26/08/10 By MirrorFootball
Jermaine Beckford was on target as Everton hit five to ease into the third round of the Carling Cup at the expense of 10-man Huddersfield tonight. Beckford's first goal since joining the Toffees from Leeds in the summer made victory certain at Goodison Park after their npower League One opponents had responded to early Marouane Fellaini and Jack Rodwell strikes. A John Heitinga own goal gave Huddersfield hope at half-time but Beckford's penalty and further efforts from Louis Saha and Leon Osman - after Lee Peltier had been sent off and Heitinga missed from the spot - settled the tie. Everton boss David Moyes fielded a strong side despite making six changes.
Midfielders Jack Rodwell and Fellaini both came into the side at Goodison Park after being named on the bench for Saturday's draw with Wolves. Goalkeeper Jan Mucha and forward Magaye Gueye were handed debuts while Osman and Seamus Coleman also featured. Huddersfield's side included former Everton defender Gary Naysmith, who spent seven years with the Toffees before leaving in 2007. Everton had a chance after winning a corner inside the first minute but Fellaini miscued his shot from Gueye's cross. Jamie McCombe had a glorious chance to hand the Terriers the lead in the seventh minute when Lee Croft's cross fell invitingly after taking a looping deflection off Leighton Baines. The summer signing from Bristol City met the ball with a firm header but Mucha produced a fine save to his left. Everton responded to claim the opening goal with a slick move of their own. France Under-21 international Gueye found good space on the left and delivered a pinpoint cross for the unmarked Fellaini to head in from six yards. The Toffees began to look a class apart and stepped up the pressure to add a second seven minutes later. Rodwell beat Damien Johnson with a neat drag-back on the edge of the area and then drilled a low shot into the bottom corner. Yet Huddersfield were determined to put up a fight and Peltier blazed over from 18 yards. Gary Roberts also had a chance from a well-worked Johnson free-kick but shot well over the bar. Huddersfield then survived a scare as Sylvain Distin got forward and whipped in a dangerous cross which McCombe nervously sliced across his own goal. Steven Pienaar then drove narrowly wide after Fellaini smartly pulled the ball down in the area. But Huddersfield finished the first half strongly and twice hit the woodwork before pulling a goal back. First Croft struck the foot of the post from a Naysmith cross. Town then came back again with a Joey Gudjonsson cross bouncing off Roberts and hitting the bar. Robinson closed in the rebound and Heitinga headed into his own net under pressure. Huddersfield suffered a blow as they were forced to replace their highly-rated goalkeeper Alex Smithies, who was named in the England Under-21 squad yesterday, with Ian Bennett at half-time. One of Bennett's first jobs was to pick the ball out of the net after Beckford celebrated his first goal for Everton. The former Leeds striker stepped up to score from the penalty spot in the 49th minute after Rodwell was brought down by a clumsy challenge from Johnson. Beckford almost had a second moments later after Rodwell charged down a clearance but Bennett produced an instinctive save to tip over the bar. Rodwell then shot tamely at Bennett after tricky work from Fellaini on the edge of the box and Pienaar missed the target from distance. Osman then went even closer with a fine curling effort. Croft was denied at the other end by the feet of Mucha but Everton continued to look dangerous and Fellaini and substitute Diniyar Bilyaletdinov had shots blocked in a goalmouth scramble. Everton did then bundle the ball into the net but the flag was raised for a foul on Bennett. Everton were awarded a second penalty after Peltier pulled back Coleman with 20 minutes remaining. Having already been booked for a foul on Gueye, Peltier was shown a second yellow card by referee Neil Swarbrick and then a red. Heitinga, still awaiting his first Everton goal, was handed the responsibility from 12 yards but Bennett saved well to his left. Yet Everton did not have to wait long for their fourth, Saha coming off the bench to score with his first touch from 18 yards after Osman and Beckford combined. Osman then wrapped up the scoring five minutes from time with a header at the far post.
Jack Rodwell the star as Everton ease past Huddersfield
Carling Cup Second Round
Richard Gibson at Goodison Park , 26 August 2010 The Guardian
Jack Rodwell, second right, scores the second goal for Everton in their Carling Cup match against Huddersfield. Photograph: Alex Morton/Action Images
Jack Rodwell appears intent on making life a little harder for his manager David Moyes. The Everton teenager seized on his opportunity of a first start of the season to provide a timely selection dilemma. Rodwell, 19, provided a virtuoso midfield display, albeit against League One opposition, scoring once and winning a penalty to ensure Huddersfield were not as irksome as they briefly threatened to be, on the way to the third round of the Carling Cup. Marouane Fellaini and Rodwell, two of the six players drafted in by Everton, appeared to have settled the contest inside the opening quarter-of-an-hour with some clinical finishing. Belgian Fellaini's ability to get beyond the forwards paid dividends inside seven minutes when his hulking frame stretched sufficiently for him to nod debutant Magaye Gueye's first-time centre from the left beyond Alex Smithies. In contrast, Rodwell's goal was all his own creation: receiving a pass from Stephen Pienaar midway into visiting territory, he ghosted left and produced a drag-back to shrug off the attentions of Damien Johnson before leaving England Under-21 call-up Smithies helpless with a right-footed drive from 20 yards. The favourable impression provided by French Under-21 Gueye, a £1m summer purchase from Strasbourg, was matched by fellow fresher Jan Mucha, Slovakia's World Cup goalkeeper, who had to be alert to push away a fourth-minute header by Huddersfield defender Jamie McCombe. That early escapade roused the impressive 5000-plus away following and despite a conservative selection by manager Lee Clark – who opted to leave strikers Jordan Rhodes and Lee Novak, who struck 37 times between them last season, on the bench, with an eye no doubt on Saturday's encounter with fellow promotion chasers Charlton – they halved the deficit before half-time. Lee Croft had just hit the post with a volley when another striking of the woodwork proved decisive: Gary Roberts deflected the ball onto the bar via his chest and Johnny Heitinga inadvertently bundled the into the corner of his own net.
Five minutes into the second half, Rodwell surged onto Steven Pienaar's square ball and lost his legs thanks to Johnson's crude tackle from behind. Jermaine Beckford sent substitute goalkeeper Ian Bennett the wrong way from 12 yards. And although Heitinga missed another spot-kick, substitute Louis Saha and Leon Osman were on target to seal the win.
EVERTON: FIVE-STAR SHOW BY JACK RODWELL
Midfielder Rodwell, in his first start of the season, celebrates after scoring Everton's second
Thursday August 26,2010
By Graham Chase (The Express)
EVERTON 5 HUDDERSFIELD 1
JACK Rodwell showed his potential with a masterclass in midfield to inspire Everton to their first win of the season. Marouane Fellaini was making just his second start since suffering an ankle problem in last season’s Merseyside derby and scored with an early header. After Rodwell grabbed a second, Johnny Heitinga scored an own- goal just before the break. But second-half strikes from Jermaine Beckford, a free transfer from Leeds in the summer, Louis Saha and Leon Osman eased Everton into the third round. French winger Magaye Gueye, who joined from Strasbourg in the summer, also impressed as Everton put their poor start to the season behind them. Huddersfield began brightly and Jamie McCombe brought a fine save from Everton’s new keeper Jan Mucha with a header from Gary Croft’s cross. Everton took the lead thanks to fine work from another new signing. Rodwell picked out Gueye on the left and his wonderful cross found Fellaini to head in at the far post. With less than a quarter of an hour gone, the Blues doubled their lead with another goal of real class. Steven Pienaar squared for Rodwell, who skipped inside Damien Johnson on the edge of the area and found the bottom corner with a precise shot. Rodwell was full of confidence and, after being fed by Osman, he dragged a shot wide from 25 yards. At the other end, former City winger Croft stabbed an effort against the post after meeting Fellaini’s clearance from a Gary Roberts cross and just before the break, the League One side pulled a goal back.Joey Gudjonsson floated a cross over from the right and Roberts chested onto the bar and under heavy pressure from Theo Robinson, Heitinga headed over his own line. Everton reasserted themselves after the break when Rodwell’s burst into the penalty area was halted by a clumsy challenge from Johnson. Beckford stepped up to send substitute goalkeeper Ian Bennett the wrong way. Beckford should have scored his second but fired over after he had been sent through by Rodwell.Rodwell also forced a low save from Bennett after swapping passes with Fellaini. Heitinga’s bad night continued when he had a penalty saved after Seamus Coleman was pulled down by Lee Peltier, which led to a second yellow card for the defender. It did not matter as substitute Saha, with his first touch, made it four when he swept in Beckford’s pass. Osman then headed in Coleman’s cross from the right to cap the win.
EVERTON (4-5-1): Mucha; Coleman, Heitinga, Distin, Baines (Hibbert 81); Pienaar (Saha 76), Rodwell, Fellaini, Osman, Gueye (Bilyaletdinov 65); Beckford. Goals: Fellaini 7, Rodwell 14, Beckford pen 50, Saha 77, Osman 85.
HUDDERSFIELD TOWN (4-5-1): Smithies (Bennett 46); Peltier, McCombe, P Clarke, Naysmith (Kay 66); Croft, Gudjonsson, Johnson, Roberts, Arfield; Robinson (Novak 76). Sent off: Peltier 71. Booked: Roberts. Goal: Heitinga 40 og.
Referee: N Swarbrick (Lancashire).
Everton 5 Huddersfield Town 1: Beckford off the mark for Everton as Town crash out
Published Date: 26 August 2010 Yorkshire Evening Post
By Ian Appleyard at Goodison Park
JERMAINE Beckford's first goal for new club Everton helped condemn Huddersfield Town to a Carling Cup exit. The former Leeds United striker “ jeered all night by the travelling supporters â“ scored a 50th-minute penalty just as Town sensed the possibility of a comeback. It was cruel luck on Lee Clark's men who had grabbed a lifeline just before the break But Beckford's goal, following a foul by former Everton defender Gary Naysmith on Jack Rodwell, put Everton 3-1 ahead and firmly in command. As if rubbing salt in the wounds, Beckford then laid on the pass for substitute Louis Saha to score Everton's fourth. The margin of victory could have been even greater if Beckford had not allowed team-mate Johnny Heitinga to take Everton's second penalty of the night, which was duly saved by substitute goalkeeper Ian Bennett after 71 minutes. Defender Lee Peltier was sent off for the challenge on Seamus Coleman – his second bookable offence, but Leon Osman's late header still made it 5-1 to the Toffeemen, underlining the gulf in class. Town, who had completed the signing of Crystal Palace striker Alan Lee yesterday morning, were two goals down after just 14 minutes . Yet winger Gary Roberts “ a lifelong Evertonian – dragged his side back into the contest just before half-time. Everton, who finished eighth last season in the Premier League, were the highest-ranked side in this stage of the competition but had rested six players from the weekend. Only defenders Sylvain Distin, Heitinga, and Leighton Baines, winger Steve Pienaar, and striker Jermaine Beckford survived the squad rotation. Town manager Clark made four changes “ presumably with one eye on the important League One game against Charlton Athletic this weekend. Both Jordan Rhodes and Joe Garner dropped to the bench while midfielder Kevin Pilkington was absent after taking a knock at Peterborough. Naysmith returned from suspension and replaced Graham Carey while Theo Robinson, a surprise inclusion, played as a lone striker in a 4-5-1 formation.
Although Jamie McCombe tested Everton's debutant goalkeeper Jan Mucha with an early header, it took just seven minutes for the home side to score through Marouane Fellaini. The towering Belgian arrived unmarked at the far post, met a cross from Magaye Gueye, and sent a header into the roof of the Town net. When Jack Rodwell doubled Everton's lead seven minutes later – striking a low drive beyond the reach of Smithies – the scent of a landslide home victory was hanging in the air. Clark started to show signs of frustration in the away technical area while the 5,100 travelling supporters briefly lost their voices, although they could still raise a jeer for Beckford. Without a goal in his first two appearances since a summer move from Town's local rivals Leeds, Beckford shrugged off the stick and was always on the look out for the ball. At 2-0, Everton may just have been feeling the game was over. If that was the case, Town had other ideas. Roberts had achieved a boyhood dream simply by playing on the Goodison Park pitch for the first time, but his evening got a whole lot better when he scored five minutes before the break. Released by Liverpool as a schoolboy, Roberts initially turned a cross from Joey Gudjonsson onto the Everton bar from close range. The ball appeared to be dropping over the line when Heitinga, under pressure from Robinson, put a head on it. Roberts wheeled away in celebration, leaving no-one in any doubts about who was claiming it. Town changed goalkeepers at the interval with veteran Bennett coming on for his debut as a replacement for Alex Smithies. But Bennett was soon picking the ball out of the net as Beckford restored Everton's two-goal lead with a penalty following a foul by Naysmith on Rodwell.
