Everton Independent Research Data
Howard Kendall: Odds stacked against Blues right now
Oct 1 2010
AT THE start of the season I had a bet on Everton finishing in the top two. The odds were 150 to 1 and I decided to have a fiver each way on it - just to make it interesting as I share the belief that this current squad is strong and capable of something special.
It’s not looking good for that particularly optimistic punt to pay out now, a long shot you could say, but at least if I turn the league table around at the moment I can carry on dreaming. Seriously, nobody was expecting to see the Blues at the bottom of the table at any point this season, even though it is relatively early days. The short term prospects will only improve if David Moyes can overcome a stern test on the horizon. He’s got a difficult away game at Birmingham, and then – what else – but a Merseyside derby to contend with. The Fulham game was an improved performance, but as against Aston Villa, the Blues came up against a goalkeeper having a man of the match afternoon. Brad Friedel and Mark Schwarzer have been as responsible for the Blues’ frustrations as their own forwards. I admire what Alex McLeish has done at Birmingham, and they have two strong centre backs, particularly Liverpool-lad Scot Dann. Since the Midlanders got some financial backing, they have looked capable of becoming a major player and when McLeish settled his contractual dispute they were always looking strong.The derby could be a major game, more important than your average derby, for Everton now. Only time will tell whether the experiment of playing Seamus Coleman on the right of midfield works. At full back you have a lot of space to run into and come onto the ball, and that space is a lot less on the wing when you often get the ball with your back to goal too. He is a talented lad though so let’s hope he can make his mark there and start creating more chances. David Moyes will be trying to boost his squad’s confidence every way he can at the moment - maybe a practice match against the kids when the senior team can trounce them 5-0.
Of course it wouldn’t work if the kids caused an upset!
Howard Kendall: I'm intrigued by new plans for Goodison Park
Oct 1 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
I’M intrigued and impressed by Everton’s plans to build a £9m new complex on the site of the hospitality marquee in the Park End. If they can’t find a suitable location for a new ground in the short term, then they are doing the right thing by making the most of Goodison Park. I know Goodison is far from perfect. I’m lucky enough to have a nice seat in a box and even that has a slightly obstructed view. But it could be worse. It’s not as bad as at Queens Park Rangers where they sell three categories of tickets; normal seats, obstructed view and diabolical view! Obviously the best thing about Goodison is her character and charm, and that is something special which they have got for as long as they stay there. To start things improving on the playing side of things this season, David Moyes will need the fans to stay behind him and for that special Goodison atmosphere to endure. He will be hoping that goals come from somewhere too – and Yakubu playing 90 minutes at Fulham was a boost at least.
Everton FC's Seamus Coleman bidding to overcome his Carling Cup dismay
Oct 1 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
IT WAS a night Seamus Coleman should have savoured as another giant step forward in his hugely promising Everton career. The young defender’s coolly-taken sixth minute goal against Brentford at Griffin Park in the third round of the Carling Cup was his first in a blue shirt. For a player who fought back from a potentially career-wrecking freak injury in summer 2009, Coleman has come a long way – and that first strike could have been something special. Instead, the 21-year-old insists the calamitous conclusion to that Tuesday night – a humiliating exit after extra time and penalties – made the goal he had dreamed of almost meaningless. Speaking nine days after the Blues became the first major Merseyside scalp to be dumped out of the league cup by lower league opposition, Coleman admits it has taken time to get the disappointment out of his system. In his typically earnest style, the Donegal-born player is not the type to gloss over the defeat. “It was brilliant when the ball hit the back of the net,” he says with a wry smile. “An unbelievable feeling, but as everyone knows the night went a bit sour in the end. “After the game the goal doesn’t mean an awful lot because of the circumstances, going out to Brentford. “It wasn’t a nice feeling leaving the ground. We flew home, and it’s on your mind getting into your car and driving home after a result like that.” He shakes his head at the still raw memory: “No disrespect to Brentford but we should have beaten them. “It’s behind us now, and we are disappointed, but looking back won’t do us much good now. “After my goal I was thinking let’s push on and make it comfortable. We had the chances but more and more as it goes on, you think they could sneak one and that’s what happened. They missed a penalty in the second half as well. “It probably depends what kind of player you are (how you respond to defeat), or how experienced you are. Maybe the older players are more used to it and think we’ll get on with it and have another game, but when you’re new to it you are very disappointed for a couple of days afterwards.
“Personally speaking it took me a few days and I still don’t like thinking about it.”
Coleman’s night was eventful for more than just his goal, he conceded the penalty which Brentford missed in the second half, and readily acknowledges he is still learning his trade as a Premier League defender. While he has won rave reviews for his attacking forays, Coleman has also prompted mild criticism from David Moyes for some aspects of his defensive play and knows he must tighten it up.
Whether that must wait is another question – for now he may well face a short term spell on the right flank as at Fulham. “I know a lot of footballers say the same thing, but I’d play anywhere. I enjoyed playing on the right,” he says. “It gives you more licence to go forward and you have to worry less about defending, although naturally I’d come back and help out. “I’ve played there once or twice but nothing concrete. It came as a bit of a surprise.” Is Coleman under more pressure this season, after those headline grabbing displays from the bench last term? “At first there were no expectations, but when you start doing a bit the fans expect more from you,” he says. “But that’s what you want to be a footballer for, you want the fans to be saying ‘He should be playing’. “It’s a compliment that people expect things of you, and it’s up to you to produce.” Coleman is determined to do everything he can to ensure victory against in-form Birmingham City tomorrow.Three points at St Andrews would involve ending one of the Premier League’s longest unbeaten home runs, with the hosts having not tasted defeat at their headquarters since September 2009.
“We had a good pre-season, and it’s hard to put your finger on why it hasn’t happened yet,” he says. “We’ve had loads of chances, but we need to just look to each game as it comes now, and get back to thinking about Birmingham, and three points.
“Football is a lot to do with confidence, and wins will give us more of that.
“We’re in good spirits. It’s not too downbeat but we know we have to start winning games. I’ll be sitting on the bus with all the lads and listening to all their stories, and you learn a lot and pick up a lot from them.” Such is his rapid progress, Coleman has already been linked with a place in the Republic of Ireland senior squad, but he is willing to learn from another Goodison full back that patience is a virtue. “It’s something I’ve always said I’d love to be called up for Ireland. I wasn’t in the recent squad, but I’m just thinking about playing well for Everton and it’ll come. “I look at Bainsey and he didn’t get in ‘til last year, and he’s been a great left-back for a long time now so he was probably impatient about it. But I want to do the business for Everton, and then hopefully a call up might come.”
Birmingham City v Everton: Colin Tattum's pre-match stats
Oct 1 2010 Birmingham Mail
BLUES v EVERTON
WHO’S HOT: Sebastian Larsson is buzzing, vibrant and providing service and creativity on the flank.WHO’S NOT: Craig Gardner’s good form has come to an abrupt halt due to his sending-off offence.
LAST FIVE GAMES
BLUES: DDLWD
EVERTON: LDLDD
BLUES (from): Foster, Carr, Parnaby, Murphy, Ridgewell, Dann, Johnson, Jiranek, Larsson, Bowyer, Ferguson, Michel, Fahey, Beausejour, Valles, Hleb, Jerome, Zigic, Phillips, Derbyshire, Taylor. Suspended: Gardner. Injured: McFadden. THE OPPOSITION: Everton are the only Premier League team yet to win and are stuck at the bottom of the table. They have yet to score on their travels too, but they feel they have performed well in games without getting the results merited.
Referee: P Dowd
EFC's Mikel Arteta says Blues have been pain-staking in mission to end win-less streak
Oct 1 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
MIKEL ARTETA admitted Everton have scrutinised every aspect of their game as they bid to overcome their current bottom of the table malaise. Prompted by a manager with a painstaking eye for detail, the Spaniard said that the Blues have left nothing unchecked as they try and put things right on the training ground.
But he warned that recent visits to Birmingham City’s St Andrews ground, where they go tomorrow, have emphasised that any mistakes by the away team can be costly.
The 28-year-old play-maker said: “You try to do everything you can to get better. Every single detail at the moment is really important, so that’s what we’re working on.
“It’s very frustrating to see yourself in that situation and I don’t believe that we deserve to be where we are at the moment, but that’s football sometimes, so we need to keep doing things right, and keep improving on what we’ve been doing really well.
“We were disappointed after the Fulham game; I think we should have won the game. We controlled it really well, and we kept a clean which was the first time this season, so hopefully we can build from there and get the three points on Saturday. “Birmingham are really organised, they work really hard to get that, and it’s a tough ground to get the three points – but it’s not going to be an easy game for them as well.”Arteta recalled the Blues’ last visit to face Alex McLeish’s side on the road in March, and how they let a 2-0 lead slip. He said: “I think we should have won that game as well. But we made one or two mistakes and it cost us the points. So we know we need to kill the mistakes at the moment and we need to get better in both boxes.”
The former Rangers star is grateful the fans remain behind Moyes’ team, despite their win-less streak. He said: “To be honest the fans have been really good – even with the situation we are in at the moment – they keep supporting us. So hopefully we can make them happy and give them three points on Saturday. “Everybody is really committed. All the players are really aware of the situation and we want to put that right straight away. So I think the commitment is there.” But he believes that if the Blues are to start scoring the goals they need to win games, it is not just their strikers who need to improve. He said: “Tim’s (Cahill) someone that can score goals, but we’re not just relying on him or the strikers – it’s everyone at the moment – we even need a centre-half to nick us a goal from a set-piece or something so everybody is really trying to improve in that area. “It is really important that we win before the international break and we’ve got the derby coming up later on, so it’s a massive game for us. “We don’t want to go into that without enough points and it can be different winning on Saturday or losing it, so it shows how massive this game is going to be.”
One goal can kickstart Everton FC season, insists Steven Pienaar
Oct 1 2010 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
STEVEN PIENAAR believes just a single goal could kickstart Everton’s spluttering campaign. David Moyes’s side travel to Birmingham City tomorrow still seeking their first Premier League win of the season. Everton’s stalemate at Fulham last Saturday, which saw them slip to the bottom of the table, was typical of their fortune, the visitors dominating without being able to turn possession into goals. Birmingham have drawn their last two home games with similar goalless draws and are looking to protect an unbeaten home record that stretches back more than a year.
And with chances expected to be at a premium at St Andrew’s, Pienaar believes Everton must regain their clinical edge if they are to climb off the foot of the top flight. “We went into the game at Fulham with clear heads and it was a big improvement on the Newcastle game. We knew we let people down in that game and we did not show enough character. "But we showed last week that we can play if we have 100% focus – we are just lacking a goal at the moment. We have to build on the last game and make sure we play with the same confidence and with a bit more sharpness in front of goal we can win there.” Pienaar added: “We all know Birmingham are a good team at home. They are well organised and the manager has them playing as a unit. It will be hard for us, but if we stick to our own game and play well then hopefully we can get the three points. The manager has done a good job there and has made sure they are well organised. They have a strong foundation.”
Meanwhile, 17-year-old United States youngster Omar Salgado, rated as one his country’s brightest prospects, has been training at Finch Farm. Salgado caused controversy in Mexico recently by leaving Chivas to join the USA’s youth set-up.
Chivas’ youth policy means all their players must be eligible to play for Mexico, but after Salgado opted for USA he left the club and is tipped to be one of the top picks in the forthcoming MLS draft.
Sad to see Everton FC fan site When Skies Are Grey is no more
Oct 2 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
THIS week marked a very sad event for crisp-loving, irreverent-humoured Evertonians everywhere - the peerless When Skies Are Grey website announced it will shortly be no more. For any Blue, and quite a few footy fans of other persuasion, who have idled away the odd sneaky lunch hour (ahem) on its forum over the last 10 years, this was devastating news. Not just for the loss of the endless banter, some of it among the funniest I have ever read, but also for the constant pleasures that were host Mark O’Brien’s outstanding match reports. Mark wrote what we in the press box never could, often making it far wittier than many of us ever could too. Thankfully he’ll continue to write his weekly column for the Echo’s sister paper the Liverpool Daily Post, but his droll weekly observations on Blues games will be missed. The forum could be cliquey at times, the articles wilfully esoteric, but it had so many enthusiastic contributors there was always something new and refreshing to read or laugh at, especially the real life dilemmas. Luckily the popular WSAG fanzine will still be on sale, and I’m sure the message board regulars will decamp their hilarity somewhere else. It will never be the same again though.
Sporting dinner to feature Everton FC greats
Oct 2 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
AWARDS named after two of Everton’s greatest ever players will be presented at an event hosted by Ronnie Goodlass. The Health Through Sport charity fundraising dinner will be attended by former players Joe Royle, Graeme Sharp, Derek Mountfield, and Dave Hickson, along with council leader Joe Anderson. The dinner will take place at the Devonshire House Hotel on Friday November 26. The guest speaker is Ian Snodin, and comedian Gary Marshall will entertain guests. The fourth Brian Labone Corinthian award and Alan Ball Ball of Fire award will be presented. Contact 0151 264 6600 for info.
Have Everton FC already dropped out of the race for fourth place?
Oct 2 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
REWIND to only three months ago and sample the air around Goodison Park.
It was saturated heavily with optimism, and most of it centred on how this Everton squad was capable of breaking up the cartel known by many as Sky’s Top Four, for the second time under the management of David Moyes. The problem with an air of optimism is that ugly old reality has a nasty habit of clogging it up and turning it into clouds of gloom. So here we are now with the leaves turning brown, on the day of a difficult fixture at St Andrews, and it becomes increasingly difficult to avoid the growing elephant in the room. With only three points from a potential 18 available so far, and no victories, have Everton already dropped out of the race for Champions League qualification? Most observers gave them little chance of breaking into the top four again before a ball was kicked anyway – the financial constraints were too tight, the traditional top four too strong, they said. But these were the same pundits who had to simply applaud when Moyes dragged a team containing honest professionals like Kevin Kilbane and Marcus Bent to the brink of the Champions League group stages in 2005. This summer Evertonians sensed something special could happen. A cursory glance at what it has taken to finish fourth recently does not offer much consolation.
Last season Harry Redknapp’s Spurs clinched fourth with 70 points, Everton falling nine points behind them despite a late surge in form that would have been top three material if it had started far earlier than January. Everton have never notched up 70 points in the Premier League. The reason why Everton were so handicapped in the race for European qualification last season was simple – a slow start. Now, for whatever reason, it has happened again and the Blues are already playing catch up.
But there are different ways to interpret the omens. If anything offers hope, it is the 2008/09 season, when Everton won only two of their first 12 competitive games and yet recovered sufficiently – sparked by that biting Phil Neville tackle on Cristiano Ronaldo at Goodison – to finish fifth and reach the FA Cup final. So, if perhaps fourth place is becoming more implausible, surely the Blues would relish a top five finish and another trip to Wembley?Even the chances of lifting some domestic silverware were halved after that abject Tuesday night in Brentford 11 days ago when a poor start to the campaign got even worse. It is going to take a recovery of astounding proportions to finish fourth – but it will also take two achievable elements. First Phil Jagielka and either Sylvain Distin or John Heitinga need to forge a defensive partnership as cast-iron and reliable as the old-guard Alan Stubbs and David Weir who conceded just 46 goals in the 2004/05 season. But more importantly (and conversely when you think of this summer’s declaration of the strongest squad ever), David Moyes could do with the clarity of selection he had when he guided the Blues to fourth. That season, Moyes was able to send out largely the same unchanged 11 most games. It is perhaps no coincidence that as he struggles to nail down his perfect blend for this campaign, it has been tough to echo the fluency of that side. Nobody in their right mind would want the Toffees to revert to the style of football from 2005, but some traits of that squad would be helpful where they to re-emerge. The nay-sayers and doom-mongers who insist fourth place is out of the question already may have jumped the gun, but those predictions will seem sadly true if the current malaise lasts beyond the Merseyside derby. Yes, Everton are only eight points behind currently fourth placed Manchester City, but Mancini’s side have already played Chelsea, Spurs and Liverpool. Those tests seem even tougher when you glance at the opponents who have hurt the Blues already.
Everton FC boss David Moyes continues to search for a cure to league “tooth ache”
Oct 2 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
LOSING leaves David Moyes like a bear with a sore head, so it is little wonder he compares flirting with relegation to tooth ache. It has been a while since the Everton boss has felt pain quite so acute as seeing his team rock bottom of the Premier League, but as he prepares the troops for a testing trip to Birmingham, the Everton boss reflected that the occasional stab of agony is inevitable. “We’ve been in this situation a few times,” he says. “With a club like Everton there’s always a chance that can be the case. “When I took over Everton were very close to the bottom. There is a bit of a toothache about it, in that there is always a chance of that happening if we don’t invest. “We have moved towards being pain-free at the top of the league recently but now and again the toothache comes back.” This latest flare-up of discomfort is partly due to the ongoing shortage of goals, something Moyes admits is getting no less painful. “Most teams need strikers, especially if your intention is to get up there with the top clubs then you’re probably going to need a striker who will get you 15 or 20 to give you a chance. “We didn’t have that last year, we had Louis who got 12 or 13 but most of them were scored in the first six months. “So whether it be the Yak, Tim Cahill or Jermaine up there I hope one of them gets up there to those figures.”
The Goodison boss was at least able to take comfort from a clean sheet at Craven Cottage, and hopes his teams have now got their costly mistakes out of their system for the season “I don’t think we’ve been that bad overall defensively,” he says. “Obviously we made a mistake against Blackburn, I thought we made a bad one in the middle of the pitch that allowed Wolves to equalise and so there has been the odd individual error but it’s not as though we have been losing two or three-nil. “In the main the defence has been pretty good. There have been lapses here and there and that’s compounded by not being able to get a goal, but if we can get clean sheets that will at least help us pick up something. “I’m a supporter as well so I know you decide whether what you’re seeing on the field is good or not. I know results haven’t been good but I don’t think what we’re seeing on the field has been that bad.” Moyes is in the midst of a very fine balancing act at present. Trying to maintain team morale while impressing upon them the precarious nature of their situation. Talk of a false position, he says, is fine unless it woos his charges into a false sense of security. “I think we have played pretty well, I really do, but I don’t want me saying that to take away from the urgency of understanding the situation we are in. “You don’t want to wake up to that after 25 games and so I am on it now. I want the players to know exactly what is needed but these are really good lads. They are really conscientious. “Last week in the dressing room they were terrific trying to make sure they got a result and in the end they were really disappointed that they didn’t take all three points. One thing I’ve got in my favour is that I know the players are caring as much as the manager. “That means a lot. Sometimes in this situation a manager can go away wondering about his players but the players here are terrific in terms of their attitude. “If you go into football management there’s always a good chance of being at the bottom or the top depending on what you’ve got.”
Everton FC fear losing Tim Cahill for five games in January
Oct 2 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
DAVID Moyes fears he could lose Tim Cahill for up to five games in January if he is asked to play for Australia in the Asia Cup. The Everton boss is concerned that FIFA rules could mean he is powerless to object, if Socceroos manager Holger Osieck selects the 30-year-old for the tournament in Qatar. It would potentially mean Cahill missing important fixtures against Stoke, Tottenham, Liverpool, West Ham, and Arsenal. The tournament, which runs from January 7 to 29, is an official FIFA competition and the only way Cahill could miss out is if he chose not to participate. That would put Cahill in a dilemma and on a collision course with Football Federation Australia – although it would be unlikely the patriotic star would turn down the chance to play for his country. Cahill is already an injury doubt for Moyes ahead of today’s clash with Birmingham at St Andrew’s, and his ongoing knee problem could mean he misses Australia’s friendly against Paraguay in Sydney next Saturday. Moyes said: “Tim Cahill has trained this week. I’m worried about his knee and he’s one of those who is doubtful. “He’s due one game in Australia (against Paraguay) but we probably need to have a bit of a chat about it. “I’ve got no problem with Tim playing for Australia, we’ve always been supportive of that. It’s a long way to go obviously. “He goes and plays for his country and in fairness to Tim whenever he’s done that he’s always come back and played and has always put himself out there. He’s not someone who returns late from international duty. “On this occasion, I don’t know whether he’s fit, that’s the big thing – but if he does have to go it’s only one game. The bigger thing is the Asia Cup because we could lose Tim to that in a similar way we lost Joseph Yobo and Yakubu to the African Nations so that’s a big issue. He could be called up in the middle of December and they’ve got that competition all through January. “We’ve got to respect football in every part of the world, not just in our continent and you respect their FAs. “But I think in the same breath, there has to be a situation with the clubs paying players an awful lot of money in wages and you look at the football climate we’re in with wages – I mean our club for one for example – and then you lose a player who you’ve just given a four-year contract to for a month which could affect league position and money.” Moyes admitted it is difficult to predict a solution to the ongoing club versus country row for Premier League players. He said: “I think it can only be that; either this is all brought into line in some way, or clubs are going to have to say that unless you’re going to reimburse us we’re going to struggle to let them go, because the clubs are all struggling as well to pay wages and when they do keep their best players they want them to be available. “I just wonder whether contracts in the future, for players from Africa or maybe now Australia, will stipulate that if a player wants to go away for an extended period with their country then they won’t get paid by their clubs. “Obviously the PFA would have something to say about that, but it might be something the clubs will look to do.” Steven Pienaar will also undergo a late fitness test to determine whether he can play today, but Phil Jagielka will be fit despite carrying a knee injury. The centre-back has fluid on a cyst in his knee, which may need to be drained after the game today to ensure he is pain-free for England’s forthcoming games. Tony Hibbert is also fit to take on Alex McLeish’s side, and Louis Saha is due back from a treatment centre in France next week.
Birmingham City: Alex McLeish demands more from attacking players
Oct 2 2010 by Colin Tattum, Birmingham Mail
Alex McLeish has admitted that he is seeking more from his attacking players when Blues face Everton at St Andrew’s today.Everton are surprisingly bottom of the Premier League and have yet to score an away goal. But Blues also have to boost their firepower, which is something not lost on McLeish. “The gauntlet is there for the strikers,” he said. “We took about 11 games to get a partnership last season, Chucho and Cameron Jerome came to the fore, and they ended up two dangerous customers. “Cameron has carried on his good form. He’s got one goal, he could have had four by now, so he’s got to keep working on his finishing skills and we’re looking for somebody else. “When you don’t score, despite getting chances, at the other end it puts more pressure on the back lads. “They’ve always got to be on their toes right to the very end. “But I am glad to say there’s been some terrific performance of concentration and resilience by the back lads. “But the strikers, it’s there for them. The gauntlet is down. I’m looking for somebody to get the ball in the back of the net.” Whether McLeish opts for a traditional front pairing against the Toffee, or a player slightly withdrawn in the way he has used James McFadden and Aleksandr Hleb recently, remains to be seen. Blues have kept successive clean sheets in their last two St Andrew’s matches, but not netted themselves.With McFadden a long term absentee following knee surgery, and Craig Gardner beginning a three-game suspension, Blues have also lost two of their final third threats.Hleb, Nikola Zigic and Jean Beausejour have also been told to bring their skills to the fore by McLeish. The transfer deadline day signings have been slowly finding their feet, for one reason or another.
“I think if you listen to people like Arsene Wenger he says it takes a lot of foreign players six months to a year to settle in. “That’s why I went for British, mainly. But Zigic was on the list. We were able to get that one, but we tried to get some others as well, which didn’t happen. “The big fella, we’re looking for him to bring his international experience and his goalscoring touch to the fore. “We don’t have the kind of luxury Arsenal do to bed them in. Our guys have to come to this club and more or less hit the ground running. But what can you do, you have to be patient.” Zigic has been preferred as a substitute, while Hleb started last weekend and was substituted. McLeish said Everton wouldn’t be in their current predicament for long. “We’re talking six games in. Davie Moyes will be concerned, no doubt about it, it’s an uncomfortable feeling, I’ve been there myself. “People do tend to press the panic button, but the only one who won’t be panicking is Davie Moyes. “Two victories and all of sudden you’re looking to break into the top eight again, and that’s where Everton finished last season. “You couldn’t rule out them finishing that high again.“If you’re bottom of the league after the first game people - as I’ve said - panic, panic and we’re living in a knee-jerk and blame society. It’s quick decisions - he’s hopeless, that’s a bad pass - and we’ve just got to live with that. “You get scrutinised to the Nth degree in the Barclays Premier League, because of the exposure, the Sky cameras. There’s no hiding place. “But we know that. We’ve got to take in on the chin and battle on and that’s what Davie will be doing. “The bottom line is that we’ve got a home game, they are apprehensive about where they are but they have got too much quality to be there for too long. “But that’s not our concern. Our concern is trying to get a very, much needed three points from what is another home game. “Our home form was the reason for us staying in the league last year, our away form the reason for us climbing the league.” Moyes said Blues had the platform to do what his team had done over the years - upset the establish order. “I would say that probably the two clubs out there who are best placed to push those at the top of the league are Birmingham and maybe Fulham,” he revealed. “Alex has got himself a team that is hard to beat, especially at home and we found that last year. In fact both home and away it was tough, we were in front in one and they were in front in one. They were very tight games.” “They have some really good footballers,” Moyes added. “Barry Ferguson and Hleb are really good players. So I think Alex is trying to evolve his style – a little bit like what has happened here. “Their style will change by the introduction of players and that will happen, but the key point for them is being tough to beat. They don’t give much away at the back.”
Birmingham 0-2 Everton: Sunday Mirror match report
03/10/10 By Ray Matts
Tim Cahill of Everton celebrates scoring with team mates Phil Neville and Leighton Baines
David Moyes can be difficult to read but even the dour Scot must have experienced a massive sense of relief as Everton consigned their worst start for 16 years to the rubbish bin. There is a long way to go, of course, before the Toffees can stop looking over their shoulders – but at least they are off the bottom of the Premier League. The embarrassment they suffered because of their inability to score a single goal away from home evaporated as they transferred their own agonies and disappointment on to the backs of Birmingham City. Alex McLeish’s men, looking to extend an impressive year-long record of 18 games without a home defeat, were instead booed off their own pitch. McLeish said: “I don’t think we deserved that but that’s the way it goes. We are still trying find our best attacking line-up and a place is up for grabs.” The St Andrew’s fortress was breached by, on paper, the worst team in the division and maybe that is why the supporters were so frustrated. It took a bizarre second-half own goal by centre-back Roger Johnson and a header from Tim Cahill deep into added time to do the trick for Everton. But there was no doubt they deserved to triumph in a game they bossed in terms of possession for long periods while Birmingham continued to fire blanks. It must be a big worry to McLeish that players such as the highly-rated former Arsenal midfielder Alexander Hleb and the 6ft 8ins Serbia striker Nikola Zigic have failed to make much of an impact. Everton struggled just as much up front until that fateful moment in the 54th minute when Johnson decided to try to cut out a low cross by Leon Osman at the near post But the unlucky Johnson only succeeded in deflecting the ball into his own net as Ben Foster came out to clear the danger. Everton’s confidence improved visibly and although they were put under some pressure by Birmingham late on they made sure of the three invaluable points when, deep into injury time. Left-back Leighton Baines did well to lose his markers and delivered a raking cross which Cahill converted with a low diving header to notch his 100th goal in league football. Moyes, typically, did not get too excited, saying: “I am not about to start jumping up and down because we have won a game although I am pleased with the performance and the points. “The truth is that we have performed much better than our results indicate in our previous games. “We had a lucky break with the own goal but I though we got what we deserved for tremendous workrate.
“But we still do not look 100 per cent right so there is plenty of work ahead.”
The first half typified the lack of confidence in both attacks. Cameron Jerome missed a gilt-edged chance to open Birmingham’s account by volleying hopelessly wide after a clever lob by Barry Ferguson unlocked the Everton defence. Then at the other end Yakubu failed to get enough power into a shot after being left clear as Johnson stumbled in the penalty area. The goal was at his mercy.but the Nigeria striker’s poor effort allowed full-back Liam Ridgewell to bound in and make a goal-line clearance.
Yet another chance presented itself to Osman when a smartly-worked interchange of passes left him with some space to turn but then place his shot wide of the angle.
But in the second half Everton got the breaks – and now the pressure has been lifted from Moyes for the time being and become more intense for McLeish.
Birmingham 0 Everton 2
DISASTER ... Roger Johnson diverts the ball past Brum keeper Ben Foster
03 Oct 2010 The Sun
ROGER JOHNSON'S own goal and a last-gasp effort from Tim Cahill handed Everton their first win of the season.
Johnson was left with his head in his hands when he diverted Leon Osman's cross into the net after 54 minutes. The mistake stunned the Birmingham faithful but their reaction quickly turned to anger just seconds after the restart when Stephen Carr was sent crashing in the Everton box. Carr was in on goal but referee Phil Dowd waved away his protests despite it appearing to be a clear penalty. Alex McLeish's men applied the pressure in search of an equaliser but the Toffees secured three precious points when Cahill's header doubled the advantage in the 90th minute. Everton controlled the opening stages and looked far from a team who started the day bottom of the table. Mikel Arteta, Leon Osman and Marouane Fellaini bossed the midfield and Cahill got on the end of a deep cross from Leighton Baines, but his downward header was collected by Ben Foster. Yakubu then dragged a low shot across the face of goal before Cahill nodded wide from another Baines cross. Birmingham did not threaten until the 26th minute when Cameron Jerome poked the ball the wrong side of Tim Howard's post. Everton were soon back on the offensive and a slip by Johnson left Yakubu with a clear run at goal. But Foster managed to get a hand on the striker's his cross-shot and Liam Ridgewell was behind him to complete the clearance. The Toffees picked up where they left off after the break and went ahead when Osman sent a low first-time cross to the near post. Foster appeared to have it covered but Johnson got to the ball ahead of him and could only deflect it into his own net
Brum tried to retaliate and appealed in vain for a penalty when Carr was challenged by Baines. Lee Bowyer then had a good chance after Scott Dann headed back across goal but the midfielder volleyed over the bar. David Moyes threw on John Heitinga for Yakubu as Everton tried to protect their lead in the closing stages, while Jerome made way for Matt Derbyshire. And it was game over in injury-time when Cahill headed home from Baines' perfect delivery.
Birmingham: Foster, Carr, Johnson, Dann, Ridgewell, Larsson, Ferguson, Bowyer, Fahey (Zigic 70), Hleb, Jerome (Derbyshire 80). Subs not used: Taylor, Murphy, Phillips, Michel, Jiranek.
Everton: Howard, Neville, Distin, Jagielka, Baines, Coleman (Bilyaletdinov 86), Fellaini, Arteta, Osman, Cahill, Yakubu (Heitinga 79). Subs not used: Mucha, Hibbert, Beckford, Gueye, Barkley.
Goals: Johnson 54 og, Cahill 90.
Att: 23,138
Ref: Phil Dowd (Staffordshire).
TOFFEES SHOW NO MERSEY TO DUMP KOP IN DROP ZONE
PRETTY IN PINK: Cahill celebrates his stoppage-time goal
Birmingham 0 Everton 2
By Aidan Magee, 02/10/2010 (News of the world)
DUMPING Liverpool into the bottom three for the first time in 26 years was exactly the incentive Everton needed to finally kick-start their own season.
Not since Hallowe'en in 1984 has the Blue half of Merseyside been able to look down and laugh at their Kop rivals suffering in the relegation zone. And Everton's next game is at Goodison Park in a fortnight - against Liverpool. Rarely could the Premier League's bottom side have travelled to the home of a team unbeaten on their own patch for a calendar year and gained the upper hand in such a one-sided contest.
They might even have inflicted a morale-boosting thumping on Alex McLeish's Brum if their strikers had been anywhere near top form. David Moyes' side sealed a first win of the season thanks largely to their talented midfield controlling most of the match. It was fitting that an own goal edged Everton ahead because for long periods it looked like Birmingham's luck might hold. The victory gave Everton a long-awaited first three points this term after a wretched start saw them take just three points from six games. In truth, the Merseysiders made a mockery of their lowly position.
Hardened Toffees fans will point to the record books which reveal their side have been perennial slow starters in the top flight under Moyes. This season, though, was surely taking things a bit far for the fingernails of most at Goodison Park. In fact, their statistics were beginning to look as ridiculous as that neon pink kit. It was a day of firsts for the 3,500 travelling fans. A first win, of course, and the first side to win at St Andrew's in 19 visits. Wigan's early victory over Wolves at the DW Stadium also gave the Toffees the chance to send their bitter Anfield rivals into the relegation zone for the first time since the days of Joe Fagan. And they took full advantage - at least for 24 hours until the Reds host Blackpool this afternoon. The breakthrough came in the 54th minute when Leighton Baines and Leon Osman combined on the left to create an opening. Typically, it wasn't Yakubu on the end of it, instead it was Birmingham's Roger Johnson. And the normally reliable defender diverted Osman's low centre past keeper Ben Foster and into the net. The former Manchester United keeper is hopeful of gaining a place in Fabio Capello's England squad and could have done without being involved in a messy goal like that. The blame couldn't really be laid at Foster's door but a harsh observer like Capello might have questioned the apparent lack of communication. Everton certainly earned their luck. From that point, the confidence began to move through the veins of the men in pink, as rather than try to protect their lead, they tried to add a second goal to secure that elusive three points.
Birmingham boss McLeish felt aggrieved soon after when Seamus Coleman appeared to lead with his arm and handle in the area. His pleas for a penalty were ignored by the portly Phil Dowd, who was promptly told by the home fans "You're too fat to referee". That might have been a bit unfair on the Staffordshire official but the visitors' luck was in for the first time in a while. Everton put their foot to the floor after that and put the game beyond reach in stoppage time. Baines again escaped down the left and sent over a low cross which was met by a trademark bullet header from the reliable Tim Cahill. It was the Aussie's 100th league goal in a decade-long career - an outstanding achievement for the former Millwall midfielder who has seen large chunks of his time in the game interrupted by injury. For Brum, this amazing run of home form, which stretches back to Bolton's 2-1 win at St Andrew's on September 26 last year, appears to have papered over a few cracks. It was a record-equalling run which could have surpassed a 103-year-old milestone if they had avoided defeat. The reality, however, is that the Blues have won just two of their last 17 Premier League games, proof if it were needed that statistics can paint whichever story you want them to. They carved out just one chance when Cameron Jerome lost his nerve in front of goal and there was precious little creativity from midfield.
McLeish's side look solid enough but the squad does not appear to possess a natural finisher with the exception of 36-year-old Kevin Phillips, who didn't get off the bench.
Even so, the criticism that rained down from some sections seemed unfair, a point not lost on McLeish in his post-match comments. This time last year Brum looked odds-on for a third relegation from the top flight in four years until they found their stride in the autumn. They achieved an improbable top- half finish and it looked like they would finally shed their tag as a yo-yo club. Maybe they spoke too soon. McLeish added to the squad in the summer as the likes of Alex Hleb and Nikola Zigic arrived in the Midlands but those two have yet to settle. This was Everton's day - and the records that went crashing have prevented Moyes from becoming a broken record with his insistence that the tide would eventually turn.
ECK REFLECTS ON END OF MAGNIFICENT RUN
Moyes not getting carried away (News of the world)
SCOTS: McLeish and Moyes have a conversation
03/10/2010
ALEX McLEISH was left to reflect on the end of a magnificent run that saw his team remain unbeaten for more than 12 months.
But the Birmingham boss did direct some criticism at the home fans who saw fit to boo their side, despite not seeing the Blues lose at home for so long. Big Eck said: "It was a proud record and it's been a credit to everybody. "We now have to start again because most of the teams that have stayed up over the years have done so on the back of strong home performances. We don't deserve the criticism from the supporters, particularly as we need them right behind us. The first goal was disastrous and we've always said that if the ball has to be cleared then you don't wait for shouts behind you." David Moyes will not "jump about" despite winning for the first time this season. The Everton boss still feels subdued by the fact his side have taken until October to get their first win of a season that promised great things. He said: "I feel disappointment more than relief because if you have a good team you think you should have won by now. "I will certainly not jump about because we have won a game. "Birmingham have a great home record and for us to come and take it away after 12 months was great. But I've been wondering why we haven't scored three, four goals or more in some of the games."
TOFFEES END STICKY RUN
Sunday October 3,2010 (The Express)
Everton registered their first win of the season thanks to Roger Johnson's own goal and a late header from Tim Cahill as they shattered Birmingham's 13-month unbeaten home record with a 2-0 victory. David Moyes' side moved off the bottom of the table and it was no more than they deserved after dominating possession. Johnson deflected a low cross from Leon Osman past Blues keeper Ben Foster nine minutes into the second half and, in injury time, Cahill turned in Leighton Baines' cross. Everton made a promising start and knocked the ball around in confident style with Cahill getting on the end of a deep cross from Baines, but his downward header was collected by Foster. Aiyegbeni Yakubu dragged a shot across the face of goal as City were pinned back and Cahill could not hide his frustration when heading wide from a Baines centre. Birmingham did not threaten until the 26th minute as Cameron Jerome poked his shot well wide after a mistake by Sylvain Distin. Everton were soon back on the offensive and a slip by Johnson left Yakubu with a clear run at goal. But Foster managed to get a hand onto his cross-shot and Liam Ridgewell was behind him to complete the clearance. Blues fans tried to rally their team after the break but Everton went ahead through an own goal by Johnson after 54 minutes. Osman sent a low first-time cross to the near post and Johnson got to the ball ahead of Foster and could only deflect it into his own net. City tried to retaliate and appealed in vain for a penalty when Stephen Carr was challenged by Baines. Lee Bowyer had a good chance but went for the spectacular finish and volleyed over the crossbar. Then in injury time Cahill made it 2-0 when he headed in a centre from Baines.
David Moyes expects Everton FC to kick on now after beating Birmingham
Oct 4 2010 by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Echo
EVERTON boss David Moyes saw his side move off the bottom of the Barclays Premier League – but believes their performances this season have merited a greater reward. The Toffees registered their first league win of the campaign via a 2-0 success at Birmingham through a Roger Johnson own goal and a late header from Tim Cahill.
It brought an end to City’s 13-month unbeaten home record spanning 18 matches.
Moyes said: “Birmingham have a great home record and for us to end it after more than 12 months was really great from our point of view. “We’ve now taken four points from away matches at Fulham and Birmingham, two teams I would expect to finish in the top half of the table. “We played really well, especially in the first half and how we went in 0-0, I don’t know, but I’ve been saying that all season.
“People who have watched us said our performances have not merited where we are in the league. “The players needed to see the way we were playing was going to get them rewards points-wise – and we got it today. “Maybe we had a bit of good fortune with the first goal which was deflected but I’ve been saying maybe we needed something like that. “We passed the ball well, were fluid and tried to play good football. “But I am not jumping about because we’ve won again because I expect us to go on and win a lot of matches.” Moyes admitted that goalscorer Cahill, who nodded in Leighton Baines’ cross to seal the win, has still not fully recovered from his recent knee problem. He said: “There was a doubt about Cahill today. He is still not looking 100 per cent. “He has not trained enough for me to think everything is absolutely right.” The only downside for Moyes was the news that midfielder Steven Pienaar could be out of action for a month with a groin problem. Moyes said: “He hurt his groin on Wednesday in training and it looks as if he might be out for two to four weeks. “Two weeks would be good, four would not be. It is a real blow because he played so well at Fulham and is an influential player. “I’m hoping he can heal quickly and at least we have got the international break coming up.” Birmingham manager Alex McLeish admits his side have to start posing more of a threat to opposition defences after drawing a blank at home for the third successive game. He said: “I have thrown down the gauntlet to all our strikers. Places are up for grabs in the front areas.
“I want to see more in training and reserve matches and the opportunity is there for someone. “Cameron Jerome is putting himself about up front but we need someone else to be a threat up there.” McLeish was unimpressed with the reaction of some fans who greeted the half-time whistle and final whistle with boos. He said: “I don’t think we deserved it. We need the home support behind us. “I have been telling them for the last couple of years just how important they are to us.” McLeish added: “We’re disappointed to lose the proud home record but now we’ve got to start again.”
Birmingham City 0, Everton FC 2: Blues slip into gear with vital win at last
Oct 4 2010 Liverpool Echo

Blues slip into gear with Birmingham win IT was luck they needed and luck they finally got – Everton have struggled so badly to put the ball in the back of the net this season that Birmingham City kindly did it for them on Saturday. It could so easily have been another one of those days on the road before victory was finally in their grasp. Again the Blues started brightly, again they took the game to the home side, and yet, when Yakubu’s effort was scrambled off the line by Liam Ridgewell, the match seemed to be heading for an all too familiar frustrating outcome. David Moyes had insisted his side needed a goal to go in off a forward’s backside, or some other scrappy slice of fortune in the opposition area, to go their way. His prayers were answered, and not before time, when Everton’s industry and positive play saw Leon Osman drive a dangerous cross into Birmingham’s box in the second half, and the usually impeccable Birmingham defence panicked. Ben Foster flapped, and the ball went past him via Roger Johnson. It may not have been pretty, but that 54th minute gift could yet be the goal which kick-starts Everton’s faltering season.
It was the least they deserved. Moyes, after praising his players warmly before the game, can be hugely proud of their professional, hard-working and ultra-efficient display. He has never doubted his charges’ attitude despite their woes so far during this campaign, and they responded with a Herculean effort. Consider this – Birmingham City had been unbeaten at home for more than a year. Where last season the Blues raced into a 2-0 lead at St Andrews only to allow their hosts back in, there was a defensive toughness about them on Saturday which suggested a repeat was never on the cards. But Lady Luck did not appear to be in their corner before kick off. Steven Pienaar failed a fitness test, and his injured groin will almost certainly mean he will miss the Goodison derby. It meant Moyes asked Leon Osman to play out of position on the left of midfield, and the player he has called one of his ‘mini-managers’, potential future bosses in his squad, delivered a superb performance.
So too did Tim Cahill. The Aussie talisman emphasised why Moyes is so reluctant to lose him for up to five games in January when he will be asked to play for his country in the Asia Cup. The 30-year-old played through the pain barrier, how many times has he pushed his body to the brink for the Blue cause? And he scored the injury time goal which gave the score line more authority. Elsewhere, Phil Jagielka was exemplary; one characteristic perfectly timed tackle rolled the clock back to his consistent best before that knee injury. Onwards and upwards for Jags. Sylvain Distin too showed his back bone. The experienced Frenchman has not let a couple of blips in previous games ruin his confidence and he was assured and powerful in the Midlands. If Fabio Capello was watching he cannot have failed to notice the influence of Leighton Baines. If ever a player deserved another chance with the national squad it is Baines. Defensively he was resolute and in attack he was a constant headache for Stephen Carr. There were reasons to be cheerful all over the pitch. Yakubu, starting his second game in a row, bristled with intent and almost opened the scoring when the ball broke to him in the area and his close range left foot shot appeared to be going in until Liam Ridgewell slid in to clear off the line. Everton dominated possession and forced the Midlanders to play on the break. Now the pressure which has built up as the search for a win stumbled on will be dissipated. Liverpool’s defeat at home ensures the Blues have bragging rights in terms of league position as they head into the international break before the derby, although neither club can boast about their lowly positions.
The good news for Everton is that this felt like a turning point. Now Moyes can only hope that his side’s failure to pick up points before Saturday has not already saddled their ambitions too heavily. “I am really pleased we won and the players did great. But I'm not jumping about because they are good enough to win games like this and I've told them that.” David Moyes reminds everyone that expectations were high this summer for a reason “I have thrown down the gauntlet to all our strikers. Places are up for grabs in the front areas. I want to see more in training and reserve matches.” Alex McLeish reminds David Moyes he is not alone with his frustrations over mis-firing forwards.
BIRMINGHAM CITY (4-5-1): Foster, Carr, Dann, Johnson, Ridegwell, Bowyer, Ferguson, Larsson, Fahey, Hleb, Jerome (Derbyshire, 90).. Not used: Taylor, Murphy, Philips, Michel, Zigic, Jiranek..
EVERTON (4-5-1): Howard, Neville, Distin, Jagielka, Baines, Arteta, Cahill, Osman, Coleman (Bilyaletdinov, 87), Yakubu (Heitnga, 90).. Not used: Mucha, Beckford, Gueye, Barkley.
GOALS: Johnson OG (54), Cahill 90
REFEREE: Phil Dowd (Staffs).
ATTENDANCE: 23,138 (3,804 away)
Everton FC don’t need this international break - Phil Jagielka
Oct 4 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
PHIL JAGIELKA fears the international break has come at the wrong time for Everton after they finally won their first game of the season. The defender, who hopes to be in Fabio Capello’s England squad when it is announced today, is concerned the two-week break before the Goodison derby could undermine the Toffees’ momentum.
Everton hauled themselves off the bottom of the table by breaking Birmingham City’s year-long unbeaten record at St Andrew’s on Saturday, and Jagielka wishes they could capitalise on the confidence-boosting win straight away. He said: “It would have been nice to get the (derby) game played before we all go off on international duty but at the same extent it’s giving lads who are not quite fit that time to recover.
“But I’m happy going away to play international football with a win rather than us staring at the paper and seeing we’re still bottom of the table. “We’re not getting too carried away because we’re still not in the position we’d like to be in. But coming to the game today we had one thing on our mind and that was to get a victory, a much overdue one, and hopefully that will kickstart our season.” Jagielka, who helped David Moyes’ side keep their second clean sheet in a row at the weekend, was grateful Everton finally got a lucky break in front of goal for their opener. “The lucky first goal was huge,” he said. “We played some fantastic football yet again in patches and showed we can create chances but we’re still not quite finishing teams off.
“It was a little bit nervy being 1-0 for so long but thankfully we got the second late on to make sure the victory was there.” Despite still hovering above the bottom three, Jagielka insists there has not been too much gloom in the Everton camp about their lowly league position. He said: “It’s hard to judge with the amount of games we’ve played so far this season, even though we’re in October now. “It’s not nice but we don’t feel it’s been a case of us playing horrific for the first couple of months at all, it’s just us not being clinical or professional, call it what you want, in the final third and the defensive third in some games. “We’re not all high fiving each other and hugging thinking we’ve done brilliant because we’ve still only got six points from the first seven games. It’s a move in the right direction and hopefully we can build on that.” The 28-year-old is also satisfied he has done all he can to stake his claim for a place in the England squad for the Euro 2012 qualifier against Montenegro on October 12. He said: “It was nice to get three games on the spin, back-to-back and the results were good as well. But there are some fantastic players in the squad who will be vying for a place. He added: “David Moyes obviously tells the boys to look after each other and wishes them luck. It is fantastic to play for your country and the gaffer understands that, but he’ll have a few fingers crossed next Tuesday to make sure his lads come back safe and sound.”
Birmingham 0 Everton FC 2 - first win for EFC lifts team out of relegation zone
Oct 4 2010 Liverpool Daily Post
THE men in pink have suddenly made many green with envy.
Everton were given the helping hand they badly required to get their Premier League season up and running on Saturday afternoon, but few could argue they were not thoroughly deserving of their slice of good fortune. In beating Birmingham City, David Moyes' men became the first side to claim victory at St Andrews in 18 matches, a run which covered 12 months, but more importantly rediscovered that winning feeling for the blue half of Merseyside. The Goodison Park outfit may owe a debt of gratitude to Roger Johnson and his early second half error to gift them the lead, but Everton were full value for a win which was secured in the dying moments by Tim Cahill's stooping header. For those Evertonians sceptical of claims coming out of the club that results were not a fair reflection on the level of performances in the six games which had gone before, victory in the second city was vindication for the faith of the manager. To put the display into context, Moyes' men appear to have learnt from the harsh lesson dished out from Newcastle United as they swaggered through Goodison two weeks ago. Led by the accomplished performance of Leon Osman, Everton were crisp and clean in possession and able to frustrate Birmingham into wayward pass after wayward pass as the Goodison side found to their cost 14 days prior against the North East side. The victory does of course not mask the pressing issue Everton still require a greater and more sustained threat up front but the influential first half display of Yakubu points to a promising future - at least that remains the hope. The Nigerian international, played as the lone striker at the weekend, saw his performance level drop after the break as fatigue took its toll and the visitors required Cahill to once more ease the nerves of the travelling supporters, of which there were over 3,000. Everton did survive strong claims for a penalty as Seamus Coleman appeared to handle in the area with the game at 1-0 but would have felt hard done by if Birmingham had been allowed back into a game which was passing them by in such circumstances. As at Fulham last week, Everton were once again bright out of the blocks and maintained their handle of the game well into the second half.The visitors found particular joy down the left flank thanks in part to the slick movement and passing of Osman and Leighton Baines, but also because of the space vacated by City's Sebastian Larsson who drifted central far too often.
The Everton pair also linked up well with figurehead Yakubu as Moyes' men fashioned half chances for Cahill and Coleman against a subdued home side.
However a rare lapse on the day from Sylvain Distin almost undid their assured start when the Frenchman's misjudged header allowed Cameron Jerome to race clear on Tim Howard's goal, only for the Birmingham forward to slice the half volley wide.
It would be the best chance his side had all afternoon. A minute later and Everton, prospering even without the injured Steven Pienaar, went close to grabbing the lead as Johnson slipped in possession, allowing Yakubu to strike on goal from eight yards.
Phil Neville says being bottom of the league drove Everton FC to Birmingham victory
Oct 4 2010 by Philip Kirkbride, Liverpool Daily Post
CAPTAIN Phil Neville says the embarrassment of hitting rock bottom drove Everton to victory at Birmingham City. The Goodison Park side struck twice in the second half on Saturday to become the first side to win at St Andrews in a year but more importantly, they picked up a first win of the season. Neville admitted their first three point haul of the campaign came as a huge relief after the side fell to the foot of the Premier League table last week but has insisted nobody is getting carried away after victory in the Midlands. Understandably talk at Everton’s Finch Farm training ground this week could not escape the Goodison Park side’s predicament heading into the weekend’s fixture. But Neville believes some intense training sessions helped focus the players’ minds into getting the win the captain was delighted to produce for the supporters. “There’s no real celebration in there because it’s just one win,” said Neville. “Yeah, we’ve won a game, but we can still do better. “The pleasing thing is we’ve persevered, we’ve stuck to our guns because we haven’t been playing that badly.“Training has been hard this week. We’ve had a couple of double sessions and it’s been gruelling. “The manager’s pushing us hard and I think we need pushing hard. The game is the easy part, the game is the hardest part. “Being bottom has shamed us this week. “We came off against Fulham slightly pleased by the way we had played to get a point. But we hit rock bottom and to be bottom of the league for a club like Everton and for some of the players in that dressing room was embarrassing and shameful. I must admit it’s been talked about almost every minute of every day. We were bottom of the league and it was the kick up the backside we needed.
“The pleasing thing is we’ve not lost that self-belief. Sometimes when you have bad defeats, you can revert to safety first and playing with fear. I don’t think we’ve done that and everybody needs applauding for that. “At the end we came off and clapped the supporters, but there were no high fives. We’ve had a poor start to the season and we’ve let ourselves down. There’s happiness and relief because we’ve got the three points, but there’s still a long way to go. “We’ve let the fans down. They have been deflated these last couple of weeks and we have as well. I think they saw us get our just rewards for the effort we put in.” Neville points to Everton’s spirit as a major factor in them gaining a first win of the season - but admits Roger Johnson’s own goal was a welcome slice of good fortune.The captain now hopes a first league triumph of the campaign will be the start of a much more positive period for the Goodison Park side. “We’ve been looking for a goal to go in off someone’s backside and today it has,” offered Neville. “When that goes in, you think that’s the bit of luck we needed and which we’ve not had. We’re all satisfied, but like the manager says, there’s more hard work to come. “You always hope the first win will be a springboard. You normally look for a turning point when you’re playing badly and confidence is low. But we have been playing well and it was a case of persevering. “The bottom line was, we just weren’t putting the ball in the back of the net. “Sometimes at this club, it’s got to get bad before it gets better. When we’ve hit rock bottom, the spirit and togetherness comes through. “There was a real focus today.”
Refusal to panic will help us build on Birmingham win, says Everton manager David Moyes
Oct 4 2010 by Philip Kirkbride, Liverpool Daily Post
MANAGER David Moyes believes a refusal to panic will be key to Everton building on their first win of the season. Everton beat Birmingham City 2-0 at St Andrews on Saturday to move off the bottom of the Premier League table and re-ignite their campaign. Moyes has praised his players for remaining calm despite dropping to the foot of the division after last weekend’s 0-0 draw at Fulham and maintaining belief results would take a turn for the better sooner of later. However the Everton manager admits he still has concerns over his side’s lack of cutting edge up front and concedes to being unsure as to why they have struggled to convert chances so far this season.
“Most people who have seen us play this season would say that we’ve been playing like one of the top sides in the division, we’ve just lacked that cutting edge that makes the difference at the very top”, said Moyes. “But that comes with a lot of cash and we’re in a different situation, and I know that. But the way we finished last season is why we had so much confidence going into this season. “I’ve looked at everything; we cross the ball as much as anybody, we get players in the box as much as anybody. Our conversion rate, considering how many chances we’re creating, just isn’t good enough at the moment. Some games you can create two or three chances and win, we’re creating a hatful of chances, a hateful of opportunities, and not really getting what we deserve. “It would have been easy for the players to start panicking because we were in a bit of trouble but the thing that really pleased me last week at Fulham is that the boys got hold of the ball and played, and passed it. On Saturday, too, there could have been signs that things weren’t going well for us but I don’t think there were signs. Instead there were signs of composure, of confidence on the ball, and a lot of belief. I think the players believe that the team is good and I believe that I’ve got a group of players that are right behind me.” Naturally Moyes hopes a first win of the season will kick-start Everton’s season and though admitting the international break is not ideal, is confident a desire to keep moving the side up the table will ensure total focus when they lock horns with Liverpool on October 17. Ahead of today’s England squad announcement for the Euro 2012 qualifier against Montenegro, Moyes has given his backing for defender Phil Jagielka to gain another call-up. “What we’ve got to do is get into a consistent run of results”, added Moyes. “We’ve got difficult games coming up, against Liverpool and Tottenham, but I did think that Fulham and Birmingham were difficult games so who knows in the Premier League. “What we’ve got is a group of players that understand how much it means to keep improving and the big thing for me is that they show me every day that they don’t enjoy being in the position we’re in at the moment and will keep striving to get out of it. “On the basis of his performances Jagielka deserves to retain his place, definitely. I think there is a freshness about England that has come about from the introduction of two or three players in the squad and Jagielka is one of them.” Moyes confirmed Tim Cahill, who appeared to be in pain with his troublesome knee during the second half, is not 100% fit.
Birmingham 0 Everton 2: Full time report
Oct 4 2010 The Birmingham Post
Everton registered their first win of the season thanks to Roger Johnson's own goal and a late header from Tim Cahill as they shattered Birmingham's 13-month unbeaten home record. David Moyes' side moved off the bottom of the table and it was no more than they deserved after dominating possession for long periods and looking the more threatening. Johnson could only deflect a low cross from Leon Osman past Blues keeper Ben Foster nine minutes into the second half and, in injury time, Cahill turned in Leighton Baines' centre. Everton's performance belied their lowly position in the Barclays Premier League, with Mikel Arteta, Leon Osman and Marouane Fellaini controlling the midfield, and had enough opportunities to have been in front before Johnson's error put them on the way to victory. This setback ended Birmingham's hopes of setting a new club record of 19 successive league games at St. Andrew's without defeat. City, who have now won only two of their last 17 league games, lacked any cohesion or fluency and once again there was a lack of a cutting edge in the final third of the pitch. Everton made a promising start and knocked the ball around in confident style despite their current precarious position. Cahill got on the end of a deep cross from Baines, after he had been found in plenty of space by Fellaini, but his downward header was collected by Ben Foster. Everton were finding plenty of space on their left flank and a cross from Ayegbeni Yakubu picked out the run of Seamus Coleman, but his header back across goal was cut out by Foster. Yakubu dragged a low shot across the face of goal as City were pinned back in their own half and Cahill could not hide his frustration when heading wide from a Baines centre.Birmingham did not threaten until the 26th minute but Cameron Jerome could have put them ahead. Sylvain Distin could only back-head a chip from Barry Ferguson into the path of Jerome and the former England Under-21 striker took the ball in his stride but poked his shot well wide. Everton were soon back on the offensive and a slip by Roger Johnson left Yakubu with a clear run at goal. But Foster managed to get a hand onto his cross-shot and Liam Ridgewell was behind him to complete the clearance. Everton were playing with great fluency and a run by Yakubu carved out another chance for Osman. But after turning inside the area, he wasted another decent opportunity by curling his shot over Foster's crossbar. Everton were soon back on the offensive after the interval and Johnson threw himself forward in typical fashion to block a shot from Osman. The Blues fans tried to rally their team but after 54 minutes Everton went ahead through an own goal by Johnson. Osman sent a low first-time cross to the near post which looked to be covered by Foster but Johnson got to the ball ahead of him and could only deflect it into his own net. It was Everton's first away league goal of the campaign and no more than they deserved given their dominance. City tried to retaliate and appealed in vain for a penalty when Carr was challenged by Baines. McLeish made his first change after 70 minutes with Nikola Zigic replacing Keith Fahey as City reverted to a 4-4-2 formation. Bowyer had a good chance after Scott Dann headed back across goal but the veteran midfield went for the spectacular finish when he had more time at his disposal and volleyed over the bar. Moyes brought on John Heitinga for Yakubu as Everton tried to protect their lead, while Jerome made way for Matt Derbyshire. Then in injury time Cahill made it 2-0 when he headed in a centre from Baines.
Birmingham City 0, Everton 2 - Colin Tattum's big match verdict
Oct 4 2010 by Colin Tattum, Birmingham Mail
THE home record collapses, and you could be forgiven for thinking the sky’s falling in, too, apparently. The first St Andrew’s defeat in 13 months – Blues missed out on a club record of 19 unbeaten in the league – triggered much angst. Mark Lawrenson, on Match of the Day, told Blues’ supporters to ‘get a life’. Harsh, as it’s not so much this result but a culmination of the recent cough, splutter manner of Blues and the lack of an edge in front of goal, following on from the height to which the bar was raised after last season. There’s bickering and disagreement among the rank and file as well about such reaction, and as to what the reasons are for just a solitary win this season.
Blues nor their manager are as negative, cautious and defensively-minded as is made out. They don’t go out there and essentially hide behind the sofa. Yet neither are they a fluid, flowing and penetrative attacking entity who suggest they will unhinge and unpick the opposition with regularity. They are something in between. They’re not beyond hope, the work ethic and attitude remains admirable, but they also need to inject more at the business end of the pitch. In a nutshell, they attempted to create chances and win this game and they weren’t near good enough when trying to do so. The intent was there, the production and execution wasn’t. Everton are a quality side, and it showed. They had better players, who turned up at the weekend, and that showed, too. The big brain-scrambler is how to keep the bedrock of a solid defence, but add the cherries and the icing to make what is a wholemeal cake more delicious and fancy. More Heston Blumenthal than Jamie Oliver. Alex McLeish isn’t a mug. In an ideal world he would have been selecting Roman Pavlyuchenko, Charles N’Zogbia, Moussa Dembele/Fabrizio Miccoli and others this season, with a better version of a Christian Benitez on board. And they do need that mobile, fast and unpredictable kind of player who can front up defenders and dovetail with Cameron Jerome, in the manner of Benitez. But it isn’t a perfect world and it’s up to Eck to find the formula. Maybe Matt Derbyshire could adopt that Benitez role as foil, or Aleksandr Hleb could become the man to bring the X-factor.In the first half Hleb went foraging too deep as Blues had to contend with waves of Everton attacks, which didn’t help. And he is having to realise that he isn’t on the Arsenal footballing carousel where you can pass the ball, pop off, watch everyone else whizz around you, and get back on for the ride and the next pass. Blues were more effective when Hleb was further up the pitch and on the ball more regularly. His ability is clear.
Jerome needs a soul-mate, he manfully plugs away when he’s isolated but it doesn’t suit his strengths. Jerome rather rushed the game’s first chance in the 25th minute, a half-volley, that could have changed proceedings. Blues missed the beguiling charms of James McFadden – so good against Liverpool – Craig Gardner’s oomph and positivity. And Jean Beausejour was injured, so we’ll never know whether the width and attacking intent he adds would have made a difference. Combine their absence with some not quite on their game, and slicker opponents, and it was awkward and not great to watch from a home perspective. Everton, like Wigan Athletic the previous weekend and others, showed Blues a healthy respect in that they gave them their best shot. Nobody takes Blues lightly as an upstart from the Championship any more.
Bottom of the league at the start of play, they were motivated to turn their season around and hardly missed a beat defensively. They had quick, lively and athletic players to spring forward. That’s what Blues lacked in the critical areas, those who are able to go by opponents, drive at them and stretch them. Blues were stodgy, too straight-lineish in the main, and could do with committing more players into the box in general. For all that Blues did knock the ball around, and stayed relatively composed until time ebbed away and they had to gamble. There wasn’t an end product at all. That we are discussing the frustration around St Andrew’s is in some ways remarkable considering Blues had not been beaten there for a year and a weekend. Last season, Blues would probably have been better off finishing 15th. Plus, supporters nowadays are unforgiving and also want to be put on the edge of their seat in excitement at home. While the Liverpool performance was uplifting, it’s no goals now from the last three league games in B9. Roger Johnson’s mix-up with Ben Foster in the 54th minute gave Everton just what they needed and made it all the more harder. There was an obvious penalty claim for handball against Seamus Coleman, and Tim Cahill’s clincher came in stoppage time when Blues had been gambling furiously, sending Johnson into the attack, and knew the game was up.
Everton end 'shameful' stay at the bottom with victory at Birmingham
• Gruelling extra training sessions help Everton turn corner
• 'Being bottom was embarrassing,' says captain Phil Neville
Sachin Nakraniat St Andrew's
The Guardian, Monday 4 October 2010
The strip Everton wore on Saturday betrayed them. Dressed in bright pink, they looked like a collection of back‑up dancers more than footballers searching for a first win of the season. Having gained the three points, however, the truth revealed itself – these were no fancy dans, but men determined to fight for their professional pride.
"Training has been hard this week, the days off were cancelled and we've had a couple of double sessions. It's been gruelling," said the captain, Phil Neville. "At this stage of the season you don't normally get double sessions, but when you're bottom of the league you need to do something about it and there's no substitute for hard work."
It was difficult to tell if the extra effort put in by the players in training made a difference here as they went about securing victory in the fluid, combative manner that has characterised Everton's play this season, despite a run of three draws and three defeats in six games. If anything, it was luck in front of goal that had eluded David Moyes's men and that arrived against Birmingham when Roger Johnson steered a Leon Osman cross into his own net on 54 minutes. From there they defended in high numbers before getting a second goal via Tim Cahill's diving header in stoppage time. When the final whistle blew Everton were off last place and the joy of those in the away section was only heightened by news that their team's triumph had dumped Liverpool into the bottom three. For the players, however, the feeling was one of relief. As Neville also revealed, the past week has not just seen the squad run faster and harder but also focus on what has been the club's worst start since 2005.
"Being bottom of the league for a club like Everton is embarrassing and shameful and it's been talked about by the players every minute of every day this week," Neville said. "To be fair to the manager he hasn't lost his calmness under pressure. He's known our form was just round the corner." That was reflected by Moyes, who praised his players for continuing to "believe that this team is good". The manager's only frustration lay in Everton's ongoing lack of a cutting edge and how that situation would be worsened should Cahill suffer damage to his knee while playing for Australia against Paraguay on Saturday. "He [Cahill] is not 100% at the moment," said Moyes. "He overextended his knee a couple of weeks ago and has not trained much since. I just hope he's OK [after playing for Australia]."Injuries are also a concern for Alex McLeish as he looks to pick up Birmingham following a halt to their year-long, unbeaten home run of 18 Premier League games. The spell included holding their own against Chelsea, Manchester United and Arsenal and finish ninth on their return to the Premier League. Such achievements should have fostered much gratitude among the supporters but instead boos could be heard spreading across St Andrew's at the end of the game. Astonishingly, dissent was noticeable at half-time, when the score was nil-nil. "Players are paid big wages and the fans expect them to deliver," McLeish said. "But I don't think it's fair the fans should boo us for losing because it wasn't a bad performance. There is more fickleness than ever before."
Man of the match Marouane Fellaini (Everton)
Profits up at Everton FC chairman Bill Kenwright’s theatre group
Oct 5 2010 by Alex Turner, Liverpool Echo
BILL Kenwright’s theatre and film group enjoyed a huge leap in profits as it continued its run of stage successes. The Everton FC chairman’s company Bill Kenwright Productions made a pre-tax profit of £2.4m on sales of £39.1m, while he earned £1.43m. A restructure of the firm meant those results, for the 13 months from December 2, 2008, to December 31 last year, could not be directly compared with figures for 2008, which showed a pre-tax profit of £446,000 on sales of £46.1m.
Its 2009 productions included Blood Brothers, Scrooge and Cabaret, while the company, which employs about 300 people, is also involved in television and film production. Mr Kenwright said: “Despite a challenging economic climate, the group’s core business of producing quality theatrical plays and musicals continues to yield reliable returns. “A strong balance sheet allows the group to embark on new projects and to seek out appropriate opportunities for investment. “This year, the group commenced its first European tour with its critically acclaimed production of Evita.”
Although Mr Kenwright expected 2010’s results to also be strong, he is wary of the effects of a struggling economy and the forthcoming VAT rise on next year’s sales.
He added: “I consider the principal risks to be the impact on theatre attendance resulting from the state of the national economy, aligned with the impact of legislative changes such as the forthcoming increase in VAT in January. “The group is performing strongly and is expected to generate a profit in 2010. “I am confident that the group will continue to prosper throughout 2010 and beyond.” Mr Kenwright, who is the sole shareholder, earned £1.43m in pay and dividends. He restructured his business empire at the end of 2008, splitting out his theatre and football interests.
His £7.46m investment in Everton was transferred to a new company, Bill Kenwright 1878. Mr Kenwright became Everton’s chairman in 2004, since when the club has achieved five top-eight finishes in the Premier League.
Ian Snodin: England’s loss is Everton FC’s gain as far as Leighton Baines is concerned
Oct 5 2010 Liverpool Echo
I’M probably not the first person to wonder exactly what Fabio Capello was thinking with the England squad he named yesterday. For a match against the minnows of Montenegro at Wembley I would have thought Leighton Baines would have been the perfect understudy to Ashley Cole. But instead he has been overlooked again for Steven Warnock. No disrespect to Warnock, who is a good, solid player, but he is very different to Baines. He’s a strong tackler whose strengths are in his defensive abilities. Baines is more in the mould of Cole, in that they are both very attack-minded and can deliver damaging crosses into the six yard box, as Baines proved again at St Andrew’s on Saturday. Leighton’s first couple of matches this season were so-so, but since then he has got better and better and has been outstanding in recent games.
He’s desperately unlucky not to be back in the England set-up, but England’s loss is Everton’s gain. At least Leighton now has an uninterrupted build-up to the Goodison derby match which is a relief to everyone at Goodison who does rate him!
Losing Steven Pienaar is a blow
STEVEN PIENAAR may not have been at his best so far this season, but we’re still going to miss him badly for the next month while he recovers from injury.
Regardless of how he is performing, Pienaar is one of those players who always works his socks off. Losing him for a significant period of time is a huge blow.
What is also worrying is the lack of developments regarding his contract situation.
Only Steven Pienaar will know what he intends to do, but the longer he goes without committing himself the more it looks likely that he will be leaving. And that would disappoint me enormously.
Ian Snodin: After the weekend's results, bring on the Merseyside derby!
Oct 5 2010 Liverpool Echo
WHAT a weekend! Everton became the first team to win at Birmingham for more than a year, the Blues won Battle of the Mersey on my lunchtime radio show, Europe claimed the Ryder Cup...and Blackpool made sure those smiles grew even wider on Sunday afternoon! You can’t under-estimate how important that victory was at St Andrew’s. People might say ‘It was only Birmingham’ but as many teams have discovered in the past 12 months it’s a very, very difficult place to go and win.
Everton did that – and thoroughly deserved all three points – and you have to give huge credit to the travelling Everton fans as well. There were more than 4,000 of them down in the Midlands – which for a team rock bottom of the table is a remarkable testament to their loyalty – and they got behind the team tremendously. They were rewarded by the Blues collecting all three points on an afternoon when one might have been considered a good outcome. The result also lifts spirits massively ahead of the derby match in a fortnight. I don’t think the build up to that game will be affected by the international break one little bit. A derby is a derby, regardless of the circumstances surrounding it – and you can guarantee that as soon as both teams finished their matches at the weekend the players will have been talking about it.
Obviously those on international duty will be focusing on their commitments for country rather than club, but they will still be talking about the game already.
The build-up has already started!
Leighton Baines happy with Everton win despite another England snub
Oct 5 2010 by David Prentice, Liverpool Echo
LEIGHTON BAINES has been overlooked once again by England coach Fabio Capello – but the in-form Everton defender is pleased to have escaped the “torture” of going into the international break without a win to his name. Baines helped seal Everton’s first win of the season at Birmingham on Saturday with a wonderful run and cross. That wasn’t enough to force his way back into the England reckoning alongside team-mate Phil Jagielka for the European Championship qualifier against Montenegro – Aston Villa’s Stephen Warnock again preferred – but Baines was happy just to celebrate three points at last. “It was vital for us to get off the mark,” he declared. “I couldn't have imagined facing the next couple of weeks still having not won and it would have been torture really in some ways. “We’re not going to try and kid ourselves and pretend it doesn’t matter, because it does. “We want to be higher up the table. The win over Birmingham will hopefully give us the springboard to do that.”
Baines’ form – he was also instrumental in the late comeback against Manchester United – wasn’t enough to change Capello’s mind about an England comeback, but Baines said he was relieved to avoid incurring the wrath of club boss David Moyes after his match-clinching contribution at St Andrew’s. “The manager wasn’t too happy with me being that far up the pitch and would rather I had stayed back,” added Baines. “But I found myself in there and our first thought was to keep the ball in the corner, but the opportunity came for me to get the ball in the box.“If it would have been anyone else I probably wouldn’t have gone for it, but when you know Tim Cahill’s in there, then you know there is always a chance of a goal. “He was on the spot as always to seal the victory.” Team-mate Jagielka, who impressed against Bulgaria and Switzerland, keeps his place in Capello’s squad, while Seamus Coleman has been named in Giovanni Trapattoni’s Republic of Ireland squad for the first time for their upcoming October matches against Russia and Slovakia.
“I got the call up on Friday and I was over the moon,” beamed Coleman. “It’s something I’ve been waiting for for a long time and I’m delighted to get it. I’ll go into the international training set-up with a bit of a buzz now after winning at Birmingham so it’s been a good week. “It’s a proud, proud day but it hasn’t really sunk in yet and probably won’t until I meet up with the team. It’s a big achievement for myself, and my family are very proud as well and obviously that's important.” Coleman, who made only his second league start as Everton ended Birmingham’s year long unbeaten run at home, says the team never stopped believing in themselves as they moved off the bottom of the Premier League. “All the lads are delighted and relieved to get that first win. Coming to Birmingham there was a bit of pressure to get that first win, but we're pleased to have finally got it,” he said. “If you look around the changing room there's some top class players in there and we all know we have the ability to win games and thankfully that happened.” Everton reserves, meanwhile, entertain West Bromwich Albion reserves tonight at Widnes’ Halton Stadium (kick-off 7pm).
ACADEMY FOOTBALL: Everton under-18s bounce back from first defeat to beat Wolves
Oct 5 2010 by Chris Wright, Liverpool Daily Post
GOALS from Johan Hammar and Hallum Hope helped Everton under-18s bounce back from their first defeat of the season to beat Wolverhampton Wanderers 2-0 at Finch Farm on Saturday. Neil Dewsnip’s side lost 1-0 to Blackburn but picked up where they had left off prior to that with an excellent win. After trading blows for much of the first half, with a couple of half chances for each side, Everton took the lead just before break. Following a corner by Nathan Craig, Swedish defender Hammar headed in his first goal since his move from FF Malmo this summer.
In the second half Hope tapped in from Jordan Barrow’s cross to double Everton’s lead. Dewsnip’s youngsters were in control and could easily have added more goals. Craig went close with a header. Despite a late rally by Wolves where keeper Adam Davies tipped over superbly Everton held on for a fine win. Coach Dewsnip said: “There was nothing in it for the first 40 minutes before we scored before half-time. Then we played well for a period after half-time and added a second. We had chances to add to that, but didn‘t take them. Then for some reason with about 15 minutes to go we lost our way a bit. We relaxed, made a few mistakes and got quite anxious.”
He added: “Overall it was quite a comfortable 2-0 win. The last 15 minutes was down to immaturity as there was no need to panic. But when you are 16, 17 you haven’t worked that out yet. That is something we could do better but generally I was very pleased.” Everton will look for another success at Manchester City this Saturday (kick-off 11am). Dewsnip said: “It will be a really tough one. We did really well there at the end of last year. We beat them 6-2 so I am sure they will be looking to even up the score.” EVERTON UNDER-18s: Davies, Barrow, Murphy, Hammar, Garbutt, Dobie, Orenuga (Lundstram 60), Kinsella, Craig, Hope, McAleny. Subs: Roberts, Higgins, Cummins.
Everyone right behind David Moyes, says Everton FC captain Phil Neville
Oct 5 2010 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
PHIL NEVILLE has dismissed suggestions that supporters have started to turn against manager David Moyes following Everton’s difficult opening to the season.
The Goodison outfit moved out of the relegation zone at the weekend with a 2-0 triumph at Birmingham City, their first Premier League win of the campaign.
It ended a run of just three points from six games that raised fears of a term of toil for Moyes’s side. But despite those concerns, Neville does not believe the Goodison fanbase is losing faith in the manager – and reckons the calm approach of Moyes is now paying dividends. “I’ve not felt that at all,” said the Everton captain of fan unrest towards Moyes. “It’s been difficult because you speak to anyone and they say Everton have the best squad in years. We’ve said it, the manager has said it. We’re playing good football, but we’re at the bottom of the league. To be fair to the manager, you can say he’s fiery, but he hasn’t lost his calmness under pressure. He’s now got a wealth of experience so that in situations like this, he knows the form is round the corner. “Sometimes when you get beat by Brentford and Newcastle in the same week, you go out of a cup and everyone is against you, that’s when this club shows the spirit its got. The fans are a part of that. We’re all in it together.” Neville has underlined the determination of Everton’s squad to move away from relegation trouble while admitting the players were perhaps guilty of overhyping their chances “At this stage of the season, you don’t normally get double sessions, but you’re bottom of the league and you need to do something about it,” he added. “The days off were cancelled. There’s only one way to get yourself back up the league and that’s through hard work. There’s no substitute for hard work and he’s (Moyes) the one who epitomises that. “I think at the start of the season we maybe did a little bit too much talking about where we were going to finish. “Now we need to need to keep our heads down, stay below the radar and let our football do the talking. Enough of the talking. Let’s cut the rubbish out, let’s just play football.” Seamus Coleman made his second Premier League start for Everton on Saturday and played his part in the win at St Andrew’s.
And it provided a double dose of joy for the 21-year-old who has also been called up the Republic of Ireland senior squad for the first time. The right-sided player is in Giovanni Trapattoni’s squad for their forthcoming Euro 2012 qualifying double header against Russia and Slovakia. And Coleman said: “I’m over the moon. It’s something I’ve been waiting for for a long time and I’m delighted to get it.
“I’ll go into the international training set-up with a bit of a buzz now after winning at Birmingham so it’s been a good week. “It’s a proud, proud day but it hasn’t really sunk in yet and probably won’t until I meet up with the team. It’s a big achievement for myself, and my family are very proud as well and obviously that’s important.”
Meanwhile, Landon Donovan, who spent a spell on loan at Everton last season, has sent a message of support to Moyes’s men. On hearing of Saturday’s win at Birmingham, the American posted on his twitter account: “Go on Toffees!!! Needed that win and hopefully that’s the start of getting back to the top of the table.”
Everton FC reserves slip to defeat at home to West Brom
Oct 6 2010 Liverpool Echo
EVERTON Reserves slipped to a third consecutive defeat as a Lateef Elford-Aliyu goal 12 minutes from time gave West Brom reserves a 2-1 victory at the Stobart Stadium. Romaine Sawyers had given the visitors the lead early in the second half before Jose Baxter’s quick fire equaliser. But sub Elford-Aliyu decided the game with a smart goal on the counter attack. Many of the reserves regulars were unavailable for the Blues with the likes of Shane Duffy, Magaye Gueye and Ross Barkley on international duty. The most experienced name in the hosts side was Baxter, whilst Dean Kiely and Republic of Ireland international Stephen Reid turned out for Albion.
Skipper for the night Baxter went close with Everton’s first two opportunities of the night as they made a promising start. West Brom’s first real opportunity came 24 minutes in, when a long ball forward found Saido Berahino, but the striker was crowded out by Nsiala and Jake Bidwell and his shot was deflected wide for a corner.
Just a minute later Albion had the perfect opportunity to hit the front from the penalty spot after Iain Turner was adjudged to have brought down James Hurst. Sam Mantom was given the responsibility from the spot, but Turner guessed the right way.
But parity didn’t last much longer after the break as Albion took the lead. An initial effort was well blocked by Bidwell but the rebound dropped into the path of Sawyers who hit a low shot past Turner. Everton’s response was almost instant, as they drew level on 49 minutes. A sweeping counter attack led to Nathan Craig’s low cross being comfortably converted by the impressive Baxter. Just after the hour Craig was replaced as Alan Stubbs introduced Conor McAleny to the action. But West Brom introduced Elford-Aliyu and he nodded home the winner. Everton’s second substitution of the night saw striker Kieran Agard return from a long lay-off.
Everton FC skipper Phil Neville says tough training helped Blues to first win of season
Oct 6 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
PHIL NEVILLE has revealed how David Moyes cracked the whip to get his squad in perfect shape to grab their first three points of the season. The Goodison outfit moved out of the relegation zone at the weekend with a 2-0 triumph at Birmingham City, their first Premier League win of the campaign. It ended a run of just three points from six games that raised fears of a dismal campaign for Moyes’s highly-rated side.
“At this stage of the season, you don’t normally get double sessions, but you’re bottom of the league and you need to do something about it,” said the skipper.
“The days off were cancelled. There’s only one way to get yourself back up the league and that’s through hard work. There’s no substitute for hard work and he’s (Moyes) the one who epitomises that.” Neville also dismissed suggestions that supporters have started to turn against Moyes following Everton’s difficult opening.
Despite understandable concerns, Neville does not believe the Goodison fanbase is losing faith in the manager – and reckons the calm approach of Moyes is now paying dividends. He said: “I’ve not felt that at all,” said the Everton captain of fan unrest towards Moyes. “It’s been difficult because you speak to anyone and they say Everton have the best squad in years. We’ve said it, the manager has said it. “We’re playing good football, but we’re at the bottom of the league. “To be fair to the manager, you can say he’s fiery, but he hasn’t lost his calmness under pressure. “He’s now got a wealth of experience so that in situations like this, he knows the form is round the corner. in the same week, you go out of a cup and everyone is against you, that’s when this club shows the spirit its got. “The fans are a part of that. We’re all in it together.”
Neville has underlined the determination of Everton’s squad to move away from relegation trouble while admitting the players were perhaps guilty of overhyping their chances “I think at the start of the season we maybe did a little bit too much talking about where we were going to finish. Now we need to keep our heads down, stay below the radar and let our football do the talking. Enough of the talking. Let’s cut the rubbish out, let’s just play football.” The ex-Manchester United man insisted there was no celebratory scenes in the St Andrews away dressing room after the Blues ended Birmingham’s 12-month run without a home defeat. There’s no real celebration because it’s just one win,” he said. “Yeah, we’ve won a game, but we can still do better. The pleasing thing is we’ve persevered, we’ve stuck to our guns because we haven’t been playing that badly.” Neville explained that the players’ were desperate to address the situation which had seen the Blues at the bottom of the table before Saturday’s game. “Being bottom has shamed us,” he admitted. “We came off against Fulham slightly pleased by the way we had played to get a point. “But we hit rock- bottom and to be bottom of the league for a club like Everton and for some of the players in that dressing room was embarrassing and shameful. I must admit it’s been talked about almost every minute of every day. “We were bottom of the league and it was the kick up the backside we needed. “The pleasing thing is we’ve not lost that self-belief. “There’s happiness and relief because we’ve got the three points, but there’s still a long way to go. We’ve let the fans down. “They have been deflated these last couple of weeks and we have as well. “I think they saw us get our just rewards for the effort we put in.”Ajax boss Martin Jol claims he told defender Jan Vertonghen to spurn Everton’s interest
Oct 6 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
AJAX boss Martin Jol has aimed a withering put-down at Everton by revealing he advised defender Jan Vertonghen to snub the Blues and hold out for a ‘top team’ this summer. The former Spurs boss claimed the Toffees were interested in a deal for Vertonghen, 23, but he persuaded the centre-half to stay at the Amsterdam club for now. Jol, who himself was linked with a move back to England this year when the manager’s position at Fulham became vacant, has focused on maintaining the young talent at Ajax, where Vertonghen is highly-rated. Speaking to Dutch football news site NuSport, Jol was asked if anyone came on for his prized asset before the transfer window closed. He said: “Everton, but Jan knows he is better with us. We have over 4.5million fans. Jan is clever and would only leave the club if he is completely ready for a top European team. “There were doubts by foreign clubs for a long period on whether he would be quick enough, but that's no longer an issue.” Meanwhile, Everton Academy manager Ray Hall believes 16-year-old Ross Barkley’s progression to the brink of the first team can inspire his fellow trainees. Hall, who has nurtured a host of young players to first team success including Leon Osman, Tony Hibbert, Wayne Rooney and Jack Rodwell, hopes Barkley can now follow their path.
He said: “We have had a very positive start to the season at the Academy including a terrific result with Ross Barkley, one of our young players, being on the bench for the first-team. Getting players through is our aim every year and it is good to see.
“The next step for Ross will be for him to actually get on the pitch. He is away with England Under-19s at the moment where he is actually giving away three years at that level. “While we want to improve the standard of all the players to help them move towards a career in professional football – either here or somewhere else – it is always pleasing when you see one of the Academy players make the step up.
“It is also encouraging for all the boys as they have played with Ross for the past seven or eight years, so to see him making that step has given them all a boost.”
Everton FC latest: Wolfsburg ponder January move for John Heitinga
Oct 6 2010 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
JOHN HEITINGA’S Everton future is in doubt with Wolfsburg ready to make a move for the defender in the New Year. Heitinga has fallen out of favour with Goodison manager David Moyes following a succession of indifferent displays this season.