Buoyed by the goal, Beckford nearly grabbed a second but Bennett tipped over his angled drive. New signing Lee had completed his move to Town yesterday morning but was cup-tied last night. Lee, 32, signed a two-year deal and should make his debut in Saturday's home game with Charlton. The fee for the former Rotherham United and Republic of Ireland international has not been disclosed but was actually agreed in the summer and is likely to contain promotion- related incentives. Chief executive Nigel Clibbins said: "We will not disclose the detailed terms but suffice to say that the speculation regarding a three-year deal, £500,000 transfer fee, and wages which emanated from quotes in the London media are once again hugely exaggerated. In fact, the initial outlay and the structure of the deal represent excellent business for the club." Everton: Mucha; Coleman, Heitinga, Distin, Baines (Hibbert 81); Fellaini; Pienaar (Saha 75), Osman, Rodwell, Gueye (Bilyaletdinov 65); Beckford. Unused substitutes: Jagielka, Arteta, Cahill, Howard.
Huddersfield Town: Smithies (Bennett 45); Peltier, McCombe, Clarke, Naysmith (Kay 67); Croft, Johnson, Gudjonsson; , Arfield; Roberts; Robinson (Novak 75). Unused substitutes: Garner, Rhodes, Goodwin, Carey.
Referee: ND Swarbrick (Lancashire).
BETTING WITH ANGUS LOUGHRAN: Liverpool FC must win against West Brom and Everton FC can bring up Mersey double at Aston Villa
Aug 27 2010 by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Echo
LOOKING at the football well it’s a must-win game for Liverpool on Sunday against West Brom. While I don’t believe the scoreline of 3-0 was a fair reflection of Monday’s defeat at City, it’s fair to say that City were the better team on the night.
In some way Liverpool looked somewhat lethargic, in my eyes they missed want away Mascherano. Talking of Mascherano I can’t believe Barcelona are trying to suggest Liverpool should take a loss on a player who has blossomed at Anfield and became captain of his country. Especially considering they sold Yaya Toure to City for double their initial offer to Liverpool after admitting he had no place in their squad.
Liverpool are right to hold out for a respectable bid, a rumour I heard is that Hodgson could well turn his attention to Lassana Diarra if a sale goes through.
Looking at Everton I was a tad surprised to see a somewhat negative line-up against Wolves, especially at Goodison Park last week. I can’t help think that a side like Everton should go at Wolves at home, especially if wanting to improve on last season’s position. This week they play Villa who I saw get stuffed by Newcastle last week. Don’t get me wrong Newcastle were good, but Villa were awful – they need a manager in and fast. I think both Merseyside clubs will win this weekend so have taken Fred’s price of 5/2 about the Mersey Double – that looks good value to me.
Dave Prentice: Dr Everton’s latest passion is a must for Blues fans
Aug 27 2010 by David Prentice, Liverpool Echo
LIKE the football club he adores, Dr David France has enjoyed a colourful, a successful, and an occasionally traumatic history. Serious ill health means the good doctor has just endured what could perhaps be coined his ‘Mike Walker’ phase.
But now he’s bouncing back and set to enjoy a ‘Joe Royle’ spell. The man who put together the staggering Everton Collection, set up the Everton Former Players Foundation, created the Gwladys Street Hall of Fame and has authored a remarkable number of Everton books (spot the common theme?) hasn’t decided to slip quietly into retirement just yet. David’s latest project is a semi-autobiographical masterpiece – already approaching 900 pages – which will feature a description of every single player who has appeared in five or more games for his beloved Blues.
The volume, entitled appropriately enough ‘Everton Crazy’ will not only carry a description, but also a faithfully rendered caricature etched by his long-time illustrator, Peter King. The five match criteria happily means no slots for Glenn Keeley, Per Kroldrup or Sander Westerveld. But there will be a profile for plenty of more deserving Evertonians who may otherwise have been lost in the mists of time.
Dr France himself, meanwhile, would like to reassure Blues that while he has been in and out of hospitals on the US mainland throughout the past 12 months, he is still busy and has been humbled by the support and best wishes of his fellow Blues.
Good health and good luck David.
Gareth Bale’s no Kevin Sheedy
THE hype which accompanied Gareth Bale’s delicious volley last weekend was very Sky-driven, very 2010. When I finally saw the goal having heard, read and seen so many rave review, two words sprang instantly to mind. Kevin Sheedy. Except Sheedy used to do that four or five times a season. Really.
Liverpool FC and Everton FC legends line up for Jamie Carragher testimonial
Aug 27 2010 by Dominic King, Liverpool Echo
A RAFT of Liverpool favourites will pull on red shirts once again next Saturday to help Jamie Carragher celebrate his glittering Anfield career. Carragher’s eagerly-awaited testimonial game against Everton takes place on September 4 and the Liverpool side that will line up against the Blues will feature several faces who shared in some of the defender’s greatest moments. Michael Owen and Emile Heskey will reprise their double act from the treble winning season of 2000/01, wearing the numbers – 10 and eight respectively – with which they were synonymous during that glorious campaign. Steven Finnan, a mainstay of the teams that won the Champions League in 2005 and the FA Cup 12 months later, will slot in on the right side of Liverpool’s defence, while Jerzy Dudek – one of the heroes from an unforgettable night in Istanbul – will stand between the posts once more. Danny Murphy will be pulling the strings in midfield, while Stephen Wright, Stephen Warnock, David Thompson and Jason McAteer will be involved, as will Jamie Redknapp; commitments overseas, unfortunately, have prevented Steve McManaman and Robbie Fowler from taking part. Everton boss David Moyes has promised to pick a strong team for the game, which kicks off at 2pm, and it is understood that attempts have been made to see if Duncan Ferguson – with whom Carragher enjoyed many fierce battles – will pull on a blue shirt again. In the directors box, meanwhile, a number of faces who helped nurture Carragher from promising novice to world class defender will be evident, as men such as Gerard Houllier, Rafa Benitez, Ronnie Moran, Hughie Macauley, Phil Thompson and Roy Evans have been invited.Tickets are selling well for the contest – it is the first time since Bruce Grobbelaar’s benefit game ended in a 2-2 draw in October 1992 that Liverpool and Everton have faced each other in a testimonial – and every penny raised will go to charities in Merseyside through the 23 Foundation. Tickets can be bought from the tickets offices at both Anfield and Goodison and also from the Liverpool Club Shop at Liverpool One in the city centre.
There will be free entry to all members of the armed forces from Merseyside who have served in Afghanistan and Iraq and a number of tickets have gone to the 1,900 charitable organisations in the region. The theme of the day will be very much centred towards family and Carragher is hoping to see the stands packed with youngsters; in keeping with that, every member of Liverpool and Everton’s Academy have been invited Carragher, who has made 635 appearances for Liverpool since coming on as a substitute against Middlesbrough in January 1997, is also holding a gala dinner at the Echo Arena convention centre and 20 tables have been added to the original floor plan of 60 due to demand. Again, all money will go to charity and the night will be hosted by John Bishop; music will be provided by James Walsh from Starsailor, Ian Broudie, The Coral and The Bluetones, while among the unique auction prizes are two Gold discs donated by Noel Gallagher. Tables of 10 cost between £2,000 and £4,000, while there is also an opportunity to buy single seats, the prices of which range from £200 to £400; all enquiries should address to Stacey Koks by emailing info@23foundation.com or calling 0151 236 2025.
Howard Kendall; David Moyes will prove doubters of his Everton FC squad selection wrong
Aug 27 2010 Liverpool Echo
DAVID MOYES has enough healthy options within his squad now that he is finding himself in a no-win situation with some supporters. If he sends out one side and doesn’t get a result fans immediately point the finger at his selection process and begin to say he’s putting out the wrong teams. They will want to know why Rodwell isn’t starting all the time or why Beckford didn’t stay on the field longer against Wolves. But the manager makes his decisions for reasons many of the supporters aren’t privy to and they’ve got to trust in him and his knowledge. I’m sure it will settle down when the results start getting more positive though. If it had been a 1-0 victory over Wolves you wouldn’t have heard so many grumbles, make no mistake. There might have been one or two who complained that there weren’t more goals, but that’s it. Perhaps the number of goals flying in elsewhere in the Premier League has raised expectations, but that has a lot to do with the quality of opponents. There aren’t many teams, in fact I’d be shocked if there were any, who thrash Blackburn and Wolves. They are actually two of the tougher fixtures you could have got. Wigan, for example, have a good manager in Roberto Martinez but he is still trying to play nice football, and if you do that with an average squad in the top flight you must expect the odd hammering. The goals will come for Everton, and Aston Villa could be the ideal opponents as they continue to miss Martin O’Neill more than James Milner or Gareth Barry. * I CAN understand why John Heitinga’s team-mates allowed him to take the penalty which he missed against Huddersfield. It was a chance for him to score his first proper goal for the club and make up for an unfortunate own goal. But I’m not convinced David Moyes would have been too thrilled. It reminds me of Nani missing a spot kick last weekend for Manchester United. Alex Ferguson said he thought Ryan Giggs should have taken it! Surely the taker is appointed before the game.
David Moyes has got it right with Jack Rodwell
JACK RODWELL showed with his goal against Huddersfield Town that he can play the attacking midfield role with aplomb. I won’t be surprised if David Moyes continues to nurse him, in a similar way to which he worked with Wayne Rooney when he was emerging. That hardly did Wayne any harm did it? But having said that, there will come a time when David Moyes selects Jack Rodwell and 10 others. He really does have the potential to be the first name on the manager’s team sheet. Fans have got to be patient, like the lad himself, and accept that he’s 19 and he will establish himself when the time is right. Jack is a world class talent – having him on the bench shows the quality Moyes finally has.
Everton FC star Jack Rodwell inspired by David Moyes’ history lesson team talk
Aug 27 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
JACK RODWELL has revealed his determination to make his mark on Everton’s history – after a stark message from David Moyes. Ahead of Wednesday night’s Carling Cup clash with Huddersfield Town the Blues boss unveiled the Everton time line mural, a pictorial history of the club that’s wrapped around Goodison Park.
And he immediately took the inspiration from it into the dressing room for his team talk, inspiring the players to a 5-1 victory that he hopes will set them on their way to some long-awaited silverware. And Rodwell, who was among the scorers on his first appearance of the campaign, is relishing the prospect of etching his own image onto the Goodison decoration – because at the moment the class of 2010 is a glaring omission. “The gaffer came in before the game and said to us all that there was a mural around the ground telling about the club’s history,” said Rodwell. “He reminded us that none of us are on it yet and made his point clear that he wants to do something this season. “That’s definitely in our thoughts. There’s always the possibility of looking at games like the Huddersfield one as a gimme, but the manager got our spirits up the right way and we went out fighting. “The cup competitions give me a real buzz. The atmosphere was brilliant against Huddersfield and it helped because of the goals. The fans are always up for it and so are we. The result will really have helped us.” Rodwell’s career is flourishing at such a rate that he barely has time to savour special moments. Such is the lot of a young man with so much talent, that no sooner had he scored his first goal for Everton in February 2009, he was signing his first major senior contract. Don’t forget, the Birkdale teenager had already represented his club in Europe by then, and England U-21 caps have followed thick and fast. This summer he scotched rumours of a potential transfer to Old Trafford or Stamford Bridge by signing another five-year deal committing his future to Goodison Park. United had hoped to lure Rodwell away from Everton as they did the 18-year-old Wayne Rooney back in 2004, with Arsène Wenger also a keen admirer of a player comfortable both in central defence and midfield, but Moyes managed to persuade the teenager that he will benefit more from regular first-team football at the club.
Yet despite all this, when he thinks back about a whirlwind two years; February 2009 holds a special place in his memory. That first goal in royal blue came against Aston Villa, the Toffees’ opponents on Sunday, and Rodwell hopes to turn back the clock at Villa Park. “I’ve got great memories of Villa,” he says, recalling that strike which set the Blues on their way to Wembley twice and within touching distance of the FA Cup.
“It was nice for my first goal to come in the FA Cup. If I could do that again this weekend in the league though it’d be brilliant. “It’s weird – it doesn’t seem like two years ago. It’s flown by and there’s been an awful lot of football for me in the meantime. I’ve come on leaps and bounds since then and hopefully I can only keep on improving.” But despite suggesting in recent displays that he can operate in attacking midfield, as well as in defence and defensive midfield, Rodwell knows that first team places are at a premium. The Gwladys Street may be full of incessant calls for the teenager to become a regular, but the man himself has a philosophical approach hinting at a maturity beyond his years. “I know I’m not guaranteed to start – We’ve got such a big squad now and competition for places but I’d love to score against them again. “But whoever is left out of the team will support the lads who get picked. That’s the type of squad we’ve got here. “It’s frustrating being sat on the bench but I’m still young, I’m still learning. The big squad will come into play when the games come thick and fast. “There will be injuries and suspensions and hopefully I can play a lot of games this season.” Rodwell is determined that he can take the same spirit to the Midlands, and finally kick start Everton’s season against a side still reeling from their 6-0 thumping at the hands of Newcastle United last weekend. “We'll be going to Villa with the same attitude looking to take all three points and get our Premier League season really going.”
Dave Prentice: Time for Everton FC to make some modern history
Aug 27 2010 by David Prentice, Liverpool Echo
EVERTON are often accused of living in the past. And with no silverware to celebrate for 15 years now, the club is sometimes criticised for dragging up former glories by way of scant compensation. But those critics miss the point. Not to celebrate Everton’s outstanding achievements would be the real crime.