The 26-year-old has started only four games since returning to Merseyside after being sent off for Holland in their World Cup final defeat to Spain in July. Heitinga has yet to finish a full 90 minutes in the Premier League this season and has played just 10 minutes in Everton’s last three games. The defender risked the wrath of Moyes days before the World Cup earlier this year by responding favourably to suggestions Manchester City were contemplating a move for him. However, it was German Bundesliga side Wolfsburg that were keen on signing the Dutchman on transfer deadline day this summer and who are now pondering resurrecting their interest when the window reopens in January. Steve McClaren, the English coach of Wolfsburg, has been impressed by Heitinga as he looks to strengthen his defensive resources.
Should Moyes choose to cash in, he is likely to ask in the region of £10million for a player that cost £6.2m to bring from Atletico Madrid barely 13 months ago. Losing Heitinga would leave Everton short of cover at centre-back with Joseph Yobo on a season-long loan at Fenerbahce. Bayern Munich are also believed to be monitoring Heitinga's situation, with Bayern coach Louis van Gaal having worked with the player while at Ajax in 2004. Meanwhile, Ajax manager Martin Jol claims Everton were tracking defender Jan Vertonghen during the summer – and has risked the wrath of the Goodison faithful by urging the 23-year-old only to leave for a “top European team”.
Belgium international Vertonghen has recently been linked with a move to Arsenal but Jol said: “Everton (were interested) but Jan knows he is better with us.
“We have over 4.5million fans. Jan is clever and would only leave the club if he is completely ready for a top European team.”
Everton Reserves beaten by West Brom Reserves
Oct 6 2010 by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Daily Post
EVERTON RES 1 WEST BROM RES 2: Everton Reserves slipped to a third consecutive defeat as a Lateef Elford-Aliyu goal 12 minutes from time gave West Brom a 2-1 victory at the Stobart Stadium. Romaine Sawyers gave the visitors the lead early in the second half before Jose Baxter’s equaliser. But substitute Elford-Aliyu clinched the points with a smart winner.
Football deal broker Keith Harris says there is no fresh investment in the pipe-line for Everton FC
Oct 7 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
EVERTON are unlikely to find new investment until the future of rivals Liverpool is resolved, according to a top football deal broker. Keith Harris, of investment bank Seymour Pierce, has been helping Bill Kenwright’s search for a buyer since 2008.
But Harris, who has also advised Newcastle United and Liverpool’s boards, said: “I suspect the Liverpool deal has got to play out and come to fruition first. Liverpool are in more urgent need of resolution to their dilemma. Everton have survived for some time and will continue. “There is nothing currently in the pipeline for Everton. They remain a great football club with great support and they are not over-geared. But in the last two years there has not really been an ordinary football club takeover done. West Ham was a bail-out and Manchester City’s situation was very different. “We are involved in a lot of deals, which I think are going to happen. You do your best to check them out and make sure they have bona fides, and then when you ask politely to see some of the money and they disappear. It’s strange.”
Everton FC letters: Blues fans on the first win of the season at Birmingham
Oct 7 2010 Liverpool Echo
NOT only did Everton look resplendent in their away kit, but also in their defensive play, which yielded a much needed and deserved victory at St Andrews.
Distin and Fellaini again were the main protagonists in achieving this victory, both towering in the air against Zigic and setting up fluent moves from the back.
Equally, it was encouraging to hear David Moyes is not getting carried away with this victory and is fully aware the Blues need more performances of this ilk to edge away from the relegation zone. Essentially, as demonstrated by Jenas for Spurs on Saturday, it is imperative the Blues invest in a player who can thread the ball accurately between opposition defences in and around the D. If Everton acquire a player of this nature it will have a two-fold effect; galvanise the present forwards at the club and furthermore give Everton variation and an extra dimension in their attacking play. Fundamentally, in relation to both City of Liverpool clubs it was encouraging to hear Bill Kenwright sounding the possibility of a shared stadium. The sooner a site is found and the blueprints have been approved the better for both clubs and the region.
David, Aintree IT’S a sorry state over the other side of the park, but you have to wonder when the focus will shift back to Goodison – how long can we continue without serious investment? I’m a big fan of Bill Kenwright – after all I’d rather have a passionate Blue in charge – but seriously, how much of a search is being conducted for an investor? It doesn’t take a genius to know, the best players and, indeed, David Moyes won’t stick around forever while we continue to go through the motions year on year. Andrew Philips, Hoylake GREAT win for the Blues last weekend – and to be fair it had been coming. Looking ahead I think we will get better as this will be a huge weight lifted from the players’ minds. However, I do wish David Moyes would put more faith in some of his attacking players. Bily, Gueye, Beckford and even Silva deserve a more consistent run out while others continue to misfire up front.
Larry Neil, Birkenhead YAKUBU needs to get fitter and Moyes needs to give Jermaine Beckford a longer run in the side. The poor lad has only had a couple of matches – most of which he’s been subbed and that’s with very little support or service and needs to have a longer run to build up match practice and confidence.
I realise it is a big step up from Leeds but while our current forward line aren’t doing the business why not blood a player that looked the business last season?
Dave Storry, Formby SO glad Fellaini was moved back into his favoured central midfield role. He was the big difference against Birmingham – breaking up play, playing the simple pass and generally taking over the centre of the park allowing the likes of Osman, Cahill and Coleman to get forward. Let’s hope Moyes sticks to playing him in his best position. Peter Nelson, Aughton
Everton FC jury: Blues fans on the latest issues at Goodison
Oct 7 2010 Liverpool Echo
FINALLY, three points was the reward for a dull encounter at St Andrew’s.
We were clearly the better side but struggled to make our dominance count until late in the second-half. Our problems have been scoring goals and it was inevitable that an own goal would offer us the dream ticket out of the bottom three. Could Roger Johnson’s own goal be as important as Kevin Brock’s back-pass at Oxford in 1984?
The sight of the city’s two clubs stranded at the foot of the table isn’t a particularly great one. I don’t see Liverpool getting any joy at Goodison and their slump will continue. Another clean sheet and three points would see us shoot up the table, and that could be the real start to the season. Next Saturday, a new hero could be born, a derby winner to write their name into Merseyside derby folklore.
Mike Williamson: We must build on victory over Birmingham City
AFTER a dream weekend for Blues fans everywhere, we must now make as much progress up the table as possible and put behind us the early setback. There was a lot to admire in Saturday’s performance with several key players hitting their best form of the season, including Osman, Jagielka and Arteta. The shape was good, Cahill was infectious and overall it was probably the nearest we have come to hitting the standards we hit in the final part of last year. We all know Yakubu will be with a different team next season but Blues fans need to get behind him and the rest of the team until the likes of Saha and Rodwell are back. As for the forthcoming game against one of the relegation battlers, there is no point expecting Moyes to start with two up front but if we play like we did on Saturday and maintain a high tempo from the start there is every reason to believe that we will come away from Goodison with the start of the season well and truly forgotten!
Richard Knights: Bring on the relegation six-pointer with Liverpool FC
WHILE the Conservative Party Conference is threatening a crackdown, Everton are facing a critical shortage of strikers – players who can do that simple thing – stick the ball in the back of the net.
On the Conservative theme, if there is to be an attack on the sickness benefits culture, then top of the long-term malingerers must be Louis Saha.
As for Yakubu, my theory is that he was kidnapped during the World Cup and replaced by a hopeless imposter.
James Vaughan is scoring like there's no tomorrow for Crystal Palace, but as Jermaine Beckford has discovered, moving up a league or two is an entirely different ball game.
So we're left with Tim Cahill and his dodgy, extendible knee and that startling ability to score spectacular late goals.
Bring on the six-pointer relegation derby!
Lee Molton: We should take the game to Liverpool and we can beat them
AN Everton win at last! It has been a long time coming but we have finally got our first win and come off the bottom too! Birmingham have got a great home record so to go there and win 2-0 was a terrific result. It’s a pity we have not got a game this weekend – we have just discovered how to win a match! Pienaar will be a big miss for the next few games as he has started very well. The contract has still not been signed and Moyes must sort that out – to lose him on a free in the summer would be a travesty! The derby is now looming on the horizon. We should go into it with a bit more confidence now and take the game to them. If we can keep it tight at the back and take our chances, then I fancy us to take the three points! What a lift to our season that will be and add even more misery for them too!
Football finance expert Tom Cannon says Everton FC fans should not lose heart at lack of investment
Oct 7 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
BILLIONAIRE buyers may not be queuing up to resurrect Everton – but Blues should not become too disillusioned, according to football finance experts. While some Evertonians are increasingly frustrated at the lack of fresh investment at Goodison, University of Liverpool professor Tom Cannon believes they should be thankful the club’s future is still in its own hands. Owner Bill Kenwright has repeatedly stressed his desire to find an owner capable of financing a new ground, and boosting David Moyes’ transfer coffers. The theatre impresario has admitted 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. Some, he has said, wasted his time and resources before ending their interest without warning. But professor Cannon, who is an Everton shareholder, insisted that supporters should not become disheartened at the apparent influx of people willing to takeover at rivals Liverpool, in contrast to their club.
He said: “The thing to take into account is that Everton do not owe £300m to a bank. So while Liverpool are on the brink of new ownership, there is a degree to which the decision on the future of Liverpool FC is not being made in this city but by the Royal Bank of Scotland. “There are still twists and turns to come in the Liverpool saga, ‘there’s many a slip twixt the lip and the cup’. “Bill Kenwright is looking for a different model of investor altogether.” Professor Cannon says Everton would not necessarily appear on the radar of prospective buyers like New England Sports Ventures, who are close to a takeover at Anfield. He said: “Liverpool are simply a much bigger and far more global business. “One of the factors behind the interest of NESV is Liverpool’s apparent reach into Asia, and US entrepreneurs are keen to tap into the Asian market so that is a big enticement. “Plus these guys are businessman and will want a return on their investment. “It’s not like Everton are missing out on the next RomanAbramovich or Sheikh Mansour.” It is not only Everton, insists Professor Cannon, who have been given the run around by potential investors.
“There are simply not an awful lot of people around who will inject the type of funds that Chelsea and Manchester City have had,” he says. “There are an awful lot of time wasters. People like the Chinese businessman Kenny Huang were linked with Liverpool but nothing ever materialised, then there was the proposed Syrian takeover, and the Al Kharafi family in Kuwait. Nothing happened until now. “Everton are not a club who can expect to go out and easily find someone with a billion in the bank ready to invest – not in this climate. “But they are not in bad shape financially and they are not the only ones who are finding the search for new investment frustrating or drawn out.”
Everton FC’s Seamus Coleman relishing a battle with Diniyar Bilyaletdinov
Oct 7 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
SEAMUS COLEMAN is relishing the prospect of going head to head with Everton team-mate Dinivar Bilyaletdinov when Ireland play Russia tomorrow. The 21-year-old defender received his first call-up to the senior international squad last weekend, and now hopes he has done enough to earn a debut for Giovanni Trapattoni’s side during their Euro 2012 qualifier in Moscow. Coleman, who has been a regular at U-21 level, only learned about about his promotion prior to Everton’s 2-0 win over Birmingham City, and admits there was some banter between him and Bilyaletdinov as they settled down for their pre-match meal. He said: “When I got the call up a couple of lads were separating us at the dinner table. Obviously there was nothing serious.” Now the right-sided star will tell his Ireland team-mates all about the threat the winger can cause to Ireland’s hopes of qualifying for the European Championships. “He’s got a lovely left foot and you’ve got to respect him just like the rest of their players,” warned Coleman.
“There’s no reason to be scared of them (Russia), but you have to respect them. They have some good players especially going forward. It’s not going to be easy but if we stick to our plans then we can get three points.” Coleman’s prospective first cap cements an excellent year for the youngster who signed from Sligo Rovers for £60,000. Since signing a new three year contract with Everton in May, he has helped Blackpool to Premier League promotion as part of a successful loan spell at Bloomfield Road.On his return to Goodison Park the youngster has scored his first Blues goal, and made his first Premier League start and says he is thoroughly enjoying 2010. “I’m very excited, it’s been a good year for me so far, I’ve been happy to get a contract at Everton and now to get a call-up to the Ireland squad was just brilliant,” added Coleman. “It’s something I’ve always wanted to do, so it was a great call to get.
“I’m trying to impress the manager and stay in and around his plans and it’s one step at a time at the moment.” Meanwhile, reserves boss Alan Stubbs insists that saving David Moyes money in the transfer market is his ultimate objective. After a youthful Blues second string suffered a 2-1 defeat to West Bromwich Albion at the Stobart Stadium on Tuesday, Stubbs said he is intent on developing the young players at the club. “I’d rather get one or two players through a season than win the league,” he explained. “Winning the league means nothing it’s about getting players through to the first team. “My aim is not to win the league, my aim is to save the manager from spending money and the more I can do that the better.” “Reserve team football with the group of players that we’ve got, you’re going to get negative results,” he continued. “But we’re here trying to improve and get the better players through into the first team. “I’ve said to them all along that it’s not about results. It’s about me trying to groom players.”
Everton FC manager David Moyes backs Phil Jagielka to keep England place, despite Rio Ferdinand and John Terry return
Oct 7 2010 by Chris Beesley, Liverpool Daily Post
EVERTON manager David Moyes believes that centre-back Phil Jagielka will retain his place in the England team for next week’s visit of Montenegro despite the return of Rio Ferdinand and John Terry to Fabio Capello’s squad. Jagielka revived his former Goodison Park centre-back pairing with Manchester City’s Joleon Lescott for England’s last qualifier in Switzerland. Their places are now under severe threat with the return of England captain Ferdinand, whose World Cup dreams were shattered on the eve of the finals due to a training ground injury inflicted by Emile Heskey, and his predecessor Terry, who skippered Chelsea to a domestic double last season.
However, Moyes is backing his own man to keep his spot in the side at Wembley next Tuesday. He said: “I would expect Phil to keep his place in the side. “I think he has given a fresh impetus to England. “I think Rio Ferdinand is a top player, as is John Terry, and England have a strong base at centre-half. But I do think Jags has come in and done well. “It’s like a team manager when he leaves out one of his better players and puts in someone who does well. That leaves you the dilemma of whether to give the boy a chance or go back to the player who was left out?” Moyes added: “From my point of view Jags got better in the England games.
“His confidence grew and he gives England something different at the back.
“He’s quick around the ball and would play well with John Terry or whoever he is paired alongside.”
Moyes is pleased with the way in which Jagielka has recovered from an anterior cruciate ligament injury in 2009 which saw him sidelined for 10 months and heartbreakingly forced him to miss the FA Cup final against Chelsea after netting the winning penalty in the semi-final shoot-out victory over Manchester United.
However, the Scot acknowledges that a problem with fluid retention on Jagielka’s other knee has hampered the player’s training in recent weeks. He said: “I think he played well for England. His performances for us have been okay and he was part of a side that got a clean sheet last week and that was important. “He is a really important player for us but he has been carrying a couple of injuries lately. “His knee is a problem. He’s got a cyst in one of his knees and he may get it drained after Saturday’s game. “I think it will mean he’s okay for England but there’s an outside chance he will need his knee drained. “His training has been very limited. He’s not trained at all this week because we are nursing him along. “We hope it won’t end up requiring surgery because he’s not long back from a cruciate in his other knee. “It does fill up though and it’s something that may need to be drained every six months or so.”
Meanwhile, Seamus Coleman is hoping to make his international debut against Goodison Park team-mate Diniyar Bilyaletdinov when the Republic of Ireland face Russia tomorrow. Coleman was informed of his place in Giovanni Trapattoni’s squad prior to Everton’s 2-0 win over Birmingham City, and admits there was some banter between him and Bilyaletdinov as they settled down for their pre match meal.
“When I got the call up a couple of lads were separating us at the dinner table!” he joked. “Obviously there was nothing serious!” Coleman, 21, comes up against Bilyaletdinov in training every day and is fully aware of the threat the winger can cause to Ireland’s hopes of qualifying for Euro 2012. “He’s got a lovely left foot and you’ve got to respect him just like the rest of their players,” warned Coleman.
“There’s no reason to be scared of them (Russia), but you have to respect them. They have some good players especially going forward. It’s not going to be easy but if we stick to our plans then we can get three points.” Coleman’s first involvement with the Republic of Ireland senior side further adds to an excellent year to the man from Donegal. Since signing a three year contract with Everton in May, Coleman has helped Blackpool to Premier League promotion as part of a successful loan spell at Bloomfield Road. On his return to Goodison Park the youngster followed up his first Premier League start with his first goal for the club and says he is thoroughly enjoying 2010. Coleman added: “I’m very excited, it’s been a good year for me so far, I’ve been happy to get a contract at Everton and now to get a call-up to the Ireland squad was just brilliant. “It’s something I’ve always wanted to do, so it was a great call to get. “I’m trying to impress the manager and stay in and around his plans and it’s one step at a time at the moment.”
Dave Prentice: Everton FC star Tim Cahill shows stats the way to do it!
Oct 8 2010 by David Prentice, Liverpool Echo
JUST a little reminder from last Friday’s column.
“Everton go to a Birmingham City side tomorrow celebrating a club record number of unbeaten home matches. “What price a spiky little Australian rising in a packed penalty area to bury a decisive and season changing header? He’s done it before. And the stats suggest he’ll do it again.” I won’t say I told you so . . . but the Prentice Betfair account showed a tidy profit last Saturday night!
People in Geordie glass houses shouldn’t throw stones
NEWCASTLE’S Jose Enrique has called for Nigel De Jong to be banned until team-mate Hatem Ben Arfa returns from his broken leg. Newcastle are also urging the FA to take “appropriate action.” What is it they say about people in glass houses?
The Dutchman’s challenge on Ben Arfa was undoubtedly reckless. But it was nowhere near as cynical as the Kevin Nolan challenge which ruled Victor Anichebe out for almost a year. Echo columnist Howard Kendall suggested at the time banning players until players they had injured recovered. No-one at St James’ Park agreed.
Howard Kendall: It's about time Everton FC had a bit of luck
Oct 8 2010 Liverpool Echo
FINALLY Everton got that crucial rub of the green against Birmingham City last weekend. Their play was typical of the strong performances they’ve mustered for most of the season, but the major difference was that vital bit of luck just when it mattered most. First, they got the goal they deserved by way of an own goal, and then the referee missed Seamus Coleman’s handball when it was right in front of him in the penalty area. Why he didn’t give it is hard to fathom, but David Moyes won’t care. He was due those lucky breaks and got the morale boost that was so much needed.
Ending that proud unbeaten record which the home team had created was secondary to the satisfaction of finally getting an overdue three points on the board, and instantly lifting them off the bottom of the table. They say luck evens itself out over the season, but that’s not always true and where Everton should go onwards and upwards I wonder if Birmingham could struggle. My other old club were badly lacking up front. I thought Cameron Jerome had a poor game, and as for the big lad Zigic – well let’s just say I’m glad Everton have never signed him. The Blues have been linked with a bid for the 6ft 8in Serbian a few times over the years, but my friends in Birmingham say they are at a loss to see what he has going for him. There’s no evidence yet that he can win a header despite his height, his touch isn’t great and he doesn’t look good at running. Of course, it’s early days – he could end up doing the business, but I don’t believe that it takes a foreign player 12 months to settle in the Premier League. Nonsense. Look at Rafael Van de Vaart at Spurs – it hasn’t taken him long to find his feet has it? Zigic has probably had so much attention due to his height, but you need more than that. It was interesting to see John Heitinga only come on for 10 minutes, and then see reports that he may move to Germany in January. It would be a shame to lose the Dutchman, because he looks a strong, confident player but he will not be happy on the bench. At the moment Phil Jagielka and Sylvain Distin are doing very well, so you can’t drop either. Then when you look in the central midfield, you’d struggle to accommodate him with Fellaini coming back into his stride. Distin in particular is going strong for me – he’s been a great buy. When you think he replaced Joleon Lescott, the Blues don’t really miss him. Yes, they miss his goals but otherwise, thanks to Leighton Baines, Jagielka and Distin, they have not suffered defensively.
Phil Jagielka and Seamus Coleman deserve their international recognition
DAVID Moyes has rightly said that Phil Jagielka should stay in the England team despite Rio Ferdinand and John Terry both returning to the fold for the next Euro 2012 qualifier. Jagielka has been a rock in the last three games for Fabio Capello and he deserves some loyalty from the England boss now. David Moyes can always count on the 28-year-old and will be cheering him on all the way if he starts his fourth England game in succession. Another Everton star who deserves his international recognition is Seamus Coleman. He has the opportunity to go on and win hundreds of caps for Ireland during his career, and I wouldn’t be at all surprised if he starts against Russia in Moscow tonight. Coleman is the sort of player who really catches the eye from right-back, and on the right wing and he can capitalise on the situation with Ireland, where Giovanni Trapattoni hasn’t got a particularly large pool of players to choose from. He has already done enough to prove £60,000 was a steal.
Diniyar Bilyaletdinov must work harder
DINIYAR Bilyaletdinov is coming to something of a crossroads in his short Everton career. He’s really struggling to break into the team, and Moyes decided to play Leon Osman on the left of midfield against Birmingham but left Bily on the bench.
I think the manager wants to see more tracking back from him, and if he isn’t used to that it is a matter of forcing himself to fit into Moyes’ mould of a player.
Trevor Steven was the best example of that type of player, who’d help to track back and work hard. Maybe Bily wasn’t required to track back and play at a high tempo at his last club, or maybe that’s not especially in his nature but he must. Scoring spectacular goals isn’t enough.
Everton FC's Phil Neville looking forward adding to Red woes in Mersey derby
Oct 8 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
Phil Neville admits Everton are relishing Liverpool’s struggles and is determined to pile on the pain in next week’s Merseyside derby. The Blues skipper believes they can take advantage of their rivals’ low morale. And he insists that Liverpool’s players should not use the takeover chaos surrounding the club as any excuse for their lowly position. Neville said: “It’s going to be a massive game. I think you relish the fact that they are below you. “I don’t think it has ever happened since I have been on Merseyside that Liverpool have been below us so it’s something that you would like to happen more often. “Everton fans have been looking up to them for a long, long time and it’s about time we started putting pressure on them and finishing above them.
“This season gives us a great chance of that. Both teams are at the wrong end of the table and that’s probably unprecedented for both the blue half and the red half of Merseyside to have the two teams in the bottom four.” The takeover of Liverpool is unlikely to have been concluded by the time of the derby – current owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett are going to the High Court to try to block New England Sports Ventures’ attempt to buy the club – but Neville said the Reds players should not blame their woes on the pitch on what is happening off it. Speaking at the Leaders In Football conference in London, Neville added: “Things that happen off the pitch are something that you can’t control and we call it a sideshow. When you go over that white line you can’t control it and you can’t use it as an excuse. You’re not looking up at the directors’ box to see who is owning the club. “When you lose, all of a sudden it’s because of the takeover and it becomes an excuse. For me that’s something the players need to put to one side.” Neville has experienced Manchester derbies, and United v Liverpool clashes, but for him it does not get any bigger than the Merseyside duel. He said: “It’s probably the biggest game I’ve played in in club football and at Everton it’s the biggest game in our season every season. “The win against Birmingham has given us all a lift because it would have been disastrous if we had gone into the game at the bottom of the table. “It has given us some respite but we know full well if we lose this game we are right down at the bottom again.
“We want to be on the climb and not on the descent. “We have been playing better than the results suggest but we have not been getting the results so that has been the biggest disappointment.” Meanwhile, John Heitinga has rejected rumours linking him with moves to Wolfsburg and Bayern Munich. Heitinga said: “Wolfsburg and Bayern? I have heard nothing. Last summer there was interest from Wolfsburg, but not thereafter “I take that rumour not so serious. But it is no punishment all all to be associated with such beautiful, big clubs.”
Everton FC captain Phil Neville looks to pile the pressure on Liverpool FC
Oct 8 2010 by Chris Beesley, Liverpool Daily Post
PHIL NEVILLE admits Everton are relishing Liverpool’s struggles and is determined to pile on the pain in next week’s Merseyside derby. Both sides are in the bottom four of the Premier League table – Everton ahead of Liverpool – and the Goodison skipper believes they can take advantage of their rivals’ low morale. He insists however that Liverpool’s players should not use the takeover chaos surrounding the club as any excuse for their lowly position. Neville said: “It’s going to be a massive game. I think you relish the fact that they are below you. “I don’t think it has ever happened since I have been on Merseyside that Liverpool have been below us so it’s something that you would like to happen more often. “Everton fans have been looking up to them for a long, long time and it’s about time we started putting pressure on them and finishing above them.” “This season gives us a great chance of that. Both teams are at the wrong end of the table and that’s probably unprecedented for both the blue half and the red half of Merseyside to have the two teams in the bottom four.” Commenting on the proposed takeover at Anfield, Neville added: “Things that happen off the pitch are something that you can’t control and we call it a sideshow. When you go over that white line you can’t control it and you can’t use it as an excuse. You’re not looking up at the directors’ box to see who is owning the club. “When you lose, all of a sudden it’s because of the takeover and it becomes an excuse. For me that’s something the players need to put to one side.”Neville has experienced Manchester derbies, and United v Liverpool clashes, but for him it does not get any bigger than the Merseyside duel. He said: “It’s probably the biggest game I’ve played in club football and at Everton it’s the biggest game in our season every season. “The win against Birmingham has given us all a lift because it would have been disastrous if we had gone into the game at the bottom of the table. “It has given us some respite but we know full well if we lose this game we are right down at the bottom again. We want to be on the climb and not on the descent. “We have been playing better than the results suggest but we have not been getting the results so that has been the biggest disappointment.” Meanwhile, John Heitinga has dismissed speculation linking him with a January move to Germany. He said: “Wolfsburg and Bayern? I have heard nothing. “Last summer there was interest from Wolfsburg, but not thereafter.
“I take that rumour not so serious. “But it is no punishment all all to be associated with such beautiful, big clubs
Everton FC sweating on Tim Cahill for ‘massive’ Merseyside derby match
Oct 8 2010 by Chris Beesley, Liverpool Daily Post
EVERTON are sweating on Tim Cahill returning for their “massive” derby against Liverpool unscathed with the midfielder putting his fitness on the line for tomorrow’s international friendly between Australia and Paraguay. The 30-year-old has been battling with a knee injury this season and missed Everton’s games with Newcastle and Brentford. However, with three goals to his name so far he is currently the club’s top scorer this term, ahead of the Goodison Park outfit’s shot-shy strikers and netted the second in Everton’s first Premier League win of the campaign at Birmingham City. Cahill received a boost in training yesterday as he started to move more freely and is hopeful of starting against the South Americans for the Socceroos.
Cahill said yesterday: “It’s hard and it’s up to the manager and obviously we have good personnel who can hopefully do a great job against Paraguay, but if everything goes well this week then I have every possible chance. “It’s all right. I trained today and I had a good run-out. The things is I’m not one to dramatise about injuries and things like that. "The only thing is sometimes you have to think about the bigger picture. “This is a friendly and I’m back here to show my commitment to the team and the players.” Although the former Millwall man is keen to impress his new national team coach Holger Osieck, he is well aware that there is much more at stake at Goodison Park in nine days time. He said: “I’ve got a massive derby to go back to as well. I wanted to basically make sure that my country’s just the biggest priority and Everton is as well. It’s hard to try to keep everything level pegging but you can’t keep everyone happy and the thing is Everton know that I give everything to them and so do Australia.”
Spanish humbling made a man of me admits Everton FC’s Phil Jagielka
Oct 8 2010 by Chris Beesley, Liverpool Daily Post
EVERTON centre-back Phil Jagielka says the disappointment of his first England start has proved a blessing in disguise. After making his international bow as a second half substitute in an end of the season jaunt in Trinidad and Tobago after the 2007/08 campaign, Jagielka faced a much sterner test against the European and now World champions the following February. Although Jagielka impressed for the first half an hour in Seville, he lost the ball to Xabi Alonso on 35 minutes and was beaten by David Villa for the opening goal. Since then he has suffered a serious knee injury and missed out on this year’s World Cup but has come back stronger, earning rave reviews as England defeated Bulgaria and Switzerland in Euro 2012 qualifying last month.
Now, with first choice centre-backs Rio Ferdinand and John Terry fit again, Jagielka is being tipped by some – including club manager David Moyes – to keep his place when Montenegro come to Wembley next Tuesday. The disappointment against Spain was compounded as the chance to atone was snatched away from Jagielka with Capello choosing to withdraw him at half-time. The former Sheffield United man says that game highlighted the harsh realities of life at the top and said: “That turned me from a boy to a man in a way. It was a strange game, really. If you look back at the 45 minutes, five were bad and 40 were really good. “I was happy with my performance but the main talking point was obviously my bad decision with the pass and then not getting back to tackle. “Unfortunately, that’s international football – if you make a mistake it’s blown up and I didn’t feel good after the game. “But I would agree that it helped me to deal with the expectation of playing for your country and it took me on to the next level.”Not long after that game, Jagielka’s season came to a premature end when he suffered cruciate knee ligament damage in a Premier League game against Manchester City.
The injury would keep him out for most of the following season too and ultimately cost him a chance of playing at the World Cup. Although Jagielka, who returned to action too late to earn a call-up, admits he was disappointed not to make the squad, in hindsight he admits it was the right decision. “I may never get to go to a World Cup and I was gutted not to go to South Africa even though, realistically, I didn’t expect it,” said the Everton defender. “Not many of the team came back from South Africa with better reputations than they went with. “Maybe the likes of me, Theo Walcott and Adam Johnson don’t have the horror of coming back as underachievers and having that hanging over us. We had a bit of a fresh start after – the next squad was a young one and didn’t have any of that baggage from the World Cup. “In hindsight, it was probably good to have that rest. Looking back it was the right decision for me not to go but if I’d had the chance I would’ve loved it.” So far this season Jagielka has looked like the player who was starring week in and week out before his knee injury.
Yet despite his sparkling form and his imposing displays for England, he says he won’t be too downhearted if he finds himself on the bench next week. Jagielka said: “I understand that with Rio and JT’s previous England careers and experience that I may have to bide my time and watch from the subs’ bench. “But if it comes to Tuesday and I’m not playing, I will be supporting the boys as much as anyone else.”
Former Everton FC star Olivier Dacourt loved his Mersey Derby goal
Oct 9 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
HIS career encompassed spells at Italian giants Inter and Roma – but Olivier Dacourt insists that scoring in the Merseyside derby was the ‘biggest moment of his career’.
The Frenchman was one of Walter Smith’s first signings in 1998 along with Marco Materazzi and John Collins. It seemed a team set for success, but instead struggled and Dacourt ran into trouble with officialdom, consequently spending chunks of the season suspended. He scored just twice in 30 games - but Dacourt puts that derby strike at the top of his achievements – quite a claim from a man who played regular Champions League football. Now 36 and retired, he said: “Many times I have been asked what was the biggest moment in my career and I always say Everton against Liverpool when I scored. For me, it was unbelievable. “The noise and the emotion were unbelievable - the atmosphere that day was the best I ever experienced. Then one minute into the game I scored.” “I played against AC Milan for Inter and the difference is in the fans,” he added. “Only in Liverpool can members of the same family support opposite sides and then when you get to the stadium you can sit near your father, your brother, your uncle and he can support Liverpool and you Everton.”
Show on Everton FC legend Dixie Dean is a winner
Oct 9 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
EVERTON fans WILL be heading to Kirkby this winter - but for one night only to celebrate the club’s greatest player. After a summer production in London, The Dixie Dean Story will return to Merseyside at the Kirkby Suite on Friday, November 19.
Local actor Steve Hazelhurst portrays the iconic centre forward from boyhood to old age, delivering many of his lines controlling a ball on stage. Everton goal-scoring hero Duncan McKenzie is a fan of the show, and Tickets are £12.50. Go to www.dixiedean.org.uk
Barry Horne: Tim Cahill is scaling new heights at Everton
Oct 9 2010 by Barry Horne, Liverpool Echo
WHILST a constant stream of statistics can be trotted out, manipulated and ultimately say very little, especially since the advent of OPTA, an interesting stat did come to light this week – one which wouldn’t surprise too many Evertonians, but may raise eyebrows elsewhere. Tim Cahill has earned the title of the most prolific scorer of headed goals in Premier League history. It is fitting given he is the latest in a lineage of Everton strikers which includes my old team-mate Duncan Ferguson – and was started by the man who made the number nine shirt famous, the incomparable Dixie Dean. Alan Shearer comes a surprising eighth in the list, but of course that’s more to do with his phenomenal goalscoring ability from anywhere around the penalty area with either foot as well as his head. Tim Cahill’s goals tend to come from 10 yards or less. Last week the stats highlighted his happy knack of having a greater ratio of his shots and headers on target than many of his team-mates. Maybe that’s down to so many of his efforts coming from close range, but nevertheless this latest stat is still a remarkable feat for someone who has played relatively few games as an out and out forward, compared to nearly all of the others on the list who are out and out number nines.
Barry Horne: Wild tackles are not an issue in the Premier League
Oct 9 2010 by Barry Horne, Liverpool Echo
DANNY MURPHY is a fine player and very good value as a pundit, which is something I suspect he is thinking about more and more as he comes to the twilight of his career. Certain people realise that a lack of intelligence can be made up for with a readiness to cause controv- ersy as a neat career enhancement. Danny does not come into that category. He is erudite, informed and articulate – and to his credit he doesn’t appear to shirk controversy. His attack on managers who incite ‘brainless tackles’ this week, naming Sam Allardyce, Mick McCarthy and Tony Pulis, means he has taken on some of the more robust characters in the league. But I’m not sure that there is many really bad tackles in the game as people make out. I was at the game when Ryan Shawcross broke Aaron Ramsey’s leg and felt Shawcross was making a genuine attempt for the ball. The Nigel De Jong challenge which has caused the recent coverage did not, to me, come into the category of a desperately bad tackle either.At the time the ref saw fit to take no action, commentators and pundits alike thought it was more bad luck than anything else and apparently there was very little said after the game between the two clubs. It’s only in retrospect that a fuss has been made with the Dutch axing De Jong from their squad. As is often the case, their response is more in relation to something that has happened previously – most specifically their attempt to kick Spain out of the World Cup final. This is just the Dutch trying to reclaim the moral high ground.
Barry Horne: Answer to the thorny issue of ground-sharing
Oct 9 2010 by Barry Horne, Liverpool Echo
LIVERPOOL legend Kenny Dalglish raised the issue of the Blues and the Reds groundsharing again in his Sunday newspaper column, without ever actually making it clear whether he thought it was a good idea or not! There was a time not so long ago when it was a divisive issue amongst both sets of fans. Frankly I got sick and tired talking about it because there didn’t seem like there was a will to even consider it.
But Kenny’s column, circumspect as it was, seems to have not only brought the issue back into the spotlight; it may convince some of the more hard-nosed resistors to take a more moderate view. Something which has never been mooted, however, is that while both clubs need a new stadium, and while neither look like getting one anytime soon, perhaps they could build one between them. Then, at some better day in the future, one club could buy the other out, move on and start again. In that instance a ground move really wouldn’t have to be forever.
Official – Everton FC's Tim Cahill is the greatest header of a ball in Premier League history!
Oct 9 2010 Daniel Grigg
EVERTON’S talismanic marksman Tim Cahill has been hailed the “greatest scorer of headed goals in Premier League history.” And the Aussie headmaster has the stats to prove it! A top 10 list of the Premier League’s aerial specialists puts the Everton player out in front, ahead of renowned headers of the ball like Alan Shearer, Les Ferdinand and even former Goodison team-mate Duncan Ferguson. Cahill’s last minute clincher at Birmingham last weekend was his 27th headed goal in 170 Premier League matches. With a growing rapport between Cahill and Leighton Baines – the full-back has set up eight of Cahill’s last 14 league goals – there could be more to come. “If it would have been anyone else I probably wouldn’t have gone for it,” explained Baines “but when you know Tim Cahill’s in there, then you know there is always a chance of a goal. “He was on the spot as always to seal the victory.” Cahill scores with his head on average every 6.30 games, with Dion Dublin his closest rival on 6.93 and Duncan Ferguson third.Ironically Howard Kendall tried to make Dion Dublin an Everton centre-forward in December 1993 but was denied the funds by the Goodison board, an act which led to Kendall’s resignation. Kendall was, however, responsible for bringing one of the greatest modern day headers of a ball to Goodison Park. Andy Gray preferred to put his head in where other players used their feet! The courageous header against Notts County in the 1984 FA Cup quarter-final was so low that his nose scraped the turf. Such was his desire to celebrate a close range header at Leicester City that he ran straight into a goalpost and was flattened – bouncing straight back up again to run away in delight. Two flying headers against Sunderland in the run-in to the 1985 League title are part of Goodison folklore – as is the swooping header he converted as part of his European Cup Winners Cup quarter-final hat-trick against Fortuna Sittard. Everton have long been synonymous with players of considerable aerial expertise. The original, of course, was the late, great Dixie Dean, considered by many to be simply the greatest header of the ball in football history. A third of his record-breaking 60 league goals in 1927/28 were scored with his head. The legendary Manchester United manager Matt Busby wrote in his autobiography: “To play against Dixie Dean was at once a delight and a nightmare. “He was a perfect specimen of an athlete, beautifully proportioned, with immense strength, adept on the ground but with extraordinary skill in the air. However close you watched him, his timing in the air was such that he was coming down before you got anywhere near him, and he hit that ball with his head as hard and as accurate as most players could kick it. Defences were close to panic when corners came over.” Dean took his successor, Tommy Lawton, under his wing so it was little surprise that the young pretender also developed formidable aerial prowess – developed by heading a medicine ball. Since then there has been a long list of Everton stars renowned for their heading ability. Joe Royle, Alex Young – who possessed an almost ethereal ability to hover in the air – Bob Latchford, Duncan Ferguson – and not just strikers, either, Mick Lyons’ supremely brave diving header to nod the ball past the feared Norman Hunter’s swinging boot could have come from the head of Cahill himself!
Top 10 scorers of headed goals in the history of the Premier League
1 Tim Cahill – 27 headed goals in 170 Premier League matches (6.30 games per headed goal)
2 Dion Dublin – 45 in 312 (6.93)
3 Duncan Ferguson – 35 in 270 (7.71)
4 Les Ferdinand – 43 in 351 (8.16)
5 Gustavo Poyet – 22 in 187 (8.50)
6 Peter Crouch – 27 in 232 (8.59)
7 Chris Armstrong – 23 in 216 (9.39)
8 Alan Shearer – 46 in 441 (9.59)
9 Niall Quinn – 26 in 250 (9.62)
10 Dwight Yorke – 38 in 375 (9.87)
*All players have scored at least 20 headed Premier League goals and 40 Premier League goals in total.
Greg O'Keeffe: Everton FC chief executive Robert Elstone points the way to a fairer future
Oct 9 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
IT’S been one of those weeks when focusing solely on the Blues has not been easy.
There has been so much noise coming from across the park – Everton, it’s fair to say, have not been the story. With the endless headlines, radio phone-ins and TV debates about the future of Liverpool’s ownership, thoughts naturally stray to the steadier, less troubled yet still complex scenario at Goodison. The news surrounding Bill Kenwright’s search for fresh investment, or indeed an outright new owner, remains negative. Ever the optimist, the theatre impresario won’t say it, but it’s fair to wonder whether he’s banging his head against a brick wall. Somehow, despite the global economy still struggling, Liverpool have attracted at least two serious and respectable bids from would-be new owners. The list of people queuing up to take over the mantle from Mr Kenwright remains conspicuous by its absence. The reasons behind the lack of interest are nothing new, even if they remain hard, in some cases impossible, for sections of Everton’s support to swallow. The club suffer as an attractive brand in relation to their neighbours who carry the civic title and have more silverware in the trophy cabinet. Then, Everton require a costly new ground as part of the commitment any new owner would be required to make. So do Liverpool, but they have a ready-made site in Stanley Park and Everton are yet to complete their search for a new list of potential venues after the failure of Destination Kirkby. Chief executive Robert Elstone rarely hides from the fans’ questions, and admits in his latest blog he is frustrated the club were not able to supply substantial funds to David Moyes this summer. But he does point the way to a future, without a new owner, that could yet position the Toffees on a more level playing field. “Our investment in long-term player contracts is substantial and economically we continue to fight our corner and commit to on-field success. “However, it’s true that like almost all clubs we are feeling the squeeze from certain competitors and the recession. “An interesting ‘economic’ development over the next few seasons will be the introduction of UEFA’s Financial Fair Play rules which will prevent clubs from playing in UEFA competitions unless they can prove broadly, they ‘live within their means’.” The proposals mean that clubs will only be able to spend on wages and transfers what they earn from ‘normal’, football business activities – ticket sales, retail, sponsorship and TV rights fees. By doing this, Elstone argues UEFA is ‘shutting the door on the ‘original’ and still very common way to fund a football team, the support of a wealthy benefactor’. Despite most Premier League clubs insisting they will be fit to comply, Elstone writes: “The new rules will present a monumental challenge for Manchester City (and many others), whose recent financial results show they are a million miles off squaring this circle but they may, in the long run assist Everton. “Personally, I’m not a fan of red-tape, regulation and being told how to run our clubs - Premier League clubs have to comply will all sorts of tough rules anyway, but the UEFA rules will undoubtedly benefit clubs with big fan bases and modern stadia and whilst we continue to search for the latter, we do have the former. Many clubs in England and Europe will look enviously at our fan base as the new rules bite. ‘On the ‘flipside’, however, one of the downsides of ‘living within your means’ is ruling out the new billionaire investor who wants short-term success on the field, something the game has allowed for 130-odd years, but now something that will be much harder to deliver.
‘I’m sure we all have our views on the introduction and impact of UEFA’s new rules”.
It remains to be seen whether Uefa have the resolve to make these rules work as a common denominator. But wouldn’t it be nice if they did?