Which is why the Timeline unveiled at Goodison Park on Wednesday is such a stirring idea. A collection of resonant images depicting significant moments from the history of one of English football’s most celebrated clubs, the Timeline stretches around the perimeter of the arena where so many of those memories were created – and allows fans to take an evocative walk around 132 years of Everton history.
And while a football club’s past achievements can sometimes act as a millstone – remember Manchester United’s 26 title-less years – they can also be an incentive.
If Goodison’s current custodians want a pointer to what is expected from then, they need only take a stroll around the stadium. Those images can act as a call to the present playing staff to create some new history – and there have been signs in recent years that the Blues are getting closer to that target than they have been for years.
A semi-final in 2008, a Cup Final in 2009 – David Moyes finally discovered the significance of having a strong squad to select from on Wednesday night. Early Carling Cup rounds have proved troublesome to the Blues in the past. Not this week.
Against ambitious and enterprising League One visitors, Jack Rodwell came in for his first start of the season – and looked desperate to impress. Seamus Coleman made his first appearance – and lived up to his new Sergio Ramos tag. New goalkeeper Jan Mucha looked solid and impressive. While Louis Saha was left to stew on the bench, so that when he was introduced as a substitute he scored with his first touch.
Of course that squad strength then places greater pressure on the man tasked with managing it. But it’s a situation David Moyes has created – and relishes. While the exterior of Goodison Park celebrates past histories, it’s time for the interior to house history in the making. When Royal Blue Skies were Gray SKY’S transfer deadline clock is ticking, and the bizarre phone calls have already started to entertain the Echo sportsdesk. The following are all genuine calls taken by sports reporters at Old Hall Street. “Hey mate, I’ve just seen that Georgie Weah getting off a train at Lime Street. Yeah. Big, tall blond lad. When’s he signing for Liverpool?” Or “When’s Peter Beardsley signing for Leeds? My mate works at a garage and he’s just seen a car with his name and Leeds spray painted on the side.” And my favourite: “When’s the press conference. chief? I’ve heard Ian Rush is signing for Everton tomorrow.” Believe it or not, we dutifully check out every tip, regardless of how bizarre they sound. And Andy Gray’s to blame. Back in 1983 our then Everton correspondent, Ken Rogers, fielded a phone call from an enthusiastic Evertonian who declared: “I’ve just seen that Andy Gray walking into Goodison. What’s he doing there?” When Ken called Everton’s then Chief Executive, Jim Greenwood, to ask, he was met with the reply “Ermm. Call me back in an hour, Ken. We might have something for you.” And how!
Everton FC midfielder Leon Osman wary of the Aston Villa backlash
Aug 27 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
LEON OSMAN has warned his Everton team-mates to be wary of an Aston Villa backlash. The Toffees travel to Villa Park on Sunday in search of their first Premier League win of the season, but face opponents still smarting after their 6-0 thrashing last Sunday and last night’s Europa League exit. Villa are in disarray after the exits of manager Martin O’Neill and midfielder James Milner, but Osman stressed the blues still face a tough test from a side that finished sixth last season. The 29-year-old said: “That results they had this week probably makes it more difficult for us. “They will be a bit wounded and will want to come out and show it was a one-off. We are going in there confident and hopefully we can come away with the right result. It has not been the perfect start so the sooner we put that right the better.” Osman admitted the Toffees have not had the perfect start to the season, but said the competition for places in the current squad will ensure nobody loses heart. He said: “Any team just wants to get that first win under their belts. We’ve done that now so we can look onwards and push on. “The Blackburn and Wolves results were frustrating but the season is still young - we are not losing our heads at the minute. “It is not the perfect start we wanted but we have got a lot of games to put that right in. “It’s a headache he (Moyes) wants. We are all firing and all scoring and popping up with performances. “It’s a great credit to the players that we are all fighting to get in that starting XI. It is quite a big squad and we are starting to get it together here now. “Everyone wants to be in that starting XI - that is a nice thing to have and hopefully that will push us on.”
Meanwhile Louis Saha has been called up to the France squad for the Euro 2012 qualifiers against Belarus and Bosnia-Herzegovina. Les Bleus coach Laurent Blanc has opted for Saha, as the French prepare for the double-header next month, taking on Belarus on September 3 and Bosnia four days later. Another player making a return to a blue shirt is Lee Carsley. The hugely popular midfielder, currently at Coventry City, has accepted an invitation to play for The Toffees in Jamie Carragher’s testimonial game at Anfield on Saturday September 4. The midfielder is fondly remembered for his winning Merseyside derby goal in 2004 at Goodison Park and he admitted that he can’t wait to wear the royal blue jersey again. He said: “I was delighted to be asked.
“Everyone knows how much I loved it at Everton and although this is a friendly match, it will be terrific to be involved again.”
Blue watch: Everton FC enjoy Carling Cup night, unlike memories from a decade ago
Aug 27 2010 Mark O'Brien Liverpool Daily Post
THERE was a time when facing teams from the lower divisions in the League Cup meant only heartache and humiliation at Goodison Park, and some of the memories still make Evertonians wince. Losing at home to Oxford United in 1999, for instance, was pretty dreadful. And even worse was the night in 2001 when Ibrahima Bakayoko was so bemused as he was press-ganged into taking a penalty against Sunderland that the referee had to instruct him that he couldn’t proceed until he took his training top off. Heady days indeed. However, the Blues have improved immeasurably since those dark days and, if the truth be known, the gap in quality between the Premier League and the rest of English football increases markedly every season. You only have to look at Huddersfield Town, one of the clubs fancied for promotion of Division One this season, to realise the type of player that the managers are working with at that level now. Despite having a really good go against Everton on Wednesday night they simply couldn’t compete.In fact, the Chilean Everton would probably have given the game Yorkshiremen a run for their money. That’s not to take anything away from the Toffees’ performance though, as the night went almost perfectly for everyone apart from Johnny Heitinga. It’s testament to the quality of the Everton players that a side missing the likes of Mikel Arteta, Tim Cahill and Phil Jagielka, and containing a number of youngsters still managed to play attractive, effective football throughout.
That hasn’t always been the case in the past when Moyes has rested players for cup games. There were encouraging performances throughout the side, but the one who provoked the most discussion afterwards though was Seamus Coleman. The Irishman just got better as the game went on, relentlessly pushing down the right wing – the big question, clearly, is whether he can do the same consistently in the Premier League.
Did he do enough against limited opposition to start the big game at Villa Park on Sunday? Only Moyes knows, and we have to trust his judgement. If Coleman continues to progress at the same rate though, it surely won’t be too long before Moyes simply has no option but to make him first choice.
‘Intelligent’ Magaye Gueye tipped to be a big hit at Everton FC
Aug 27 2010 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
ŠMAGAYE GUEYE has been backed to become a success at Everton following an impressive full debut for his new club. Gueye, who was signed from Strasbourg for £1million earlier this summer, enjoyed an encouraging pre-season and was handed a first start in Wednesday's Carling Cup romp against Huddersfield Town at Goodison.
The 20-year-old created the first goal for Marouane Fellaini in the 5-1 victory and earned the praise of an appreciative home crowd. And while admitting it will take time for Gueye to become accustomed to the hurly burly of English football, Everton assistant manager Steve Round is confident the player can make his mark at Goodison. “Magaye is a young French player we have taken and one player we feel has great potential, but it will take a while for him to come through,” said Round.
“We will persevere with him and hopefully see more of him as the season goes on.
“He's got very good quality and we saw that with the cross for the first goal against Huddersfield. “He is an intelligent player and when he gets the physical aspect of the game I think he will come through and be a very good player for Everton.” Louis Saha, who scored his first goal of the season in midweek, has been handed a surprise recall to the French squad for next month's Euro 2012 qualifiers against Belarus and Bosnia. New national team coach Laurent Blanc has included only nine players that represented the country in the World Cup. Saha was named in the provisional squad for those finals but failed to make the final cut. The 32-year-old striker is now hopeful of making his first international appearance in nearly four years. ŠEverton will hope Wednesday's thumping victory can kickstart their spluttering Premier League campaign, with David Moyes's side seeking their first top-flight victory.
ŠThey travel on Sunday to Aston Villa, who were thrashed 6-0 at Newcastle United in their last domestic game. And Leon Osman is wary of a backlash when Everton travel to a team still without a full-time manager following the departure of Martin O'Neill earlier this month “That result they had at the weekend probably makes it more difficult for us,” said the 29-year-old midfielder. “They will be a bit wounded and will want to come out and show it was a one-off. “We are going in there confident and hopefully we can come away with the right result. It has not been the perfect start so the sooner we put that right the better. “But any team just wants to get that first win under their belts. We've done that now so we can look onwards and push on.”
Greg O'Keeffe: Everton FC cannot let tough opponents become their downfall
Aug 28 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
THERE was a time when Evertonians would grab the new fixture list to excitedly scan it for clashes with Sky’s big four. Supporters could run their fingers through the games, mentally awarding points where predicted victories would come, and there was always pause for thought over visits to those cathedrals of football in Manchester or North London. Similarly they had to concede that points at Stamford Bridge or White Hart Lane would be a bonus – and even comfortably beating any of these sides at Goodison was a lottery with improbable odds. But such were performances last season, a well-earned point against Chelsea, unlucky to draw at the Emirates, victories at Goodison over United and Carlo Ancelotti’s eventual champions, perceptions have shifted. Suddenly Blues are relishing visits of the top clubs; most know that wins are far from guaranteed but there is a new optimism for enthralling games and score lines to rock the Premier League once again. Oddly, the emerging worry is that the new places to fear are in some very unlikely quarters. For unlikely, read Stoke’s Britannia Stadium, Ewood Park, The Reebok Stadium and Molyneux. Sides which usually make up the stodgy middle tier of the top flight are in danger of becoming Everton’s Achille’s Heel. On the surface, the fixture computer seemed to have handed Everton a charitable opening run of games with Blackburn and Wolves but David Moyes knew the opposite. Look at Everton’s form against such sides last season. Scrappy draws home and away with Wolves and Stoke, defeat in Bolton and a last-gasp and hard-earned victory at Ewood Park. Nobody needs reminding of the underwhelming nature of the Toffees recent struggles with Mick McCarthy and Sam Allardyce’s sides.
The concern then is that Everton are forgetting how to play sides who defend with men behind the ball, relish a bloodthirsty scrap for every ball and close down their better players relentlessly.
At Ewood Park, Allardyce shackled Mikel Arteta for most of the game by playing Phil Jones, a no-nonsense centre half, as his extra man in midfield. Pretty? It was about as picturesque as walking in on Big Sam on the toilet reading the Daily Star. Effective? Certainly.
Even when Blackburn’s high tempo dropped in the last quarter, Everton were unable to break down their stoic back four.
Then when Wolves came to town, the Blues might have created more than enough chances to kill the game in the first half but they converted only one. Not enough, and when Wolves started scrapping it was too much for David Moyes’ side. Conversely, Manchester United suffered at Goodison last season for allowing Everton to flourish. Such was their belief that they could out play the Blues, they let them pass to their eventual dismay. It’s an odd predicament. For so long Everton have been stifled with the patronising tag of battlers. From Joe Royle’s Dogs of War, to the Moyes side which finished fourth in 2005, pundits have always referred to the Toffees work-rate, combativeness and discipline. Last season things started to change. Suddenly their football was winning the plaudits, and it was music to the supporters’ ears.
Phases of play against Alex Ferguson’s side and Chelsea were making purists sit up and pay attention. Their summary? At long last, Everton could play – the school of science was ready to take down the shutters. But it’s important for the current squad to recall collectively that such acclaimed football was built on a platform of hard work.
They built their own stage to play by mixing it up. As Leighton Baines recalled when we chatted a few weeks ago, it was Everton’s ability to do the rough stuff and the elegance which was separating them from other sides. As talented as Everton’s midfield artisans currently are, the club’s fortunes this season could be decided on how strongly men like John Heitinga and Marouane Fellaini are able to reassert their influence. An early crunching tackle from either men can set the tone in games against more obdurate sides, while the rest of the midfield close down and harry the opposition like they would have down once against Manchester United.
When their opponents have realised they are not facing soft touches, their heads can drop and hearts can sink – viva Arteta and Pienaar. There are so many tough, well organised, powerful teams out there – it is the default setting for any seasoned manager who wants to keep his club in the Premier League without a mega budget. Everton can’t let such outfits become their bogeymen or they will not be able to threaten the top five. If they can find that perfect mix once again, however, there could be no stopping them.
David Moyes hoping for a spot-kick rethink in future
THERE was no escaping the irony of John Heitinga’s unfortunate penalty miss at Goodison on Wednesday. All week the Dutchman had predicted he was on the brink of scoring - first he put it into his own net earlier in the clash with Huddersfield, and then his spot kick was saved. Regular readers of this column will recall I have banned myself from criticising penalty misses after my howler at the same end in a fun media game impressed upon me the difficulty of doing the business at the Gwladys Street.
Although he won’t lose any sleep over it, David Moyes was not best pleased with the well-intentioned decision by the lads on the night to let Heitinga take the kick either.
“I wasn’t overly pleased but it didn’t matter on the night,” he said. “The players know who’s involved with penalty kicks. I said to them it reminded me of schoolboys running after the ball saying it’s mine, it’s my turn. I didn’t like the look of it. But then I don’t want to discourage someone who’s ultimately confident of scoring a penalty kick. “The players know who should have been doing what. I was more disappointed that the people who knew the running order let him take it. It would be practise for them. “No big issue, it just didn’t look great.”
Barry Horne: Everton FC can pile on the misery for Aston Villa
Aug 28 2010 by Barry Horne, Liverpool Echo
EVERTON should take a lot of confidence from the convincing Carling Cup victory over Huddersfield in midweek. It was really pleasing to see five different attacking players get on the scoresheet. I know it was against lower league opposition but it’s always a relief to get off the mark for the season. The most satisfying part was the performance of those young players who haven’t had a chance to shine in the Premier League so far this season. Jack Rodwell and Seamus Coleman were excellent, while Magaye Gueye showed some flashes of class and produced a wonderful cross for the opening goal. It was no surprise to see Rodwell and Coleman play so well because we all know they are two stars of the future. But to come in and grab their opportunity like that showed real quality and character. They are both knocking hard on the door ahead of tomorrow’s league trip to Villa Park.It’s good for the manager to have such competition for places and I can’t remember a time when the quality of the squad was so high. Villa have fallen apart in their last two games and are vulnerable. If we start well we should be able to get the result we all want.
Fabio Capello hasn’t learned his lesson
IT seems that England boss Fabio Capello hasn’t heeded the advice he got after the World Cup about improving his man management skills. After a week when Paul Scholes produced two man of the match performances, Capello announced in the press that if the midfielder wants to play for England again he should contact the FA.
Scholes has already said that if Capello had called him before the World Cup he probably would have come out of international retirement. I can’t believe that Capello still doesn’t think it would be worth his while putting that call in!
Everton FC manager David Moyes hails the bravery of Marouane Fellaini
Aug 28 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
FOR A no-nonsense former centre-half like David Moyes, bravery is a quality he habitually expects from his players. So for the Scot to credit an individual for being tough, it means they must be doing something right. But even the Everton boss doffs his cap to Marouane Fellaini, and the fearless way he has returned to first team action since recovering from a serious ankle injury sustained in the Anfield derby last season.
Fellaini was his manager’s pick of the bunch in their successful Carling cup tie against Huddersfield Town on Wednesday night, and the big Belgian scored the opening goal which set the Blues on their way to a rout. For Moyes, it was a heartening sign that the 22-year-old is edging closer to the form which moved him to say his £15m capture from Standard Liege was as good as any other midfielder in the Premier League.
“He looked much better on Wednesday night. Felli did a really good job for us against Blackburn, but we asked him to do a specific job and deal with a lot of the high balls even though he wasn’t really ready,” says Moyes. “I know a lot of other people said there were other people on Wednesday night, but for me Fellaini was the pick on the pitch. “He’d had a really bad injury – the same one Van Persie had for Arsenal, and they were done by the same surgeon. “Since I’ve seen him back training though, he’s never for one minute looked at his ankle. He’s not feeling it all the time or playing with it in training. “It’s as if it never happened so good on him. The medical team here, even Mick Rathbone before he left, have all said he’s the best patient they’ve had to work with. “It was incredible the work he’s done and how he’s got himself in condition, always putting in the work non-stop. “He needs credit for getting himself back so quickly, we weren’t expecting him back until after this international break really. “He’s in great nick and wants to play. “With serious injuries we let them go home for rehab but we make sure we veto who they’re working with. We have to know it’s the right set-up but we want them to feel happy with their rehab, and I think if you do that in the end they respect what you’re trying to do by doing the best for them. “I said before he got injured I thought he was as good as any midfield player in the league. His stature, his style, is something everyone would like. He can do several jobs and I think he’s a top modern player. “We’re talking about a real youngster here too.” Such is Fellaini’s all-encompassing ability, he is the kind of defensive midfielder Fabio Capello could one day wish was born in Liverpool, not Belgium. “If you’re thinking about England they’re crying out for defensive midfield players,” says Moyes. “They don't have a natural holding player. I don't even think Gareth Barry is that type, at his best he was playing down the left flank and joining in. “Maybe Owen Hargreaves at his best, but England would love someone like Felli; young, up and coming, six feet plus, comfortable on the ball, good in both boxes, a good passer. He’s got the makings of a top player. “I don't know how many games it’ll take him to get back to his peak. He did the job at Blackburn, but then the other night he took a great goal and got on the end of a nice cross.” Fellaini is certainly in contention for another start against Aston Villa on Sunday, a clash which Moyes does not believe is tipped in his favour despite the Villain’s woes. Freshly dumped out of Europe and smarting still from that 6-0 thrashing by Newcastle United, they are in a dark place. “I just see the same Villa players who played last year. I know Milner’s gone and he’ll be a big miss but roughly you’re playing the same team,” says Moyes. “I know there’s been a change at the helm but I can’t see them being weakened. They had a great start against West Ham at home and nobody was saying anything. “Then they had a good result away in Austria with a younger team, but came back and had that shock result against Newcastle. They went out last night and it’s now folk looking to see if there’s a problem – but a week ago people were saying they were fine. “I do see where things can overshadow your start. There’s a sense when the window shuts that you say thank goodness that’s done, now we can concentrate on what we’ve got and finding results from the group we have whether there’s signings or injuries. Maybe some of them are saying I can’t get out of here now, that’s the way it’s going to be. “All games are crucial and you don't know whether this will determine the final outcome, but we’ll do everything to win.”
Everton FC boss David Moyes tips Jack Rodwell to emulate Tim Cahill
Aug 28 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe
DAVID MOYES has tipped Jack Rodwell to become as potent a goal threat for Everton as Tim Cahill. The Everton boss believes that the teenager’s conversion to an attacking midfielder has been so successful, he could even prove an eventual threat to the Aussie’s starting place. It is no small compliment from the Goodison boss, who rates Cahill, with 57 goals in Royal Blue, as one of his greatest ever signings.
But Moyes warned that for now Rodwell, who scored against Huddersfield in the Carling Cup on Wednesday, may have to bide his time. He said: “He’s probably more of a threat at the top end of the pitch where he could threaten the likes of Tim Cahill because he looks like he can run, come in from deep and score. “It’s a while since we’ve had someone at Everton who can score from shots outside the box and I think Jack can do that as well. “He’s got a smell for a goal a wee bit. He’s doing well going forward, but it’s been difficult to accommodate him because we’ve got a big selection of midfield players. “We’ve talked about Fellaini, and we’ve got Mikel Arteta and Tim Cahill. We might need to find a role for Jack, or he may have to bide his time and get through when he can.” Moyes admits he was forced to play Rodwell more than he intended to last season due to the well-documented injury crisis. He said: “I played Jack in the opening 10 or 15 games last year, and really he was probably the shining player for us because we didn’t have a lot at the time. “But in truth I probably shouldn’t have been putting him in so often. I didn’t have anyone else and I probably overplayed him. “Since then he’s matured no end. He’s come on a ton and bits of his game have sharpened. Physically he’s much stronger. He always had good composure on the ball. “And I think we’ve also realised he’s not ready to be an out and out defensive midfield player like we’ve talked about yet.” Meanwhile, Moyes is determined to be patient with Seamus Coleman as the Irish Under-21 international continues his development. Coleman plenty of praise for his second-half showing in the victory over Huddersfield. But although Moyes understands why the defender has become a fans’ favourite, he stressed that there are areas of his defensive game that need to be honed. He said: “The age of a player doesn’t matter, you should be looking at the last performance. If they are good enough and playing well enough, then I will put them in. It comes down to my decision. “I thought Jack Rodwell played very well the other night. I thought Seamus, in the first half, was very poor. He gave away the goal and nearly led to another goal. “But his performance in the second half improved. They are the things I have to tell the players and I told Seamus at half-time and his performance picked up no end in the second half. But Jack was solid all the way through. “Seamus processed what was said to him at half-time and showed what he should have been doing, and he made sure he forced the winger to defend rather than him having to defend all the time in the second half. “Seamus has a long-term future at Everton without a doubt. Whether it is on Sunday is a different matter.” Moyes will be without his Nigerian contingent for the trip to Aston Villa – as Phil Neville continues his battle to overcome a foot problem. Victor Anichebe, who has been missing since the start of the season because of a knee problem, has been joined on the sidelines by fellow internationals Joseph Yobo and Yakubu ahead of Sunday’s trip to Villa Park.
Aston Villa v Everton: Mat Kendrick's pre-match notes
Aug 27 2010
WHO’S HOT: Randy Lerner’s phone – It promises to be a busy couple of weeks as the new manager search intensifies. WHO’S NOT: Gabby Agbonlahor – The Brummie striker got injured again after scoring on his comeback.
LAST FIVE GAMES
VILLA DWDLL
EVERTON LLLDW
VILLA (from): Friedel, Guzan, Cuellar, L Young, Warnock, Collins, Dunne, Davies, Beye, Petrov, Ireland, Reo-Coker, Downing, A Young, Carew, Heskey, Delfouneso, Albrighton. Injured: Delph (knee), Sidwell (Achilles), Agbonlahor (calf), Wiemann (ankle).
THE OPPOSITION: After starting the Premier League season with a disappointing defeat at Blackburn and home draw with Wolves, Everton enjoyed a confidence-boosting Carling Cup win over Huddersfield.
Referee: M Jones (Cheshire).
England boss Fabio Capello approaches Spanish midfielder Mikel Arteta
By Matt Lawton
28th August 2010 The Mail
Controversial move: Mikel Arteta could apply for British citizenship and play for EnglandFabio Capello has approached Mikel Arteta about playing for England.
Everton's Spanish midfielder informed the England manager he would not be available for selection for at least six months because he has not yet applied for British citizenship, and for that reason Capello has not yet raised the issue with the FA. But the fact that the Italian has even spoken to Arteta - it is understood they spoke when Capello attended a recent match at Goodison Park - could invite fresh criticism when the issue of selecting foreign players for the national team is so emotive.
Arteta, 28, was born in San Sebastian but is now taking advice on whether to pursue citizenship in this country on residency grounds. Although the process can be accelerated for footballers, it could still take six to nine months, possibly even a year, before he would be available for selection. In a statement yesterday, the FA said: 'We have not discussed the matter as a policy, as we have not been in a position where the manager wants to select a ''dual passport player''.' David Stockdale's rise from obscurity to Fulham No 1 is expected to be rewarded with a call-up to the England squad, due to be named tomorrow evening. The goalkeeper, 24, has only played three Premier League games but impressed Capello in Fulham's 2-2 draw with Manchester United at Craven Cottage last Sunday. And with Robert Green, who needs surgery, unavailable Capello's choices limited beyond Joe Hart and Ben Foster - for the Hungary game he had to recruit Blackburn No 3 Frank Fielding and Watford's Scott Loach - he wants to make Stockdale his third choice. Peter Crouch's outstanding form for Tottenham will earn him a recall after missing out on the squad for the friendly against Hungary earlier this month but the FA expect his Spurs clubmate Jermain Defoe to miss the games because of an ongoing groin problem. Joe Cole faces being ignored again, with Aston Villa's Ashley Young and Manchester City's Adam Johnson probably preferred. Having made it clear he is not interested in coming out of international retirement, Paul Scholes will also be overlooked. Capello has opted to prepare for Friday's game against Bulgaria
Aston Villa 1, Everton FC 0: Blues still searching for first Premier League win of season
Aug 29 2010
EVERTON are still looking for their first league win of the season after a second-half onslaught failed to prevent defeat at Aston Villa. Luke Young scored his first goal for nearly two years to boost caretaker boss Kevin MacDonald’s chances of becoming Martin O’Neill’s successor. The former England defender, who rejected a move to Liverpool earlier this month, dealt a blow to the other side of Merseyside with his ninth-minute winner. It was Villa’s second league win under MacDonald as they bounced back from their Europa League exit at the hands of Rapid Vienna.
Villa had leaked nine goals in their previous two matches, include a 6-0 mauling by Newcastle at St James’ Park. But they managed to hold on for a clean sheet despite being on the defensive for lengthy periods. Everton dominated for lengthy spells in terms of possession with Mikel Arteta pulling the strings in the middle of the park.
But they lacked a cutting edge until Louis Saha was brought on early in the second period. It means Everton are still searching for their first win of the campaign and have collected only one point from a possible nine. Ashley Young posed the biggest threat for Villa while Nigel Reo-Coker - a late replacement for Stephen Ireland after he was injured in the warm-up - made his presence felt in midfield. The visitors, searching for their first league win of the campaign, started the brighter of the two teams. But after nine minutes Villa took the lead through Luke Young’s second goal for the club since his move from Middlesbrough in the summer of 2008.
John Carew headed the ball into the path of Ashley Young who held the ball up before releasing Luke Young. He kept his nerve before driving a left-footed shot wide of Tim Howard. Everton tried to retaliate and Dunne was booked for body checking Jermaine Beckford 25 yards from the Villa goal. Arteta curled the free-kick over the defensive wall although Brad Friedel made a comfortable enough save. But the veteran keeper was beaten in the 18th minute by Pienaar’s curling effort from the edge of the box which crashed against the crossbar.