Everton FC's Phil Jagielka's Mersey derby doubt after England withdrawal
Oct 9 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
PHIL JAGIELKA faces a battle to be fit for the Merseyside derby after he was forced to withdraw from the England squad with a hamstring injury. The 28-year-old was injured during training for the Euro 2012 qualifier against Montenegro next Tuesday. He was taken for an immediate scan at England’s training base in London, and then sent back to Merseyside for further treatment. The full extent of the former Sheffield United defender’s injury is unknown, but the set-back throws his fitness for Sunday’s Goodison derby showdown into doubt. It means Fabio Capello will be spared the difficult task of deciding whether to axe Rio Ferdinand or John Terry for the game, after the Everton star’s two towering central defensive performances in last month’s victories over Bulgaria and Switzerland. Bolton’s Gary Cahill was called into the squad as his replacement. Meanwhile, Seamus Coleman has credited David Moyes’ firm but fair guidance for helping his dream of international football come true. The 21-year old was fast-tracked to Republic of Ireland’s senior set-up this week, and trained with Giovanni Trapattoni’s squad ahead of last night’s Euro 2012 qualifier against Russia. Coleman has made two Premier League starts for Everton this season, and credits his meteoric rise to Moyes’ management. The right-back accepts he still learning and insists he is not getting carried away with his progress. He said: “He has definitely improved me. He’s eased me in. He gives me a lot of advice. I know myself that I’m still learning some parts of the game and that. “He’s a good manager to play under. I obviously have to thank him for getting called into the international set-up. “You don’t want to cross him, but I think that’s the way you’ve got to be as a player anyway. “You’ve got to respect your manager and whatever they say you’ve got to do because they are your boss at the end of the day. That’s the way I am anyway, if I’m told to do something I’ll do it.” Elsewhere, teenage defender Aristote Nsiala has joined Macclesfield Town on loan. The 18-year-old, known as Toto, is capable of operating at both right-back and centre-half, and joins the Silkmen on an initial month-long loan. Macclesfield have just 12 points from their 10 games this season and boss Gary Simpson said: “With the injuries we’ve had in the defence recently it’s no secret that I’ve been working hard to get someone in to help fill the gaps. “So I’m delighted to have the lad here at the club. We were looking for someone versatile and he can play across the back – in the middle or at full back. Whilst we’ve not brought in experience, he’s very talented and we’ll be giving him a chance to get some competitive football under his belt.” Nsiala has been a reserve team regular this season and was on the bench for the first team last season against BATE Borisov. He played at Anfield last month in the Jamie Carragher testimonial game. Nsiala’s switch is a youth loan, meaning he is still eligible to play for Everton’s reserves.
Jags injury forces Capello into making captaincy call over Gerrard and Rio
10/10/10 By Martin Lipton (Sunday Mirror)
Fabio Capello was faced with making the big call on the England captaincy last night – after losing Phil Jagielka to injury. Capello had been preparing to leave out skipper Rio Ferdinand for the Euro 2012 qualifier with Montenegro in order to partner the Everton centre-half with fit-again Chelsea ace John Terry. Jagielka impressed with his displays against Bulgaria and Switzerland last month. But he was forced to pull out of the end of yesterday’s practice match at London Colney after suffering a tight hamstring half-way through the session. Jagielka was sent back to Merseyside, with Bolton’s Gary Cahill, initially left out by Capello despite making his debut in the win over Bulgaria, handed an emergency call-up. And while that will give Ferdinand a reprieve, it also means Capello has to decide whether to give the Manchester United defender the armband back or stick with Liverpool’s Steven Gerrard, who has finally started to grow into the England captaincy role. Ferdinand would be devastated if he were overlooked for the skipper’s duties after missing the World Cup through a knee ligament injury. Capello, though, still has concerns with Ferdinand, who has made just four club starts this term.
HOWARD GETS HIS KIT OFF
By Cliff Hayes, 09/10/2010 (News of the world)
HERE is the nudes....Everton goalkeeper Tim Howard gets his kit off for ESPN magazine's 'Body Issue'
The United States No.1 is one of 40 athletes from a variety of sports pictured naked in the magazine. Others include American football star Herschel Walker, surfer Kelly Slater, US figure skater Evan Lysacek and the USA women's water polo team.
But Howard is the only Premier League star to do the full monty.....
Everton FC assistant manager Steve Round looking forward to Merseyside derby
Oct 11 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
STEVE Round admits the intensity of the Merseyside derby shocked him at first – but he is focused on keeping a cool-head in the dug out this weekend. The Everton assistant boss is normally a calmly poised student of the game, who rarely lets his emotions get the better of him. But Round is not immune to the roller-coaster experience of Premier League football. He followed David Moyes onto the Goodison pitch to rebuke Martin Atkinson for blowing a premature final whistle against Manchester United last month, and must deal with the repercussions from Soho square. The split-second eruption was rare for the former England man, who insists it is the calm heads who prosper in the heat of a derby clash. “You have to stay calm and be professional and it is very difficult sometimes in the atmosphere of a derby,” he says. “But it is very important you try and stay free from the emotion to concentrate on doing your job and making sure you do everything you can to get the result.”Round, who has experienced other derbies as a player and coach, insists the Liverpool clash is fiercer than any other. “I have been involved in North East derbies and derbies in my hometown with Derby County playing Nottingham Forest – such games are always so special for the fans. “But I do feel the Merseyside derby has that bit extra than any other derby, there is something really very special about it. “Maybe it is the history and the tradition of the clubs, the closeness of the clubs, the closeness of the fans – you can have families split down the middle and that brings something special to the game and to the city. It really is a great occasion. “We have got terrific fans and they will help – wherever we go we get that special support. At Goodison what comes down from the stands is something else – they really are that proverbial 12th man.”The former defender, who arrived at Goodison in 2008 to replace Alan Irvine, is determined that Everton’s first victory of the season against Birmingham will be a turning point for their season. Everton approach the derby in the bottom four, only ahead of third-from-bottom Liverpool on goal difference. “We are not happy with where we are and we began addressing that against Birmingham. The team are determined to continue that and the team still believe they can finish in the upper echelons of this division. “The improved result and level of performance from Birmingham has to continue against Liverpool and if we can do that then I have every confidence we can go on a great run and end up very high in the table. “I have so much belief in these players and when you have a manager like David Moyes, who drives the players every day and won’t settle for less than the very best they can give, then you know success is on the way.”
Everton FC captain Tim Cahill comes through Australia match unscathed
Oct 11 2010 by James Pearce, Liverpool Echo
TIM CAHILL has given Everton boss David Moyes a boost ahead of Sunday’s Merseyside derby after coming through Australia’s clash with Paraguay unscathed.
The 30-year-old was a major doubt for Saturday’s game in Sydney due to a knee injury but passed a fitness test and played 76 minutes in the Socceroos’ impressive 1-0 win over World Cup quarter-finalists Paraguay. Cahill, who has scored 21 goals in 45 internationals, was played in a striking role by German Holger Osieck and the new coach was impressed. “Tim has that special touch up front,” Osieck said. “He has all the ingredients. He is good in the air, he is good at controlling the ball, he is a good finisher. “He has power in his strike, even from long distance, and you can only do that when you have an excellent shooting technique. “Why waste him in the midfield, too far back?”Cahill had a header cleared off the line as Blackpool defender David Carney scored the only goal of the game. Tim Howard was also in fine form as the USA earned a 2-2 draw with Poland in Chicago. The Blues keeper pulled off a string of saves to ensure the Americans avoided defeat. “We controlled the game for the most part and they didn’t really hurt us, but unfortunately we gave them a lot of chances,” Howard said. “We had the lead twice and we let it slip, so that’s never good.” Team-mate Clint Dempsey was full of praise for Howard’s display. “I thought he did a good job of not coming out too quickly and making the forward have to make a decision instead of making the decision for the forward,” he said. “Tim came up big for us on a few plays.” Blues duo John Heitinga and Marouane Fellaini both starred for their nations in Euro 2012 qualifiers. Heitinga was at the heart of the defence as Holland clinched a 1-0 victory over Moldova, while Fellaini played the full 90 minutes as Belgium picked up their first points of the campaign with a 2-0 win over Kazakhstan. Goalkeeper Jan Mucha couldn’t prevent Slovakia from slipping to a 3-1 defeat against Armenia and Diniyar Bilyaletdinov was an unused substitute as Russia won 3-2 away to the Republic of Ireland. Magaye Gueye netted his first goal for France Under-21s as they beat Turkey 2-0 in a friendly in Troyes. Gueye netted midway through the first half before being substituted on 56 minutes. Blues midfielder Ross Barkley made his debut for England Under-19s as they thumped Albania 6-1.
Everton FC and Liverpool FC must realise it’s always worth having a rival worth beating
Oct 11 2010 by Chris Beesley, Liverpool Daily Post
BILL SHANKLY is attributed with a myriad of quips during his time in charge at Anfield and most of the time his neighbours from across Stanley Park were the butt of his jokes. The Scot is supposed to have once remarked: “When I’ve got nothing to do, I look down the table to see how Everton are doing.” Well for once, Everton go into next Sunday’s Merseyside derby ahead of the great rivals but with both sides having taken just six points from their opening seven fixtures and only a single win apiece, there is very little for either to cheer about. No, your copy of the Daily Post this time last week was not upside down. Liverpool really are third from bottom of the Premier League with Everton just above them on goal difference. Some say that league titles aren’t won in October but they can certainly be lost by now with both the Merseyside giants having to play catch-up with their rivals to reach their respective targets and most direct route to Wembley having being blocked with humiliating Carling Cup exits to Northampton Town and Brentford respectively. The last time Liverpool won just one of their first seven league matches they were relegated to the Second Division – way back in 1953/54. Since Shankly led the club back into the top flight in 1962, they have never finished lower than eighth in the table but considering they were seventh in the Premier League last season, even a repeat of that finish could now prove a stern challenge with the chances of missing out on the Champions League for the second year running a distinct possibility. But just where has it all gone wrong? Last week Anfield legend Ian Rush remarked that Liverpool’s current players cannot use the club’s off-the-field turmoil as an excuse for their own shortcomings. Everton captain Phil Neville also insisted: “When you go over the white line...you’re not looking at the directors’ box to see who is owning the club. Indeed it’s only 17 months since Liverpool finished runners-up in the Premier League with 86 points after pushing Manchester United hard for much of the campaign. Xabi Alonso and Javier Mascherano have since departed from that team but at least nine of the side’s regulars from the side remain and over £30million of additional talent in the shape of Glen Johnson and Raul Meireles plus England international Joe Cole on a ‘Bosman-style’ free transfer. Things aren’t much better across Stanley Park though. Until their long-overdue first Premier League win of the season at Birmingham City, Everton had been propping up the table. Going into the campaign, Evertonians were told that hopes were high that this was going to be a special season for their team. Given that transfer funds are limited at Goodison Park compared to many of their rivals, retaining existing stars was the summer priority at the club rather than adding to existing numbers. After all, David Moyes’ side had lost just two of their final 23 Premier League games in 2009/10. While outlays on fresh faces are modest in the shape of Jermaine Beckford, Jan Mucha, Magaye Gueye and Joao Silva, ‘headline’ signings were new contracts for the likes of Leighton Baines, Tim Cahill, Jack Rodwell and finally Mikel Arteta with the Spaniard convinced not to look elsewhere by reassurances from Moyes and Bill Kenwright that the club were on the verge of something big. Ahead of his side’s FA Cup semi-final against Manchester United in 2009, Moyes calmly declared that this Everton side would win a trophy soon. Goodison Park still holds its breath and given the defeat to Brentford, sluggish Premier League start and lack of European competition this season, they’re already having to put all their eggs in one basket waiting for the FA Cup to start in January. The Scot has done an incredible job stabilising a once-grand but ailing footballing institution but followers are now desperate for their team to write some new chapters in their history rather than having to keep living off past glories. Indeed, less than seven years had past since Everton’s last silverware when Moyes arrived and he’s now been in charge for eight-and-a-half years. No doubt their sides’ current woes will make both clubs’ respective supporters nostalgic for the 1980s, when Merseyside ruled the roost in English football. Between 1982-88, the seven league titles won all went to the city while there was Merseyside representation at every FA Cup final apart from 1987 between 1984 and 1989 – including a couple of Liverpool v Everton affairs. And that’s the crux of it. When one club does well, it spurs the other on. Most major cities in England have two teams and while you might not get on well with the neighbours, they’re actually a necessity in the grander scheme of things. Long before Moyes coined his ‘People’s Club’ moniker, Lee Mavers, frontman with Liverpool band ‘The La’s’, commented on his choice of being an Evertonian and declared: “I guess they just seemed more Scouse..but Everton and Liverpool, you can’t have one without the other.” As early as 1906, they both won a major trophy in the same year. Liverpool the league, and Everton the FA Cup. There’s nothing like having your neighbours’ success rammed down you throat to give you the incentive to do well and the breakout of the Second World War in 1939 ensured that Everton were the longest reigning league champions in the history of the English game but when competitive football resumed after a seven-year break, Liverpool took the title in 1946/47. In contrast, the 1950s were a barren era for both clubs with Everton’s longest period outside the top flight (1951-54) immediately followed by Liverpool’s (1954-62). The 1960s then saw an upturn in fortunes with Everton’s title in 1963 followed by Liverpool’s in 1964. The next year Liverpool lifted the FA Cup for the first time only to be followed by Everton in 1966 with another championship coming to Anfield that spring. Even Everton’s last trophy, the 1995 FA Cup came in the same year that Liverpool lifted the League Cup. The patterns extend to other regional rivalries too. When Manchester City were last crowned champions in 1968, neighbours United lifted the European Cup. Arsenal’s high standards ensure that Tottenham Hotspur are never too far behind while in contrast Birmingham City’s failure to challenge for the big prizes helps to ease the pressure at Aston Villa who have only been champions once in the last 100 years. Sunderland and Newcastle were both football superpowers before the Second World War but it all becomes pretty irrelevant when you’re arguing it’s only 74 years since we were champions (Sunderland) as opposed to your 83 (Newcastle). Let’s hope that doesn’t happen on Merseyside – 23 years and 20 years respectively and counting. The moral of this tale is that you should actually want the neighbours to do well, if not quite as well as your own team. Many fans start the season thinking ‘As long as we finish above the other lot’ but that’s not much fun when you’re talking about 17th and 18th in the table and that’s certainly not good enough in the city that has produced 27 title-winning teams and is the only city to have had top flight representation in every season since the league began. Just a couple of records that couldn’t have been achieved without having two successful clubs.
Everton FC manager David Moyes ponders move for out-of-favour Niko Kranjcar
Oct 11 2010 by Chris Beesley, Liverpool Daily Post
EVERTON manager David Moyes is considering a January swoop for Tottenham midfielder Niko Kranjcar. The Scot has admitted this season that he is looking to strengthen his squad on the wings and is a long-time admirer of the Croatian international. Kranjcar, 26, turned down a transfer deadline day move to Goodison Park in September 2009, declaring: “Everton is also a big club but, in the end, the tradition and greatness of Tottenham made the difference. “I also knew manager Harry Redknapp, and Luka Modric and Vedran Corluka told me great things about the club.” However, since Rafael van der Vaart’s arrival at White Hart Lane from Real Madrid, Kranjcar has found first team opportunities limited and the Goodison Park outfit will fancy their chances of fending off interest from fellow suitors Newcastle United should Moyes reaffirm his interest. Meanwhile, Everton assistant manager Steve Round believes the club’s players cannot fail to take inspiration from manager David Moyes, and the way he refuses to settle for second best. He said: “I have so much belief in these players and when you have a manager like David Moyes, who drives the players every day and won’t settle for less than the very best they can give, then you know success is on the way.” Next up for Everton is the highly-anticipated Merseyside derby against Liverpool, with Moyes’ men desperate to get one over their neighbours having put them into the relegation zone with a 2-0 win at Birmingham nine days ago. Round believes if the team can build on the momentum they have started to gather from impressive away performances at Craven Cottage and St Andrew’s then confidence in the group will rise even further. He said: “The improved result and level of performance from Birmingham has to continue against Liverpool and if we can do that then I have every confidence we can go on a great run and end up very high in the table.”
Liverpool FC and Everton FC managers Roy Hodgson and David Moyes united for England World Cup bid
Oct 12 2006 by James Pearce, Liverpool Echo
MERSEYSIDE managers Roy Hodgson and David Moyes have united to lend their support to England’s 2018 World Cup bid. In a film shown to FIFA’s executive committee and inspection team Premier League managers declared why they felt England would be perfect hosts for the tournament. Liverpool manager Hodgson said: “I have had the privilege of working in countries around the world where football plays a key role in peoples day to day lives. “However, in terms of the level of passion for the game, nothing compares to that of supporters in England. “I am constantly amazed by the interest in English football when I travel around the world and foreign players who join the Premier League are always excited by the prospect of playing in a country that is so passionate about football. “Hosting a World Cup in this country would not only inspire the next generation of football enthusiasts here but also children around the world. “The power of football can play a crucial role in the lives of people of all ages and the England 2018 Bid can help to deliver positive change for millions of people. “I fully support the Bid and with the decision date fast approaching I would urge people to give their support as well.” Everton chief Moyes added: “Football really matters to the people in the city of Liverpool. It’s something which is much more than a pastime – it is a genuine passion. “If England were to stage a World Cup then there is no doubt this city would be a key player. I would urge every football supporter in the area to get right behind this bid. We can’t afford to miss out on what could be a magnificent event.” FIFA will make their final decision on the 2018 and 2022 World Cups in Zurich on December 2.
Ian Snodin: The old magic is still there!
Oct 12 2010 Liverpool Echo
I TURNED back the clock a bit on Monday to take to the football pitch again.
At the last minute I was asked to play in a game at Thorp Arch, Leeds United’s training ground. The match was between some Leeds staff and the Yorkshire cricket team, many of whom are Leeds fans. Simon Grayson, the Leeds manager had to pull out so I got the call. I played centre midfield and was spraying the ball elegantly to ensure a 5-4 victory for the Leeds staff. It’s a shame I won’t be able to move for three days, and I intend to spend at least 48 hours in the bath as my various aches and strains mean I won’t be much use around the house!
Ian Snodin: John Heitinga could get his chance with Phil Jagielka injured
Oct 12 2010 by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Echo
JOHN Heitinga is the perfect man to fill the considerable gap which Phil Jagielka’s injury will probably create. Heitinga will relish a game like the derby. He’s become a real fans’ favourite and he is a tough, physical lad who likes a tackle. The derby could be the perfect game for him to reclaim some momentum in his Everton career.
Centre-half is supposed to be his preferred position, and let’s not forget that he played there in a World Cup final this summer. Let’s hope he doesn’t try and apply Holland’s game-plan from that night to the derby though, or he could be set for another early bath!
Ian Snodin: Diniyar Bilyaletdinov needs to show David Moyes some consistency
Oct 12 2010 Liverpool Echo
DINIYAR Bilyaletdinov is having a tough time of it at the present.
He can’t seem to find his way back into the Everton first team, and as a result he didn’t even make it off the bench for Russia when they took on the Republic of Ireland in Moscow on Friday. He’ll be worried that his lack of time on the pitch for his club could be having a negative effect on his status with the national side.
The problem for Bily is that there is nothing quite like building match fitness through playing. You can train as much as you want, put in all the hours at the training ground as possible, but you need that level of fitness which only comes from playing games.
Bily’s dilemma is that he needs to start doing it on the pitch when he gets the chance. But, conversely 10 minutes at the end of a match is not much use to him. He has got a lovely left foot and if he fulfils his potential he can still be a fantastic asset, you only need to look back at his goals against Manchester United and Portsmouth last season. But he can’t hope to live off a couple of great strikes, the boss will want to see consistency and work-rate from him all the time.
Ian Snodin: Everton FC must work hardest in Merseyside Derby
Oct 12 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
THERE is obviously an extra edge to Sunday’s Merseyside derby – it’s not often both teams go into it near the bottom of the league table. Obviously the points will help whoever wins breath a little more easily and have some extra bragging rights, but Everton should not be focusing on finishing above Liverpool. You don’t get medals for finishing above your local rivals, you get them for winning the league or winning a trophy and that has got to be the real objective of both clubs. I hope that the atmosphere stays under control and there are none of the naughtier elements which have crept in over recent years, whether it’s chants about certain players which are inexcusable or fans throwing things onto the pitch. The atmosphere will be electric as ever, and it would be great if it wasn’t with that nasty side to it. Even now I will be as nervous before and during the game as when I was playing. I was fortunate to be around at a time when both clubs were pushing for the title and the derbies were always the first games you looked for when the fixture list came out in July.
The old cliche applies though. It doesn’t matter where either team is in the table, the form book is irrelevant, it is a one-off game during which anything can happen.
A lot of people have questioned whether Liverpool’s players will have the right focus because of the ongoing off the field situation, with their ownership in the balance and so many headlines about non-football things. I honestly don’t think it will make one bit of difference on the day. Matters off the pitch never affected me as a player, and I know that men like Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher would never accept that argument. It will be the last thing on their minds as they get ready in the changing rooms at Goodison and then make their way along the tunnel. Nobody will want to be offering any excuses after the game. For me there were no pre-derby rituals, nothing I did for extra luck but I know some fans have their own mad-cap ways of trying to get fortune on their side before kick-off. David Moyes will be frustrated if, as expected, Phil Jagielka is not sufficiently recovered from his hamstring injury to take part in the game. He has been a rock in the central defence for the Blues lately, and has showed that same form and leadership for England where Fabio Capello has rightly started to hold him in very high regard. It says it all, that the Italian was facing a real dilemma over who to disappoint between Rio Ferdinand and John Terry, before the bit of bad luck last week which has ruled Jags out. But like I said, no excuses for this derby, Everton have a big enough squad to cope.
Everton FC defender Phil Jagielka running out of time in derby race
Oct 12 2010 Liverpool Echo
PHIL JAGIELKA is unlikely to win his fight for fitness ahead of Sunday’s Merseyside derby. The defender is back at Everton’s Finch Farm after being sent home from England’s training camp with a hamstring injury on Friday.
England medical staff immediately ruled him out of tonight's Euro 2012 qualifier against Montenegro at Wembley, and now Everton have confirmed they expect him to be sidelined for the showdown with Liverpool on Sunday. The 28-year-old will undergo further assessment by Everton physios, but his fresh injury combined with an ongoing knee niggle means David Moyes is likely to turn to Dutchman John Heitinga to play alongside Sylvain Distin. Louis Saha is also desperate to win his own race for fitness. The French striker has recently returned from his homeland, where he was receiving treatment on a groin injury, and has taken part in light training. He will be hoping to do enough this week to convince Moyes he can play a part against Liverpool. Meanwhile, Steve Round believes an England recall for Leighton Baines is inevitable if the left-back maintains his excellent start to the season.
The twice-capped Blues defender has picked up where he left off last term with a string of eye-catching displays – but has so far failed to win his place back in Fabio Capello’s England squad. Both late goals in the 3-3 draw against Manchester United – a game witnessed in person by Capello – came from pin-point Baines crosses from wide on the left. And the 25-year-old again showcased his qualities with a man-of-the-match performance in the 2-0 win at Birmingham, a display capped by a superb assist for Tim Cahill’s late clincher. Despite his accomplished form Baines was once again overlooked for the latest England squad and will have to settle for watching on television when Montenegro visit Wembley for a Euro 2012 qualifying match tonight. The Everton defender has not been picked for international duty since being omitted from Capello’s World Cup squad and Round – himself a former full-back and coach within the England set-up – feels the ex-Wigan man is worthy of a re“Leighton will probably feel a bit disappointed not to be involved for England and it is a surprise to me that he hasn’t been picked,” said Round. “He obviously has tough competition at left-back with Ashley Cole, who is arguably the best in the world in that position.
“But it is a surprise to see him left out of the squad. He has been playing really well for us and if he carries on playing like he is then he won’t be overlooked for too long.”
Round insists that Baines’ attacking prowess has meant that the quality of his defending has not been given the credit it deserves. And the 39-year-old has backed him to carry on frustrating wingers in the Premier League while also providing a steady flow of opportunities for his team-mates. “Leighton is a very talented player and he was in the top 10 assist makers in the Premier League last season,” added Round. “And he has started well again this season, with a few assists already to his name. “He is a terrific player and assist-making is a big part of his game. He is always exciting to watch and his combination play down the left is superb. He will always create chances for the forwards with the way he plays. “He probably gets more praise for his attacking play and his assists but I can tell you he is a really good defensive player – particularly when one on one with an attacker.”
EFC prospect Magaye Gueye wants to become David Moyes’ secret weapon
Oct 12 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
EVERTON prospect Magaye Gueye wants to become David Moyes’ secret weapon – as he bids to replicate the impact of Steven Pienaar. The 20-year-old forward moved to Merseyside in the summer, and made a good impression during the club’s pre-season tour of Australia. Although his chances in the Premier League have been limited so far, the £1m signing from Strasbourg revealed he has been encouraged by chats with Moyes as he settles into life at Goodison Park. He said: “The coach was following me for six months. He wants me to succeed to play like Steven Pienaar.
“He even said I am his ‘secret weapon’. I am always in the group, the coach will feel the right moment to play me.” Gueye, who represents France at U-21 level but has Senegalese parents, was pursued by a host of other clubs before deciding on the Toffees, and is determined to cement a first team place. The left-sided attacking midfielder said: “I am someone very ambitious, I have always dreamt to play in a great league, it has always been in my mind,” he said. “I know it will be difficult at Everton, I will have to work hard to get a position in the team, but it is the very best for me.” Gueye had a chance to shine in the Blues ill-fated Carling Cup campaign, and created the Blues first goal in their second round 5-1 victory over Huddersfield Town with a pinpoint cross which was headed home by Marouane Fellaini. Later in the game, Huddersfield’s Lee Pelter was sent off after he fouled the French starlet.
Gueye has played for his country in a central midfield role, and earlier in the season Moyes said: “We’re not nailing him down in any particular role at present.
“We’re still finding the way we think will be best suited to him.” First team coach Jimmy Lumsden was also excited by Gueye’s livewire pre-season performance against Moyes’ former club Preston North End, said: “Gueye’s a good talent. “He’s quick, he’s got a great first touch, and I think he’s going to be able to play in a few positions.”
Leighton Baines will regain England spot, says Everton FC’s Steve Round
Oct 12 2010 by James Pearce, Liverpool Daily Post
EVERTON assistant manager Steve Round believes it’s only a matter of time before Leighton Baines regains his place in the England squad. The left-back has been in fine form for Everton so far this season but was overlooked by manager Fabio Capello for tonight’s Euro 2012 qualifier with Montenegro at Wembley. Baines, who earned caps against Egypt and Mexico earlier this year, hasn’t been selected by the Italian since he was controversially chopped from England’s provisional 30-man squad just before the World Cup finals. Aston Villa’s Stephen Warnock got the nod as Ashley Cole’s understudy but the 25-year-old has bounced back from the disappointment of missing out on South Africa with some impressive performances for his club. Round insists if he maintains his high standards then an international recall is inevitable.
“Leighton will probably feel a bit disappointed not to be involved for England and it is a surprise to me that he hasn’t been picked,” Round said. “He obviously has tough competition at left-back with Ashley Cole, who is arguably the best in the world in that position. “But it is a surprise to see him left out of the squad. He has been playing really well for us and if he carries on playing like he is then he won’t be overlooked for too long.” The 25-year-old’s attacking play has caught the eye for Everton so far this season with his pin-point crosses creating late goals for Tim Cahill and Mikel Arteta in the thrilling 3-3 draw with Manchester United at Goodison Park.
Baines also produced a man of the match performance in Everton’s recent 2-0 win at Birmingham as he provided the assist for Cahill to wrap up the points.
However, Round insists Baines’ defensive qualities shouldn’t be overlooked.
“Leighton is a very talented player and he was in the top 10 assist makers in the Premier League last season,” he added. “He has started well again this season, with a few assists already to his name. “He is a terrific player and assist-making is a big part of his game – whether it is through crossing, dead balls or passing in open play.
“He is always exciting to watch and his combination play down the left is superb. He will always create chances for the forwards with the way he plays and I expect him to keep doing so. “He probably gets more praise for his attacking play and his assists but I can tell you he is a really good defensive player – particularly when one on one with an attacker.” Everton have confirmed that Sunday’s Merseyside derby at Goodison is a sell-out. The final few tickets were sold yesterday and Round has warned Liverpool to expect a hot reception in the lunchtime showdown. He said: “The derby is special. Everybody is fully committed – the fans, the players and the management.
“Maybe it is the history and the tradition of the clubs, the closeness of the clubs, the closeness of the fans – you can have families split down the middle and that brings something special to the game and to the city. “We have got terrific fans and they will help – wherever we go we get that great support. At Goodison what comes down from the stands is something else – they really are that proverbial 12th man.” Phil Jagielka has returned to Finch Farm for treatment on the hamstring injury which ruled him out of tonight’s England game at Wembley. The Everton centre-back is unlikely to be fit to face Liverpool on Sunday.
ACADEMY FOOTBALL: Everton under-18s rue missed chances as they lose to Manchester City
Oct 12 2010 by Chris Wright, Liverpool Daily Post
EVERTON under-18s were left to rue missed chances as they lost 1-0 to a late goal at Manchester City on Saturday. Neil Dewsnip’s side were in good form, but fell to their second defeat in the first eight matches in the FA Premier Academy League due to spurning the opportunities. Hallam Hope and Conor McAleny both went close with headers from crosses by winger Nathan Craig in either half. Dewsnip was happy with his side’s approach play, but stressed the importance of improving their finishing ability. The Everton coach said: “The performance was good and I was quite pleased. We weren’t troubled defensively until the last couple of minutes. We had lots of possession of the ball and the performance was generally good. But where we were lacking on the day was scoring goals. We had a couple of gilt-edge chances – both headers from Hallum Hope and Conor McAleny – which we didn’t take. If either chance had gone in I believe we would have gone to win the game comfortably. But we didn’t. Another criticism would be we didn’t create enough for the possession we had.” He added: “It was a real shame to lose a game, which at the very minimum we should have been coming home with a 0-0.” Everton are in third place in the north west section just two points behind new leaders Manchester United, who they face at Finch Farm this Saturday (kick-off 11am). United went top last week with a 4-0 win at Stoke City as Bolton lost 1-0 to Crewe. Dewsnip said: “It is another tough game, but if we can brush up on our finishing and create more chances there is no reason why we can’t bounce back.” Anton Forrester and Tom Donegan are close to a return following injury and could be involved. EVERTON UNDER-18s: Davies, Barrow, Murphy, Hammar, Garbutt, Craig, Kinsella, Dobie (Lundstram 45), Orenuga (Higgins 80), Hope (Cummins 75), McAleny. Subs: Roberts, Browning.
Mark Lawrenson: Better players give Everton Merseyside derby edge
Oct 12 2006 Liverpool Daily Post
YOU could argue that it’s unusual for Everton to be above Liverpool when a Merseyside derby comes round. But this time you can also argue that Everton have the better players. Although Phil Jagielka looks set to miss out, they still have most of their top men fit and available, and they will be itching to get on with it after their great win at Birmingham before the international break. As for Liverpool, the sheer ordinariness of their squad is quite staggering. You have the usual notable exceptions but on paper Everton have got the better players and for me, they start the game at Goodison Park as favourites. That doesn’t mean, however, that they are nailed on to win.David Moyes hasn’t got the best out of his team when they’ve been fancied to win so far this season and it is, of course a derby – you can never confidently predict which way it will go. But the vital thing is Moyes will instil the belief in his players that they are better than Liverpool too, and will ensure they are fully fired up.
There is an argument that Liverpool will re-emerge from the international break in a more buoyant mood given that the uncertainty behind the scenes finally seems to be nearing a resolution. But in truth, all this shouldn’t be affecting players anyway.
Footballers are a mercenary bunch who are under no obligation to respect their owners. As long as they are getting paid, there should be no excuse.
Everton’s 1894 derby day bonus – a silk hat!
Oct 13 2010 by David Prentice, Liverpool Echo
THE stakes will be high for Sunday’s 214th Merseyside derby – with the losers likely to be languishing in the relegation zone. But then the stakes have always been high for Merseyside’s local set-to – as the official Everton minutes ahead of the very first Merseyside derby match reveal. Before Everton faced neighbours Liverpool for the very first time on October 13 1894, their players were offered an incentive they could hardly ignore . . . a silk hat! Everton’s club minute books, now part of the remarkable Everton Collection, revealed that “Liverpool match – Resolved each player shall have a silk hat bonus, value 20 shillings, in addition to their bonus.” A silk hat was clearly a sought after item in Victorian England, because Everton triumphed 3-0 in the first league derby. The importance of this first meeting was reflected in the preparations undertaken by both teams; Liverpool spent the week in training at Hightown, Everton spent theirs at home with rigorous coaching. A crowd of 44,000 packed into Goodison Park for the historic match. And in front of the Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Everton opened the scoring after 10 minutes. An Everton free-kick was floated over by Billy Stewart and found McInnes in clear space. McInnes helped Everton score their second, supplying Alex Latta with a pass from which he couldn’t miss.
Everton had a further goal disallowed for an infringement, but with time running out and the light fading, Everton scored their third goal with a deflected shot from John Bell – hats off to Everton! While the 1894 clash was the first official league derby, there was an Everton v Liverpool clash played at Anfield seven years earlier – with a ticket for the historic clash also part of the Everton Collection. There was a ‘Liverpool’ team in existence long before the present-day Liverpool Football Club (founded in 1892).
This team played their games at Walton Stiles and in the first home game of the 1882/83 season were trounced 10-1 by Blackburn Rovers in front of 900 spectators. But the ‘Liverpool’ team which played at Anfield on May 23 1885 was a collection of Merseyside footballers made up from Stanley FC, Liverpool Ramblers, Bootle and Cambrian for the purpose of raising funds for Stanley Hospital. Councillor John Houlding, then president of Everton, kicked off the match and the following Monday’s Daily Post reported: “Councillor John Houlding, who has from the time the Stanley Hospital was first suggested, shown a deep interest in the institution, has given a practical illustration of how in some measure the funds of the hospital can be assisted by a section of the public without any great pecuniary sacrifice on their part.”
Everton trailed 2-0 in a frantic affair before rallying to win 4-3. Everton played many benefit matches with proceeds donated to the hospital. Part of the club’s rent of the Anfield ground was also a small donation to Stanley Hospital, in the name of Joseph Orrell. “Everlution: The Everton Collection exhibition” is now open in the Museum of Museums at The Trafford Centre. The exhibition was previously held in Liverpool Central Library and with over 30,000 visitors, proved to be the most popular exhibition ever staged in Central Library. The Collection, including the fascinating Minute Books, can also be viewed online at www.everton collection.org.uk.
Other exhibitions in the Museum of Museums include the National Football Museum’s FA Cup exhibition, showing the oldest existing FA Cup trophy (1896-1910).
Everton FC scoop hat-trick of gongs at MBNA Northwest Football Awards
Oct 13 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
EVERTON scooped three top prizes at the prestigious North West Football Awards.
Blues midfielder Diniyar Bilyaletdinov picked up the Goal of the Year award for his strike against Manchester United at Goodison Park last term, while Everton’s community department took Community Project of the Year. The Blues also received the award for Best Marketing Campaign at the event in Lancashire County Cricket Club on Monday, beating off Premier League competition from Manchester United, Manchester City and Blackburn Rovers. Everton’s community award came courtesy of their ‘Imagine Your Goals’ scheme, which boosts people with mental health problems by engaging them in football. And it’s not the first time Imagine Your Goals has been recognised, having already won a Sports Industry award earlier this year.
It is just one of several high profile projects run by Everton’s community department, encompassing a diverse range of community constituents. Denise Barrett-Baxendale, CEO of Everton’s community department, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to have received the Community Scheme Project of the Year Award. To receive such an acknowledgement for our work in the community is fantastic, particularly when considering the standard of applications from other entrants.” Meanwhile, the Club’s ‘Share The Belief’ Season Ticket marketing campaign has also received a the top award in its category. The campaign saw hundreds of fan images used to create mosaics of key players, and helped Everton sell tens of thousands of Season Tickets this summer. The Toffees’ campaign was nominated alongside campaigns from Manchester City, Liverpool and Burnley. All the awards were decided upon by an illustrious panel of judges comprised of leaders in the field of sport and sports business including Alan Myers, North West Bureau Chief from Sky Sports News, Professor Tom Cannon and Paul Thorogood, Chief Executive at the Football Foundation. Everton chief executive Robert Elstone said: “I’m very proud. It was a good night for Everton. Every award was greeted with a big cheer, which was great and typically Everton. “It’s testimony to the progress we are making, not just on the field as we can all see every week, but progress of the field. “It’s testament to the great people and all the hard work and the variety of our awards, and to get endorsement from an independent panel means a lot to us.” This award serves to further evidence the continued success that we are having in the community, impacting on the lives of many participants, in this instance, who live daily with mental health issues.
“I am delighted that our participants continue to benefit from this project.”
Everton’s retail partner Kitbag also won first place in the Business Services to Football category at the awards. The club have enjoyed a successful inaugural year with Kitbag, launching new kits and two state of the art retail outlets, Everton One and Everton Two.
Everton FC derby boost as Marouane Fellaini fires for Belgium
Oct 13 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
MAROUANE FELLAINI fired a derby warning to Liverpool by scoring a towering header on international duty for Belgium. The 22-year-old is approaching top form ahead of Sunday’s Goodison showdown, and his international strike in his country’s 4-4 draw with Austria last night came on the back of two impressive performances for the Blues. Now Fellaini will be hoping to make his mark against Roy Hodgson’s side at the weekend, after he exited the last derby on a stretcher with a badly broken ankle following a red-card challenge from Sotirios Kyrgiakos. Everton players were in the thick of the action during yesterday’s Euro 2012 qualifiers. A goal for Fellaini and a Jan Mucha penalty save were the headlines, although neither player ended up on the winning side. Mucha was in goal for home side Slovakia as they faced the Republic of Ireland, but defender Seamus Coleman is still waiting for his international debut after he was an unused by Giovanni Trapattoni again. The 21-year-old did not make the match day squad for Saturday’s defeat by Russia in Moscow either, but will take encouragement from his fast-tracking into the international set-up. Just before half-time the Blues number two goalkeeper felled Aiden McGeady in the box but made up for it by saving Robbie Keane’s spot-kick and the scores ended level at 1-1.
And there was a routine victory for John Heitinga and Holland as the losing World Cup finalists swept Sweden aside 4-1 in the Amsterdam Arena. Diniyar Bilyaletdinov was on duty as well but he didn’t emerge from Russia’s bench in their 1-0 win in Macedonia. All the Everton players will now regroup at Finch Farm ahead of Sunday’s Merseyside derby, which Howard Webb is set to referee.
The official, who took the whistle for the World Cup final in South Africa this summer, is a veteran of Mersey derbies. Meanwhile, Phil Neville believes England, who drew 0-0 with Montenegro last night, must have a winter break in the Premier League if Fabio Capello’s side are to have any chance of becoming European or World Champions. The Everton skipper, who has won 59 caps, said England would have fared much better at the World Cup in South Africa if the players had been given a midwinter break. Neville said: “We need a winter break - 100 per cent. “If we want to have a successful national team that is the first thing that we need to do. “Going into the past three or four tournaments, fatigue has played a major part in the way we have performed. “Every other major country in the world has a winter break, yet we have the fastest and most physical league in the world and we don’t have one. The football hierarchy should look at it and think: ‘Do we want a successful national team?’ “And if we do, the answer is a midwinter break.”
Everton FC's Leighton Baines eager to provide Mersey derby ammunition for Tim Cahill
Oct 13 2010 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
LEIGHTON BAINES is eager to keep providing the ammunition for Tim Cahill as he prepares for Everton’s biggest game of the season. Baines has been in impressive form going forward this season having created a number of assists with his delivery from left-back. The most recent came in the 2-0 win at Birmingham City last week when his cross was nodded in by Cahill for Everton’s match-clinching second goal during injury time. With Cahill, who has been troubled by a knee problem, having returned to Finch Farm unscathed after appearing in Australia’s friendly win over Paraguay in Sydney at the weekend, the pair will look to resume their fruitful partnership when fellow strugglers Liverpool visit Goodison on Sunday.
And Baines said: “Tim is one of those players who if you put it in the right sort of area he can make something happen whether that is score a goal with his head or tee someone up. “I am definitely conscious of trying to find him in good areas and if you do that more often than not he will make something of it. He has that natural instinct and is a tough customer for most of the centre halves because he is very elusive in the box.” Baines added: “We do a lot of work on the crossing. We work on it as a team towards the end of the week and that puts everyone on the same page and helps me to provide assists which is enough for me. “When you help Tim or a striker to get a goal it is big for them. They need that for their confidence and it is nice to provide that. I take a bit of confidence from setting it up and it is another goal for the team and that is the main thing.” The win at Birmingham was Everton’s first Premier League triumph of the season and Baines admits the international break would have seemed a lot longer had David Moyes’s men not moved out of the relegation zone with those three points. “It would have been unbearable to go into the break without a win so at least we can say we have got that monkey off our back and have got that first win,” said the defender. “Now we want to go on and really do ourselves justice. The derby is obviously the biggest game for us and the one we always look for first and getting a good result at Birmingham going into it has given us extra confidence.