Marouane Fellaini got on the end of a hanging centre from Baines but his header lacked direction or power. Everton recovered well from their setback and started to enjoy the lion’s share of possession with Baines and Hibbert getting forward to good effect. Everton forced six corners by the half-hour mark compared to Villa’s one.
Marc Albrighton tried his luck from 20 yards out and his shot cannoned off Sylvain Distin for a corner. Villa appealed in vain for a penalty in injury-time after a challenge from behind on Albrighton by Pienaar following a darting run. Villa began the second half in a more positive vein and Carew was not far off target with a glancing header from Ashley Young’s right-wing cross. Ashley Young then made a probing run forward in a quickfire counter-attack before striking his 20-yard effort just past the post. David Moyes made his first substitution after 56 minutes with the ineffective Beckford replaced by Saha. Tim Howard made a fine double save to keep out Carew’s cross shot and the follow-up attempt from Ashley Young. At the other end Friedel also excelled to keep out Saha’s volley while Jack Rodwell’s header flashed wide from a Arteta free-kick. Collins and Albrighton were booked in quick succession for fouls on Cahill and Baines respectively. Villa striker Gabriel Agbonlahor came on in place of Carew after 68 minutes while Rodwell made way for Seamus Coleman two minutes later. Albrighton should have made it 2-0 but shot over with the goal at his mercy after Howard had parried Ashley Young’s shot. Villa skipper Stiliyan Petrov was yellow carded for a challenge on Pienaar and Moyes brought off Hibbert for John Heitinga with 10 minutes remaining. Phil Jagielka headed over from Arteta’s corner as Villa held on desperately in the closing stages.
David Moyes frustrated as Everton FC slip to defeat at Aston Villa
Aug 30 2010 by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Echo
EVERTON boss David Moyes was left to rue his side’s inability to convert their dominance into three points as they forced 18 corners against Villa’s four.
He said: “We did enough to get something from the game, if not more than one point.
“We had dominance for most of the game but you have got to score. “We have played well in other games as well and not been able to make it count. “We were getting into the final third but then not creating well enough or making situations into better opportunities. “I can’t believe we lost it. I thought from first minute to last we were in control of the game. “We have to give Aston Villa a lot of credit for how they defended. “We have been playing well but not scoring goals. I have no complaints about the players today. They went about their jobs excellently but we just cannot get the ball in the net at the moment. “I think the players are playing well enough to win games. We are just lacking a bit in the final third of the pitch.” Moyes confirmed central-defender Phil Jagielka suffered a foot problem which will have to be assessed.
Moyes said: “He will need to get assessed. His foot is really badly swollen.”
David Prentice: No denying stats tell unpleasant truth for Everton FC
Aug 30 2010 by David Prentice, Liverpool Echo
POSSESSION is only nine tenths of the law. Even in football. That remaining, but crucial 10 per cent, is an ability to convert possession into goals. And until Everton rediscover that knack they will continue to lose matches they have dominated.
Such was their overwhelming superiority at Villa Park yesterday that David Moyes’ side forced an astonishing 18 corners to four. Their possession of the ball was calculated at a remarkable 67 per cent. But the only statistic which matters in football read 1-0. To the team which had the ball for barely a third of a strange old football match. Everton came away with nothing. For fed up fans craving a kickstart to an already stuttering season, that’s perhaps even more frustrating than playing poorly and losing. At least then the manager can make sweeping changes. Three games in seems a recklessly early point in which to assess a team’s start to the season But the international break has created that artificial opportunity to take stock. And Everton’s problems are clear to see. They can’t provide a finish or a goal-creating pass in the final third of the field. We are told that goals are flying into Premier League nets like never before. But Everton’s Premier League record so far reads nil, one and nil.
And there haven’t been a glut of missed chances to blame for that goal drought.
Everton are piling crosses, passes and headers into the penalty area, but they aren’t making goalkeepers work hard enough or often enough. Jermaine Beckford is endlessly willing. But Louis Saha offers that gilding of class. And the difference he makes to a forward line is clear. He scored with his first touch in midweek.
His introduction, even after 55 minutes yesterday, was long overdue. And he instantly offered penetration and shots which forced Brad Friedel into scrambling saves.
But he was on his own. Yakubu was ruled out of this match with a kick received in training. Maybe a team-mate was trying to give him a kick up the backside, because his inability to find an acceptable level of fitness after his World Cup exertions prior to that training ground injury must surely be questioned. Victor Anichebe is injured and badly missed, while James Vaughan’s whereabouts is presently unknown.
And with the forwards misfiring, nobody else is chipping in with goalbound efforts.
Evertonians didn’t know what to do with themselves yesterday. Blues fans used to love a trip to Villa Park. Whether it was the endearingly familiar Achibald Leitch criss cross pattern which adorned the stands, the memory of countless Cup semi-final successes in the 80s, or the clash which all but clinched their last league title there.
But that was then. Yesterday’s defeat means that since that sunny, title-clinching afternoon in 1987, the Toffees have won just once at Villa’s splendid old stadium.
And when you consider that Villa v Everton is the most played clash in league history – proper history that is, not just recent Premier League stuff - and yesterday’s win only extended Villa’s lead to 72-70, it makes you realise how patchy Everton’s results have been in the Midlands. Before people worry unnecessarily, Aston Villa, apparently a crisis club before kick-off yesterday, saw their victory elevate them into a Champions League slot! But frustration levels are growing at Goodison. The visit of Manchester United last season seemed to confirm that the Blues were a coming force.
Their visit in a fortnight now presents an opportunity to prevent a ropy start to the season becoming wretched. David Moyes will probably settle for 33 per cent of possession, and a scrambled matchwinner off Tony Hibbert’s backside. Confidence is a notoriously fragile quality, and Everton’s is being eroded by a lack of firepower.
Aston Villa 1, Everton FC 0: Greg O'Keeffe on how a lack of goals is undermining the Blues pre-season optimism
Aug 30 2010 Liverpool Echo
AMBITIOUS football club, on the shelf for a while, bit (goal) shy, would like to meet world class centre-forward, proven fitness record, available for free in the next 24 hours. In terms of personal ads, Everton’s would have about as much chance of getting a result as John McCririck on the pull at the Women’s Institute’s annual ball.
David Moyes doesn’t need to trawl through the Pro-zone statistics to know why his side’s search for their first three points of the season goes on. If they have any chance of bidding for a top four place this season, they need goals. The Blues boss admitted before the home draw with Wolves that he wants a top class centre-forward, but has forfeited the funds to buy one by tying up key personnel in other areas on contracts instead. It’s a compromise he had to make, but unless the Scot can coax Louis Saha back to consistent form, speed Jermaine Beckford’s progress up by three months or resurrect the Yak, he might have to endure many more frustrating afternoons like this.
Managerless, bombed out of Europe and with fortunes still yo-yoing, Aston Villa should have been perfect prey for an Everton side hunting for its first Premier League scalp. Instead the Blues were toothless predators, all bark and no bite. They forced 18 corners in a largely one-sided affair, but could still not find enough to win, stretching their record at Villa Park to one victory in 23. It might be the most played fixture in top flight football, but Evertonians are becoming sick of the sight of this stately old ground. Often bracketed together as ‘the best of the rest’ aside from the Premier League’s top four, there has been little to separate Aston Villa and Everton in recent seasons. Looking resplendent all in royal blue, Everton welcomed back Phil Jagielka, Mikel Arteta and Tim Cahill after their midweek break against Huddersfield. But Moyes retained Jack Rodwell in his starting line-up, deployed on the right of midfield, to emphasis his belief in the teenager’s worth. Initially, it was Everton who seemed to take the game by the scruff of the neck. An early dashing raid down the left from Leighton Baines saw the full-back beat two men, before former Blue Richard Dunne made a last-gasp intervention. But the Toffees are used to short, sharp shocks in recent visits to Villa Park, and duly suffered another with only nine minutes gone.
Marouane Fellaini lost out, and after some incisive passing Everton’s defence obligingly opened up to allow Ashley Young to find his namesake Luke, and the right-back who turned down Liverpool ran through a worryingly large gap to finish defiantly in front of watching owner Randy Lerner. Stung into action, Everton mustered a Mikel Arteta free-kick which Brad Friedel saved smartly to his right, but were soon pegged back themselves as Villa grew in confidence. Indeed they could have been two goals down if Nigel Reo-Coker, in for Steven Ireland who was injured in the warm-up, had been more decisive when the ball fell to him on the edge of a congested area. Slowly the Blues began to win back some possession, and Steven Pienaar was unfortunate not to restore parity when he hit the bar with a ferocious curling shot after smart interplay with Leighton Baines. Jermaine Beckford blazed the rebound into row Z. It signalled Everton’s turn to dominate, reducing Villa to playing on the counter attack. Tony Hibbert nearly made the breakthrough when he burst into the area looking to cross but had his attempt blocked, and Pienaar took another pot-shot. A diving John Carew header went close for Villa after the break, then Ashley Young ended a slaloming run by shooting wide. Carew proved a handful for the visitors. He cut inside and had another shot blocked, and Tim Howard pulled off a terrific reflex save from Ashley Young’s rebound effort when Villa looked certain to double their lead. Everton went up the other end by way of retort and Fellaini’s cross was almost turned into his own net by James Collins. By now the Blues were playing like they were at home, with virtually all of the ball, but could have been sunk by another counter attack when Marc Albrighton missed an open goal. With Everton cranking up the pressure to maximum, five minutes of injury time suggested they’d finally get a lucky break. But when Louis Saha’s nice turn and crisp shot only produced an instinctive save from Brad Friedel, it wasn’t to be. Deep in thought, David Moyes strode into the dug-out immediately after the whistle with a furrowed brow. The games aren’t getting any easier, the goals still aren’t flowing, and an underwhelming start is in danger of becoming a downright awful one.
“Was it a frustrating game? Just a bit, but you need to score and we didn’t score. At the moment we can’t.” DAVID MOYES sums up his woes. “If ever supporters doubted the desire of the players to win again, then that performance will have put that belief back into them. We rode our luck a bit but had four or five decent chances and, if we had been more clinical, the score could have been 4-2 or 4-3 to us.” Stand-in Villa manager KEVIN MacDONALD reflects on his side’s desire to win.
EVERTON: Howard, Hibbert (Heitinga 75), Distin, Jagielka, Baines, Fellaini, Arteta, Rodwell (Coleman 70), Cahill, Beckford (Saha 56). Not used: Mucha, Bilyaletdinov, Gueye, Osman.
ASTON VILLA: Friedel, L Young, Warnock, Dunne, Albrighton, Downing, A Young, Reo Coker, Petrov, Collins, Carew (Agbonlahor 67). Not used: Guzan, Delfuenso, Heskey, Cuellar, Lichaj, Bannan.
GOALS: Luke Young (9).
CARDS: Aston Villa: Dunne, Collins, Albrighton, Petrov.
REFEREE: Mick Jones.
ATTENDANCE: 34,725.
Tim Howard shell-shocked by Everton FC's poor start to the season
Aug 30 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
SHELL-shocked Tim Howard today admitted he is mystified at Everton’s repeatedly poor starts to the season. The USA goalkeeper was dismayed after the Blues’ defeat by Aston Villa yesterday left them still in search of their first win and near the bottom of the Premier League table. But Howard insisted there is no time for excuses if Everton are to stop their poor start before it leaves them with too much ground to catch up on their top four rivals. He said: “I was saying to someone in the dressing room, you look at our team, and the squad we’ve assembled and this is a really, really strong team and yet there are just times when we don’t look it. “Last year when we finally hit our stride in January and February we were knocking out the top teams and we should be because of the team we have. “But for some reason, I don’t know, it’s just not happening. I don’t know why, it’s so hard to put your finger on. We’ve started slow once again, and it’s not going to get any easier. “Nobody is feeling the frustration worse than us in the dressing room. We’ve got to go in there and hang our heads, then pick ourselves up. We deserve better but you do get what you work for so we need to carry on.” Howard believes the Blues are due more luck in front of goal, but also accepts their wastefulness in the final third is haunting them.
He said: “We’ve made one or two mistakes along the way and we know if we give teams a sniff they’ll take advantage of it. We’ve made our own bad luck really.
“Against Villa we played really well, but you can only say that for so long, you have to get a result. “We just hope we get all our players back from the international break fit and then it’s Manchester United. There are a few teams talking about where they are at the moment, but at the end of the season I know where we’ll be. The results and the points need to come quickly.” Jack Rodwell hobbled off with an ankle injury at Villa Park, which will be assessed today, and Phil Jagielka also took a knock which could keep him out of Fabio Capello’s England squad for Friday’s Euro 2012 qualifier against Bulgaria. Another Everton player who will not be playing for England any time soon is midfielder Mikel Arteta. The Spaniard has denied being made an approach by Fabio Capello to consider switching allegiances from Spain to play for England when he qualifies for English citizenship. Everton travel to Bradford in the third round of the Carling Cup. Ties to be played week of September 20.
Aston Villa 1, Everton FC 0: Ian Doyle sees history repeating itself for the Blues
Aug 30 2010 Liverpool Daily Post
AT the sound of the final whistle, one by one they dropped to their knees on the turf in exhaustion, puffing out their cheeks and catching their breath having been subjected to a one-sided battering. But that these Aston Villa players could then celebrate victory said everything about another frustrating afternoon for David Moyes and his disbelieving, disconsolate Everton players. The most-played fixture in English football ended in the same old story for the Goodison outfit in the Premier League this season. Once again, a dismal failure to turn territorial advantage into tangible reward proved their undoing and means Moyes’s men are still seeking their first top-flight win of the campaign. They have only themselves to blame for this defeat. Everton appeared to take as many corners as Lewis Hamilton yesterday, 18 in all compared to Villa’s four. But while the Englishman can celebrate victory in Belgium to return to the top of the Formula One world championship, now only West Ham United and Stoke City lie below Everton in the formative Premier League table. Of course, given that this result has propelled a team as troubled as Villa into a Champions League qualification berth, there is no need to panic just yet. But after the slow starts of recent seasons and the subsequent strenuous attempts to play catch-up, there is a concern this could be history repeating for Moyes’s men. Certainly, with 67% of possession and opposing goalkeeper Brad Friedel earning his pay, there was more than a sense of deja vu of the failures against Blackburn Rovers and Wolverhampton Wanderers.
How Moyes would love to bring in a top striker before the transfer window slams shut tomorrow, a forward that could guarantee 20 goals a season and a consistent end product to his team’s neat approach play. Finances, though, dictate that simply isn’t going to happen. And now, barring an unlikely turn of events, the manager must make do until at least January. Jermaine Beckford was given another chance up front but, while an ever-willing runner, the 26-year-old appears every inch the League One player attempting a vast leap to Premier League standards. It was only when Louis Saha was belatedly introduced from the bench in the second half that Everton managed to consistently threaten Friedel. But the Frenchman hasn’t scored in the Premier League since February. And what other options does Moyes have at present? Speculation persists over Yakubu’s future, Victor Anichebe is injured while James Vaughan has fallen way out of the picture. Everton had won just one of their previous 22 visits to these parts. But having seen manager Martin O’Neill depart just days before their opening game, Villa have since lost their best player James Milner, been thrashed 6-0 at Newcastle United and, on Thursday, dumped out of the Europa League for the second successive season by Rapid Vienna. They were there for the taking. But the home side went ahead after nine minutes with a goal that would ultimately prove decisive. A Villa attack down the right should have been cut out by Marouane Fellaini. However, the Belgian slipped and John Carew headed the ball to Ashley Young who advanced and, with the Everton defence parting, the forward played a clever pass in for namesake Luke to curl a left-footed shot beyond Tim Howard.
Not the way for Fellaini to mark his 50th start for the club.The goal came against the run of play with Everton having already fashioned an opening, Leighton Baines and Steven Pienaar rekindling their partnership down the left with a one-two that put the former into a position to cross low that was turned behind by Richard Dunne.
And Moyes’s men were desperately unlucky not to level on 18 minutes when, after another good combination between Baines and Pienaar, the South African curled a right-footed shot from just inside the penalty area that floated beyond Friedel but smacked against the crossbar. The game then fell into a lull and was only sparked into life once Saha was introduced for the ineffective Beckford. Everton had Howard to thank for a fine double save on 58 minutes. John Carew’s direct running was too much for Sylvain Distin to handle, but the Everton goalkeeper was equal to the Norwegian’s shot. The rebound then fell to Ashley Young, and although Phil Jagielka’s block took some of the pace off the goalbound shot, Howard was still required to thrust up an arm and claw the ball away. But that was a rare Villa attack in a half Everton dominated. On the hour, Fellaini – with Villa claiming handball – brought the ball down inside the area and crossed for Saha, whose shot from 10 yards was parried by Friedel on to team-mate James Collins and flew inches wide.
Minutes later, an inswinging free-kick from the right from Arteta was met by Rodwell’s glancing header but dropped agonisingly beyond the far post. After Villa, led by caretaker manager Kevin MacDonald, missed a glorious chance to double their advantage when Mark Albrighton blazed horribly off target with the net gaping after Howard parried Ashley Young’s shot, Everton laid siege on the visitors’ goal.
Jagielka headed Mikel Arteta’s corner over, Saha’s shot was parried by Friedel after Pienaar’s precise pull-back before the Villa goalkeeper denied the Frenchman three minutes into injury time with an even better save to turn his 16-yard shot around the post. Agonising. And with the visit of Manchester United next up in a fortnight, Everton cannot expect matters to become easier any time soon.
Everton FC's Phil Jagielka injury doubt over England call up
Aug 30 2010 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
PHIL JAGIELKA could miss out on England’s forthcoming Euro 2012 qualifiers this week after injury added to the insult of defeat at Villa Park yesterday.
The centre-back suffered a swollen ankle as Everton’s winless start to the Premier League campaign continued with a 1-0 defeat against Aston Villa.
Jagielka has been called up by Fabio Capello for the qualifiers against Bulgaria at Wembley on Friday and in Switzerland next Tuesday, but will now have the injury assessed. Jack Rodwell also suffered an ankle injury after being caught by a late tackle and may be ruled out of England under-21’s clash in Portugal on Friday.
Everton manager David Moyes said: “Jack Rodwell has got a bad ankle which we are going to check, he jarred his ankle during the game. “Phil Jagielka has a sore ankle also. I was going to take him off at half-time. He’ll need to get assessed, his foot is badly swollen, so if he gets called up for England he’ll need to have that checked.”
One Everton player who won’t be involved for England is Mikel Arteta, who has dismissed reports he has been approached by Fabio Capello about playing for England. However, the Spanish schemer has reiterated he would consider the suggestion should Capello make contact. “The situation is the same as it has always been,” said . “No-one has contacted me about it and I said really clearly last week my thoughts about it. I said it once and I’m going to repeat myself - if that opportunity comes I will consider it very seriously. “But that’s all I can say. I don’t think it’s me that has to make the decision. They (The FA) have to think about the situation, they have to propose something, they have to talk to me, and then we can talk about it.”
Luke Young’s ninth-minute goal was enough to earn Villa victory yesterday and extend Everton’s record at Villa Park to just one win in 23 visits. The visitors dominated for long periods but Villa’s caretaker manager Kevin MacDonald was delighted with the result after this players bounced back from the 6-0 hammering at Newcastle United and then going out of Europe in midweek. “If ever supporters doubted the desire of the players to win again, then that performance will have put that belief back into them,” said MacDonald. “We rode our luck a bit but had four or five decent chances and, if we had been more clinical, the score could have been 4-2 or 4-3 to us.” MacDonald will inform club owner Randy Lerner by tomorrow whether he wishes to be considered for the job on a permanent basis.
Everton FC manager David Moyes: We are our own worst enemies
Aug 30 2010 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
DISAPPOINTED David Moyes admits Everton were their own worst enemies after their spluttering start to the Premier League season continued at Villa Park.
Moyes's men are still seeking their first top-flight win of the campaign following a 1-0 defeat against Aston Villa yesterday. Luke Young's ninth-minute strike was enough to condemn Everton to their second successive away defeat and leave them ahead of just West Ham United and Stoke City in the early Premier League table. “Was it a frustrating game? Just a bit,” said the Everton manager. “We had done enough to come away with something from the game. “We were dominant. They scored the goal, and we could have done better with it. "But they got it and we couldn't and that's football. “We are getting into the final third and not creating well enough, and of the opportunities we are getting, we aren't making them into better chances. It's something we are aware of.” Statistics revealed Everton won 18 corners compared to Villa's four and enjoyed 67% of possession, but Moyes said: “The big stat of the day is that they have got one goal and we have none.” “But there's not an awful lot I can say to the players after that. “You never want to go into an international break after losing. The league table doesn't look good after three games. We ended last season on a high and we wanted to carry that into this season.” Moyes added:“Jermaine Beckford is still untried in the Premier League, and Louis Saha has gone a while since scoring in the league. So we are looking around to try and find those goals right now. “With Beckford, it was always going to be difficult. I always envisaged bringing him through slowly and from the bench. It's a big step up.” Everton face a trip to npower League One side Brentford in the Carling Cup third round. The tie will take place on the week beginning September 20.
Aston Villa 1, Everton 0: Mat Kendrick's big match verdict
Aug 30 2010 By Mat Kendrick Birmingham Daily Post
Aston Villa 1 Everton 0
WANTED: Aston Villa Football Club manager. Must enjoy organising strolls in the park in Birmingham, and successful field trips around the country. Passport and love of European travel is not needed – yet. Premier League experience is a necessity (even three games, Kev), as is a thick skin and a fondness for working with young talent.
Not for the faint-hearted. Bob Bradley need not apply. Contact Randy Lerner and Paul Faulkner c/o AVFC, Villa Park, Birmingham, B6. Now that Villa have finally restored some of the feelgood factor from a fortnight ago, the board can fully turn their attentions to the new manager search. And their hopes of recruiting that outstanding candidate to succeed Martin O’Neill will surely have been helped by the spirit the claret and blues showed against Everton. Having conceded nine goals in their previous two games, Villa’s backline had to stand up strong to keep Everton at bay.
Apart from one sliced clearance the returning Richard Dunne was his dependable self and even took one for the team to halt Jermaine Beckford’s run at goal – at the expense of a booking – after a mistake by James Collins. With the interchangeable Everton midfield five popping up in pockets of space Villa needed to keep their concentration from first whistle until last and on the occasions when they were breached Brad Friedel came to the rescue. Anybody after a snapshot of the barrage of pressure Villa had to cope with needs only take a quick glimpse of the corner count which Everton won 18-4. But the only stat that mattered was 1-0 to Kevin MacDonald’s men and the decisive strike by man of the match Luke Young was a more than worthy winner. If Young’s goal is the clincher that gets Kev the job then it will be quite fitting as MacDonald more than anyone helped the popular defender cope with his frustration during his long spells of inactivity under O’Neill.
The former Tottenham and Middlesbrough right-back spent hour after hour training with MacDonald’s reserves after being frozen out by O’Neill – and whatever the caretaker taught him clearly paid off. Young started and finished the game’s only goal on nine minutes when he worked the ball forward down the right and profited from John Carew’s nod down and an exquisite pass from Ashley Young to continue his forward run and spank a left-foot cracker into the top corner. To say the goal was against the run of play was an understatement. Everton dominated for long spells and it was no surprise to see David Moyes leave Villa Park with a face like miserable Mo the bar tender from The Simpsons. But Villa deserved the points if for no other reason than their sheer stubbornness – even if, at times, they made harder work of keeping the ball than they did of winning it. No matter. The body-on-the-line blocks conspicuous by their absence at St James’ Park seven days earlier were back with a vengeance. For all their probing approach play, the most the Merseysiders could muster before the break was when Stephen Pienaar’s classy curler which back off the bar. And while Villa might have been praying for the half-time whistle, they actually finished the first period on top with Marc Albrighton feeling he should have had a penalty following a challenge by Pienaar, although the Tamworth-born winger did get the benefit of the doubt following a tangle with Tony Hibbert in the opposite box.
But a host of borderline decisions went against Villa and the increasingly annoyed home crowd made their thoughts about referee Mike Jones known by reserving their second loudest cheer of the afternoon for a rare instance when the Chester official finally awarded them a free-kick. But, if Villa were facing 12 men instead of 11, they just rolled up their sleeves and got on with it. They had their moments after the interval, most notably when Tim Howard produced a stunning double save to deny Carew and Young with Phil Jagielka’s boot also protecting the Everton goal.
And Albrighton slightly blotted another encouraging display when his seven-yard tap-in after another Howard save from Young ended up in the Holte End rather than the net – although in fairness to the youngster, the ‘sitter’ did sit up awkwardly.
MacDonald, made seven changes from Thursday’s Europa League defeat, the most high profile being Curtis Davies and Habib Beye who didn’t even make the bench following their Rapid Vienna defensive debacle. And if Prem points are where it’s at, despite the European exit, he was partly vindicated because so-called ‘crisis club’ Villa now lie fourth in the top-flight table. Among others they can thank Friedel for that, with the veteran producing two fine saves at either end of the second half to frustrate Toffees sub Louis Saha. During Villa’s brief moments of respite Young turned Sylvan Distin inside out before firing wide and failed to execute an attempted lob correctly from a quick break while Carew was unable to direct his diving header from Albrighton’s cross on target. Jack Rodwell and Mario Fellaini threatened with glancing headers while Jagielka even nodded off target, but every time an Everton boot or head went to convert a cross or pass they were crowded out by Villa bodies.
It was the type of character and result which should get potential candidates forming an orderly queue to get the manager’s job.
Aston Villa 1 Everton 0
From DEAN SCOGGINS at Villa Park
The Sun 30 Aug 2010
LUKE YOUNG'S winner gave Kevin MacDonald's CV the perfect boost - but he still cannot decide if he wants the manager's job full-time.