“We won our first game of the season and obviously once that happens you are looking to get on a roll so it is important for us to build on it and get another result this Sunday.” With Steven Pienaar almost certainly out with a groin problem and Phil Jagielka losing his race against time to be fit, Moyes faces a number of selection posers ahead of Sunday’s encounter.
Will Heitinga say bye-Bayern to Everton?
By David Maddock
Oct 13 2010 Daily Mirror
John Heitinga has shocked Everton fans by admitting he is tempted by a move to Bayern Munich. The Dutch World Cup finalist has been linked with a January move to Bayern after a disappointing start to the new campaign at Goodison Park.
And he did little to hide his interest in the Champions League football the German club could provide, with comments that will anger the Blues faithful.
“I have to admit that I feel flattered that I’m being linked with a big club such as Bayern - I’d definitely be interested in joining them," he said. “They play Champions League football and I’m still eligible to play in the competition, since we don’t play European football with Everton. “Every footballer wants to reach the top and I’m already 27-years-old. So this could be the right moment. You never know what will happen, especially in the world of football. “It’s hard for me to say how serious the reported interest is at the moment. I know that Bayern haven’t approached Everton yet and they haven’t contacted me either." Manager David Moyes will be angry with such a blatant show of disloyalty on the eve of the Merseyside derby, and the comments could cost the Holland defender his place.
EFC fans forum: John Heitinga has quality that Everton need
Oct 14 2010 Liverpool Echo
IN the past week there has been dissertations surrounding a possible move for Johnny Heitinga to German clubs Wolfsburg or Bayern Munich. His form since the World Cup has, to a certain extent, been nondescript, but it would be inadvisable at this time to grant such a deal. In the short term the Blues need an experienced defender of his quality and from a long term perspective Neville and Distin will need to be replaced.
Additionally, he is one of the few defenders in the Premiership who can change defence into attack with a razor accurate pass and furthermore does not advocate the direct style and is more than willing to play through the midfield, hence Fellaini's improvement last season in his favoured role. Fundamentally, his versatility will be vital as he can also play midfield when required. In conclusion and taking into consideration the World Cup final itself I am sure he will recapture his form.
David, Aintree
THE news that Jagielka was injured following a training session with John Terry was bad news for Everton fans – they don’t get much good news and being at the bottom of the Premier League, will it never end? The team had to manage without him for a year recently, now it is expected he will be out for six weeks. He will be sadly missed with the local derby and other matches coming up and the club endeavouring to get up the league. David Moyes doesn’t make many mistakes but buying a striker from Leeds who doesn’t strike and not taking on Donovan when he had the chance (he could have sold some of the deadwood to obtain funds) he will live to regret that.
PJ Foley, Coventry
I FEAR Everton will not take full advantage in the derby on Sunday. Liverpool are as weak now as most people can ever remember, and yet they are still well capable of a dogged display at Goodison nicking all three points. Although we have finally improved our form after a disgraceful start to the season there is getting away from the fact that Everton have the same points as Liverpool – so we are hardly in a position to crow to our neighbours. All Blues need to realise that no matter what, Sunday is going to be a tough game. Yes we probably should win, after all we have home advantage, but Liverpool have a little bit of hurt pride to repair and will be keen to kick-start their new ownership with a victory. Moyes must set his team up to attack the Reds. Five across the midfield as usual, but give the players the licence to get forward as much as possible. And surely Bily must start ahead of Osman on the right. That would give Liverpool a bit more to worry about.
Rich Talbot, Kensington
Everton Ladies chasing Champions League glory
Oct 14 2010 by David Prentice, Liverpool Echo
EVERTON Ladies go shooting for a Sweet 16 tonight.
The Blues take on Hungarian side MTK Hungaria at the Hobart Stadium Widnes tonight, bidding to qualify for the last 16 of the Women’s Champions League for the first time in their history. Mo Marley’s side were held to a frustrating goalless draw in Budapest two weeks ago, but the Blues believe they have that extra something to get the job done on home soil. Everton proved the dominant force in their meeting in the Hungarian capital, but were denied by the woodwork several times. Left back Rachel Unitt said: “We’ve been in the Champions League three times before and the furthest we've got is to the last 32. “This year we’ve got a great chance of getting to the final 16. We drew out in Hungary, but I think we’ve got a fantastic chance of getting a result on Thursday. “It was a very frustrating game to be honest. We had a lot of chances, I think we hit the bar quite a few times in the first half and it just wouldn’t go in. “It was just one of those games where you knew it was going to end up in a draw – a frustrating game to play in but we were happy with the draw that we got.
“Playing away from home we went there to win but we didn’t concede which was one of our targets. Hopefully on Thursday we’ll get the result we want.” Entry to tonight’s second leg (kick-off 7pm) at the Halton Stadium in Widnes costs just £2 for adults and £1 for juniors. Tickets are available on the turnstiles on the day.
John Ebbrell recalls the restorative powers of Everton’s 1994 derby win
Oct 14 2010 by Nick Hilton, Liverpool Echo
A MERSEYSIDE derby in which the relegation zone looms beneath the pre-match calculations is a rare occurrence. John Ebbrell confidently predicts that the gloomy mathematics ahead of Sunday’s game at Goodison won’t be repeated by the time Everton and Liverpool meet next at Anfield in January. The former Goodison midfielder believes both clubs boast more than enough quality in their respective squads to pull clear of the top flight’s drop zone. Ebbrell is four months into a new job as School of Excellence manager atŠTranmere and is relishing his return to the professional game. He still holds sharp memories of the day, more than a decade and a half ago, when Everton went into a derby with a cloud hanging over them and began a powerful revival on the back of a 2-0 victory. That memorable night at Goodison Park also did Ebbrell’s personal fortunes a power of good. Back in November 1994, Everton’s position was more precarious than it is now. They were rock bottom of the table, having taken just eight points from the first 14 games of the season.
Then as now, the Blues had a fortnight to prepare for the derby and used it well, installing Joe Royle as a replacement for sacked manager Mike Walker. Royle in turn used the long buildup to work on an overhaul of Everton’s pattern of play – and ignited a performance that earned a 2-0 victory. Ebbrell was among a number of players who benefited from the change of manager as Royle pulled him out of the reserves and into the heart of the team that would acquire the reputation as being no one’s pushovers as they climbed the table. Ebbrell recalled: “When Joe took over he had two weeks to prepare and on the previous Saturday there was a reserve team derby in which myself and a few of the lads from the first-team squad played. We won 2-1 and I think Joe took some significance out of the way we played. “Joe changed the mental side of how we approached games in terms of being positive. “He had us pressing the ball all over the pitch, instilled intoŠ us not to pass the ball square and to get the ball into the box at every opportunity. They were the three elements and when we did them successfully we began to pass the ball better as well. “Players often respond to a new manager. It was a positive change for me because I had been out of the side and I got an opportunity I wasn’t expecting. Every new manager comes in and says the slate has been wiped clean. That may not always be the case but it felt that way for me.” Ebbrell added: “Joe to me was a larger-than-life character. He was serious about what he did but he had an almost lighthearted approach which gave the boys a certain confidence. Everything was positive. He was always calm and quick with a joke. “I certainly responded to his management style and a few of the players – Joe Parkinson and Andy Hinchcliffe come to mind – really enhanced their reputations in the game.”Everton fans, fed on a diet of disappointment prior to the derby game, quickly sensed a new mood in the team. “I remember we held our own for the first 20 minutes of the game, and that was important,” Ebbrell recalled. “We have become quite used to Liverpool having the better of things in derbies. But after that opening spell we felt we could do well in the game. We also got a surge of confidence from the fact that the crowd were happy with what they were seeing.” Everton’s opening goal was headed home from a Hinchcliffe corner by Duncan Ferguson, the powerful Scottish centre forward signed from Rangers by Walker. Ebbrell said: “That goal really got Duncan going and he was unplayable in certain games after that. If you Šgot your delivery into the box right, and that usually meant early, he was unplayable. He was getting the service he wanted from the team.” Paul Rideout added a second goal to secure the points and Royle’s Everton were up and running. A win at Chelsea followed and the climb up the table began. The Blues went on to win the FA Cup that season although Ebbrell suffered the disappointment of being left out of the side that defeated Manchester United at Wembley. Ebbrell believes upheaval outside the dressing room – whether it be at management or boardroom level – does impact on Šteam performances. Now that the ownership issue at Liverpool is close to being resolved, Ebbrell expects Liverpool’s on the field results to show an upturn. Ebbrell said: “I think Everton will rise up the table and Liverpool will do so as well, once things settle down. Off the field stuff does affect players. I remember during my playing days there were one or two things going on at board level at Everton that were unsettling – although not on the scale of what has been happening at Liverpool. “I think with everything that’s been going on with both teams near the bottom of the table, Sunday’s game will be slightly edgier than normal. It will be tight and I expect the first goal to be vital.” Ebbrell’s main focus on Sunday however is looking after hundreds of youngsters who play in Tranmere School of excellence teams. “I am enjoying every minute of the job,” he said. “It’s great to be back in full time football. I’m learning every day in this job. It’s exactly what I wanted.”
Everton FC youngster Ross Barkley suffers double leg break
Oct 14 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
TEENAGE Everton starlet Ross Barkley is facing months on the sidelines after he suffered a double leg break on England under-19 duty. The 16-year-old rising star was playing for the Young Lions in a European Championship qualifier against Belgium in Vise on Wednesday, when he had to be subst-ituted after a heavy chall-enge with Andre Wisdom. Barkley has been named as a substitute by David Moyes in Everton’s last three Premier League games and was immediately assessed by England doctors and the devastating news was confirmed later that evening. Noel Blake’s side had already confirmed their passage through to next year’s Elite Round, so the 2-1 defeat in Belgium, where the quality of pitches had been questioned, had no impact on England’s progress. The news will dismay the Everton coaching team, in particular academy director Ray Hall who has nurtured Barkley to the brink of the senior first team at such a young age. Barkley, who is considered among the best prospects in the country, has been tipped for the top by Rio Ferdinand in his open letter of support ahead of England’s 2018 World Cup bid. The England skipper put pen to paper to describe the bright future for football in this country. He name-checked some of the hottest young English property causing a stir at academy level, one of whom was Barkley. Rio said: “We’ve got some talented youngsters, the likes of Josh McEachran (Chelsea), Ross Barkley (Everton), Ezekial Fryers (Man Utd) and John Bostock (Tottenham). “And what a motivation it could be for every young player to have the chance to represent your country at a World Cup on home soil.” Barkley has made appearances on the Everton first team bench this year and is widely tipped to be the ‘next big thing’ out of the Blues’ revered academy system. A versatile defender who is also equally at home in midfield, the Liverpool born star, has been compared to Jack Rodwell and Wayne Rooney. The 6ft 2in starlet has been with the Blues since the age of 11, and represented England at Under-16 level seven times scoring twice, before moving up to the Under 17 age group early in the 2009/10 season. He made his first appearance for the Three Lions’ Under-17s side against Kazakhstan in October 2009, and was also a part of England’s victorious 2010 European Championship side in Liechtenstein in May 2010. Barkley scored the only goal in a group stage victory over Greece in the tournament, and played a full 90-minutes in their 2-1 victory over Spain in the final to clinch England’s first ever European Under-17 title. In 2010/11, as a first year academy player, he played the first game of the season for the Blues’ second string netting in a 1-1 draw with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.
Everton FC latest: John Heitinga open to Bayern Munich transfer
Oct 14 2010 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
JOHN HEITINGA has further risked the wrath of David Moyes by declaring he would be interested in joining Bayern Munich. Heitinga’s long-term Goodison future is in doubt with the Dutchman having fallen out of favour with Moyes following a succession of indifferent displays this season. Since returning from World Cup duty with Holland in the summer, the 26-year-old has started only four games and is yet to complete a full 90 minutes in the Premier League. It has prompted rumours of interest from abroad, with German duo Wolfsburg and Bayern Munich both contemplating bids for the 27-year-old in the New Year. And having worked with Bayern coach Louis van Gaal when at Ajax in 2004, Heitinga would welcome the chance of a move to last season’s Champions League finalists. “It’s hard for me to say how serious the reported interest is at the moment,” said Heitinga. “I know that Bayern haven’t approached Everton yet and they haven’t contacted me either. “I have to admit that I feel flattered that I’m being linked with a big club such as Bayern Munich though. I’d definitely be interested in joining them. “They play Champions League football and I’m still eligible to play in the competition, since we don’t play European football with Everton. “Every footballer wants to reach the top and I’m already 27 years old.
“So this could be the right moment. You never know what will happen, especially in the world of football.” It is the second time in less than six months that Heitinga has talked openly of a move away from Goodison, having responded favourably in May to suggestions Manchester City were considering a move for him. Wolfsburg were keen on signing Heitinga on transfer deadline day in August and are still pondering whether to resurrect their interest when the window reopens in January. Meanwhile, reports in Germany have this week already claimed Bayern are tracking one of Heitinga’s team-mates, Leighton Baines, although it would take a hugely lucrative offer for either player or club to consider a transfer.
Blue Watch: The most important derby in years is also the hardest to call
Oct 14 2010 Liverpool Daily Post
PERHAPS a special trophy should be made ahead of Sunday’s Goodison derby clash.
It could be called the Crisis Cup, because given the sorry start that both Everton and Liverpool have made to this season the outcome of this match is probably more important than all but a handful of the 213 derbies that precede it. The winner will experience relief as well as the usual euphoria; the loser is in big trouble. It really is as stark as that, with some rumours even suggesting that a loss for Roy Hodgson would result in his first derby being his last. As well as one of the most pressurised local games for years, this one is surely the most difficult to call. This is clearly a very ordinary Liverpool team, and they come into the game off the back off a home defeat by Blackpool, but we said exactly the same about Newcastle United, and look what happened there. Under David Moyes, Everton have had a horrible habit of bottling these games apart from a couple of notable exceptions. In the Anfield Hoof Room, Rafael Benitez worked out that England stars Jamie Carragher and Steven Gerrard could get away with anything, especially in the early stages of the game, and sent them out to hit Everton’s creative players hardWhether Hodgson, whose Fulham side was noted for its fair play, will resort to the same tactics remains to be seen.
Mystery also surrounds some of the banners that the Liverpool fans are so famous for.
Will they simply discard all the ones saying uncomplimentary things about ‘Yanks’ and, indeed, Christian Purslow, their managing director who was all but carried shoulder high along a London street yesterday? Stories about his likeness being fitted into the frame previously used for the Rafatollah icon are surely mischievous.
As for Everton, well, they showed a bit more of the right stuff against Birmingham City, but one win hardly represents ‘momentum’. Phil Jagielka will be sorely missed, especially as his replacement will be Johnny Heitinga, who seems to have done more talking than playing this season. Foreign players can often have their comments misconstrued, but the Dutch international’s latest bigging-up of Bayern Munich seems pretty unequivocal. It will take his first decent performance since the World Cup, and maybe one of his ludicrous free-kicks to fly past Pepe Reina, for some Evertonians to forgive his latest outburst.
Howard Kendall: John Heitinga should have thought twice before speaking about Bayern Munich interest
Oct 15 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
FROM what I have read John Heitinga has been a rather naive lad once again based on his comments to the Dutch press. Sometimes you wonder what planet players are on? They go on international duty and talk to their home based media, and then act surprised when those comments are reported back in the UK. It’s not the first time this has happened in his case. Even though his timing wasn’t great I don’t doubt he will be focused properly on the job in hand if he is drafted in. It’s the perfect chance to win his place back, as the solid partnership of Sylvain Distin and Phil Jagielka looks unfortunately like it has been broken up.
Howard Kendall: Howard Webb will handle Mersey derby sensibly
Oct 15 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
EVERTON cannot afford to go into Sunday’s derby in a complacent state of mind. The Toffees are slight favourites because they are at home, but they must not believe any hype which has them as odds-on favourites to get a result. On form at least they should approach the fixture with no fear – that’s for sure. Everton recorded an impressive win in their last league game before the international break, and Liverpool sank to the low of a home defeat by Ian Holloway’s Blackpool. But in reality you can’t imagine David Moyes allowing his players to allow their focus or determination to slip, just as I don’t think Liverpool will be affected by their off the pitch woes.
It was heartening to see Howard Webb as the referee. I think he took charge of the World Cup final magnificently and I hope he applies the same common sense to the big game on Sunday. In South Africa he did well because he did not get his cards out straight away even though it was obviously quite a physical game with Holland’s approach. Tackles tend to get mistimed early on in a derby and it’s better if the official can give a little benefit of the doubt at first. They have got the right man for the job in that sense. I read with interest what Danny Murphy had to say about certain managers sending their teams out pumped up and more likely to hurt the opposition.
I don’t think it’s down to the manager, and rather it’s the nature of the individuals themselves. I remember when I played there were some very naughty lads like Jackie Charlton, Johnny Morrissey and virtually all the Leeds team. It’s not as bad now as it was then.
Howard Kendall: FA Cup medals on the way from FA
Oct 15 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
I’VE just heard that I’m going to receive three FA Cup final medals more than 20 years after I was involved. A lovely letter from the League Managers Association (LMA) this week informed me that they have contacted the FA, and all managers who got to finals before 1996, after which they started giving medals to final managers from both sides, are going to get them retrospectively. I remember applauding from the sidelines when Kevin Ratcliffe lifted the cup in 1984, and then again as a losing finalist the following two years. Now I’m going to get them, and I think it’s a great gesture. Apart from photographs and my memories I haven’t got anything to commemorate those finals, and I’ll be delighted to keep the medals. I never felt aggrieved at the time that managers didn’t go up and get the medals because it wasn’t the done thing, it never even crossed my mind really. The LMA didn’t have to do this and I’m sure I won’t be the only grateful former manager who will be looking forward to picking them up. There is going to be a dinner in November and I’m planing on being there for it. I’ve never lost the personal feeling of satisfaction – this is an unexpected bonus.
Dave Prentice: Heitinga needs a big derby to reclaim Evertonian affections
Oct 15 2010 by David Prentice, Liverpool Echo
THE footballers that Evertonians have taken to their hearts are an unexpected bunch. Non-flying Dutchman, Andy van der Meyde, managed two productive crosses in his four-year Everton career. Yet his popularity significantly outweighed his contribution to the Blues’ cause. Duncan Ferguson was an injury prone, goal-shy jailbird with an appalling disciplinary record, but try telling that to fans who adored him in his Braveheart moments. Then there was dear old Daniel Amokachi – the epitome of the chant “He used to be sh**e, but now he’s alright”, but a man who sealed eternal popularity at Goodison by talking his way on in an FA Cup semi-final and then converting two back post tap-ins.
But that love isn’t unconditional. As Johnny Heitinga may discover unless he’s very, very careful. Blues fans have taken to the Dutchman, even though they’ve still yet to see him play in what is apparently his best position. But Heitinga’s doing his best to test that patience. He couldn’t have delivered a blunter message to Bayern Munich this week if he’d picked up a telephone to his compatriot Louis van Gaal and said: “Any chance of a move to your football club, beste vriend?” Instead Heitinga told Voetball International: “I know that Bayern haven’t approached Everton yet and they haven’t contacted me either. “But I have to admit that I feel flattered that I’m being linked with a big club such as Bayern Munich though. I’d definitely be interested in joining them. They play Champions League football and I’m still eligible to play in the competition, since we don’t play European football with Everton. “Every footballer wants to reach the top and I’m already 27-years-old. “So this could be the right moment. You never know what will happen, especially in the world of football.”
You never know what can happen in the world of football fans’ affections either.
Ask Wayne Rooney, who used to be hero-worshipped in these parts. It’s barely a month since the Dutchman declared: “If Barcelona comes, I’d go on a bicycle with a large flag to get there.” Fair enough. If the commissioning editor’s job at Playboy ever became available I’d probably walk to London waving my undies in the air.
But Heitinga has also talked up Manchester City and Ajax – although graciously admitted he would draw the line at a move to Anfield. Maybe. “The chance that I could go to Liverpool is certainly very small, but joining another English club seems nice,” he declared. Big Dunc’s decision to down a couple of pints 48 hours before a derby match was ill-judged – especially as he then decided to drive home.
But opening his goal account for the Blues meant he instantly became some kind of flawed hero. Heitinga may have to produce something equally spectacular on Sunday if he’s to claw back Evertonian affections.
Dave Prentice: Why Sunday’s derby is the match of the century
Oct 15 2010 by David Prentice, Liverpool Echo
AFTER the courtroom drama, the claim and counter-claim and the international injury heartache, we finally have a football match to focus on. And what a match. The 214th Merseyside derby is the match neither side dare lose. Liverpool kick-off Sunday’s clash in the relegation zone. If Everton lose or draw, they could find themselves back in the bottom three. It’s a genuine once in a century scenario. Liverpool were famously plunged into the bottom three following Graeme Sharp’s Anfield exocet in 1984. A decade later it was Everton’s turn to go into the Goodison derby match rock bottom of the Premier League. But both sides contesting a Merseyside derby in the bottom three? That hasn’t happened since Queen Victoria was on the throne and Brylcremed centre-parts were all the rage. Everton won that particular showdown with goals from Jack Taylor and Jimmy Settle and ended the season in 11th, one place behind Liverpool. Irrespective of their stumbling starts, both sets of fans would expect their teams to finish higher than that this season. But is that a realistic ambition?
Much could depend on Sunday’s outcome. Everton used the momentum generated from that 1994 derby to propel themselves to an unlikely relegation escape.
In 1984 it was the shock of finding themselves in the bottom three that fired a Reds recovery which ended with them finishing runners up to their neighbours.
So what will be the outcome of Sunday’s showdown? When you get a game that neither side can afford to lose, neither side rarely does. Have a small wager on the points being shared.
Spotlight on Merseyside derby referee Howard Webb
Oct 15 2010 by James Pearce, Liverpool Echo
THE stakes are high and Howard Webb has the tough task of keeping order during the 214th Merseyside derby. No rivalry in English football compares in terms of passion and intensity and that’s reflected in the record-breaking card count. Since the inception of the Premier League in 1992, the 36 clashes between the clubs have produced 19 red cards. Ten have been sent for an early bath in the last 11 meetings with Sotirios Kyrgiakos and Steven Pienaar joining the list of shame at Anfield back in February. The game demands a strong man in the middle and Webb is not only the Premier League’s top official but also one of the most highly rated in world football.
Blues legend Kevin Sheedy believes Webb is the ideal appointment for a game which both sides desperately need to win to pull away from the drop zone.
“It is important that the referee has a good game in the derby,” he said.
“It isn’t an easy game to referee but if he doesn’t have a good day then it can become scrappy and very stop-start. “The supporters and players are right up for it and that makes a big difference. There are always a few tasty challenges early on but I am sure a referee of Howard Webb’s experience will recognise that and hopefully he can put in a good performance.” Sunday will be the third time the 39-year-old from Rotherham has refereed a Merseyside derby. The first was at Anfield in March 2008 when Fernando Torres’ early strike secured the Reds a 1-0 victory. Webb dished out five yellows to Torres, Phil Jagielka, Phil Neville, Lee Carsley and Steven Pienaar.
He was also in charge of the derby at Anfield the following season when Tim Cahill’s late strike earned the Blues a point after Steven Gerrard had broken the deadlock. That game in January 2009 saw Webb book just Pienaar and Mikel Arteta.
Webb started out in the Northern Counties East League 17 years ago and in 2000. He stepped up to the Premier League three years later and was appointed as a FIFA official in 2005. In 2009 the former South Yorkshire police offier was given the whistle for the FA Cup final which saw Everton lose 2-1 to Chelsea at Wembley.
Earlier this year he became the first referee to take charge of the Champions League final and the World Cup final in the same season. The proudest night of his career came in July when Holland took on Spain at Soccer City in Johannesburg. He was the first English referee to take charge of the showpiece occasion since Jack Taylor in 1974. However, his dream turned into a nightmare as a bad-tempered final saw Webb show no fewer than 15 cards – 14 yellows and a red for Everton’s Dutch defender John Heitinga. Webb was slammed by Holland coach Bert van Marwijk and his players but earned praise from pundits for the way he tried to control such a testing game. Sunday will be his fifth Premier League match this season and so far he has shown 16 yellows and no reds.
Everton FC’s Leighton Baines is set to keep a cool-head in the Derby show-down
Oct 15 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
LEIGHTON Baines is not a player who lends himself to the cliches of football writers. Always calm, considered and contemplative he will never “roar his defiance” ahead of an important game, nor will he “blast” the opposition, or “pour scorn” over questionable decisions, like Fabio Capello’s unjust exclusion of the Everton left-back from Tuesday’s England squad. Instead, the 25-year-old is fully focused on helping Everton to victory in Sunday’s Merseyside derby, even if that means he could get the cold shoulder from some sections of his family for 48 hours. The Kirkby-born and bred defender is from a typically split loyalty Merseyside family, with no mellowing towards Everton from his Kopite cousins despite their relation’s day job. “It’s a pretty even split in my family,” he says. “My grandad and most of my mum’s family are Everton. But my dad was Liverpool, although he’s Everton now. “As a young lad I would normally spend derby weekend with my mates, and we’d all go around to watch it with our tops on. It was pretty light hearted. “But now, with my cousins who are Reds, even though I play for Everton there is no mellowing. They don’t care. They’re still 100% red and there’s no messing about which is fair enough.”
Like every native, Baines has his own derby day gripes and memories – even if he is intent on playing a part in creating some positive new ones for this current generation of Evertonians. “The memories that stick out are the controversial ones like the Gary McCallister late goal and things like that,” he says. “But we’ve competed well in the derbies while I’ve been at Everton, and the cup game was a memorable result so we will be looking to get a similar outcome this time. “The game at Anfield last season was a tough one. When they went down to 10 men, we lost Marouane and it probably affected us more than them. “We were on top at the time, and they naturally became more defensive which made it hard for us and we didn’t have enough to break them down. With 11 they were a bit more adventurous and gave us a chance.
“But the results haven’t gone how we wanted and we’d like to get that right at the weekend.” Baines insists that his enthusiasm to get the right result on Sunday will not lead him to lose his head, and he hopes it is a personal discipline shared by all.
“The local lads have got more of an understanding because they’ve got family who support either side. It’s a massive three points. You get the goose pimples in the tunnel beforehand, it’s a special occasion, but you’ve got to contain that to a certain extent. “There has to be a certain amount of restraint. You can’t go in all blood and guts, you’ve got to play with your brain as well. “It’s vital to understand how big it is.Your job as a player is to cope with the pressure, keep a level head, and keep a perspective on things. Danny Murphy may think otherwise, but Baines does not believe that any managers, even in a Merseyside derby, encourage undue aggression in the tackle from their players. “It’s part of a good manager’s job to sense the atmosphere and the mood of players, and realise how he needs to send us out.
“It’s something the manager is very aware of. I’m not sure anyone sends players out to hurt someone. I don’t agree with that. “People go out to play the game. But in the derby there is definitely a case for keeping a lid on your emotions and not getting too carried away. It doesn’t do your team-mates any favours if you fly into a tackle after five minutes and get sent off.” One thing Baines admits he cannot control, however, is his pre-match superstition, something which frustrates him continually.
“My pre-game ritual does my head in. When I come out I always re-tie my laces. I don’t know why I do it. “I go to the top of the D, with the goal to my left, and undo and re-tie my laces. I do them properly in the dressing room as well!
“It gives me something to do in those few minutes beforehand. There’s that, and my shin pads are the same ones I was given when I was a YTS at Wigan. I’ve played every single game with them and they’re knackered now. “The straps are falling off one of them, and that goes on my left leg. The less worn one goes on my right.”
Victory in Sunday’s game will give more than just bragging rights to the winners, argues Baines. “The league table at the moment doesn’t make nice reading for either club. Both sides are looking to climb up the table. “The international break wasn’t the timing we wanted, but we can’t let the momentum from that run peter out. It’s given us plenty of time to prepare for the game and hopefully that’s put us in plenty of good stead. “We think we’ve played well enough to get something out of almost all of the games, apart from Newcastle. “We try not to say we’re in a false position, because you get what you deserve ultimately. But we’ve tried to keep playing the right way.” Across the park some supporters have suggested that the clash with Manchester United has usurped the derby, and become the league game they most relish. Not so for Baines and the Everton dressing room. “It’s possible that a lot of Liverpool fans will say their biggest game is against Manchester United or other teams because of league position. “But at the moment we’re a lot closer in the league than we have been in recent years, and it’s as big a game as any for them. It’s a massive game for us every year though, no doubt about that. “There are probably Evertonians pointing out the league table to their friends, and hopefully they can still do that after the weekend.”
Leaving Everton FC is off my agenda insists John Heitinga
Oct 15 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
JOHN HEITINGA today rubbished claims he wants to leave Everton and insisted he will fight to win back his place in the team. The Dutchman has not started any of the Toffees’ last three games, and has had to contend with rumours he has fallen out of favour with David MoyesBut the 26-year-old insists he is happy in Merseyside, and is only focusing on helping Everton to victory in Sunday’s Merseyside derby.
Heitinga, who joined the Blues in September 2009 in a £6m switch from Atletico Madrid, was this week reported to have said he would be interested in a move to Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich. It follows previous interviews when the defender has admitted he would relish a move to Barcelona, and even hinted he would transfer to Manchester City. But he told the ECHO: “I was very happy to come to Everton and I still like the club, and feel settled here. “I like the manager and I respect my contract. All I want is to do my best for Everton, and if selected I will be doing everything to help them in the big game this weekend. “Regarding any transfer situation it is absolutely off the agenda.” World Cup finalist Heitinga has made no secret of his desire to play in the Champions League again, but insisted he would rather do that with the Blues then seek a move away from Goodison Park. The former Ajax star is likely to be handed an immediate chance to re-establish himself in David Moyes’ side on Sunday, with Phil Jagielka almost certain to be ruled out with the hamstring injury which made him miss England’s Euro 2012 qualifier against Montenegro on Tuesday.
Leighton Baines has backed Heitinga to shrug off his frustration at losing his first team place and help Everton to victory in the Merseyside derby. He said: “Jags and Steven (Pienaar) are two of our big players and have been for the last couple of seasons, so they will be big losses but we have strength in depth. “If you look at the squad we have now, we have someone like John Heitinga as a likely replacement who is a top international footballer. “It’s been tough for Johnny since coming back from the World Cup. I don’t know what the situation is. Maybe the manager feels like he had a really long season last season, then a tough summer, and maybe needed more time. “But he is a very important player for us, whether it’s at the back or in midfield and he always does a good job.” Baines also said Leon Osman can soothe the headache of losing injured Steven Pienaar on the left side of Everton’s midfield.
He said: “Ossie played in front of me at Birmingham and he’s brilliant. He’s a great player to play with. Very similar to Steven in that you can trust him. You give him the ball and he has a knack of keeping hold of it and seeing a pass. “Although they are big players and we’ll miss them, we’ve got people capable of coming in and doing a good job. “The derby is obviously the biggest game for us and the one we always look for first and getting a good result at Birmingham going into it has given us extra confidence.”
Everton FC waiting on Marouane Fellaini and Phil Jagielka fitness for derby
Oct 15 2010 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
EVERTON are waiting on the fitness of Marouane Fellaini and Phil Jagielka ahead of Sunday’s Merseyside derby. Fellaini is nursing a hamstring strain that forced his substitution nine minutes before the end of Belgium’s Euro 2012 qualifier against Austria in midweek. The midfielder had earlier netted for his country, who were losing 3-2 on his departure only to fight back and earn a remarkable 4-4 draw.
Jagielka, meanwhile, has been receiving intensive treatment on the knee injury that meant he had to pull out of England’s Euro 2012 qualifying match at home to Montenegro. David Moyes will give the centre-back every chance of recovering ahead of the visit of Liverpool at the weekend, with both teams struggling at the foot of the Premier League table. Should Jagielka fail to recover in time, Moyes must then decide whether to bring John Heitinga back into the squad at centre-back, despite the Dutchman having earlier this week stated his interest in a January move to Bayern Munich. One player who will definitely be missing from the squad on Sunday is young midfielder Ross Barkley, who Everton yesterday confirmed suffered a double fracture of his leg while on England under-19 duty on Wednesday night. While yet to make his senior bow for the Goodison outfit, the highly-rated 16-year-old has made the first-team bench in recent weeks after impressing during an outing at Anfield in Jamie Carragher’s testimonial last month. Barkley was named in the starting line-up for England U19s game against Belgium but was stretchered off towards the end of the first half. The midfielder was involved in a collision with team-mate Andre Wisdom from Liverpool that led to both players needing to be substituted.
Everton are in 17th place in the Premier League but moved off the bottom with their first top-flight win of the season in their last outing at Birmingham City a fortnight ago. And assistant manager Steve Round has revealed how Moyes is determined to bring success to the club despite another disappointing start. “I have so much belief in these players and when you have a manager like David Moyes, who drives the players every day and won’t settle for less than the very best they can give, then you know success is on the way,” he said. “We are not happy with where we are and we began addressing that against Birmingham. “The team are determined to continue that and still believe they can finish in the upper echelons of this division. “The improved result and level of performance from Birmingham has to continue against Liverpool and if we can do that then I have every confidence we can go on a great run and end up very high in the table.”
Moyes open to groundshare with
By MirrorFootball
Oct 15 2010
Everton manager David Moyes believes the club would consider groundsharing with Liverpool if it was in their interests. The prospect of the Merseyside giants sharing a new stadium has never been seriously looked into due to their deep-rooted rivalry.
But the subject continues to crop up as both clubs have struggled to initiate individual stadium projects and Moyes feels it is at least worth assessing its feasibility.
The Scot told talkSPORT's Drivetime programme: "It's probably something that if you ask people up here no-one would really want it. Who really wants to share a ground with their neighbours? "But from our point of view we need something new to get some more investment in. "There is a limit to what we can get at Goodison. It can only take in a certain amount of money. "We've got very few boxes so we've got very little corporate, so I wouldn't say we would be definitely for it but, in the same breath, we'd be very interested if we got an opportunity to do it. "I don't know if that's how Liverpool would view it." Everton and Liverpool both recognise the need to move from their traditional homes to compete with the likes of Manchester United and Arsenal in the Barclays Premier League. Everton's plans to build a 50,000-seater stadium at Kirby had to be scrapped last year after the government rejected the proposal. Liverpool have been planning to build a 60,000-capacity arena adjacent to Anfield on Stanley Park for several years but a lack of funding has prevented work commencing. It remains to be seen whether the club's new owners New England Sports Ventures can kickstart the project. The idea of both clubs pooling resources would be welcomed by the city council but considerable opposition from supporters and certain elements within the clubs would need to be overcome. The argument was last heard when Everton's Kirkby plans collapsed and sources suggested the Toffees might be receptive to a groundshare, but Liverpool quickly insisted it was not on the agenda. Everton are now looking for alternative sites but in the meantime have announced plans to build a new retail and administrative block outside Goodison Park.
Jagielka, Fellaini and Pienaar set to miss derby
MirrorFootball
Oct 15 2010
Everton are without midfielder Marouane Fellaini for Sunday's Merseyside derby with Liverpool at Goodison Park. The Belgium international suffered a hamstring injury playing for Belgium in midweek and faces up to six weeks on the sidelines.
Defender Phil Jagielka is also unlikely to feature in the crunch Barclays Premier League clash after straining a hamstring in training with England. Playmaker Steven Pienaar is still out with a groin injury and striker Louis Saha (calf) is rated as unlikely to return by manager David Moyes. Jack Rodwell (ankle) is a long-term absentee while youngster Ross Barkley, on the bench for the last four games, suffered a broken leg this week. Provisional squad: Howard, Neville, Distin, Heitinga, Baines, Hibbert, Cahill, Osman, Arteta, Beckford, Bilyaletdinov, Gueye, Coleman, Yakubu, Mustafi, Silva, Baxter, Wallace, Mucha.
Everton lose Fellaini for six weeks
MirrorFootball
Oct 15 2010
Everton midfielder Marouane Fellaini has been ruled out for up to six weeks with a hamstring injury. The 22-year-old was hurt playing in Belgium's Euro 2012 qualifier against Austria in midweek. The injury is a fresh setback for Fellaini, who missed the final three months of last season after damaging ankle ligaments in a Merseyside derby against Liverpool. Manager David Moyes said: "It is a very big blow because he is an important player for us." Liverpool, coincidentally are Everton's next opponents at Goodison Park on Sunday. Defender Phil Jagielka is also unlikely to feature after suffering a hamstring injury in training with England. Moyes added: "He is not as bad as we first thought but it may just come too quick for him - that is the way it is looking at this moment in time." Louis Saha, who has been out since August with a calf problem, is also unlikely to return. The new injuries came in the same week youngster Ross Barkley, who has been on the bench for the last four games, broke a leg.
Everton's Marouane Fellaini out for six weeks with hamstring injury
• Midfielder injured playing for Belgium against Austria
• Phil Jagielka also likely to miss Merseyside derby
The Guardian October 15 2010
Belgium's Marouane Fellaini during his country's game against Austria, which he failed to finish after sustaining a hamstring injury. Photograph: Thierry Roge/Reuters
The Everton midfielder Marouane Fellaini has been ruled out for up to six weeks with a hamstring injury sustained while on international duty with Belgium. The 22-year-old was hurt playing in Belgium's Euro 2012 qualifier against Austria in midweek, in which he scored one of his country's goals in a 4-4 draw. The injury is a fresh setback for Fellaini, who missed the final three months of last season after damaging ankle ligaments in a Merseyside derby against Liverpool. The Everton manager David Moyes said: "It is a very big blow because he is an important player for us."
Liverpool are Everton's next opponents at Goodison Park on Sunday. The Everton defender Phil Jagielka is also unlikely to feature after suffering a hamstring injury in training with England. Moyes added: "He is not as bad as we first thought but it may just come too quick for him – that is the way it is looking at this moment in time."
Louis Saha, who has been out since August with a calf problem, is also unlikely to return. The new injuries came in the same week the youngster Ross Barkley, who has been on the bench for the last four games, broke a leg.
Merseyside derby will not be a classic – but it will be unmissable
Everton may be short of cash and in urgent need of a bigger stadium, but unlike Liverpool at least they have not been waking up each day wondering who will buy them next
Friday 15 October The Guardian
The bulk of the attention at Goodison will be on Roy Hodgson’s struggling Liverpool team, given their labours on the field and problems off it. Photograph: Adam Davy/Empics Sport It would be a rare Merseyside derby that found both of the participants in the bottom three, yet this will be the scenario at Goodison on Sunday should tomorrow's game between Wolves and West Ham produce a winner. If that happens Everton will be 18th and Liverpool 19th and the Premier League table, especially for Manchester United supporters, will be one to cut out and keep.
At this early stage of the season such a situation is more of a curiosity than a portent. Should either or both teams still be in the relegation area when they meet at Anfield in the new year, fans and boardrooms alike will begin to fret in earnest. For the moment it is safe to assume that Everton and Liverpool are experiencing an autumn chill rather than a winter freeze. At least Everton are used to it. For several seasons now they have resembled a car with a dodgy battery, needing a good shove to get the engine running properly. Liverpool, on the other hand, have not experienced so bad a start, one win in seven games, since the 1953-54 season which eventually saw them relegated.
Inevitably the bulk of the attention will be on Roy Hodgson's struggling Liverpool team, given their labours on the field and problems off it. Everton may be short of cash and in more urgent need than ever of a new and bigger stadium, but at least they have not been waking up each day wondering who will buy them next. Liverpool went to bed on Wednesday night comforted by the thought that they were about to see the back of Tom Hicks and George Gillett, their controversial American owners, only to be treated over the next 48 hours to a game of transatlantic legal ping-pong after Butch and Sundance, having failed to convince a judge in England, had persuaded a Texas court to block the sale of the club to John W Henry, head of a group that owns the Boston Red Sox. An opportune moment then for a Merseyside derby to take the mind off lawyers, accountants and cigar-chomping Bostonians and contemplate instead the state of Fernando Torres's adductor muscle. The fixture does have a habit of popping up at times of crisis to remind everybody of what football and football clubs should be about. Liverpool's first fixture after the Hillsborough disaster in 1989 was against Everton at Goodison 16 days later, when the teams shared a dignified goalless draw. Early in 1991 they met at Goodison in a rollicking rollercoaster of an FA Cup fifth-round replay which ended at 4-4, goals from Tony Cottee having kept Everton in the tie, which they eventually won at the third attempt, in the last minute of normal time and six minutes from the end of extra time. As if that was not enough excitement for one night the Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish, still traumatised by Hillsborough and its aftermath of funerals and fury, suddenly resigned. Presumably neither Hodgson nor Everton's David Moyes intends to quit, whatever the result at Goodison. Yet even if Anfield was not suffering a fit of the damn Yankees, Hodgson would still be under pressure following such a poor set of results. After his team had lost at home to the Premier League ingenues of Blackpool the weekend before last, several commentators pointed out that the team's wretchedly poor performance was down to the players rather than the owners. Obviously this is true in the simplest sense. It was not Hicks and Gillett who went missing in the Liverpool defence. At the same time it would be naive not to realise that football teams, indeed any teams in professional sport, will often be unsettled by ructions behind the scenes.
What better than an encounter with Everton to concentrate minds on the job in hand? Forget about crazy, goal-laden cup replays. Merseyside derbies are usually stern, unyielding affairs and a repeat of the 2001 classic at Goodison, which Liverpool won 3-2 when Gary McAllister found the net in the last minute with a free-kick from 44 yards, is unlikely. For the moment the Kop would settle for a 1-0 win anyhow while continuing to wonder at what point, in the Premier League's eyes, people considered "fit and proper" to own a club become unfit and improper. Had Liverpool known they were going to end up a contentious piece of real estate in a Dallas courthouse they might have been better off being bought by JR Ewing.