Caretaker boss MacDonald has said that today would be Decision Day. Well someone better buy him a magic 8-ball as he is firmly on the fence. A rollercoaster week at Villa Park ended on a high with a committed defensive display but Everton feeling robbed. MacDonald's side shipped six at Newcastle and crashed out of Europe last week with a woeful second-half show against Rapid Vienna. At that stage 8-ball said: Outlook not so good. But the Scot, standing in after Martin O'Neill walked out, managed to galvanise the team and collect three points. Owner Randy Lerner, who was at the game, will now start to compile a shortlist of managers and the interview process will include MacDonald if he wants it. MacDonald said: "Twenty minutes after a game like that is not the time to make a call that will change your life.
"But if ever Villa supporters doubted any of those players, that was dispelled out there. We rode our luck a bit. "Mr Lerner and chief exec Paul Faulkner have been very supportive and been to most games. They told me to take my time and didn't put any pressure on me which is good. "I really don't know if it's for me or not. I've had thoughts which say yes, others which say that it's really not for me. "I've got to be sure that I can be good enough to push Aston Villa onwards." Despite being outplayed for large parts of the game, Young's first goal for 22 months was enough for Villa - and they also had keeper Brad Friedel to thank after a string of fine saves.
Left-back Leighton Baines drew the first save from Friedel from a tight angle after a neat one-two with Stephen Pienaar. But it was Villa full-back Young who broke the deadlock with the home side's first real attack. Everton midfielder Marouane Fellaini failed to clear and John Carew nodded to Ashley Young who, with England boss Fabio Capello watching, spotted his namesake breaking up the middle. Luke Young's finish was expert, curled first-time, left-footed into the top corner, and certainly not one you would associate with a right-back. That brought the game to life and Pienaar smashed a brilliant, dipping shot against the bar on 17 minutes. The rebound found its way to Tony Hibbert, who fed Jermaine Beckford but he ballooned the ball over the bar. For all their possession, Everton failed to open up Villa as Nigel Reo-Coker did well to break up play in front of big centre-backs James Collins and Richard Dunne.
Villa started the second half the stronger. First Carew glanced just wide from Marc Albrighton's cross. Then Ashley Young ran at Sylvain Distin and fired just off target from 25 yards. On 55 minutes big frontman Carew drove at the Everton defence but got the ball caught under his legs as he tried to jink his way through. It was more Ricky Gervais than Ricky Villa - and Distin cleared. The goalkeepers - especially Friedel - then took centre stage to make sure the game stayed at 1-0. The Villa stopper reacted well to gather a deflected shot from Louis Saha, on for Jermain Beckford. Tim Howard then made a top double save on 57 minutes to deny Carew and Ashley Young Saha had given more life to Everton's attacks and he forced a one-handed save from Friedel, low to his right. Jack Rodwell flicked Mikel Arteta's inswinging free-kick just wide on 62 minutes after a breathless five minutes.
Everton flooded forward but on the break Ashley Young's curler was pushed away by Howard. Albrighton followed up but the winger shinned his volley over and wide.
After Everton centre-back Phil Jagielka headed over, Albrighton's sliding block denied Distin. Friedel was at his brilliant best again to deny Saha twice more in the closing minutes as the keeper commanded his box superbly. The relief around Villa Park was clear at the final whistle as MacDonald saw his side move up to fourth place.
So let's leave it to the 8-ball: Signs point to yes.
DREAM TEAM RATINGS
STAR MAN - BRAD FRIEDEL (Aston Villa)
ASTON VILLA: Friedel 8, L Young 7, Collins 7, Dunne 7, Warnock 7, Albrighton 8, Reo-Coker 7, Petrov 6, Downing 5, A Young 8, Carew 6 (Agbonlahor 6). Subs not used: Guzan, Delfouneso, Heskey, Cuellar, Lichaj, Bannan. Booked: Dunne, Collins, Albrighton, Petrov.
EVERTON: Howard 7, Hibbert 6 (Heitinga 6), Jagielka 6, Distin 7, Baines 7, Arteta 7, Fellaini 6, Rodwell 7 (Coleman 7), Pienaar 7, Cahill 7, Beckford 5 (Saha 7). Subs not used: Mucha, Bilyaletdinov, Gueye, Osman.
Aston Villa 1-0 Everton: Daily Mirror match report
By James Nursey
August 30 2010
Luke Young (R) gets congratulated by Ashley Young of Aston Villa after scoring during the Barclays Premier League match between Aston Villa and Everton at Villa Park on August 29, 2010
Villa's victory helped avoid a crisis but both clubs still have problems after this tight thrilling contest. Managerless Villa kept alive Kevin MacDonald's faint hopes of succeeding Martin O'Neill permanently by recording a much-needed win.
But Villa, thumped 6-0 at Newcastle in their previous Premier League game and out of Europe, were fortunate to hold on after Luke Young's early goal.
And Everton's brave but futile late rally still means they have just one point after their worst start for more than a decade. It is the first time Everton have failed to win at least one of their opening three league matches since 1999. And with Manchester United their next opponents, Everton manager David Moyes has much to fret about in the international break. Villa's concerns are who should become their new boss following Martin O'Neill's controversial resignation five days before the start of the season. The club's owner Randy Lerner was keen to promote MacDonald from his reserve team post permanently. But the Scot's case for the job is hardly convincing following a drubbing at Newcastle and failure in the Europa League play-off against Rapid Vienna. He clearly retains the support of Villa's squad after the likes of Young, Marc Albrighton, James Collins and Brad Friedel all performed superbly for him yesterday. The home team scored through a fine finish from right-back Young in the ninth minute after a great ball from his namesake Ashley Young. But as well as trying to appoint a new boss, Villa officials must also bat off strong interest from Tottenham in their attacking England ace Young. Watching England chief Fabio Capello will have been impressed with Young's latest appearance in the hole behind striker John Carew. But Everton boss Moyes was fuming his team failed to score after Steven Pienaar hit the bar in the first half before they staged a late onslaught.
Moyes said: "We were in control of the game and we should've got something from it.
"We're playing well enough to win games but we are lacking in that final third.
"We've done enough to come away with something, if not more than one point.
"We had the dominance for most of the game. Nevertheless, they got a goal and we didn't. The big stat is that we've got none and they've got one." But Moyes, whose England defender Phil Jagielka picked up an injury, insists he is not unduly concerned by Everton's worst start for ten years. He added: "That's another milestone I've achieved! "It's a start we didn't see coming as we finished last season so well but we will get better and it will come if we keep playing like that." How Villa must wish managers with as much Premier League experience as Moyes were available for their hot-seat. Instead they have been approached by USA coach Bob Bradley and Sven Goran Eriksson who are both desperate for it. But Villa are yet to start interviewing and there is no obvious stand-out candidate as Lerner considers his first appointment since taking over in 2006. MacDonald said: "Mr Lerner came in to say well done to the players after the game. "I think the players, the club and supporters need something to happen in the next couple of weeks and I think that will happen.
"I would be lying if I said that I didn't enjoy it but the lows have been so low and the highs have been so high." Villa were dealt a blow when new signing Stephen Ireland got injured in the warm-up and was replaced by Nigel Reo-Coker. But Villa still struck first when Young curled a perfect left-foot shot high into the net.
Pienaar was desperately unlucky not to equalise with a superb attempt from the edge of the area in the 18th minute which hit the bar. And Everton launched an intense period of sustained pressure late on as Friedel and Villa's defence were put under siege. But the home side held out and have promised to name their new manager soon.
Villa director General Krulak said: "Fans think that nothing is happening...that we are just sitting around drinking beers. "Nothing could be further from the truth. Not a day goes by that we aren't working this issue."
Goals: 1-0 Luke Young (9),
Aston Villa: Friedel 8, L Young 9, Dunne 7 YELLOW, Collins 8 YELLOW, Warnock 7, Albrighton 8 YELLOW, Petrov 7 YELLOW, Reo-Coker 7, Downing 7, A Young 7, Carew 7 (Agbonlahor 68, 6).
Everton: Howard 6, Hibbert 6 (Hertinga 81, 6), Jagielka 6, Distin 6, Baines 6, Rodwell 7 (Coleman 70, 7), Arteta 7, Pienaar 7, Fellaini 6, Cahill 7, Beckford 4 (Saha 56).
Anorak Stat: This is the most-played fixture in the English top flight. Villa have 71 wins to Everton's 70 from the previous 190 league meetings.
Man of the match: Luke Young. The recalled defender is thriving again post-Martin O'Neill.
Villain of the match: Jermaine Beckford. The striker was anonymous.
Referee: Michael Jones 6
SPIRITED VILLA OVERCOME TOFFEES
30th August 2010 Daily Star
Luke Young scored his first goal for nearly two years to earn Aston Villa a 1-0 victory over Everton and boost caretaker boss Kevin MacDonald's chances of becoming Martin O'Neill's successor. The former England defender, who rejected a move to Liverpool earlier this month, dealt a blow to the other side of Merseyside with his ninth-minute winner. It was Villa's second league win under MacDonald as they bounced back from their Europa League exit at the hands of Rapid Vienna.
Villa had leaked nine goals in their previous two matches, including a 6-0 mauling by Newcastle at St James' Park. But they managed to hold on for a clean sheet despite being on the defensive for lengthy periods. Everton dominated for lengthy spells in terms of possession with Mikel Arteta pulling the strings in the middle of the park. But they lacked a cutting edge until Louis Saha was brought on early in the second period. It means Everton are still searching for their first win of the campaign and have collected only one point from a possible nine. But after nine minutes Villa took the lead through Luke Young's second goal for the club since his move from Middlesbrough in the summer of 2008. John Carew headed the ball into the path of Ashley Young who held the ball up before releasing Luke Young. He kept his nerve before driving a left-footed shot wide of Tim Howard. Mark Albrighton should have made it 2-0 but shot over with the goal at his mercy after Tim Howard had parried Ashley Young's shot. Phil Jagielka headed over from Arteta's corner as Villa held on desperately in the closing stages.
Luke Young's strike enough for Aston Villa against unlucky Everton
Stuart James the Guardian
August 30 2010
At least Kevin MacDonald can go into his meeting with Randy Lerner with a smile on his face. Whether MacDonald wants to take over as manager or, perhaps more to the point, whether the Villa owner is interested in appointing him, remains to be seen, but three points here have gone some way towards repairing the damage inflicted after a chastening week that included a 6-0 thumping at Newcastle and elimination from Europe. Everton were the more accomplished side and laid siege to the Villa goal at times but Luke Young's splendid early strike, when he curled a left-footed shot beyond Tim Howard, proved the difference. The relief at the final whistle was tangible and not only among the Villa supporters. MacDonald, who has been in charge on a caretaker basis since Martin O'Neill walked out five days before the start of the season, looked emotionally drained. Lerner made a visit to the home dressing room afterwards to congratulate MacDonald and the players. The Villa chairman will start interviewing for a successor to O'Neill during the international break and he has told MacDonald he will need to know whether he wishes to be considered for the position by tomorrow morning at the latest. The 50-year-old is comfortable with that timetable, although he remains none the wiser about whether to throw his name forward.
"Mr Lerner came in to say well done to the players," MacDonald said. "He also passed on a comment to say well done to myself and Tony [McAndrew, MacDonald's assistant], because he knows the emotions we had been going through [on the touchline]. "He said: 'Take your time and enjoy your evening, think about what we have said before and speak to him tomorrow evening or at the latest Tuesday morning.' But he didn't put any pressure on me, which I was pleased about.
"I still don't know whether it's for me or not. I have thoughts where I want to do it and I've had other thoughts that this isn't what my life is about. I have also got to believe that I am going to be good enough myself. That's something that I think about deeply. I've got to believe that I am good enough to make sure Aston Villa stays where it is and, hopefully, progresses, whether that's with some more younger players or whatever." The Villa caretaker, who was more animated on the touchline than in previous matches, would have been breathing more easily if his side had taken one of the opportunities they spurned on the counterattack. Tim Howard, the Everton goalkeeper, thwarted John Carew and Ashley Young on a couple of occasions but the most inviting chance for Villa to double their lead fell to Marc Albrighton. With Howard stranded, the young winger blazed horribly over from six yards out.
Everton left the pitch crestfallen and well they might. David Moyes's side played like the home team, taking the game to Villa and doing everything but score. The statistics said it all: Everton controlled 68% of possession and had 18 corners to Villa's four. It was as much as Villa could do to get out of their half at times and, in the closing stages, they were hanging on for dear life. Deep into injury time, Brad Friedel denied Louis Saha with two fine saves. Plenty of Everton chances had also come and gone before the frantic finale. Steven Pienaar struck the crossbar in the 18th minute with a brilliant curling shot while Saha, whose arrival for the ineffective Jermaine Beckford gave Everton some much-needed thrust up front, drew a smart reflex save from Friedel on the hour. Three minutes later Jack Rodwell found space in the Villa penalty area but his glancing header from Mikel Arteta's free-kick flashed inches wide.
All of which was of little consolation to Moyes, who has presided over Everton's worst start to a league season in 11 years. "If that's the case, it's another milestone I've achieved," said Everton's manager, who admitted his team were guilty of over-elaborating at times. "When you don't feel as though you are scoring freely, you try and be over-precise. But we did enough to come away with something, if not more than one point."
Everton FC defender Phil Jagielka gives England boss Fabio Capello a fitness boost
Aug 31 2010 Liverpool Echo
FABIO CAPELLO breathed a sigh of relief last night after it was confirmed all 24 members of his squad for the Euro 2012 qualifiers with Bulgaria and Switzerland are fit enough to remain at England HQ. fixtures since the disastrous World Cup campaign with major question marks over the fitness of Phil Jagielka and Spurs duo Peter Crouch and Jermain Defoe. Jagielka suffered a bruised foot during Everton’s defeat at Aston Villa on Sunday, while Crouch was forced out of Tottenham’s home loss to Wigan with a sore rib and Defoe has a long-standing groin complaint manager Harry Redknapp felt would require surgery. However, the word coming out of England’s Watford training base this evening is that all three players are to remain within camp. Although that cannot be taken as confirmation any, or all, of them will be fit for Friday night’s encounter with a Bulgaria side adjusting to life without star man Dimitar Berbatov, who has retired from international duty, it does mean they have a chance of being involved at some stage. It is a major bonus for Capello, who lost influential Chelsea pair John Terry and Frank Lampard to weekend injuries and already has to cope with skipper Rio Ferdinand being on the sidelines after the freak knee ligament problem he sustained before the World Cup began. Jagielka in particular would be regarded as a certainty to start on Friday if he is fit, although in drafting Matthew Upson into his squad yesterday, Capello has given himself experienced cover in addition to Michael Dawson and Gary Cahill, who have just one cap between them, and Joleon Lescott, who has played all his football for Manchester City so far this season at left-back. Although Crouch and Defoe both have points to prove, now that Emile Heskey has retired and with Bobby Zamora sidelined through injury, Capello will still need a partner for Wayne Rooney should he opt not to utilise the Manchester United man up front on his own. With serious doubts remaining over Capello himself, a minimum of four points is required to get England off to a decent start in their attempt to reach Euro 2012, which will be co-hosted by Poland and the Ukraine. However, Capello will be mindful of the fact that England, while never having lost to Bulgaria, have won only two of five meetings between the two countries on English soil, while Switzerland were the only team to beat eventual winners Spain in South Africa. “It will be two important games,” Capello explained. “Because in this period the players are in a good situation and physically will be strong. “Bulgaria is a dangerous team. I watched three games that they played, two before the World Cup and the last against Russia. They lost 1-0 but they played very well, it will be a tough game that we will play here at Wembley. “On Switzerland, they played the World Cup and they are a good team with good organisation.
“They have a really important manager (Ottmar Hitzfeld), and when you play away in Switzerland it is not easy to beat this team.”
Life begins at 40 for ex-Everton FC & Scotland stalwart David Weir
Aug 31 2010 Liverpool Echo
DAVID WEIR is set to become Scotland’s oldest ever capped player if he features in the Euro 2012 qualifying double-header against Lithuania and Liechtenstein.
But the 40-year-old defender insists the only statistic he is interested in is how many points the Scots claim from those matches to kick-start their qualifying campaign.
Former Everton defender Weir is back in the international fold after being left out of Craig Levein’s first two squads but believes his age should not be an issue, even if he does write his name into the history books. “To be honest, it doesn’t change anything,” he said. “I enjoy playing in the games and being involved in the games.
“Maybe one day when I sit down, I’ll get a bit of satisfaction from it. But, at moment, I don’t think of myself as a 40-year-old, I just think of myself as one of the other players. “I don’t think of it in those terms really. I don’t really think about the past, I just think about the future. “The game on Friday is what all our attention is on and I’m just trying to focus on that rather than worrying about how old I am. “I’m just glad to be back. I’m looking forward to the game, it’s a big game, it’s a qualifier for the Euro Championships, and it’s nice to be involved.” Weir’s last outing was the defeat to Holland at Hampden just over a year ago. Asked if he thought that match had signalled the end of his international career, he said: “You never know. There’s no point looking that far ahead. “Football is funny, it can change quickly. “There have been a few times in the past, to be honest, that I though it would be my last cap. But, like I say, football is funny.” Back in the squad and still playing for Rangers every week, the centre-half has even refused to rule out his involvement if Scotland do qualify this time. He said: “Who knows? I don’t look that far ahead. “I wouldn’t say I’m not going to play and I wouldn’t say I definitely am going to play. “Football is funny and I’ve never been one to look too far ahead or worry about a couple of weeks down the line, far less a couple of years down the line. “Friday is a big, big game and you can’t be losing sight of what’s important.” Weir believes the 3-0 defeat to Sweden earlier this month was a blow for those involved but insists lessons will be learned from the friendly in Stockholm. He said: “Whenever you lose a game, you’ve got to question yourself. “That’s part and parcel of being a football player, I don’t think you should be happy if you lose a game. “But you learn from it and you come out stronger and you come out better. That’s what football is all about. “You don’t go through campaigns or careers without losing football games or without being involved in bad games. “It’s just how you react to it and what you learn from it and I’m sure that’s what the team has done.”
Everton FC star Diniyar Bilyaletdinov’s Russian roulette
Aug 31 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
DINIYAR BILYALETDINOV has been warned that he could lose his place in the Russian national side if he does not play more for Everton this season.
The midfielder was an unused substitute for the Blues during their defeat by Aston Villa at Villa Park on Sunday, and is struggling to nail down a consistent starting place in David Moyes’ team as the manager comes to terms with his increased options in midfield. But Russia coach Dick Advocaat has gone public over his concerns that the 25-year-old is not playing enough club football for him to retain his place in the national side. The Russian FA is still recovering from Advocaat’s side’s failure to qualify for the World Cup, and the experienced coach believes some of his British-based players are rotting on the bench. He said: “I’m not happy with the situation of Bilyaletdinov, Zhirkov and Pavlyuchenko not having regular match practice. This is very harmful to them and for success in national team they need to play more.
“Pavlyuchenko plays irregularly for Tottenham, though he played a full 45 minutes against Wigan and his team lost. “He couldn’t help them. I think he needs to work even harder than he did before the Bulgaria friendly (earlier this month). But he remains a quality and hard-working forward. I believe in him. “Arshavin is one of Arsenal’s leaders and a player of European level. But I’d like to see more players like that in our team.” Russia, who are in the Republic of Ireland’s European Championship qualifying group, face Andorra on Friday and Slovakia on Tuesday week. Moyes signed Bilyaletdinov from Lokomotiv Moscow last summer in a £9m deal, after then Chelsea boss Guus Hidink personally recommended him.
Meanwhile, Mikel Arteta has stressed that the debate over whether he should play for England is out of his hands, at least until he receives formal contact from the FA.
He said: “The situation is the same as it has always been. No-one has contacted me about it and I said really clearly last week my thoughts about it, and I’m going to repeat myself - if that opportunity comes I will consider it very seriously.
“But that’s all I can say. I don’t think it’s me that has to make the decision.
“The FA have to think about the situation, they have to propose something, they have to talk to me, and then we can talk about it.” When asked if he would be contacting Capello to inform the Italian of his availability, Arteta insisted he is in no position to be contacting the FA about whether he should picked. He said: “I don’t think it’s me who has to say anything because it’s not my job, but if Capello and the FA say it’s alright then I’ll say what I think. “At the moment there is nothing. If one day there is something I will be as clear as I am now.” Meanwhile, Tottenham have reportedly made an enquiry about Steven Pienaar’s availability. The Londoners have been linked with the South African frequently this summer, and with his contract impasse at Goodison still unsolved reports have surfaced claiming Harry Redknapp might make an offer for him before today’s deadline closes. Everton are unlikely to be doing any business before the midnight deadline, unless a significant offer arrives for Yakubu or Joseph Yobo, and Moyes has previously insisted he would rather let Pienaar’s contract run out than sell him.
David Moyes is staying put at Everton FC despite Aston Villa rumours
Aug 31 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
FRESH speculation linking David Moyes with the vacant Aston Villa job is wide of the mark, the Echo can reveal. Bookmakers Ladbrokes and Skybet sparked further rumours yesterday, when they initially slashed odds for the Everton manager to replace Martin O’Neill at Villa Park, and later made him outright 4/1 favourite.
Despite Moyes publicly ruling himself out of a move to the Midlands earlier this month, the bookies’ move led to further rumours, which the Echo understands have left Goodison officials mystified. Moyes has insisted he has unfinished business at Everton and will continue trying to make this season a success. The Scot has repeatedly insisted that he understands the financial constraints he has to work under at Goodison Park, but would anyway be unlikely to succeed a manager who left his job at Villa due to his own problems with availability of funds.
Everton FC defender Yobo could be set for West Ham loan move
Aug 31 2010 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
EVERTON are considering allowing Joseph Yobo to join West Ham United on loan.
The Hammers have contacted their Goodison counterparts about the possibility of taking centre-back Yobo on a temporary deal before the transfer window closes at 6pm today. And the London club have not given up their interest in Yobo’s Nigerian counterpart Yakubu, although they would have to improve their previous best bid of £6million for the striker. Yobo, though, has become West Ham’s priority as manager Avram Grant looks to plug a defence that has leaked nine goals in three Premier League games to leave the Hammers bottom of the table. The defender, who is 30 next week, has not been involved for Everton since returning from the World Cup and has made just three starts this calendar year. And with Phil Jagielka, Sylvain Distin and John Heitinga all ahead of Yobo in the centre-back pecking order, David Moyes may allow the player to leave on loan. Meanwhile, Moyes has urged Everton to cut out the individual errors that are contributing to their spluttering start to the Premier League season. The Goodison outfit remain in search of their first top-flight victory of the campaign after they lost 1-0 at Aston Villa on Sunday. Despite dominating possession, Everton failed to gain the three points and were beaten when a Marouane Fellaini error allowed Ashley Young to play in namesake Luke for the only goal.
It was a similar story to the previous two Premier League games, with a rare Tim Howard blunder gifting Blackburn Rovers a 1-0 win on the opening day before a slack pass by Louis Saha sold John Heitinga short and sparked a break from which Wolverhampton Wanderers netted their equaliser in the 1-1 draw at Goodison 10 days ago. Everton had the territorial advantage in all three games but have only a point on the board going into this week’s international break. And Moyes admits the combination of a shot-shy attack and uncharacteristic blunders are undermining his team’s efforts. “We didn’t do well enough in the final third at Villa, we were slack for the goal and that’s been the story of the season so far,” said the Goodison manager.
“We have made an individual mistake in three games now which have cost us a goal. We’ve had lots of the ball, but we’ve not really made me think ‘wow, this is what I want’. “We had a lot of the ball against Blackburn and a good percentage against Wolves but we didn’t win. It’s been there, it’s happening, so we have to start doing something about it. “You make your own luck by working hard, so you have to hope it will come. The expectations are high and we want to do well, and I’m disappointed with where we are right now.” Everton return from the international break on Saturday week with a home clash against last season’s Premier League runners-up Manchester United. United were beaten 3-1 on their last visit to Goodison in February with Everton having embarked on an end-of-season run that saw them lose just four of their final 24 league games. And goalkeeper Howard is at a loss as to why Moyes’s men are struggling to carry on where they left off. “Last year when we finally hit our stride in January and February we were knocking out the top teams and we should be because of the team we have,” said the United States international. “But for some reason, I don’t know, it’s just not happening. I don’t know why, it’s so hard to put your finger on. We’ve started slow once again, and it’s not going to get any easier.” Howard added: “I was saying to someone in the dressing room, you look at our team and the squad we’ve assembled and this is a really, really strong team and yet there are just times when we don’t look it. “Nobody is feeling the frustration worse than us in the dressing room. We’ve got to go in there and hang our heads, then pick ourselves up. We deserve better but you do get what you work for so we need to carry on.”
Frustrated Everton Under-18s play waiting game
Aug 31 2010 by Chris Wright, Liverpool Daily Post
EVERTON Under-18s continued their unbeaten start to the FA Premier Academy League season with a hard-earned point at Birmingham City on Saturday.
Following on from their 1-0 victory over Norwich in the first match of the campaign Neil Dewsnip’s side claimed a second clean sheet in as many matches.
Sadly they couldn’t make the breakthrough at the other end to claim all three points.
Everton almost grabbed a winning goal at the death when Conor McAleny got in behind the home defence and squared to former Southend midfielder Femi Orenuga, but he couldn’t hit the target and fired agonisingly over. Dewsnip said: “The kick-off was delayed because we had to wait around for the first team to finish training. After the travelling and waiting it didn’t help us, and I’m sure it was similar for them. It was incredibly windy blowing across the pitch and the 16s were playing on the other pitch and their ball was always on our pitch. So the environment wasn’t conducive to good football and we didn’t get any. “The conditions ruined it to be fair to the lads. It does happen once or twice a season and Saturday was one of those. “It was a game of very few chances at either end. I can’t remember either goalkeeper making a significant save.” Everton look to continue their unbeaten start when they face Newcastle United at Finch Farm this Saturday (kick-off 11am). Dewsnip said: “It is a tasty game. We had a great game with them at the back end of last season. I know both teams will have changed dramatically since, but they are always really exciting games.”
EVERTON UNDER-18s: Roberts, Barrow, Murphy, Hammar, Bidwell, Cummins, Lundstram, Dobie (Thompson 80), Forrester (Orenuga 70), McAleny, Thomas. Subs: Higgins, Harris, Fitzgibbon.
August 2010