Everton FC manager David Moyes open to the idea of a shared stadium with Liverpool FC
Oct 16 2010 by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Echo
EVERTON manager David Moyes believes the club would consider groundsharing with Liverpool if it was in their interests. The prospect of the Merseyside giants sharing a new stadium has never been seriously looked into due to their deep-rooted rivalry. But the subject continues to crop up as both clubs have struggled to initiate individual stadium projects and Moyes feels it is at least worth assessing its feasibility. The Scot said: “It’s probably something that if you ask people up here no-one would really want it. Who really wants to share a ground with their neighbours?
“But from our point of view we need something new to get some more investment in.
“There is a limit to what we can get at Goodison. It can only take in a certain amount of money. “We’ve got very few boxes so we’ve got very little corporate, so I wouldn’t say we would be definitely for it but, in the same breath, we’d be very interested if we got an opportunity to do it. “I don’t know if that’s how Liverpool would view it.”
Everton and Liverpool both recognise the need to move from their traditional homes to compete with the likes of Manchester United and Arsenal in the Premier League.
Everton’s plans to build a 50,000-seater stadium at Kirkby had to be scrapped last year after the government rejected the proposal. Liverpool have been planning to build a 60,000-capacity arena adjacent to Anfield on Stanley Park for several years but a lack of funding has prevented work commencing. It remains to be seen whether the club’s new owners New England Sports Ventures can kickstart the project.
The idea of both clubs pooling resources would be welcomed by the city council but considerable opposition from supporters and certain elements within the clubs would need to be overcome. The argument was last heard when Everton’s Kirkby plans collapsed and sources suggested the Toffees might be receptive to a groundshare, but Liverpool quickly insisted it was not on the agenda. Everton are now looking for alternative sites but in the meantime have announced plans to build a new retail and administrative block outside Goodison Park.
Greg O'Keeffe: Brighter times ahead for former Everton FC star Kissock
Oct 16 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
EX-Everton prospect John Paul Kissock has signed for the Vodkat Premier Division side Formby.
Kissock hasn’t had the easiest of times since being released by the Blues, but deserves every break he gets.
The 20-year-old’s signing was welcomed by Formby boss Gary Martindale, who hopes he can help fire his side from the foot of the table.
“I am over the moon to sign John Paul,” the Formby boss said. “He is an exceptional talent and also, I have to say, one of the nicest fellas you will ever meet. I’ve said to him to just go out and play football for us and I am delighted to get him on board.”
Barry Horne: John Heitinga has done himself and his manager no favours
Oct 16 2010 by Barry Horne, Liverpool Echo
ONE player who will benefit from the recent injuries at Everton is John Heitinga – a player I have constantly expressed my admirat- ion for during his time at Everton.
But newspaper comments attributed to him in the week are disappointing.
Whilst you cannot criticise players for secretly harbouring ambitions of playing at the very highest level for the biggest clubs those ambitions have to be kept to oneself.
In speaking about how much he would like to move, he gives the manager a problem which neither of them need. He is another player who has done well for Everton, but Everton have also done well for him and despite the usual backtracking on his return from international duty, the seed has been planted.
Greg O'Keeffe: Double leg break will test mental strength of EFC's Ross Barkley
Oct 16 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
NEWS of Ross Barkley’s sickening double leg fracture will have cast a gloom over Everton’s academy this week. The highly-rated 16-year-old had done enough this season to reach the brink of David Moyes’ first team, and everything augured well for him to follow Joe Royle, James Vaughan and Wayne Rooney in that illustrious line of teenagers to make their debut for the Blues before they were legally old enough to drive. At 6ft 2in Barkley may not look remotely his age, but I am sure there were almost a few tears shed when he learned the extent of his predicament.
The good news, if there can be any, is that he will have every ounce of support and encouragement possible from academy director Ray Hall and all the medical staff at Finch Farm. In the short term, this horrendous setback will rob him of a chunk of his already impressive development. In the long term, it could yet make him. Being forced to watch from the sidelines, swallow a large dose of perspective, and fight to come back stronger might give Barkley the mental strength necessary to reach the very top. There is no suggestion he would not have had that anyway, but learning the hard way could help. Let’s hope he heals just as quickly as he has rocketed onto the Goodison scene.
Barry Horne: Howard Webb can tackle derby day atmosphere
Oct 16 2010 by Barry Horne, Liverpool Echo
IN a week when the can of worms that Danny Murphy opened, continues to be pored over, what better fixture to have than the first derby of the season? In one of the articles I read this week on the subject, Graham Poll talked a lot of nonsense about the art of tackling. He seemed to criticise derby ref Howard Webb for pointing to the ball when turning down appeals for a free-kick, making the point that the player took the ball. Poll seemed to be saying that just taking the ball doesn’t mean a challenge is necessarily fair. That may be the case, but Howard Webb is simply trying to communicate with players and I, for one, am quite happy for him to be in charge of the derby tomorrow. Having maintained his composure in a World Cup final and kept his card count down in his previous two derbies he is as well qualified as anyone to take charge. Not that derby games are anything like as ferocious as they were ‘back in the good old days!’ Nevertheless, I think the atmosphere will suit Everton, who head into the derby as bookies favourites for the first time in many, many years.
I hope the game does start at a frenetic pace and stays that way. Having been at Anfield a fortnight ago, I watched Liverpool completely overwhelmed for the first 45 minutes and last 20 minutes by the swashbuckling Charlie Adam, Gary Taylor-Fletcher, Luke Varney and their team-mates. Hardly household names, yet Liverpol had no answer for long spells of the game to their energetic, aggressive attacking play. One of Liverpool’s problems used to be where they could best fit Steven Gerrard into a team full of stars. The question now is which problem area Roy Hodgson uses him to fill. As a player I used to look forward to derby games, playing against the likes of Jamie Redknapp Steve McManaman. Fantastic footballer as they were, they weren’t known for relishing a physical game. The likes of Jovanovic, Poulsen and Lucas are not in the same league as them as footballers, but are similarly lightweight.
Without Gerrard in midfield the Reds are lightweight. Without Gerrard in an advanced role they look toothless. That’s Roy Hodgson’s problem. Everton, of course have their own problems. The loss of Jagielka is a huge, huge blow and David Moyes will be without Marouane Fellaini not just tomorrow but beyond. But we have had great success with much worse injuiry problems than at present. If we have a good start, with whatever team David Moyes puts out I can see us winning.
Greg O'Keeffe: Who will be the unlikely derby day hero for Everton FC?
Oct 16 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
ALRIGHT, hands up. Admit it now or forever hold your peace. Who kicked the black cat? Who forgot to salute the magpie? Which Evertonian has built their new extension on ground cursed by a gypsy? There must be some explanation, beyond run of the mill misfortune, to explain why injuries continue to hamper Everton just when things are looking rosy. After appearing to have weathered the early season storm of inconsistency, David Moyes could finally have started to hope for a little respite.
Whether or not Liverpool’s woes would have affected tomorrow’s result or not, Moyes could look at a turning point within tantalising reach after his side’s strong performances on the road finally got their reward at St Andrew’s. So exit stage right, Lady Luck – after only the briefest of blessings (Roger Johnson’s opening own goal in Birmingham), and a big, fat road block springs up in front of Moyes’ just as he was reaching for third gear. Marouane Fellaini’s form was just bubbling under. The Belgian seemed set to make his mark on the derby after exiting the last all Merseyside clash on a stretcher, and beyond his influence could have been about to tell.
Now he’s facing up to six weeks on the sidelines thanks to a hamstring injury, exacerbated by being forced to play on for Belgium, Then there’s Steven Pienaar. Facing a defence like Liverpool’s, low on confidence with a right-back who is struggling badly for form, the South African’s mercurial talents could potentially have caused more chaos than a court injunction from a district court in Texas.
Nope. Pienaar is also watching from the stands, his groin injury ruling him out for apparently another two weeks. Even in defence, where the Toffees had kept two clean sheets in a row, their lynch pin Phil Jagielka pulls up in England training and is also consigned to the rehabilitation room with another injured hamstring. It’s not the perfect preparation for a fixture as important as this home clash with the other lot from across the park (granted Liverpool can present a stronger case in terms of an overshadowed run-up).So Moyes will utilise the full extent of his strong squad to plug the gaps, and try to keep the resurgence going.
But he may yet have to rely on an unlikely derby day hero. Fortunately, there have been precedents which prove that the most unsung of players are capable of putting a smile on the faces of the blue half of the city.
Wayne Clarke’s five goals in 10 games in the remainder of the 1986–87 season was enough to earn him a championship medal. The following year he scored the only goal in the derby not only to beat Liverpool, but also to prevent them setting a new record of 30 games unbeaten from the start of a season. Paul Wilkinson rose from relative ignominy to grab derby day success in May 1985, and Danny Cadamarteri announced himself on the Merseyside football scene 12 years later with a scintillating strike which promised so much before he delivered so little. Lee Carsley may have gone on to the cult hero status he enjoys regardless of his winning goal in 2004, but that strike certainly helped. Dan Gosling entered folklore far more recently, and although few will remember him too kindly for the time being, he certainly grabbed the limelight in the third of that nerve-wracking trio of derbies in 2009. This succession of improbables who made a big contribution bodes well. While most of their careers never again scaled the heights reached by etching their names in derby folklore, it is still an outside bet that Everton could rely on an Average Joe to step forward tomorrow lunchtime. While the majority of hurriedly scribbled betting slips in Goodison are likely to feature heavily the names of Cahill, Arteta or maybe Yakubu – what price yet for a Diniyar Bilyaletdinov, a Seamus Coleman or Jermaine Beckford?
We shall see.
Friendly Derby may be on the verge of returning thanks to David Moyes and Roy Hodgson
Oct 16 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
IT IS perhaps not a dynamic especially predisposed towards friendship. Opposing managers in the Merseyside derby might not equal two generals going to war, but in a city where football is almost divine it could certainly spark a personality clash or two.
David Moyes and Rafael Benitez, it’s fair to presume, have not been swapping nostalgic Twitter updates since the later departed for Milan. They may not have clashed on the touchline (a scenario Moyes is not unfamiliar with, ask Roberto Mancini) but there was enough edge to their verbals to suggest that there was no love lost between those sons of Glasgow and Madrid. It was not always thus. Howard Kendall and Kenny Dalglish regularly competed for the biggest prizes in English football, but after the heat of battle they shared a sporting bond which persists to the present day. Now on the eve of the 214th Merseyside dust-up, with the pressure cooker of Premier League football seemingly more powerful than ever, the balance might have shifted back towards that competitive conviviality of the Eighties.
The present day David Moyes may not be anyone’s apprentice, but there was a time, as a younger coach, that he looked up to Liverpool’s latest managerial incumbent as a student to his master. “When you do your pro licence you have to do a week’s foreign visit at a club,” he says. “When I did it, Roy was manager of Udinese and I went to him. “I’d seen him coach a couple of times at things, and so I wrote and asked if I could come. He was really obliging. “Him and his wife took me out for dinner a couple of nights. We watched all the training, they put me in kit and got me watching games and involved in training. You’ve got to do a club study of the youth team, senior team and training methods. Udinese was a great club. “They had a fantastic recruitment system, finding players from Chile. I really enjoyed it and he looked after me.” The pair travelled to Belgium together this week to take in a game, and shared a drink afterwards.And although Moyes insists they did not talk about the modern culture of rush-judgement on managers, he conceded it has cropped up.
“We don’t discuss (short shelf life of managers) and say it’s terrible at the time. We know that’s the world we live in. “You come in and some get a longer period, others shorter. We’re in the business of winning, and if you win you get more time and if not than you don’t. “But I think it’s hard to say when you judge a new manager. Maybe transfer windows for the managers might be a way of doing it. “Where managers can only go in January or the summer. It could bring a bit of stability to the clubs.
“I could say that I’ve had a chance to bed down and Roy is just trying that now. He’s at a new club.” Stability is not a term anyone could associate with Everton’s rivals in recent months, but Moyes predicts that the age of owners who saddle clubs with debt is coming to an end. “Maybe it will go out of fashion to get so heavily in debt,” he says. “If you get buyers in who are actually willing to do it (without leveraged debt) good luck to them.“But there’s no way of stopping it happening. You can see several clubs who’ve gone out of business and some of them have been successful, and done everything they can to be at the top. “I’d have done anything to be at the top but what I couldn’t do was spend outrageous money and put the club in jeopardy.
“It’s difficult to know if people have got the money or not when they come in to a club (as new owners). Have we learned since Leeds? I think most clubs have.”
David Moyes to vent fury at Belgian FA after Marouane Fellaini plays on with injury
Oct 16 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
DAVID MOYES will send an angry letter to the Belgian FA demanding to know why Marouane Fellaini was asked to play on after being injured on international duty.
The midfielder was ordered to carry on during his country’s mid-week 4-4 clash with Austria despite picking up a hamstring injury. Moyes believes the decision not to replace the 22-year-old worsened his injury, which means he will now spend up to six weeks on the sidelines. It is the latest in a growing line of injury set-backs for the Everton boss, who also has to contend without first team stars Steven Pienaar, Jack Rodwell, and probably Phil Jagielka for the 214th Merseyside derby tomorrow.
Moyes wants answers from Belgium boss Georges Leekens. He said: “He got injured and he continued playing. I thought he should probably have come off as soon as he felt it, and he’s probably made it worse. “I will write a letter of disappointment to the Belgium FA.” The international break was not kind to Moyes’ squad, with Jagielka injuring himself in training before England’s Euro 2012 qualifier against Montenegro.
He said: “We lost Phil Jagielka which is extremely disappointing, that’s my concern.
“But by the end of the training camp they’d lost another couple. If what the media are saying is correct, one was a groin and one was a ham string. The Blues boss also lamented the devastating triple leg fracture suffered by 16-year-old prospect Ross Barkley, also done on duty for the England U-19 team in Belgium.
He said: “He has broken his leg in three places. Now he has a pin put through it. The boy has been on the bench for Everton. We’ve pushed him right through, and he looked like he was on a similar career path of Wayne and Jack Rodwell who we brought on quite quickly.
“Now we’re looking at six months out. He’s a good boy and it’s an important time now. I think of Wayne and Jack, and they came through quickly because they were good enough. Ross is certainly good enough.”
Meanwhile, Mikel Arteta believes the derby is the perfect chance to change the mood that surrounds the Blues season so far.
He said: “The win against Birmingham in our last game has given us confidence and we didn't want to go into the derby without a win. “We are playing at home and we need our first victory at home this season, and can't choose a better time to do that against Liverpool. “Both clubs are really disappointed at where we are. But there's no other way to put it right than to try harder and make things better. We have a great chance to change a lot of things with one game, because of the derby and what it means.” Arteta is likely to be partnered in the Blues midfield on Sunday by Phil Neville, with Tony Hibbert set to be drafted in at right back and John Heitinga playing alongside Sylvain Distin in central defence.
Belgian striker impressing Everton scouts
16/10/10 By Alan Nixon (The Mirror)
Everton boss David Moyes is putting Belgium striker Jelle Vossen at the top of his wish list for the next transfer window. Moyes went to watch the Genk hitman in scoring action for his country against Austria last week and is lining up a bid for him in the New Year. Vossen, 21, who is valued at about £5million by Genk, notched his first full international goal and has been impressing Goodison scouts in recent weeks.
Cahill eagerly anticipating bruising Merseyside clash
By David Maddock
Oct 16 2010 Daily Mirror
When Danny Murphy sparked the fevered debate over wild tackles in football, he probably had half a mind on the Merseyside derby. The former Liverpool players spoke of managers ‘winding up’ their players to unacceptable extremes, and never is that more evident than in the most explosive local showdown in English football.
But even though Tim Cahill knows he will walk from the Goodison pitch tomorrow with more bruises than a market stall peach, there will not be a single complaint from the dynamic Everton midfielder. If Wolves v West Ham ends in anything BUT a draw 24 hours earlier, the Merseyside clubs will go into a derby both in the bottom three for the first time since 1899. And Cahill reckons whatever the managers say in their pre-match team talks, the Goodison clash will be full of aggression and commitment.
“I expect to be hit early. I expect to be try and roughed up,” he said. “You expect Jamie Carragher and Steven Gerrard go in hard in the first three minutes. “But I always have a smirk whether one of them goes in hard on us or vice versa. It’s about whoever can put their stamp on the game. That’s understandable, it’s the derby.” Cahill knows how to win those physical battles, and he never shirks the challenge, even against the game’s toughest defenders. He slugged it out with Manchester United’s Nemanja Vidic to earn a famous draw earlier this season, and he has seen his share of action against Liverpool. And for him, tomorrow’s game is as much about passion, as it is about the football on offer. “On the pitch it’s fantastic pitting your wits against someone like, say Vidic or Carragher,” he said. “You have to pick your challenges or maybe be a bit cuter, but deal with it in the right manner.“I love the physical battle, especially in the derby, where it has that added bit of spice.
“There are lots of heated moments and they can sometimes overtake the occasion. But if it happens you have to take it on the chin. “It’s a compliment in football when you get kicked. It’s how you react. “In the past I have been sent off in this game, and plenty of others have too. There have been tackles going in, but now I think there’s a mutual respect on the pitch.” It is a game that neither side dare not lose, and one that could well define both teams’ season. If that is not enough, then the Aussie midfielder has the added incentive of a place in Everton history, if he can score again in the showpiece contest. He is level with Goodison legend Duncan Ferguson as the Blues’ highest post-war league derby goalscorer, with four. And he is desperate to add to that tally. “It’s the most exciting part of my career, what it means to us and the fans.
“It’s a chance to make yourself something special,” he said. “It gives you an opportunity to look back when you’re older and say: ‘I remember it because I helped make a change.’ “Beating Liverpool is up there with the best moments of my career because of what’s at stake. It’s an unbelievable feeling. “There is even more emphasis on this one because of our positions – and because of that it’s one of the most vital games we will have all season. Defeat is just unthinkable.”
DAVID MOYES DETERMINED TO SEE LIVERPOOL
16th October 2010 The Daily Star
By Neil Johnston
DAVID Moyes is determined to ensure Roy Hodgson’s first ever Merseyside derby ends in a crash landing for the Liverpool boss. Everton manager Moyes is close pals with Hodgson and spent plenty of time with him this week while the fate of Liverpool was played out in the High Court. Moyes and Hodgson prepared for tomorrow’s crunch clash at Goodison Park by picking each other’s brains on a flying visit to Europe this week. The pair were inseparable as they shared a plane to watch the Euro 2012 qualifier between Belgium and Austria before returning together.
Their friendship stems from when Hodgson was in charge of Udinese nine years ago and invited Moyes over to Italy to study his training methods for his coaching licence.
Moyes said: “Roy and I have seen quite a bit of each other this week.
“We both went to Belgium and shared the plane there and back. I’ve known him for some time.” Moyes refused to comment on the saga surrounding the ownership of Everton’s fiercest rivals, saying: “It is none of my business. I have got a big enough job to do at Everton, never mind concentrating on Liverpool. It has always been hard to compete with Liverpool. People quite often say Everton don’t win enough games against Liverpool, but there are other circumstances to back that up and it tends to be finances.” But he doesn’t believe this week’s uncertainty will impact on a game between two of the bottom four. He said: “What other matters have the players had to concern themselves with? I think you just get on with the game. Football players are professional – you go on to the pitch and it is 11 v 11. “I don’t think anyone would expect Liverpool to be in this position come the end of the season, just like I don’t think anyone expects Everton to be in this position.” Moyes’ trip to Belgium turned out to be an unhappy experience. Midfielder Marouane Fellaini damaged his hamstring during the 4-4 draw but played on. He is now facing up to eight weeks on the sidelines, with an angry Moyes saying: “I thought he should have come off immediately and he didn’t. “It’s probably made his injury worse. I’ll write a letter of disappointment to the Belgian FA.”
We just can’t let Liverpool beat us
By PHIL THOMAS The Sun
Oct 16 2010
TIM CAHILL goes into the biggest Merseyside derby in years insisting: 'Defeat is just unthinkable'.
With rivals Liverpool stuck in the bottom three and Everton just one place above them, it has become the showdown neither can afford to lose. The atmosphere at Goodison tomorrow is sure to be white-hot with no quarter given or asked for.
But Everton's Aussie warrior Cahill is confident it will be the Blue half of the city who will emerge with the bragging rights. He admitted: "Defeat is just unthinkable.
"But there's so much spirit in this team. You look round the dressing room and think there's too much quality to accept some of the results we have had, regardless of how unlucky we've been. "I am confident the players can put on a performance. I believe in this squad, it's probably the best we have ever had, and after getting our first win at Birmingham, another here would really kickstart our season." Cahill will also have the added incentive of a place in Goodison history should he find the net this time.
He is currently level with Duncan Ferguson as the Blues' highest post-war league derby goalscorer with four - including one in the 3-0 Goodison mauling five years ago. For Cahill there is simply no better feeling in football. He revealed: "It's the most exciting part of my career, what it means to us and the fans. "You look to yourself and say it's a chance to make yourself something special, to look back when you're older and say 'I remember it because I helped make a change.' It's an unbelievable feeling. Beating Liverpool is up there with the best of my career because of how passionate we are and what's at stake." Tomorrow's clash offers Everton, on top of hauling themselves away from the basement, the chance of leaving their rivals entrenched in the drop zone. Cahill - like the rest of football - knows it is unthinkable that both will be down there come the business end. Just as unthinkable, in fact, as coming off the pitch as a loser. He admitted: "The season will pan out after Christmas when we're probably both in better positions. "But even more emphasis is on this one because of our positions - and because of that it's one of the most vital games we will have all season." With so much at stake for the pair of them, emotions will be running high come kick off. Both are down amongst the dead men, and if Wolves and West Ham ends in anything but a draw 24 hours earlier, the Merseyside duo will go into a derby in the bottom three for the first time since 1899. No-nonsense Cahill will be leading the fight for the Blue corner, knowing full well what lies in store with the challenges sure to be flying thick and fast. Cahill, himself sent off in this fixture two years ago, said: "I expect to be hit early. I expect to be roughed up.
"You expect Jamie Carragher and Steven Gerrard to go in hard in the first three minutes. But I always have a smirk whether one of them goes in hard on us or vice versa. "It's whoever can set the tone and put their stamp on it which will have a big effect on the game." Cahill, 31, has already emerged triumphant from one blood-curdling battle with Manchester United hardman Nemanja Vidic. He went toe to toe with the Serb and left with the last laugh as he bagged a final-second leveller. Cahill added: "On the pitch it's fantastic pitting your wits against someone like that. "I love the physical battle, especially in the derby, where it has that added bit of spice. It's great gamesmanship - as long as it's done in the right manner I am all for it. It's a compliment in football when you get kicked. It's how you react and mine will be fine. "There are lots of heated moments which sometimes overtake the occasion. We don't want that because there's enough quality to go beyond it. But if it happens you have to take it on the chin. "In the past myself and others have been sent off, there have been tackles going in, but now I think there's a mutual respect on the pitch."
Moyes fury over crock Fellaini
Oct 16 2010 The Sun
DAVID MOYES is ready to go to war with Belgium over the way they handled Marouane Fellaini this week.
The Everton chief flew out to watch his 22-year-old record signing play for his country against Austria on Tuesday. But midfielder Fellaini picked up a hamstring injury and Moyes was dismayed to see he was kept on by coach Georges Leekens.
Fellaini will now miss tomorrow's Merseyside derby, along with several more key games as the Toffees look to pull clear of the drop zone. And Moyes groaned: "He should have come off immediately. It's probably made his injury worse. "I'll express my disappointment in a letter to the Belgian FA. "Would it have helped if he had come off sooner? I think so, yes. "It could be six weeks and it's a very big blow because he's a key man for us." Moyes also saw England centre-back Phil Jagielka pick up a similar injury while on international duty this week. But the diagnosis is better for the former Sheffield United star, who is set to make a speedy recovery.
Moyes added: said: "Jagielka's injury was not as bad as we first thought. We'd been told he'd be out for four to six weeks but we don't think it's quite as bad as that."
Liverpool have enjoyed the bragging rights over Everton in recent seasons.
But Moyes could not resist a cheeky dig at the Reds, adding: "If you're going to mention Liverpool's record, you have to mention similar things that are happening.
"Our debts are far, far less than Liverpool's. "That's why it's always been very difficult to get results."
Liverpool spent their own way into trouble, says Everton's Tim Cahill
The Reds have endured a torrid week in the courtrooms but injury-hit Everton have not been immune to problems off the field
Andy Hunter The Guardian,
Saturday 16 October 2010
Everton's Tim Cahill said tomorrow's Merseyside derby is a game neither team can afford to lose. Photograph: Christopher Thomond for the Guardian There is no sympathy for Liverpool's plight at Everton but their Merseyside rivals are hardly in a position to gloat, as Tim Cahill will testify. Two teams in the city languish on six points from seven games, lest we forget, and one has not had the rich and powerful squabbling for control or any prospect of a new stadium in the foreseeable future. That will be the team carrying greater expectation at Goodison Park tomorrow. David Moyes's men have their own problems ahead of the 214th chapter of English football's most-played derby. This week they lost 16-year-old Ross Barkley, a midfielder of immense promise who starred in England's Under-17 European Championship victory in May, to a triple leg fracture. His personal torment alone should place Liverpool's recent trials into perspective. Marouane Fellaini, Everton's authority in midfield, will be out for six weeks with a hamstring strain, Phil Jagielka is a serious doubt, the influential Steven Pienaar and the rising Jack Rodwell are injured, and a season that opened with Champions League expectations has suffered yet another false start. Pressure to deliver is not only upon Roy Hodgson. "It's definitely a game neither team can afford to lose," admits Cahill, who sealed Everton's first league victory of the season, at Birmingham City, before the international break. "We are both in a false position but there is a greater emphasis on this game because of our positions and because of that it is one of the most vital games we will have all season." The Australia international describes the prospect of defeat tomorrow as "unthinkable". Everton's performances have not been as poor as the league table indicates, unlike Liverpool's, with their main weakness being the one Moyes identified in the summer – a lack of penetration in front of goal. A lightweight midfield is now an added burden. The subsequent toil has not altered Cahill's preseason predication that this squad is on "the verge of something big" for Everton. The 30-year-old insists: "I believe in this squad, it's probably the best we have ever had. It's just been the mistakes we have made in the seven games that have cost us. Five points on top of what we have now and we'd be right up there, and that has put added pressure on ourselves. If we don't do it this season then it will definitely be next [season], because I know this team has so much potential. "It's so frustrating for us because we demand so much from each other. There are only four or five left behind when there's an international break and that's people like Phil Neville and Mikel Arteta, who should be internationals.
"I'm not too worried, but hopefully we can kick on now. There is so much spirit in this team. We might not get the result but we will fight for it." Merseyside derbies are notoriously splenetic. They also bring out the best and worst in Cahill. Ten red cards have been issued in the past 11 meetings alone, the Australian receiving one of them, but, immersed in all things Everton and with four career goals against Liverpool, it is a fixture that evidently means as much to the man from Sydney as any scouser.
"What it means to us and to the fans makes this the most exciting part of my career," he says. "It's a chance to make yourself something special, to look back when you're older and say: 'I remember that derby because I helped make a change.' The feeling of beating Liverpool is up there with the best of my career. The reason is how passionate we both are. I've become wrapped up in the competition of the derby. "You expect [Jamie] Carragher and Steven Gerrard to go in hard in the first three minutes. Whoever sets the tone and puts their stamp on things can have a big effect on the game. I expect to be hit early. I expect someone to try to rough me up. It's a compliment in football and it's about how you react, and I will be fine. I always have a smirk when one of them goes in hard on us or vice-versa. As long as it's done in the right manner, I am all for it." The danger is that Liverpool's off-field distractions and the desperate league positions of both Merseyside clubs will spill over. Cahill claims to have paid no attention to his rivals' courtroom dramas but he believes that, when compared to what Moyes has built on more modest resources, Liverpool cannot pin all the blame for their demise on Tom Hicks and George Gillett. Cahill explains: "They have high expectations because they've spent a lot of money. In terms of what they have spent, what we have, what they've had and now don't have, it's not rocket science to say it's affected them. For us, there is no comparison. Our manager has worked within a good budget and brought in players who love playing for the club. We don't have the chance to go and spend £40m a season, we have to be cuter and bring through great young talent. The pressure's been brought on by themselves, by what they've spent. Their fans expect results and when they don't get them, there will always be pressure." None more so than tomorrow.
Everton FC 2 Liverpool FC 0 - Blues ensure Reds' successes remain off the pitch
Oct 17 2010 by James Pearce, Liverpool Echo
EVERTON piled the misery on their struggling neighbours Liverpool at Goodison Park with a comfortable win in the 214th derby. Goals from Tim Cahill and Mikel Arteta ensured the Blues secured their first league derby win for over four years.
David Moyes' men were good value for the points as they dominated the contest for long periods and comfortably dealt with anything the lacklustre Reds could throw at them. Cahill's emphatic finish opened the scoring before the break and Mikel Arteta's sweet strike early in the second half ensured Liverpool remain in the relegation zone with just six points from their opening eight games. It was Everton's first home league win of the campaign and piled the pressure on Reds boss Roy Hodgson.
New owners John Henry and Tom Werner watched on from the directors box as Everton started the brighter of the two sides and pinned Liverpool back in their own half. Roared on by the vociferous home crowd, the Blues wasted a great chance to break the deadlock in the 12th minute. Mikel Arteta's 20-yard free-kick was blocked by the wall but the Reds failed to clear the danger. Leon Osman's shot deflected into the path of Jagielka but he blazed wastefully over from inside the box. Everton continued to press with Sylvain Distin seeing his effort deflected behind after the ball dropped to him in the box. Maxi Rodriguez became the first player in Howard Webb's notebook after he chopped down Leighton Baines close to the touchline. The Reds had barely got out of their own half but they finally started to pose a threat midway through the first period. Torres rose to meet Joe Cole's cross from the left and his header was turned behind by Tim Howard. Seconds later Sotirios Kyrgiakos nodded the ball down to Lucas Leiva but he failed to hit the target. However, that proved to be only brief respite for Liverpool as the Blues were soon back in the ascendancy.
Yakubu tested Reina after a powerful run before Cahill and Raul Meireles joined Rodriguez in the book for poor challenges. The goal Everton deserved finally arrived in the 34th minute. The impressive Seamus Coleman raced down the right and pulled the ball back to Cahill who hammered the ball into the net from six yards
It was the Aussie's fifth goal in league derbies and made him Everton's leading post-war scorer in league clashes with the Reds, beating the record he had shared with Duncan Ferguson. The hosts remained in control until the interval with Leon Osman forcing another save from Reina. Diniyar Bilyaletdinov replaced Osman after the break and the Blues doubled their lead in the 49th minute. Kyrgiakos' defensive header fell to Arteta on the edge of the box and he took a touch before lashing a drive past Reina. Goodison erupted and Everton were good value for their two-goal advantage. Liverpool never looked likely to get back in the contest and were restricted to long range efforts from Meireles, Cole and Gerrard. Blues keeper Howard only had one serious save to make and that was when he parried a low drive from Torres.
Substitute Jermaine Beckford and Torres took the yellow card tally to five as the Blues comfortably held on for victory. Beckford almost added a third in stoppage time but his rasping drive flew just wide of the upright with Reina beaten.
Everton: Howard, Neville, Jagielka, Distin, Baines, Coleman, Heitinga (Hibbert 71), Arteta (Beckford 73), Osman (Bilyaletdinov 45), Cahill, Yakubu.
Liverpool: Reina, Carragher, Skrtel, Kyrgiakos, Konchesky, Rodriguez (Jovanovic 84), Gerrard, Lucas (Ngog 70), Cole (Babel 78), Meireles, Torres.
Referee: Howard Webb
Everton FC derby hero Tim Cahill dedicates victory over Liverpool FC to the fans
Oct 18 2010 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
DERBY hero Tim Cahill dedicated victory to Everton’s supporters following yesterday’s memorable win over Liverpool. Cahill netted the first goal on 34 minutes as David Moyes’s side won the 214th meeting between the two Merseyside teams 2-0 at Goodison. It was Everton’s first derby triumph in the Premier League since 2006, and moved them up to the safety of mid-table while keeping their neighbours in the relegation zone. And Cahill needed no reminding of what the three points meant to the Goodison faithful “This is one of the biggest occasions for Everton fans and for myself because I’ve been here a long time now,” he said. “To beat Liverpool on our own turf and with the extra spice because of the position and situation of both clubs, the fans deserved this and it’s a special day and I want them to enjoy it. “The start of the season has been very difficult. We have played great good football but haven’t been as clinical up front with me and Yak. “But we are finally starting to find the back of the net. It’s just reward, and if we keep playing well and working hard then results like this will come. It’s very special. “For us, the main thing is to enjoy today. We will take it a game at a time. “We just have to build on this result and consistency is our main objective.” Cahill’s goal means he has now scored five times in the Merseyside derby, the most by an Everton player since the war. And of taking the local bragging rights, the Australian added: “It means everything to the players. I grew up with Duncan Ferguson and Stubbsy (Alan Stubbs) teaching me all about Everton and knowing what the derby means to the fans. “You can overthink it and overplay it but come the 90 minutes we put everything out there on the pitch. “Everyone could see that. A few of the lads were banged up and it showed great character to get through it, the likes of Mikel and Jags strapped themselves up and all credit to them.” In contrast to his team-mate, Mikel Arteta celebrated his first-ever derby goal when he sealed the victory with a blistering shot five minutes after half-time.“I was desperate to score a derby goal and find out how it would feel,” said the Spanish schemer. “The reaction of the fans was amazing, so to score and to win the game made it even better.
“I was just delighted when I saw the ball hit the back of the net. The ball was coming quite high so I knew the players would be coming at me, so I tried to get an early touch and get it away from my feet as soon as possible. “Pepe (Reina) was struggling to see the ball because there were so many players in front of him. “We’d been talking at half-time about needing the second goal and scoring it made things a lot more difficult for Liverpool.” Everton’s win comes on the back of their 2-0 win at Birmingham City a fortnight ago with the defence keeping their third successive clean sheet. And Phil Neville believes it is further evidence that Moyes’s side are closing the gap on Liverpool. “In the build-up for the game we really played it down,” said the Everton skipper. “There was a lot of talk about this being our best chance to beat Liverpool. We feel that we are bridging the gap and getting closer. We thoroughly deserved the victory. “We are now up to mid-table and we’ve got to keep climbing. We’ve got a tough game against Tottenham next week and hopefully the performances will remain because they have been good this season, the results just need to be better.”
Everton FC manager David Moyes insists derby victory proves Blues can rival Liverpool
Oct 18 2010 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
DAVID MOYES believes yesterday’s comfortable 2-0 victory over Liverpool at Goodison Park proves Everton now boast a side to rival their neighbours.
Goals from Tim Cahill and Mikel Arteta deservedly secured Everton their first league derby win for over four years. Moyes couldn’t hide his delight at a result which lifts the club up into 11th place and leaves Liverpool marooned in the drop zone.
“The smile is not coming off my face at the moment,” he said. “I said to the players afterwards that we have played better this season and lost. We’ve probably played better in every other game apart from against Newcastle. “But the reason for that was it’s a derby. This game was much more tense and people were frantic with the ball.
“I’ve been really disappointed that we haven’t been able to win more derbies but we have to play against a very good football club. “As I said in my programme notes there are maybe other reasons for us not getting results against them, but it’s certainly not been because of a lack of effort, commitment or desire to win. “In the past we lacked the quality to match Liverpool but I don’t think we do any more. We have that now - quality players who could play for any of the big clubs. “Whoever got the first goal today was always going to be really important because neither side has been scoring freely. We always looked the more likely and when we got it I was delighted.”
All the talk in the build up to the game had been about the £300million takeover of Liverpool by New England Sports Ventures. Everton haven’t been able to compete financially with their rivals in recent years and with Anfield’s new owners vowing to invest heavily that is likely to continue. However, Moyes insists he’s happy with his lot. “It isn’t all about money,” he added. “Look at the first goal, Seamus Coleman goes down the right and makes it – a lad who cost £60,000 from Ireland. “If we all wanted football to be about money we wouldn’t enjoy it as much. Not everyone is able to have it. “I wouldn’t swap my chairman for anyone from America or Saudi Arabia because he’s a supporter who backs his manager. He’s behind me and supporting me which is really important.” Having endured a wretched start to the season, Everton have now taken seven points from the last nine on offer.
Moyes took his players away to the Lake District during the international break but he insists it’s been time on the training ground which has enabled him to turn things around. “It’s always difficult when you’ve got players away,” he added.
“We didn’t do anything special, just a bit of mountain climbing and mountain biking. If we hadn’t got a result at Birmingham I might have thrown a few of them off the mountain! “Don’t get me wrong, it’s not mountain climbing that has got us winning again. “I told the players a few weeks ago that I wasn’t having us losing.
“I’ve worked with the players. I’ve had them in and they haven’t had much time off.
“We’ve gone back to basics and we have some really good technical footballers here who have improved the team.” Everton had received a pre-match boost when Phil Jagielka passed a fitness test on a hamstring injury and Moyes revealed Arteta had been hampered by a similar problem. With Leon Osman, John Heitinga and Arteta all limping off before the end, the Everton manager was full of praise for the way his side held on to their advantage. “Jagielka was a gamble but the bigger gamble was Arteta because he picked up a hamstring injury yesterday in training,” Moyes revealed.
“I left a decision on both of them until this morning. “We then had to make changes during the game but great credit to those who came on and helped us out.
“I thought Sylvain Distin and Jagielka were fantastic at the back today.
“After we got the second goal, I was happy to concede possession to Liverpool.
“It wasn’t a problem. They haven’t been scoring. One or two were too close for comfort but we also had opportunities on the break to get a third goal.”
Everton FC 2 Liverpool FC 0: Moyes gives Hodgson a footballing lesson
Oct 18 2010 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
ON the way to earning his coaching spurs, an ambitious David Moyes was taken under the wing of the experienced Roy Hodgson. Yesterday, however, it was the Everton manager handing out the lesson. If the message from the gleeful Goodison faithful for Liverpool’s new owners was “what a waste of money”, then the signs on the pitch were that John W Henry and co will have to spend a lot more than £300million if they really are to encourage a return to the glory days. Henry, along with New England Sports Ventures chairman Tom Werner, will have had plenty to ponder as they sat in the directors’ box watching Everton deliver compelling evidence they are now the dominant force on Merseyside. It took barely 48 hours for the euphoria among Liverpool supporters following the ousting of Tom Hicks and George Gillett to evaporate as their neighbours deservedly revelled in claiming local bragging rights from this 214th Merseyside derby. Liverpool weren’t just beaten. They were outfought, outthought and outclassed by an Everton side that demonstrated the greater desire, attitude and aptitude to register their first Premier League derby win in four years and only Moyes’s third in 17 top-flight attempts. From the moment Yakubu, of all people, sent Sotirios Kyrgiakos tumbling eight seconds into the game, the tone was set for an afternoon that will live long in the memory of both teams for hugely contrasting reasons. It was a landmark occasion for Tim Cahill in particular, his 34th-minute opener taking his derby tally to five goals – the most by any Everton player since the war – before Mikel Arteta sealed the triumph five minutes after the interval with his first-ever strike in this fixture. This, though, was the consummate team effort from Moyes’s side, the absence of a clutch of key players atoned for by a total commitment that was epitomised by Leon Osman, Arteta and John Heitinga reluctantly departing through injury. Bodies and reputations were put on the line, and all emerged with credit.Phil Jagielka, showing no sign of the hamstring problem that threatened his involvement, helped the excellent Sylvain Distin in keeping Fernando Torres subdued, while Yakubu, often maligned for his work-rate, ran himself to a standstill, particularly during a second half in which Liverpool’s belated revival meant he saw much less of the ball. The win at Birmingham City a fortnight ago lifted a huge weight off the shoulders of Moyes’s men and, bolstered by the confidence of this surprisingly comfortable triumph, they can now knuckle down to making up for ground lost by the their sloppy start to the campaign. There were no such qualms yesterday, with Everton’s forceful opening completely knocking Liverpool out of their stride and laying the foundations for victory. Indeed, it was perhaps only because their best two early chance fell to centre-backs, first Jagielka and then Distin, that Everton had to wait until 11 minutes before half-time to forge ahead. Seamus Coleman’s trademark surge down the right flank to the touchline ended with a low cross that, after taking a touch off Paul Konchesky, fell invitingly for Cahill to smash into the roof of the net beyond Pepe Reina. The blood and thunder of a genuine derby battle must have sent referee Howard Webb back to the World Cup final in July. But once Everton doubled their advantage five minutes after the restart, their job was done and they sat back to easily soak up Liverpool’s pressure. It was some goal, too, a corner from Leighton Baines headed out by Kyrgiakos only as far as Arteta who, loitering on the edge of the area, took one touch before smashing the ball through a crowd a players and beyond unsighted compatriot Reina. So increases the pressure on Liverpool manager Hodgson. Of course, predecessor Rafael Benitez was roundly criticised after he lost his first derby six years ago before going on to enjoy great success against Everton. But whether Hodgson even gets another crack, even though the Anfield return is less than two months away, is open to debate should his team continue their pathetic start to the campaign.The statistics are worrying. With just six points from eight games, Liverpool stand ahead of only West Ham United in the Premier League standings, less than 18 months after finishing runners-up.
Since victory at Goodison last November, they have won only two of 15 top-flight games on the road while, more alarmingly, after returning to English football with Fulham in December 2007, Hodgson himself has presided over just seven away league wins in 52, none of which have come in the last 22 attempts.
Indeed, Liverpool have still only scored one first-half goal in the Premier League in 2010, although the visitors weren’t helped yesterday by their defence being deeper than a Chilean miner for the first 45 minutes. Hodgson’s assertion this was the best his team have played this season put him in a minority of one, an almost nonsensical viewpoint given Liverpool’s alarmingly lacklustre approach until the game was well beyond them. But, if Hodgson truly does believe in his words, then it underlines just how poorly his team have thus far performed. Admittedly, there were some chinks of light. Raul Meireles, one of five derby debutants, showed he may prove a wise acquisition when played in his preferred central midfield position, while Martin Skrtel and Kyrgiakos manfully tried to stem the Blue tide and Steven Gerrard helped rouse Liverpool when dropped deeper alongside Meireles. But although Torres solicited a decent save from Tim Howard with a header from the otherwise anonymous Joe Cole in the first half before being denied by the Everton goalkeeper late on, Liverpool were largely restricted to efforts from range and never convinced they were ever going to score. Add the fact this was the fourth league game this season in which they have gone 2-0 behind – all of which have been lost – and it’s not hard to explain their current travails. A postscript. As their team cruised, the Goodison crowd taunted the travelling support with chants of “going down, going down” to which came the response “so are we, so are we”. It was the kind of wit sadly lacking from Liverpool’s performance. No wonder the only smiles this morning are on Everton faces.
Everton FC 2 Liverpool FC 0 - Blues ensure Reds' successes remain off the pitch
Oct 17 2010 by James Pearce, Liverpool Echo
EVERTON piled the misery on their struggling neighbours Liverpool at Goodison Park with a comfortable win in the 214th derby. Goals from Tim Cahill and Mikel Arteta ensured the Blues secured their first league derby win for over four years. David Moyes' men were good value for the points as they dominated the contest for long periods and comfortably dealt with anything the lacklustre Reds could throw at them. Cahill's emphatic finish opened the scoring before the break and Mikel Arteta's sweet strike early in the second half ensured Liverpool remain in the relegation zone with just six points from their opening eight games. It was Everton's first home league win of the campaign and piled the pressure on Reds boss Roy Hodgson. New owners John Henry and Tom Werner watched on from the directors box as Everton started the brighter of the two sides and pinned Liverpool back in their own half. Roared on by the vociferous home crowd, the Blues wasted a great chance to break the deadlock in the 12th minute. Mikel Arteta's 20-yard free-kick was blocked by the wall but the Reds failed to clear the danger. Leon Osman's shot deflected into the path of Jagielka but he blazed wastefully over from inside the box. Everton continued to press with Sylvain Distin seeing his effort deflected behind after the ball dropped to him in the box. Maxi Rodriguez became the first player in Howard Webb's notebook after he chopped down Leighton Baines close to the touchline. The Reds had barely got out of their own half but they finally started to pose a threat midway through the first period. Torres rose to meet Joe Cole's cross from the left and his header was turned behind by Tim Howard. Seconds later Sotirios Kyrgiakos nodded the ball down to Lucas Leiva but he failed to hit the target. However, that proved to be only brief respite for Liverpool as the Blues were soon back in the ascendancy. Yakubu tested Reina after a powerful run before Cahill and Raul Meireles joined Rodriguez in the book for poor challenges. The goal Everton deserved finally arrived in the 34th minute. The impressive Seamus Coleman raced down the right and pulled the ball back to Cahill who hammered the ball into the net from six yards It was the Aussie's fifth goal in league derbies and made him Everton's leading post-war scorer in league clashes with the Reds, beating the record he had shared with Duncan Ferguson. The hosts remained in control until the interval with Leon Osman forcing another save from Reina. Diniyar Bilyaletdinov replaced Osman after the break and the Blues doubled their lead in the 49th minute. Kyrgiakos' defensive header fell to Arteta on the edge of the box and he took a touch before lashing a drive past Reina. Goodison erupted and Everton were good value for their two-goal advantage. Liverpool never looked likely to get back in the contest and were restricted to long range efforts from Meireles, Cole and Gerrard. Blues keeper Howard only had one serious save to make and that was when he parried a low drive from Torres. Substitute Jermaine Beckford and Torres took the yellow card tally to five as the Blues comfortably held on for victory. Beckford almost added a third in stoppage time but his rasping drive flew just wide of the upright with Reina beaten.
Everton: Howard, Neville, Jagielka, Distin, Baines, Coleman, Heitinga (Hibbert 71), Arteta (Beckford 73), Osman (Bilyaletdinov 45), Cahill, Yakubu.
Liverpool: Reina, Carragher, Skrtel, Kyrgiakos, Konchesky, Rodriguez (Jovanovic 84), Gerrard, Lucas (Ngog 70), Cole (Babel 78), Meireles, Torres.
Referee: Howard Webb
David Prentice: Sorry Hodgson, this derby was a stroll in the park for Everton FC
Oct 18 2010 by David Prentice, Liverpool Echo
NOT for the first time, derby day on Merseyside produced wildly differing versions of the action which unfolded. “I think we’ve played better in every other game this season bar Newcastle,” said David Moyes. Roy Hodgson replied: “That’s as good as I’ve seen us play under my management.” So was the 214th derby match another epic swindle? Were the Reds robbed by their lucky neighbours? Not from where I was sitting. Derbies aren’t supposed to be routine. They’re not supposed to be strolls in the park. Fans fingernails are supposed to be bitten to ragged stumps, nerve ends shredded and patience strained. Not yesterday. The only concern Everton’s celebrating supporters had was whether the significance of their first Premier League derby win for four years would be overshadowed by the ineptitude of their opponents. Because for 45 minutes Liverpool were comprehensively outplayed. Perhaps Roy Hodgson was trying to defend his players when he spoke so glowingly of their performance, because if he really meant it the Reds have big problems. The admirable Steven Gerrard apart, Liverpool were, at best, ordinary. For 45 minutes they were run ragged – a straightforward tip over from a Fernando Torres header was Tim Howard’s only meaningful contribution – then after Everton had made it 2-0 they simply sat back and invited Liverpool to try and break them down. They couldn’t. Tim Howard smothered a couple of long range shots from Raul Meireles. In the 83rd minute he decisively touched the ball to prevent Fernando Torres from tapping in at the far post. But that was about it – as straightforward a derby day success as David Moyes has ever enjoyed. Liverpool enjoyed so much second half possession because Everton were happy to let them. Their manager even said as much, before backtracking a little and trying to defend his managerial friend. But there was absolutely no doubt Everton were deserved and dominant victors. The tone was set from the opening exchanges.
Just as Jamie Carragher placed a marker for last season’s Anfield showdown with a shuddering first minute challenge on Steven Pienaar, Everton did the same this time.
Yakubu - a man usually only usually likely to make a run if a goal-chance lay at the end of it - chased down Sotirios Kyrgiakos and conceded a foul. Leon Osman followed suit – this time legally – as he chased down Carragher trying to clear – and the tone was set in Everton’s favour. Osman’s attitude was outstanding, and infectious – and it was a surprise that Everton took so long to score. Only Arsenal and Chelsea have boasted greater possession than the Blues this season. Only Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester United and a Fulham side unbeaten until Saturday had made more passes in their opposition’s half all season. But while the same four teams featured in the Premier League’s list of shots on target, Everton were nowhere to be seen. And the same trend continued yesterday. Jagielka fired over, so did Distin - and when Reina was finally asked to make a save he did so competently from Yakubu. It took the zestful enthusiasm of youth to finally fashion a breakthrough. Seamus Coleman may suffer from the occasional lapses defensively, but going forward he is a penetrating, determined and ambitious runner. His 33rd minute burst and cross was outstanding, and on the end of it was a man whose record against Liverpool is outstanding.
After Mikel Arteta had made it 2-0, Everton appeared to declare. To use boxing parlance – after all Thomas Stalker, Tony Bellew and, bizarrely, Roy Jones Junior were all present – you can only beat what’s put in front of you. And Everton did. Comfortably. And that has to be the biggest concern for their supporters. So many things appeared to be in Liverpool’s favour leading up to the clash. There was a feelgood factor from the takeover, influential Everton absentees like Fellaini, Pienaar and Saha, the fact that Mikel Arteta and Phil Jagielka needed fitness tests on the morning of the game. But Everton took command. Torres was an isolated and forlorn figure - students of his body language will have taken note of his reaction to an admonishment from team-mate Carragher, raising his finger to his lips; Joe Cole is a player still searching for his best role in the side, Lucas once again looked short on quality, Paul Konchesky’s late attempt at a right-footed shot was just plain embarrassing.Everton had no such worries. Phil Jagielka and Sylvain Distin were immense, Yakubu endlessly willing and Tim Cahill excellent. But the fact is Everton didn’t need to have every player at the peak of his game to secure victory - and that has to be the biggest concern for Reds fans this morning. “I think we’ve played better in every other game this season bar Newcastle,” said David Moyes. Everton fans will be reassured to hear that. Roy Hodgson replied: “That’s as good as I’ve seen us play under my management.” That should send tremors of concern around Anfield.
David Moyes: I wouldn't swap Bill Kenwright for anybody
Oct 18 2010 By David Prentice
DAVID MOYES celebrated his first Premier League derby success for four years yesterday – then declared he wouldn’t swap his chairman for anybody. With new Liverpool’s new American owner J W Henry looking on from the Main Stand, bringing the promise of a significant injection of transfer funds in January, Moyes rapped: "It isn’t all about money. "Seamus Coleman, who’s gone down the right and made the first goal, cost 60 grand from Ireland. "If we all wanted football to be about money we wouldn’t enjoy it as much because not everybody can have it. "Am I jealous about that? "Yes, because I’d like to be a top team – but I wouldn’t swap my chairman for any owner from America or Saudi Arabia or wherever else you want to bring them from, because my chairman is a supporter. "He backs his manager and he’s behind me, which is really important for any manager at any club." The Blues boss also revealed that Goodison heroes Phil Jagielka and Mikel Arteta only got the nod to play hours before kick-off after both shook off hamstring injuries. Jagielka was a towering presence at the back helping Everton to a third successive clean sheet, while Arteta’s sweetly struck goal effectively sealed the contest. "It was a gamble to play Jags," admitted Moyes "but it was an even bigger gamble to play Mikel Arteta. He got a hamstring injury in training yesterday and it was a late decision to play with him. "Jags has been improving. I wasn’t here when the news came through about him last Friday and it ruined my Friday night when I thought he would miss the derby. "Then it went on with the Fellaini injury, and today we had to take Osman off, Heitinga off and Mikel off, so it’s great credit to the players in the squad who came off the bench to help us out. "That’s the way it is at a club like Everton. "I thought Distin and Jagielka were fantastic today. "We conceded possession to Liverpool after we got the second goal and it wasn’t a problem. "When I say it wasn’t a problem I mean I was happy to do so because they’ve not been scoring. There were one or two too close for comfort but we had one or two opportunities on the break to get another goal."Everton’s last victory over their neighbours in the Premier League – although they did win an FA Cup fourth round replay in 2009 – was four years ago. And Moyes said: "As you can see, the smile’s not coming off my face at the moment. "It’s been a long time and I’ve been really disappointed I’ve not been able to win more derbies, but we’ve played against a really good football club and as I said in my programme notes there’s been other reasons for us maybe not getting those results. "But it’s certainly not been for a lack of effort or commitment or desire to win the games. We’ve always tried that. In the past we’ve probably lacked the quality to match Liverpool. I don’t think we do now. "I think we’ve got real quality players here who can play for many of the big clubs. "Some of you will probably disagree, but I thought we dominated just as much at Anfield last year when we had the ball but we couldn’t score. "Today we got the goal and I think whoever got the first goal was going to be really important. I thought we always looked more lively, especially in the first 20-25 minutes and when we got the goal I was delighted because both teams haven’t been scoring that freely. "I think we’ve played better in every other game this season bar Newcastle. I didn’t think our football was as good as it has been today, but there were reasons for that. The game was much more tense, it was a derby so things were tighter and players feel a little more frantic on the ball. "I told the players afterwards we’ve played much better this season and lost than we had done today." The Blues boss also had words of support for his under pressure opposite number. "I think Liverpool are in a false position," he explained. "They have two or three top players and more than that they have a good team of international footballers in every position just about. I also have to say they have a really good manager – a manager who’s been successful all over the country. "I think a manager coming into a new club takes a little bit of time. There are big expectations at Liverpool because over the years they’ve spent a lot of cash and because of that they’re looking for something more. "At Everton we’ve not and I think people understand it’s going to be more difficult for Everton than it is for Liverpool."
Everton FC 2 Liverpool FC 0: Greg O’Keeffe’s Merseyside derby verdict
Oct 18 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
In their absence, Goodison suddenly witnessed men like Ayegbini Yakubu, Mikel Arteta and Sylvain Distin producing their best performances of the season yet.
Supporters could previously have been forgiven for wondering whether Everton’s Nigerian striker would ever recapture his best form, but this performance suggested he will. From the first whistle, he appeared a man re-galvanised. Looking sharper, faster and more determined than he has done in 12 months; The Yak helped establish the home side’s stronger start by closing down Liverpool’s defence rapaciously, even conceding a foul for sprinting to stop Sotirios Kyrgiakos from clearing. That robust tone was enhanced by Leon Osman. Like Phil Neville and Tim Cahill, the veteran is well versed enough in derbies to realise the importance of a few stiff early challenges. John Heitinga, returning to the side in Fellaini’s absence, pitched in too. But Howard Webb tried to apply a modicum of common sense to proceedings, Mikel Arteta and Steven Gerrard benefiting from his initial leniency. The Toffees’ first real opening came when Leighton Baines seized onto Arteta's deflected free kick, and slipped in Osman who picked out the unmarked Phil Jagielka, only for the centre back to blaze his first time left-footed effort over the bar. Next it was his defensive partner Sylvain Distin’s chance to blast over. Such was the strength of Everton’s opening play, Liverpool’s had to wait 23 minutes for their first half chance, Joe Cole crossing for Torres who forced Tim Howard to tip over with a cute backwards header. At times, Hodgson’s side were so sloppy with their passing, new owner John Henry must have been wondering if he had kept the receipt - or at least trying to figure out how much it will cost to revamp his new project. A rampaging Yakubu almost opened the scoring when he seized on one slack passage of play from the opposition. As so often with these games, the early goal was always going to prove decisive and few could doubt that Everton deserved it. A Characteristically surging run by Seamus Coleman, his first of the afternoon, saw the young Irishman burst into the box and pull the ball back for Tim Cahill to smash first time past Pepe Reina. Paul Konchesky, the Reds’ new left back, had been left in Coleman’s slip-stream. Moyes will have been frustrated at how his side let the tempo sag after their lead, inviting Liverpool on, but their opponents seemed so toothless it mattered not. American boxing legend Roy Jones Junior appeared on the pitch at half time with former derby hero Kevin Campebll.“I think the media attention was all directed towards Liverpool and maybe today the attention was on Everton. After the stuff that's been going on this week we concentrated on ourselves and I think it paid off.” DAVID MOYES believes his team deserved the spotlight. “In the second half, we did everything the team could possibly do. We played well, created chances, limited them to very few and put them very much on the back foot. Unfortunately, by that time we were 2-0 down.” ROY HODGSON forgets that a bright start is usually the ingredient for derby success. IT WAS a tale of two summaries – one heartening, one downright perplexing. David Moyes’ post derby assertion that Everton have played better in most of their other home games this season without winning, offered a dose of realism and optimism for supporters of the Blue faith. If this combative, gutsy and dominant derby performance still did not see the Toffees firing on all cylinders, they will be a compelling prospect when they do hit top gear.
For those of a red persuasion, it could only be frustration and head-scratching, at Roy Hodgson’s insistence that Liverpool’s offering was the best they had played under his brief tenure. Moyes might once have studied as a junior coach under the welcoming wing of his opposite number in the dug-out, but yesterday the former student had all the answers. For Everton to take the points so comfortably, and despite a second half period when they surrendered possession to their rivals for too long, suggests Liverpool’s troubles must be worse than many thought, while those which had plagued the Blues appear to have lifted. Their first victory at Goodison Park this campaign propelled Everton to eleventh in the table. Such is the topsy turvy nature of the Premier League already, a couple of wins suddenly revive the spirit of those summer days when talk of Moyes’ strongest ever squad mounting a genuine challenge to the European places looked valid. Don’t forget, this first league derby since September 2006 was achieved without key personnel like Steven Pienaar, Louis Saha, Marouane Fellaini and Jack Rodwell. And the Blues delivered a knock-out punch which Jones would have been proud of shortly after the restart. Kyrgiakos headed clear from a Leighton Baines corner, and Mikel Areta latched onto ball, took a touch and dispatched a rocket past Reina. Liverpool were on the ropes, and even their perennial saviours on the pitch were punch-drunk. Steven Gerrard, playing too deep due partly to the late withdrawal of Christian Poulsen, struggled to have his usual impact on his side’s play. Meanwhile the spectre Evertonians also feared, Fernando Torres, seemed increasingly isolated – forced to feed off long balls and scraps. There was an inevitable spell of pressure for the away side after the hour mark, but such was their lack of confidence they mustered only a half chance for Joe Cole and a shot from Raul Meireles which caused Howard little concern. In truth Everton should and could have won by more than two. Jermaine Beckford wasted two strong chances when the Blues soaked up half-hearted pressure from their opponents and broke with impressive stamina. Yet they cruised through the four minutes of stoppage time until Webb sparked delirium with the final whistle. In his chronicle of how he guided England to Rugby Union World Cup glory in 2003, Sir Clive Woodward wrote that winning doesn’t always happen in a straight line. Just when things are going well, he argued, minor setbacks flare-up which only teams with true potential for success can overcome. Everton, after another slow start to a season, could have panicked. David Moyes could have been tricked into believing all his pre-season optimism had been folly, and started grasping at unnecessary changes to try and conjure back winning ways. Instead he, and his players, accepted they needed to recapture that balance of physicality and footballing finesse which had made them such a hot prospect. Now they have, and with the sweet taste of derby victory in their mouths, there could be no stopping them. Liverpool may well have been the dominant story in global sport for the past week, but it is Everton, still waiting patiently for their injection of lavish wealth, who dominated where it matters.
EVERTON (4-4-1-1): Howard, Neville, Distin, Jagielka, Baines, Heitinga (Hibbert, 71), Arteta (Beckford, 74), Osman (Bilyaletdinov, 45) Coleman, Cahill, Yakubu. Not used: Mucha, Gueye, Baxter.
LIVERPOOL (4-2-3-1): Reina, Carragher, Skrtel, Kyrgiakos, Konchesky, Meireles, Lucas (Ngog, 71), Gerrard, Cole (Babel, 79), Maxi (Jovanovic, 84), Torres. Not used: Jones, Aurelio, Ngog, Spearing, Kelly.
GOALS: Cahill (34) Arteta (49)
CARDS: Booked – Cahill (28) Beckford (76), Maxi (19), Meireles (31), Torres (88).
REFEREE: Howard Webb (Rotherham).
ATTENDANCE: 39, 673.
Phil Neville: Gap between Everton and Liverpool closer than ever after Merseyside derby win
Oct 18 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
PHIL Neville insisted the gap between Everton and Liverpool is smaller than ever during his time at Goodison, after he led the Blues to victory in the Merseyside derby.
The skipper has been left frustrated by his personal head to head record against Steven Gerrard since he signed for David Moyes in 2005, but believes Everton’s comfortable 2-0 home victory yesterday is a sign of things to come. Neville’s return from injury earlier in the season has helped Everton to rediscover their form, and now the 33-year-old is confident the Blues can embark on a run of form akin to the one which propelled them up the tables after January last season. He said: “I’ve been involved in two victories in probably the last ten or so derby games so I’ve had to suffer. It’s not nice being the losing captain of a derby side. But you celebrate your victories, you enjoy them and that’s what we did today. “It was about the effort and the quality of the football came with it. The manager said in the dressing room after the game that he wants us to produce that from now until the end of the season. “I came to the club five years ago and the gap between the clubs was big. In terms of performances, we were fighting to compete. “The quality gap was big, and the manager wanted to close that more and more. I think it has been doing. Last season we felt we were closing on them, and after yesterday we feel it is closing again. “Even though we’re rivals and Liverpool are the team our fans love to hate, they’re still a team we want to get above. We can’t disrespect Liverpool FC by saying they’re gone or they’re finished, because we could have still been in the bottom three without this result.” Neville is still struggling to understand Everton’s slow start to the campaign, but is grateful they have weathered the storm due to David Moyes’ experience and cool-head.
He said: “Nobody saw the start of the season coming. That’s why we were all so flabbergasted. It’s probably been our calmest pre-season in a while. “We didn’t sign any players, and didn’t need to. We got our new signings in early and the fitness was good. But then we just didn’t get the results. Our performances were quite good, but it just didn’t happen. “The pleasing thing is that nobody panicked. There were a couple of occasions; Newcastle at home and then Brentford in the cup when maybe the supporters were getting a bit worried. “But the manager and chairman didn’t panic because they knew the quality in that dressing room. There have been some crazy results and it’s looking good for us. “We’ve got that back, we showed it at Birmingham, and it’s three games unbeaten and we go to Spurs in form and confident.”
Everton 2 Liverpool 0: Tim Cahill and Mikel Arteta burst Reds' bubble in front of new owners
By Matt Lawton
Oct 18 2010 The Daily Mail
After witnessing one of the most abject Liverpool displays in the long history of this derby, John W Henry and his colleagues might now wonder if they, rather than their predecessors, are the victims of an epic swindle. They could be forgiven for thinking they’ve been had and for starting to worry that they paid too much for Liverpool — even at the price Tom Hicks and George Gillett have claimed is way below market value. This performance against a vastly superior Everton side would suggest you don’t get much for £300million these days, so inept were Liverpool’s players in trying to ease the pressure on Roy Hodgson. Blue beauty: Cahill strikes the opening goal to crush Liverpool's takeover euphoria That pressure must now be considerable, whatever statements have been made in the last 72 hours. ‘We’re here to win,’ said Henry in delivering his mission statement on Friday but right now these Liverpool players do not even appear capable of winning a relegation battle. It was, as the Everton supporters declared in joyous unison at the sound of the final whistle, ‘easy’ for a side that continues to impress under the expert guidance of David Moyes. Goals from Tim Cahill and Mikel Arteta secured their second win in as many games to propel the club away from the danger zone and up the Barclays Premier League table. There was little in response from Liverpool. No urgency, no fluency. Nothing, the occasional Jamie Carragher outburst aside, that even resembled what you might term defiance. That Hodgson thought his team played well will only weaken his position. He thought this was their finest performance of the season; that his team played well; that in no way, particularly in the second half, were they either lacking in confidence or inferior to their hosts. On Friday he also said that, had that defeat to Blackpool at Anfield been scored on a boxing-style points system, his team would have emerged triumphant. But then he would also have us believe that the £20m he spent on Raul Meireles, Paul Konchesky and Christian Poulsen amounts to good business. Liverpool’s new owners say they are not going to walk into Anfield ‘like a bull in china shop’ and start making immediate changes. But before they commit money to the next transfer window in January, when some major surgery on the squad will be required, they might have serious misgivings about letting Hodgson be the man who spends it. He thought only Fernando Torres was lacking confidence, when so many players appeared to be struggling yesterday. Players such as Konchesky, Meireles, Joe Cole, Maxi Rodriguez and Lucas looked like they would rather be anywhere but here at Goodison. As a drama it was absorbing. The sight of Liverpool players hiding; the sight of Hodgson watching helplessly from the technical area, seemingly cemented to the ground where he stood and unable to inspire any kind of fightback from his troops; and then the sight, at the front of the directors’ box, of Henry deep in conversation with a colleague during the half-time interval. One can only imagine what was being discussed. Perhaps Henry was expressing his regret in not sticking to his guns and saving his first taste of English football for a game at Anfield. But even someone as new to this game as the Americans would have seen that something needs to be done — and fast — to revive this stuttering side. Hitting the mark: Everton midfielder Cahill boxes the corner flag after scoring the opener Perhaps Kenny Dalglish, sitting behind the new owners yesterday, has one or two ideas. Hodgson still appears to think he can turn the situation round and it would be wrong to dismiss a manager of his considerable experience. But even for Hodgson this must be unique pressure and the evidence at Goodison suggested he is starting to struggle. Everton had endured a difficult start to the season, too, but they responded to their manager when Moyes decided to ‘get back to basics’. ‘It wasn’t just because we went mountain climbing,’ he said. ‘It’s been a lot of hard work. The players haven’t had much time off lately.’ They were working from the start of this encounter, not least for each other. Where Liverpool were disjointed, Everton were determined and organised. Where Liverpool lacked spirit, Everton possessed a collective will to win. Wave of euphoria: New Liverpool owner Henry (centre) takes his seat at Goodison Park They dominated the opening half, scoring the goal their skill and industry deserved in the 34th minute when the hugely promising Seamus Coleman surged past both Lucas and Konchesky before delivering a perfect ball for Cahill.
MATCH STATS
Everton (4-4-2): Howard 7; Neville 7,
Jagielka 7, Distin 7, Baines 7; Coleman 7, Heitinga 7 (Hibbert 72min, 6), Arteta 8
(Beckford 74, 5), Osman 6 (Bilyaletdinov 46, 6); Cahill 8, Yakubu 6. Subs not used: Mucha, Shkodran Mustafi, Magaye Gueye, Baxter.
Booked: Cahill, Beckford.
Scorers: Cahill 34, Arteta 50.
Liverpool (4-4-1-1): Reina 6; Carragher 6,
Skrtel 5, Kyrgiakos 6, Konchesky 4;
Rodriguez 3 (Jovanovic 84, 5) , Lucas 3
(Ngog 71, 5), Meireles 4, Cole 4 (Babel 80, 5); Gerrard 6; Torres 5. Subs not used: Jones, Aurelio, Kelly,
Spearing.
Booked: Meireles, Rodriguez, Torres.
Man of the match: Tim Cahill.
Referee: Howard Webb 8.
Attendance: 39,673.
It still demanded a terrific right-foot finish from the Australian international, who became Everton’s highest post-war goalscorer in league Merseyside derbies. But Coleman’s run exposed the ineptitude of Liverpool’s defending.
Less could have been done about the goal that followed from Arteta five minutes after the break. It was a quite brilliant strike and one that was all the more impressive because Moyes revealed the Spaniard had been a doubt due to a hamstring injury suffered in training on Saturday. Only then did Liverpool even begin to react. Only then did Liverpool’s players even seem aware that this might not be the ideal way to respond to the arrival of new owners. Not that their response amounted to much.
After taking only six points from eight games, they now sit second from bottom in the Premier League. And while many would no doubt disagree with Alan Hansen when he suggested this was Liverpool’s biggest game in 30 years, it is probably their lowest ebb. It is certainly hard to recall a Liverpool team worse than this one and hard to imagine that Hodgson will be given long to prove otherwise.
Everton boss David Moyes peaks to leave underfire Roy Hodgson on the rocks
By John Edwards
Oct 18 2010 The Daily Mail
While Roy Hodgson wore the look of a haunted man, and admitted he had been bracing himself for ‘a difficult press conference’, opposite number David Moyes sported a beaming smile that refused to go away. Not that he wanted it to.
The Everton manager has too much respect and admiration for his Liverpool counterpart to indulge in any cross-Stanley Park gloating, yet he had good cause for allowing himself a moment of self-satisfaction after staying one step ahead in the build-up to yesterday’s resounding 2-0 derby victory. If Everton finally scaled the peaks and ran Liverpool into the ground, it was with good reason. They had been hitting the heights all week after a bonding session that included tackling some of the Lake District’s most spectacular mountain-tops. Skipper Phil Neville admitted the choice of venue intially took him aback but was hailing it as a Moyes masterstroke by the time his climbing boots had been packed away. ‘The manager has a way of doing things that get the best out of you, and he has pulled it off again,’ said the Everton skipper. ‘When he mentioned a break, I thought he might have had somewhere like Dubai in mind. A nice bit of sunshine for a few days. ‘When he said the Lake District, there probably wasn’t quite the same level of enthusiasm. But it turned into one of the best trips we’ve ever had.
'We did everything together, and I can honestly say the sight of Yakubu walking up a mountain is a memory that will live with me a long time.’
Weightier developments may have dominated the agenda on Merseyside this week, with John W Henry’s New England Sports Ventures finally dispatching Tom Hicks kicking and screaming from Anfield, and Liverpool’s new owner taking his seat on the front row of the Goodison directors’ box. Contrasting fortunes: Liverpool manager Roy Hodgson looks dejected alongside Everton manager David Moyes
But in his own understated way, Moyes provided another reminder that building block by block can provide its own pathway to success. More than that, he believes the Everton formula provides proof that foreign investment is not always needed.
‘As you can see, I’ve got a smile that’s not going to leave my face any time soon,’ he said. ‘We have never lacked effort or commitment against Liverpool in the past, but maybe we have been just a bit short on quality. Not any more. There is real quality in this squad now, players who could play for any of the top teams. ‘You look at young Seamus Coleman going down the right to make the first goal, and remember he cost £60,000 from Ireland, and you realise it’s not just about money. 'If all you wanted football to be about was money, I don’t think it would be anything like as enjoyable. I would like my team to be right up at the top, of course, but I would not swap my chairman (Bill Kenwright) for anyone from America, Saudi Arabia or wherever.
'That’s because he is a supporter. He believes in me as a manager and supports me all the way. ‘To be honest, I didn’t think we played all that well. We have played better in just about every other game, except Newcastle, but we got that all-important first goal and went on from there. ‘Maybe it was the mountain biking that gave us an extra spring, but somehow I don’t think so. That was just doing something in the international break to keep everyone occupied. 'It worked well, but if it hadn’t, they would probably have take me back and thrown me on top of a mountain
We had to do something to turn results round. There haven’t been too many days off recently. We have been working on things and we got our rewards today. 'It ruined my Friday night when I heard Phil Jagielka had a hamstring injury. I thought that was it for the derby, and it was a bit of a gamble playing him. But Jags and Sylvain Distin were fantastic at the back.’ Hodgson was on the defensive the moment he faced questions about Liverpool’s shortcomings and how they were perceived by the club’s new owners. ‘I haven’t got my phone with me, so I haven’t spoken to them,’ he said.
‘I’m very sorry if you all thought otherwise, but I felt we played well. It is very unfair to suggest we only started playing after going 2-0 down. Comeback kid: Everton's Phil Jagielka (left) made a quick return to fitness to help beat Steven Gerrard and Liverpool 'Utopia would have been winning for the owners’ first game, but we dominated the second half totally and played as well as at any time since I arrived.
‘The pressure builds up when you’ve only got six points from the first eight games, and I knew this press conference was going to be a difficult one for me to handle.
'We will have to do something a bit special to get into the top four now, but I would not necessarily write it off. There was shape and quality about us, and I don’t think we were inferior in any way.’
Now who says Liverpool can't be relegated?
By Martin Samuel Chief Sports Writer at Goodison Park
18th October 2010 Daily Mail
There were four minutes between the goal and the time it took for the penny to drop.
'Going down,' Goodison sang gleefully, 'going down!' It was as if they had forgotten, much like the rest of us, that Liverpool's predicament is real and not some bad dream they can snap out of with a click of the fingers or a new sugar daddy.
Relegation? Impossible. This is Liverpool. This is Anfield. They won it five times, remember. Except there is almost one quarter of the season gone, and any team in the bottom three at this stage has to be placed on the endangered long list at least.
Sinking feeling: Steven Gerrard sums up the dejection in the Liverpool squad after losing to rivals Everton Rewind 12 months and the bottom three were Hull, West Ham and Portsmouth, only one of whom escaped. And Hull had more points than Liverpool do now from the same matches. Yet, it is this belief that mighty Liverpool cannot be considered relegation candidates that is perhaps their biggest enemy. Perhaps even Evertonians do not believe it, hence the delayed gag after Tim Cahill's goal went in; they had to be reminded that this malevolent fantasy was now reality.
Liverpool fell below Wolves yesterday and to a team as fragile as this there are no easy matches. Blackburn are next, then Bolton, followed by Chelsea, every fixture bringing the promise of a bruising encounter. Everton gave them a taste of that and, despite Roy Hodgson's strange appraisal of this as Liverpool's best performance of the season, his team demonstrated scant appetite for the fight. Hodgson highlighted the performance after half-time, but Liverpool's gung-ho response when two goals down was only to be expected. It helped that Everton's players seemed to believe they were playing the Liverpool of old, defending deep in anticipation of counter-attacks.
The reality is that, Steven Gerrard aside, the drive has gone. Fernando Torres is playing like a man who considers every further minute spent in a red shirt to be a horrible waste of his time, while Joe Cole is playing like the man Fabio Capello doesn't pick, rather than a man he should. Asked about the lack of confidence in his team, Hodgson preferred to give an answer that focused solely on the disappearance of Torres this season, and while the struggles of Rafael Benitez's marquee signing are a big issue, to say he is surrounded by team-mates brimming with the qualities needed to turn this season around is delusional. The first goal came because Lucas, on the edge of the box with no blue shirt near him, decided not to bring the ball down and play it, but headed out instead. Welcome to Liverpool: Everton chairman Bill Kenwrightgreets the Reds new owner John W Henry before the match at Goodison Park When even a Brazilian does not feel able to pass the ball given time and space, there are big problems. The weakness of Liverpool's squad is inescapable. Even raddled with injury, Everton's starting XI was preferable and their substitutes' bench was superior. Not one Liverpool player performed in the first half with the simple determination of Seamus Coleman, a 23-year-old signed from Sligo Rovers for £60,000. It is the sort of transfer deal almost unheard of in the Premier League, yet Coleman - who made the first goal with a purposeful run, and a cross poorly matched by Paul Konchesky - encapsulated what set Everton apart. Gerrard never stops trying, neither does Jamie Carragher, but too much of Liverpool's play is limp. This is to take nothing away from Everton, who had a lengthy injury list - Louis Saha, Steven Pienaar, Marouane Fellaini and Jack Rodwell - yet were superior, certainly throughout the first half. Even when Liverpool pressed the emergency button after the second goal, the introduction of Jermaine Beckford for Mikel Arteta with 16 minutes remaining gave Everton the greater threat on goal. The red corner of Goodison observed the supposedly encouraging previous passage of play in silence - a sign they did not share Hodgson's rose-tinted view - and many left before the end. Missing man: Fernando Torres was yet again disappointing for Liverpool Considering this was a first sight of the team for new owner John Henry, it ended on a very gloomy note with Evertonians joking he had bought the wrong club. Henry does not seem the sort to lose his nerve on the back of a bad 90 minutes, but he will not like the look of the table. must rapidly improve his Liverpool side or risk the axe The threat of administration, with the potential for relegation, was said to have presented a serious obstacle to his takeover. That Liverpool might not require third party assistance to bring about this devastating conclusion had clearly not entered his mind.
At half-time, he stood at the front of the directors' box with Joe Januszewski, a senior vice-president with New England Sports Ventures and his commercial guru. Henry seemed to be receiving a crash course in football. There was a lot of pointing and chat between them. Maybe he was asking when it was Liverpool's turn to have the ball. Never a lip reader around when you need one. His first big call will concern the future of Hodgson. It would seem harsh to terminate the manager's tenure so quickly, but Liverpool's loss of form cannot continue indefinitely. Chippy and defensive after the game, he ended his press conference in a sharp exchange with a journalist from Scandinavia who questioned the lack of supply to Torres. 'Are you from Denmark?' Hodgson asked (he considers the Danish press too negative). 'No, Norway,' replied the visitor. 'Ah, two countries I never want to work in again,' he said. There was a rather obvious retort but the room was too polite to go there. For now, anyway.
Roy Hodgson hails best Liverpool performance of the season (after crushing derby defeat in front of new owners)
By John Edwards
18th October 2010 (The Daily Mail)
Roy Hodgson left himself open to ridicule by describing Liverpool's dispiriting 2-0 derby defeat to Everton at Goodison Park as 'our best performance of the season'.
The former Fulham boss delivered his bizarre claim after making the worst start to a Liverpool managerial career - one win and three draws from eight games - since George Patterson in 1928. Liverpool's new American owners John W Henry and Tom Werner watched from the stands after originally saying they would wait for a home match. But only goal difference keeps them above bottom club West Ham in the Barclays Premier League. Hodgson insisted: 'That was as good as we have played all season, and I have no qualms with the performance whatsoever. I only hope fair-minded people will see it the same way. 'It's just unfortunate that such a good game of football, a real credit to the Premier League, will revolve round the fact that Liverpool did not win. 'It was a sterling effort by the players, especially after Everton's second goal went in. Pressure builds up, of course, but we will cope with that.' Second best: Arteta scores Everton's second in the derby Liverpool have endured their worst start to a season since 1953-54, when they were relegated, and they remain rooted at the lower reaches of the table. Hodgson, asked if the top four was out of reach, added: 'There are 30 games to go, 90 points to play for, so we'd have to start doing something special I suppose. 'But I don't know I would write that off necessarily. 'What it would take is a really good run on the spin but I thought there were signs in the game today that the quality of football was there. 'Who knows, we could get those four or five wins on the spin - that is what it is going to take. Liverpool have now not won in six matches in all competitions and Hodgson admitted, with only one league victory this season, the pressure was mounting. 'We have taken six points from eight games and every game we don't win the pressure builds even more and that will affect people's confidence in the long run,' he said. 'The pressure mounts but I'm not trying to use that as an excuse.' A right spectacle: Everton chairman Bill Kenwright talks to new Liverpool supremo John W Henry (left) Liverpool were watched by new owner Henry, whose New England Sports Ventures completed a £300million buy-out this week. Unfortunately the players could not match the performance of their legal team, who successfully prevented former owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett blocking the sale. The dream was we would come here on the back of new owners and win the game but there is no point in attempting to analyse dreams,' Hodgson said. 'This would have been the ideal opportunity to turn things around on the back of the positive entry of the new owners and to get a result here would have been Utopia.' Everton manager David Moyes was delighted just to end a run of three successive league derby defeats. 'The smile's not come off my face. It's been a long time. I'm really disappointed I've not been able to win more derbies,' he said. 'We play against a really good football club but it's not been because of a lack of effort. 'In the past we've probably lacked the quality to match Liverpool. I don't think we do now. 'We've got players of real quality who could play for the big clubs. 'Whoever scored the first goal was going to be really important and I think we always looked more likely in the first 20-25 minutes. 'I was delighted to get in front because both teams have not been scoring that freely.'
Everton 2-0 Liverpool: Daily Mirror match report
18/10/10 By David Maddock (The Mirror)
Tim Cahill of Everton celebrates scoring the first goal with Leighton Baines during the Barclays Premier League match between Everton and Liverpool at Goodison Park on October 17, 2010 in Liverpool, England. It wasn’t the chant of “Going down” from the Gwladys Street that will have hurt Liverpool fans most. Or even the “You’re getting sacked in the morning” directed at Roy Hodgson. No, the most devastating arrow to their Red hearts was the triumphant chorus of “Easy, easy” that rang around Goodison Park at the end of this typically intense Merseyside derby. It was so viciously cutting because it was true.. a deadly accurate barb into the open wound of failure that is painfully leaking the lifeblood out of this Liverpool team at the moment. Even before the final whistle, even before Everton confirmed their obvious superiority in one of the more comfortable victories they have enjoyed in recent derby history, the jokes had started flying. As new Liverpool owners John Henry and Thomas Werner watched the spectacle of Merseyside pageantry with slack-jawed awe, one Blue-shirted fan in front of them shouted: “I hope you kept the receipt.” Another ventured the thought that Henry would be delighted with his purchase until he realised ‘his guys weren’t the ones in blue’. And on it went. You get the picture, because Everton really did control proceedings until the final minutes of stoppage time at the end of the contest. From the start they were a yard quicker to the ball and a yard ahead in terms of the wit required to gain any edge in what are always psychotically frenetic exchanges. The bare statistics suggest Liverpool enjoyed a 60-40 advantage in possession, but until those final few minutes, when Fernando Torres, David Ngog and Raul Meireles all had good opportunities, they created little or nothing. The home side, conversely, dominated the openings half hour, grabbed a crucial goal soon after, and then defended with the swagger of a side that knew they had a winning lead. Despite the subsequent protestations of their manager, Liverpool lacked confidence, not just in front of goal in the woefully forlorn shape of Torres, but behind him in the nervous passing of Joe Cole and the determination to pass responsibility of Maxi Rodriguez and the woeful Lucas. Only Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher showed the commitment required for one of these games, and only Meireles in addition to that pair provided any sort of consistent desire to perform at the level demanded by the blood and thunder of a derby. Contrast that with Everton, who had heroes throughout their line up. Phil Jagielka and Mikel Arteta performed magnificently, despite both carrying hamstring injuries, Tim Cahill led from the front with his usual fervour and Sylvain Distin and Johnny Heitinga did likewise at the back, and even Yakubu showed real commitment. What Everton had in addition as well was the leadership shown by Phil Neville - a crucial component in their make-up. He provided a calming voice of authority for his side to always rally around, and it was conspicuously absent in the opposition. Gerrard, as always tried, but his frustration with his under-performing team-mates was always bubbling near the surface and likewise Carragher, who displayed the depth of feeling running through this side when he launched into a savage attack on Torres and his unwillingness to run. He had a point. It is all very well being an international superstar, but if you are not prepared to work even in a Merseyside derby, then you are not much use in a red shirt. Too many Liverpool players were a disgrace to that shirt yesterday. For Everton, everyone was ready to work, and that was nowhere more evident when the effervescent Seamus Coleman burst down the right to deliver a cross that found Cahill with the help of a deflection off the struggling Paul Konchesky. The Aussie, with some venom, converted brilliantly on the half volley at the near post. Liverpool did start the second half brightly, but their confidence vanished visibly as the home side added another goal within five frantic minutes, as Arteta slammed home a brilliant 20-yard shot after finding himself unmarked when Kyrgiakos’ headed clearance landed at his feet. From there, Everton were happy to concede possession, such was their comfort in repelling what little the visitors had to offer. They cruised and still created more chances for substitute Jermaine Beckford, and that was as damning as anything in a game which meant so much. Not only was it a derby, but effectively a place in the bottom three and the shame that goes with such a position was also at stake. Everton’s victory showed they had the desire and courage to escape that fate, which Liverpool’s lame display suggested Werner and Henry may have even more of a job on their hands than they reckoned on. Torres did offer a hint of his old self in the final minute when he cleverly created space in the box, but his finish was too close to a keeper as good as Tim Howard, and substitute Ngog was denied by a wonderful Distin saving tackle. But that was it, and it wasn’t enough, no matter what the excuses. Hodgson said afterwards the second half was his side’s best display of the season. The tragic fact is, Arsenal apart, that may be true. The shame is all Liverpool’s.
Moyes delighted with derby victory over Reds
18/10/10 By Mirror Football (The Mirror)
Everton manager David Moyes was delighted with his side's 2-0 win over Liverpool today - but admitted his players had performed better this season and lost. The Toffees have endured a testing start to the campaign and came into the Merseyside derby having won just once but they were too strong for a Liverpool team who remain in the relegation zone. Tim Cahill handed the hosts a first-half lead and Mikel Arteta doubled their advantage with a shot from the edge of the area after the break. The three points will be gratefully received at Goodison Park but Moyes was adamant his team were not at their best. He told Sky Sports: "Their attitude was spot on and they got their reward. "I thought we have played better in the majority of games than we did today but it was a derby and a different kind of game. "Some of our performances (earlier in the season) were good but we did not get the result but today we did enough. "We are getting away from the wrong end of the table. We are a good enough team to be at the top end." Liverpool boss Roy Hodgson was pleased with his players despite another disappointing result. He said: "We fell behind to a deflected block which fell kindly for Cahill so I thought at half-time we were a bit unlucky to be a goal down because we had got back into the game well. "In the second half we did everything the team could possibly do, we played well, created chances, we limited them to very few and put them on the back foot." Star striker Fernando Torres again drew a blank and Hodgson admitted the Spaniard was low on confidence. He added: "I don't think he is physically unfit, I think he showed that today, he did plenty of work and we don't have any injury problems with him. "He got battered during the World Cup and mentally he is probably a bit low and he needs a goal or two to get it back. Certainly today I would have no qualms about his performance." Liverpool's position inside the bottom three with a record of one win in eight games is the standout story in the Barclays Premier League at present but Hodgson is refusing to panic. "I don't think it is a crisis, I thought the way we played today was not the level of a team in the bottom three but six points from eight games is a very poor return," he said. "We need to start winning to climb the table and until we do the word 'crisis' will continue to be bandied around."
Kop new owners rule out groundshare with Everton
18/10/10 By Simon Mullock (The Mirror)
Liverpool's new owners have rejected the chance to share a new stadium with arch rivals Everton. New England Sports Ventures completed a £300million takeover of the club on Friday and met manager Roy Hodgson and his players yesterday. They are looking at the options of pressing ahead with a new £600m stadium at Stanley Park or a £200m refurbishment of Anfield. But building a new stadium in partnership with Everton is not being considered. NESV co-owner Tom warner said: "Groundshare seems to be controversial. From what I have heard it does not look very appealing to most people." He added: "There is an option to redevelop Anfield but we have to explore everything." Ground sharing is a hotly debated issue in the city - especially among the fans. Respected figures like Liverpool's Kenny Dalglish and Everton boss David Moyes have voiced their tentative support for the idea recently and immediately been shot down by unhappy supporters of both clubs. Everton's plan to move into a new 50,000-seater in Kirkby was scuppered last year when the government rejected the proposals. Liverpool have long planned to build a 60,000-seater ground on Stanley Park, near their Anfield home, but work has never started because of a lack of funding.
Everton 2 Liverpool 0
By SHAUN CUSTIS (The Sun) 18/10/10
THE new owners from the world of baseball had fully expected their employees to step up to the plate.
But the men of the Boston Red Sox discovered that those wearing the Liverpool red socks get distinctly cold feet when they go anywhere near a football pitch these days.
Take nothing away from Everton though. They were well worth their victory in this Merseyside derby and deserve huge credit. It wasn't as if they were at full-strength either. Manager David Moyes was down to the bare bones missing players of the calibre of Marouane Fellaini, Steven Pienaar and Jack Rodwell. But this performance showed he has considerable strength in depth, certainly stronger than what Liverpool currently possess. That told with cracking goals from Tim Cahill and Mikel Arteta that sent the Toffees surging up the table from 17th to 11th. Meanwhile, the once mighty Liverpool dropped to a scarcely-believable 19th place, one off the bottom. And how the Goodison faithful milked the occasion as they taunted the visitors with chants of 'Going down, going down' and then twisted the knife at the final whistle with 'Easy, easy'. Liverpool's new owners John W Henry and Tom Werner were sat in the directors' box - and they must have been wondering where exactly they had put that receipt for their £300million purchase. They knew it was never going to be a quick fix to restore the Reds to former glories but have now seen at first hand just what a long job it is likely to be. This is not a team which strikes fear into the heart of any opponent. Indeed, devoid of confidence, they are starting to be seen as a three-point banker. And while manager Roy Hodgson (below) says it would be a sad day for football if he got the sack, it has to be said the Anfield faithful aren't so sure. The beleaguered boss no longer has the excuse of off-field distractions to fall back on. And he should have got a better response from his players with the ownership burden and fears over administration having been lifted. Hodgson actually claimed it was the best his team had played this season - which told you everything about their plight. He accepted, too, that the pressure is mounting and the scrutiny is firmly on him. But this isn't comfortable Fulham where Hodgson could walk out the front door of the stadium, nip round the corner and disappear into anonymity. In Liverpool, it's football, football, football, 24 hours a day, seven days a week and it's little wonder he is 2-1 favourite to be the next Premier League manager sacked. And the Reds are a mere 10-1 to get relegated, their shortest price in Premier League history. No matter how well Everton played, with the hard-working Nigerian striker Yakubu leading the line so well, the afternoon was always going to be about Liverpool. We waited for the likes of Spanish striker Fernando Torres to shake himself from his slumbers but he still looks half asleep. In fact he and club stalwart Jamie Carragher were arguing with each other within the first three minutes. A telling early indication that all was far from well in the Red corner. Liverpool were too easily muscled off the ball in midfield and the way they allowed Everton to get in the cross for the opening goal on 34 minutes was just embarrassing. Three times they had a chance to dispossess the Goodison Park side's impressive young wide man Seamus Coleman. But the 22-year-old Irish defender just kept on going and Paul Konchesky failed to block the cross. As the ball arrived in the box there was Aussie predator Tim Cahill waiting to pounce and he swivelled and crashed his shot beyond the despairing dive of Liverpool keeper Pepe Reina. That goal established Cahill as Everton's highest post-war scorer in Mersey derbies ahead of the legendary Scottish striker Duncan Ferguson. By the 50th minute the home side had doubled their lead. Leighton Baines' corner was headed out by Sotiros Kyrgiakos but only as far as the waiting Arteta. The Spaniard took one quick touch and unleashed a 20-yard screamer which flew past Reina - a real curve ball if ever Mr Henry and Mr Werner had seen one. Liverpool did improve but that was not hard given how poor they had been for the first hour. Joe Cole fired wide and Raul Meireles was denied by Tim Howard. David Ngog should have done better with a Steven Gerrard free-kick but headed off target. And, as the clock ticked down, Torres finally came to life controlling well and getting in a right-foot shot which Howard saved. But Sylvain Distin summed up the never-say-die qualities of Everton. As the ball came into the six-yard box he got in a fantastic tackle to foil Ngog when he looked poised to score. Distin wasn't going to let him go past under any circumstances. It was a lesson for Liverpool in commitment and desire.
LIVERPOOL CRISIS: ROY HODGSON'S RED SUX!
18th October 2010
By Kevin Francis (The Star)
WOEFUL Liverpool crashed to a Mersey derby defeat which leaves them second from bottom of the Premier League – but boss Roy Hodgson said: “That’s the best we’ve played all season.”Goals from Tim Cahill and Mikel Arteta left Liverpool one off the bottom thanks only to a better goal difference than West Ham.Two weeks after a dismal display against Blackpool, Liverpool were just as bad at Everton. Yet Hodgson appeared to be in denial at the size of the problems now facing him and John Henry, the owner of Boston Red Sox who bought Liverpool last week. Henry was in the crowd at Goodison yesterday to see this sorry capitulation to their local rivals.But Hodgson said: “Our performance in the second half was as good as I have seen a Liverpool team play under my management.”Liverpool have now won one of their eight Premier League games with just six points in the bag. But, in the eyes of Hodgson, things aren’t too bad at all. He said: “I thought the team played well. We suffered at the hands of an early onslaught which you invariably get at Goodison Park. “We then more than evened the game up and from what I saw we dominated the second half totally.” He added: “I can’t have any real qualms with my team in terms of the performance they gave. “It was a very good game, but everything revolves around the fact that Liverpool didn’t win it. “It was a stirring effort from my players, especially after conceding the second goal.” Hodgson still believes Liverpool can climb up the table to push for a top-four finish and qualify for Europe next season. He said: “There are 30 games to go and 90 points to play for. It would take a good run of four or five wins. I thought there were signs in the game today that the quality of football was there, but it is going to take those four or five wins on the spin to take us there. “I thought the shape of the team was good in this game and the quality of our passing and movement was good. “We didn’t score and Everton did, but I refuse to accept that we were outplayed or were in any way inferior.” Everton manager David Moyes was delighted with his team’s showing and even said: “It was a good win, but we have played better than that this season.” Asked if he was envious of the money being injected into Liverpool by their new owners, he said: “It is not all about money. “If we all wanted football to be about money, then maybe we wouldn’t enjoy it as much. We’re all manoeuvring to have it available to us. “Am I jealous? Yes. But I wouldn’t swap my chairman for anyone from America or Saudi Arabia or anywhere else.“My chairman is a supporter and he backs his manager. He is behind me and supported me which is really important for any manager.”
EVERTON 2 LIVERPOOL 0: SPLASH CASH OR KOP ARE GOING DOWN
18th October 2010
By Kevin Francis (The Star)
LIVERPOOL’S brave new era got off to the worst possible start as John Henry tasted defeat in his first Merseyside derby. Henry completed his £300m takeover on Friday, promising to transform Liverpool into winners again. But the Reds’ American saviour will need deep pockets and a lot of patience because the current squad proved against their fiercest rivals that they are just not good enough. Only goal difference is now keeping Liverpool off the bottom of the table. Everton fully deserved to take the points with stunning strikes from Tim Cahill and Mikel Arteta in each half. But the biggest surprise of the day was that Everton didn’t win by more. Liverpool were that bad. To rub salt into Henry’s wounds, he heard Everton fans chanting “Going down, going down!” Liverpool are second from bottom with just one victory from their first eight games. Relegation is an unthinkable and unlikely scenario, but it is turning out to be a woeful season for Liverpool. If their fortunes do not alter dramatically in the near future, they run the risk of becoming Premier League also-rans. The first goal came in the 34th minute when run-till-you-drop Cahill took full advantage of a fine cross from Seamus Coleman, firing into the roof of the net. The expected Liverpool fightback after a half-time dressing down from manager Roy Hodgson never materialised. In fact, only five minutes of the second period had gone when Everton went further ahead. They punished the visitors from across Stanley Park after a poor headed clearance from Sotirios Kyrgiakos. The ball went to Arteta and he wasted no time in drilling a right-foot shot past Pepe Reina from just outside the penalty box. And not even the most ardent Liverpool fans could disagree with Everton’s right to be in such a commanding situation. Liverpool simply failed to detect the early signs that Everton, who started the game just one place above the Anfield side, really did mean business. They announced their attacking intentions right from the start with Liverpool immediately finding themselves on the ropes. Inside the first 15 minutes they were breathing a sigh of relief on three occasions when the home team came close to scoring. First Reina punched clear from a dangerous cross with Everton players lining up for a crack. Then Phil Jagielka wasted a glorious opportunity by ballooning a shot over the bar from just 10 yards. Liverpool were still recovering from those two close calls when Sylvain Distin followed in Jagielka’s footsteps by blasting over. Everton’s domination of the early part of the game was so complete that 23 minutes had gone before Liverpool mounted their first real attack. A fine left-wing cross from Joe Cole found Fernando Torres and his flicked header was punched over the bar by keeper Tim Howard. But such raids were few and far between in a game where Everton delighted their fans with some fine open play. After Everton’s second, Liverpool did at least show a little bit of attacking flair, but they are nothing like the team they used to be. Torres still looks out of touch. It showed in one move when Maxi Rodriguez set him up for a shot, but he fired the ball high over the bar. The old Torres would surely have moved in for the kill. Instead, he simply walked back shaking his head. Liverpool came closest to scoring in the 85th minute when Steven Gerrard fired low from outside the area. But Howard somehow managed to dive well to his right and turn the ball around a post for a rare Everton let-off. In injury-time, Everton substitute Jermaine Beckford almost made it three with a rising long-range shot which went just over the bar. The effort came minutes before the end of yet another game that Liverpool will want to forget quickly.
ROY HODGSON- WAS THAT REALLY YOUR BEST?
Monday October 18,2010
By Paul Joyce
ROY HODGSON left himself exposed to a backlash last night after claiming Liverpool’s damaging 2-0 derby defeat by Everton was his side’s best performance of the season. A beleaguered Hodgson said: “I refuse to accept we were in any way outplayed and were in any way inferior. “But I fear that after such a good game, everything revolves around the fact Liverpool did not win.” New owner John W Henry was in the directors’ box at Goodison Park following the £300million takeover by New England Sports Ventures. But a momentous week ended with the club coming back down to earth with an almighty bump as Everton deservedly triumphed following goals from Tim Cahill and Mikel Arteta. Liverpool have won just once in eight Premier League games this season. Hodgson has now equalled the worst league start of any Anfield manager since George Patterson in 1928. Liverpool are kept off the foot of the table only by goal difference. “The way we played was as good as I have seen us play all season,” said Hodgson. “I cannot have any real qualms in terms of that because that’s as good as we have performed under my management. “This would have been the ideal opportunity to turn things around on the back of the positive entry of the new owners. Getting a good result here would have been utopia. “Of course the result is very bad but, frankly, I refuse to accept it was a bad team performance.” NESV owner Henry, who meets a fans’ group today, has said Hodgson will be given time to arrest the slump and NESV chairman Tom Werner reiterated the message. “He needs to be given time and he will be,” said Werner. “No one can be pleased with our start, but the club needs to gel. Stability is important to any team. One prescription for disaster is to lurch to the left then to the right.”Everton pulled clear of the relegation zone with a first derby win in the League since 2006 and manager David Moyes said: “In the past we have probably lacked the quality to match Liverpool. I don’t think we do now. We have real quality players here who could play for many of the big clubs. “Seamus Coleman goes down the right for the first goal and he cost us £60,000. It isn’t all about money. “I wouldn’t swap my chairman [Bill Kenwright] for anyone from America or Saudi Arabia because he is a supporter, he backs his manager and he is behind me. That is really important.”
EVERTON LEAVE LIVERPOOL SINGING THE BLUES
Fernando Torres looked disappointed with the result
Monday October 18,2010 (The Express)
By Paul Joyce
Everton 2 Liverpool 0
THEY bellowed “you’ve bought the wrong club” at the visiting delegation in the directors’ box – breaking off only to taunt their rivals with chants of “easy, easy.”
But it was not just in the stands that Everton were on song. John W Henry’s introduction to Scouse wit saw him on the receiving end yesterday, and Roy Hodgson would be wise to recognise that Liverpool’s new owner is not someone who will take kindly to being made the butt of the joke. Confirmation that there are still two clubs on Merseyside was emphatic, as Everton seized bragging rights from the 183rd league derby to draw clear of the relegation zone – and leave their neighbours marooned in the thick of it. When the ditty “going down, going down” was belted out from an exultant Gwladys Street, the Liverpool fans packed at the other end of Goodison Park retaliated with “so are we”. If only Hodgson’s team could have been as quick-witted, Everton would not have been relishing a first League victory over their rivals in four years through goals from Tim Cahill and Mikel Arteta. “You can see that the smile is not off my face,” said David Moyes afterwards. And understandably so. There had been murmurs of discontent against the manager after Everton’s previous game here ended in defeat against Newcastle. This was vindication for not only his methods, but his ability to keep asking a set of players who have grown up with him to give more. When Moyes was an aspiring manager obtaining his coaching badges, he went to visit Hodgson during his time in charge of Udinese. Days spent observing him on the training pitch ended with Moyes being taken out for a meal. Once again here, Hodgson was left to pick up the bill. Everton refused to allow Liverpool time to breathe initially and the only surprise was that it took 35 minutes for their superiority to be rewarded. Seamus Coleman, a £60,000 purchase from Sligo Rovers 18 months ago, who turned 20 at the start of the week, pushed his way beyond Raul Meireles and then surged past Lucas and Paul Konchesky. The cross sat up perfectly for Cahill, who lashed home from close range to become Everton’s highest scorer in post-war derby matches with five goals. A second goal came soon after the break. Leighton Baines’ corner was cleared by Sotorios Kyrgiakos, but only as far as Arteta. His touch on the edge of the area was exquisite and the finish sublime, the ball battered beyond his old pal Pepe Reina before the goalkeeper could properly react. At this point Everton effectively declared, retreating and inviting Liverpool to go in search of the goal that might have made a game of it. Hodgson was right to point out that his side spent much of the second half camped in their opponents’ half, but rarely did they look like doing anything with the possession they had despite his insistence on arguing to the contrary. Liverpool’s landmark win this week came in the High Court, but Hodgson’s rose-tinted view of a game in which he maintained his players did well, suggests he is in denial. If he was simply attempting to protect his players, it seems they need protecting from each other. The tone was set inside two minutes, just as it was the last time the teams collided at Anfield in February. On that occasion, Jamie Carragher went through the back of Steven Pienaar as he sought to assert his authority. Yesterday, he castigated team-mate Fernando Torres for not moving into space to receive a pass. The icy retort of Spaniard Torres was to pull his finger to his lips and tell his team-mate to shut up. For all that Torres continues to look a shadow of his former self, he still conjured Liverpool’s two best moments and is hardly receiving much service. But what of Joe Cole, who was virtually anonymous and eventually hauled off, or Meireles? Hodgson has not won any of his last 22 away games and for someone whose forte is supposed to be organising his teams, that says much. Liverpool’s squad undoubtedly lacks depth, but a team containing the ever-willing Steven Gerrard, and Torres, should still be better than this. At the final whistle a triumphant Moyes turned to the directors’ box and gave Everton owner Bill Kenwright, his biggest fan, the thumbs up. For the time being, Liverpool’s supremo will resist giving Hodgson the thumbs down.
But John W Henry’s patience will not be limitless.
Everton (4-4-1-1): Howard 7; Neville 7, Jagielka 8, Distin 8, Baines 7; Coleman 7, Heitinga 6 (Hibbert 72, 5), Arteta 8 (Beckford 74, 5), Osman 6 (Bilyaletdinov 46, 6); Cahill 7; Yakubu 8. Booked: Cahill, Beckford. Goals: Cahill 34, Arteta 50.
Liverpool (4-2-3-1): Reina 6; Carragher 5, Krygiakos 5, Skrtel 5, Konchesky 5; Lucas 5 (Ngog 71, 5), Meireles 5; Rodriguez 5 (Jovanovic 84), Gerrard 6, Cole 5 (Babel 79, 5): Torres 5. Booked: Rodriguez, Meireles, Torres.
Referee: H Webb (S Yorkshire).everton 2
liverpool 0
Everton's Mikel Arteta seals Liverpool defeat in Merseyside derby
Kevin McCarra at Goodison Park
The Guardian, Monday 18 October 2010
Tom Jenkins for the Guardian Everton are everything that Liverpool must now become. John W Henry, owner of the visitors, surely arrived at this match eager to learn more about the Anfield club he now owns, but the reward was a thorough understanding of its inadequacies. While that may serve him well in the long term, Henry must also have admired the efficiency of the soundly constructed winners. David Moyes has been engaged in this project for eight years and his employers must be amazed as they are grateful that he has not been lured away to a club of heftier means. Were it not for the uproar and animosity that would well up in the city, he might be seen as the ideal man for Liverpool to recruit. For the time being, Roy Hodgson still holds the post, but he is unlikely to have either the length of tenure or the endorsement from the owner that Moyes can count upon from his chairman, Bill Kenwright. That trust has been earned. Everton are a mere three points in front of Liverpool, who now lie second bottom of the Premier League, but few doubt that Moyes can lead the side back to a respectable place in the table.
The proof of his acumen is seen everywhere. While Liverpool may be crestfallen that the Bosman signing Joe Cole has been vapid as he illustrates why Chelsea preferred not to hand him a lavish new contract, Everton had a true bargain here. The mere presence of Seamus Coleman ought to have seemed laughably inappropriate considering that he is a 22-year-old taken from Sligo Rovers for a piffling £60,000 at the start of 2009. He came to England as a right-back, but Moyes is now turning him into a midfielder. The rationale behind that decision was painfully clear to Hodgson's team at the opener. Coleman tore past Paul Konchesky on the right and saw his cut-back converted by Tim Cahill at the near post in the 35th minute. The scorer had thus taken his career total against Liverpool to five, a haul unmatched by an Everton player in Merseyside derbies since the days of Dixie Dean, who joined the club 85 years ago. Despite Cahill's endeavours, the comparatively small budget at Moyes's disposal can be felt in the lack of a devastating finisher who would ensure a far greater reward for the overall work of the side. Everton did prey on the muddled nature of Liverpool's play when extending the lead in the 51st minute. A Leighton Baines corner was headed out by Sotirios Kyrgiakos, but the centre-half had not angled the ball towards the wing and it dropped for Mikel Arteta. The Spaniard reacted to the windfall by shooting beautifully beyond José Reina. Liverpool did not lack spirit and that, in its own way, was disturbing since it underlines the fact that the ejection of the previous owners, George Gillett and Tom Hicks, was an essential yet still modest start in the re-establishment of the club. At 2-0 down, there was finally a sense of urgency to Liverpool and Everton had to look to men such as Phil Jagielka to marshal the defence. The centre-back, unavailable for England's goalless draw with Montenegro last Tuesday, looked entirely free of the hamstring trouble that had been affecting him. With Jagielka around, the likelihood increased that Fernando Torres would be stifled once again. In this context, the Spaniard might almost be commended since he saw Tim Howard tip his header over the bar in the first half and drew a save from the goalkeeper when Liverpool flickered into life for a spell when their fate was already sealed. Individualism is still the affliction of the Anfield line-up. With men such as Xabi Alonso and Javier Mascherano gone, there is less cohesion and focus to the play. Recognising that, a player such as Steven Gerrard can scarcely resist the temptation to attempt putting matters to rights single-handedly. He could do that in his mid-20s but it was an approach even then that spoke of the frailties in others who could not combine with him. Gerrard impressed lately while deputising for Rio Ferdinand as England captain, but it must have been revitalising to link with team-mates who are of a similar calibre. Hodgson cannot create such a context for him at Anfield. His acumen should be beyond dispute after taking Fulham to a Europa League final a mere five months ago, via Craven Cottage nights such as a 4-1 drubbing of Juventus. All the same, his burden is heavier nowadays and Liverpool, Champions League winners five years ago, will not see him as a charismatic leader. Hodgson spoke highly of his side's efforts here. That may have been an act of defiance intended to fend off discussion of the real state of affairs, but the trip to Naples for Thursday's Europa League fixture ensures that Liverpool's suffering and Henry's possible remedies will stay under constant discussion.
Everton show Liverpool's owner John W Henry what he could have bought
The blue half of Merseyside demonstrate the benefits of stability on and off the field by beating the red half at Goodison
Richard Williams at Anfield
The Guardian, Monday 18th October 2010
So the optimism of Saturday night and this morning proved no more substantial than the dawn mist on the Mersey. By tea-time today all the talk of a new stability, of complete confidence in the manager, of money to spend in the January transfer window, had faded into transparency, leaving Liverpool's continuing problems in plain sight. The club may be under new ownership but they are in real trouble on the pitch, the sort that will take more than just a change of ownership to eradicate. "Tom Hicks and George Gillett were about leverage," Tom Werner, John W Henry's partner in New England Sports Ventures, said on the radio a few hours before the match. "We are about winning." In fairness he was speaking about the long term. But as Roy Hodgson said tonight, a Merseyside derby would have been the perfect time for the winning to start. Despite the manager's protestations that his players had produced their best performance of the season so far, and that only one of them – Fernando Torres, of course – was suffering from a lack of confidence, Liverpool never looked like overcoming Everton today. No one could accuse them of a lack of effort but their inability to turn desire into effective action appeared entirely unaffected by the departure of the detested Hicks and Gillett and the arrival of an apparently more acceptable set of Americans. After watching their new acquisitions hammered into submission, however, Henry and Werner may have found themselves wondering if they had bought the club at the wrong end of Stanley Park. Everton, victors in a Merseyside derby in the league for the first time since 2006, used Liverpool as a springboard, shooting up seven places to 11th in the Premier League table with a display that shoved their neighbours down to 19th, saved from holding up the table only by West Ham United's inferior goal difference. Hodgson spoke afterwards of the dangers of placing too much emphasis on the potential effect of activity in the January transfer window, and of the pressing need to string four or five wins together before the arrival of reinforcements. But it is hard to see where those wins are coming from after a match in which a tactically incoherent Liverpool, despite riding a wave of the emotions of the past few days, failed to overcome a team lacking Steven Pienaar, Marouane Fellaini, Jack Rodwell and Louis Saha, and with Mikel Arteta and Phil Jagielka selected despite incomplete recoveries from hamstring strains. Everton's fine performance, a judicious blend of skill and aggression, emphasised the value of committing to long-term stability and tailoring ambitions to means. They were a credit to themselves and to their manager, David Moyes, who makes no secret of his envy of the greater resources enjoyed by bigger clubs such as Liverpool but is never reluctant to acknowledge the support of a chairman who is, first and foremost, a lifelong fan of the club. By contrast Liverpool are venturing once more into the realms of external ownership, in which an unreasonable degree of faith is inevitably invested in the newcomers. All Liverpool's staff and supporters have to cling to is the knowledge of what NESV achieved with the Boston Red Sox. Based on that example, one can envisage Henry and his associates disappointing Liverpool's local authority by abandoning the plans for a brand new stadium and choosing instead to refurbish Anfield, as they did with Fenway Park, making up for the lack of increased revenues through significant increases in seat prices. The first World Series win in 86 years sweetened the pill for Bostonians and perhaps a successful return to the Champions League would mute the complaints of economically challenged Koppites. That will not happen, however, as long as Hodgson is forced to shield the impeccable José Reina – a more than worthy successor to Tommy Lawrence and Ray Clemence – with a defence that shames the memory of Ron Yeats, Chris Lawler, Tommy Smith, Phil Neal and Alan Hansen. While Jagielka and Sylvain Distin were subduing Fernando Torres – not the most demanding of tasks, given the disappearance of every trace of coltish spring from the Spanish striker's stride – up at the other end Sotirios Kyrgiakos and Martin Skrtel were being led a harrowing dance by Yakubu Ayegbeni, who scattered them time and again like an armoured car sent into battle against spear-throwers. Of course Hodgson needs and deserves more time, and in the meantime he can be expected to take the pressure off his players by shamelessly exaggerating the quality of their performances. Few managers in his position would not do the same. But although local derbies are notoriously poor indicators of underlying form, today's match suggested that Liverpool are indeed in unknown territory, with few familiar landmarks to help them grope their way to safety.
Ian Snodin: Everton FC's Merseyside derby hero Tim Cahill is a perfect nuisance
Oct 19 2010 Liverpool Echo
I WAS in the Goodison Park lounges when Tim Cahill came in to collect his thoroughly deserved man of the match awards on Sunday – and you could see the enjoyment he got from the victory written all over his face. He is Everton’s man for occasions like these and I wasn’t surprised to hear Phil Neville likening him to Duncan Ferguson. Tim’s goal has taken him one ahead of Big Dunc’s derby record and only a couple behind my old team-mate Graeme Sharp. And the similarities with both don’t just end with scoring goals in derby matches. Both Dunc and Sharpie were really annoying to play against – they really upset opponents – and Tim Cahill is exactly the same. On Sunday I saw Jamie Carragher, Steven Gerrard and Martin Skrtel all having a go at Tim. He responded with his usual arms outstretched look of innocence. Then he went on to torment them some more. The sign of a great player is the ability to consistently upset opponents – and deliver – and Tim does both.
He has been a magnificent signing for the Blues.
No need to rub Reds’ noses in it
SOME Blues fans were a little disappointed with the way Everton sat back after the second goal on Sunday. There was a belief that this was a real opportunity to rub Liverpool’s noses in it and record a scoreline which would be sung and talked about for years. I didn’t see it that way.
Every team, especially one trailing 2-0, will get hold of the ball for 20 minutes and make you work for your win. That happened but during Liverpool’s period of possession we defended well, restricted them to shots from distance and looked dangerous on the counter. Liverpool knocked the ball about well without ever looking dangerous and that suited us down to the ground. I honestly wasn’t bothered about rubbing Liverpool’s noses in it. We were in a precarious position before kick-off, just like our neighbours, and the result was always the most important thing.
I said beforehand I’d have taken a 1-0 win with a goal off somebody’s backside, a scrambled effort from six inches or an own goal. I just wanted the points.
In the end we got them by playing some good football, by scoring two good goals and without ever having to rely on Tim Howard to do anything too special.
That suited me down to the ground. I’m delighted with a 2-0 win. Rubbing the Reds’ noses in it can wait until next time!
Sylvain lining for Everton
SYLVAIN DISTIN’S dominant derby display wasn’t a one-off.
The big Frenchman attracted headlines for the errors he made against Manchester United – and rightly so – but overall he’s had a very good season. If you look back on earlier columns this season you will see that I thought Distin’s performances in the first two or three games this season were excellent. He was back to that level of performance again on Sunday. Torres may not be firing on all cylinders, but he’s a class striker and Distin policed him magnificently.
Ian Snodin: In-form Everton FC striker Yakubu just needs a goal now
Oct 19 2010 Liverpool Echo
TIM CAHILL and Mikel Arteta scored the goals, Phil Jagielka and Sylvain Distin earned the post-match plaudits and Seamus Coleman and Leighton Baines caught the eye – but for me the tone of Sunday’s derby win was set in the opening seconds by a man who hasn’t had much praise for his performance yet. I thought Yakubu’s decision to chase down and challenge Sotirios Kyrgiakos straight from the first whistle acted as an encouragement to all his team-mates. You could imagine the other players thinking ‘If Yak’s up for it we can all give it a real go.’ He was always looking up, always demanding the ball and always willing to chase down defenders – and that attitude was infectious. I hope he gets some confidence from his display and realises that, on that performance, he really is different class. He gave Sotirios Kyrgiakos and Martin Skrtel a really uncomfortable afternoon and it was great to see Yak on the pitch at the final whistle still chasing down defenders. It’s quite apt that the Blues go to White Hart Lane this weekend. Spurs’ ground was, of course, the place where Yak’s whole career came grinding to a halt when he sustained that dreadful Achilles injury almost two years ago.He’d just scored against Middlesbrough and looked like setting off on another of those scoring spells he has enjoyed throughout his Blues career.
Then he was forced onto the sidelines with an injury which can take an awful long time to completely overcome. Things will come full circle if Yak can build on Sunday’s performance and grab the goal his work-rate earned. We’re still waiting to see that familiar goal celebration this season – and it would be great to witness it at White Hart Lane. As for Sunday’s victory, if I’m being really honest I was always confident that we were capable of getting the right result. True, I thought we would miss Marouane Fellaini, Steven Pienaar and Louis Saha, but the way we’ve been playing in the last few matches – coupled with the way Liverpool have been performing – left me with a real confidence. We just had to start well, and the manner we went about the task in the first half – led by players like Yakubu – was fantastic.
The confidence boost that victory will give the lads should be significant and hopefully we can now start making serious inroads back up the Premier League table once again.
Phil Neville hails Everton FC boss David Moyes’ Mersey derby masterstroke in picking Yakubu
Oct 19 2010 by David Prentice, Liverpool Echo
EVERTON’S derby colossus Yakubu scaled the peaks not once, but twice last week.
The Blues’ Nigerian striker produced a towering display in Sunday’s derby match, just days after his mountain climbing technique also raised spirits in the Blues camp.
David Moyes took his non- international players away to the Lake District in the build up to derby week for a spot of team bonding. And skipper Phil Neville admitted – after initial scepticism – that the decision proved inspired. “I wanted to go to Dubai, Mikel Arteta wanted to go to Spain, but he took us to the Lake District,” smiled Neville. “He took us walking up a mountain and he took us bike-riding.
“We went from thinking ‘Oh, it’s The Lakes’ on Monday morning, to Tuesday night on the way back, thinking ‘what an absolutely great trip we’ve just been on.’
“You know, to see Yakubu climbing a mountain in the Lake District, and enjoying it too, was just a genius bit of management. “I can honestly say the sight of Yakubu walking up a mountain is a memory that will live with me a long time.”Yakubu’s towering performance in Sunday’s derby will also endure. Neville added that his admiration for his manager is growing all the time. “He is impressive,” he added. “Every day you learn something from him. “He’s a little bit different in some of the things he does.” Moyes, however, shrugged off the significance of the Cumbrian break. “It’s difficult when you’ve got players on international duty, but I booked it before the game at Birmingham so if we hadn’t got that result I might have been throwing a few of them off the mountain!,” he joked. “Or they might have been throwing me off! “It’s a difficult period and you have to do things. “We didn’t do anything special – just a bit of mountain climbing and biking. “Don’t get me wrong. It’s not mountain climbing that’s got us winning! “We’ve got some really good technical players here who’ve improved the team and the club.”
Everton FC captain Phil Neville hails Tim Cahill’s ‘braveheart’ spirit
Oct 19 2010 by David Prentice, Liverpool Echo
EVERTON’S derby hero Tim Cahill has been labelled Goodison’s very own Braveheart. Cahill’s goal in Sunday’s derby was his fifth against the old enemy – edging him ahead of Duncan Ferguson who specialised in tormenting Liverpool.
And skipper Phil Neville believes the two have more than just a good derby scoring record in common. “He leads from the front and he’s that special to us.
“I think we must never take him for granted. “I look back at great players who’ve played for this club and Duncan Ferguson is one that stands out for me and he’s right up there with him now. “He’s our talisman and he’s the one who flies back from Australia and gets out onto the training field and plays in the derby. The only surprise is that he played it in with his foot and not his head. I think that is his first goal with his foot for Everton for a long time.” Cahill did score with his foot against Wolves earlier this season, but his strike on Sunday means Cahill now has Everton legend Graeme Sharp’s post-war seven goal derby record in his sights (four in league derbies). The decisive strike was also his 60th goal for Everton in his 216th appearanc
Another player to earn his skipper’s praise was young Irishman Seamus Coleman. The youngster was making only his third Premier League start and his swashbuckling run carved open the Liverpool defence for Cahill’s strike. “He’s a brilliant lad, he’s an absolute warrior,” said Neville. “If you ask him to run through a brick wall, he’d run through it and run back through it again as well. “It was his first derby game and I said to him ‘just run at them’, because he’s unstoppable. “He’s a right-back playing right midfield and it goes to show the manager has been brave enough to put a young player in. “He’s just gone out there and produced it on the biggest occasion.”
Everton goalscorer Mikel Arteta, meanwhile, has revealed he was only a last minute selection for the match after pulling his hamstring in training on Saturday.
“I felt some pain in my hamstring in training and there was a doubt over whether I could play,” he explained. “I felt it again in the second half and I had to come off. We’ll have to look at it. “We have another tough game in London at Spurs. We need to get the players back fit because at the moment we have a few injuries – Osman, Heitinga, Fellaini, Pienaar and obviously myself have concerns.” Arteta admitted he was delighted to score his first derby goal. “I was delighted with the strike. I was desperate to score a derby goal and find out how it would feel,” he said. “The reaction of the fans was amazing, so to score and to win the game made it even better. “I was just delighted when I saw the ball hit the back of the net. “The ball was coming quite high so I knew the players would be coming at me. “So I tried to get an early touch and get it away from my feet as soon as possible. Pepe (Reina) was struggling to see the ball because there were so many players in front of him. We’d been talking at half-time about needing the second goal and scoring it made things a lot more difficult for Liverpool.”
ACADEMY FOOTBALL: Conor McAlney seals points for Everton under-18s in thrilling 4-3 win over Manchester United
Oct 19 2010 by Chris Wright, Liverpool Daily Post
CONOR McALENY’S second-half goal ultimately gave Everton under-18s the points in a thrilling 4-3 victory over Manchester United at Finch Farm on Saturday.
Neil Dewsnip’s side bounced back from their defeat to Manchester City in excellent fashion in the FA Premier Academy League. A double from Danny Murphy, a Luke Garbutt penalty and McAleny fine effort secured the victory.
Everton were 1-0 down after 15 minutes with the goal being given despite Dewsnip’s youngsters appealing for a four on Murphy in the build-up. Murphy went down the other end five minutes later to head home the equaliser from Garbutt‘s cross.
Garbutt put Everton head on the half-hour mark, firing home from the penalty spot after Femi Orenuga had been fouled. McAleny saw his shot bounce back off the post as they tried to increase the lead. But soon after the break they were left to curse their misfortune when United drew level again from the spot after Garbutt had been penalised for a foul. Garbutt was involved in much of the action and from his corner Murphy headed in his second to put Everton back in the lead. McAleny then scored a superb goal following more good work by Garbutt. McAleny was again denied by the woodwork when he hit the post. United reduced the arrears five minutes from time, but Everton held on for a deserved victory. Dewsnip said: “It certainly was a thriller. There was possibly a foul in the build up to their first goal, and the penalty just hit Luke to we feel we were the worthy winners.” Everton travel to Crewe Alexandra this Saturday (kick-off 11am). Everton are second in Group C just a point behind leaders Bolton Wanderers. EVERTON UNDER-18s: Davies, Barrow, Murphy, Hammar, Garbutt, Orenuga, Kinsella, Lundstram, Dobie, Forrester (Donegan 70), McAleny. Subs: Roberts, Browning.
Mark Lawrenson: Improving Everton are now the pride of Merseyside
Oct 19 2010 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
SO, it is official. Everton are now the leading team on Merseyside.
I’d said before the derby that, looking through the respective squads, it seemed as though David Moyes has the better personnel available. And having watched Everton cruise to victory on Sunday, the result, and performacne of both teams, merely underlines that view. Liverpool may have been utterly woeful, but take nothing away from Everton. Moyes’s side thoroughly deserved the win, and it was partly their efforts that made their neighbours loko so poor. Everton were the better team on the day, they had the better individual performance, they understood it was a derby and what was at stake, they played the game at the pace they decided and ultimately dictated and basically swamped Liverpool. If you picked a Merseyside team right now, the majority of players will come from Everton. And that’s not on form, that’s on overall ability. There’s maybe four, most definitely three Liverpool players, but the rest are from Goodison. Just look at Seamus Coleman. He cost about 60 grand. Yes, money is a great thing to have but it’s just as much about spotting talent and seeing how it can work in a team, and that’s down to the manager. Both Merseyside teams are much better than they are showing, but it’s clear Everton have got a great chance of finishing higher than Liverpool this season. After a poor start, they are finding form. Seven points from nine and three clean sheets mean they can look up rather than down the table once again. Moyes managed to get Yakubu like a spring chicken on Sunday. He has looked lame, in a polite way, until now, but against Liverpool he was really up for it. The ball stuck to him, and it allowed Tim Cahill to fetch possession off him and build attacks. You’d have Yakubu in your team ahead of Torres on this form. Once ahead, Everton got their tactics spot on. As soon as Liverpool started knocking it sideways, Everton sat back and let them have it until Torres or Gerrard had the ball, and then they were surrounded. It was so easy to play against Liverpool. But Everton made it that way.
Everton FC hero Mikel Arteta praises gameplan for derby success
Oct 19 2010 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
DELIGHTED Mikel Arteta has revealed the gameplan that earned derby glory – and believes Everton can now begin their season in earnest. David Moyes’s side are still basking in the afterglow of Sunday’s comprehensive 2-0 home dismantling of neighbours Liverpool in the 214th Merseyside derby. The win, sealed by Arteta’s first-ever goal in the fixture, was Everton’s second in succession and continued their revival following a poor start to the campaign that saw them slump to the bottom.
And the Spanish schemer has told how the Goodison outfit looked to capitalise on Liverpool’s brittle confidence by attacking them from the off, a policy which earned a first Premier League derby win in more than four years. “The manager said before the game that we had to start with an unbelievable attitude and mentality and right from the first kick everyone was at it, creating chances, putting in tackles and going forward,” said Arteta. “We gave them problems, and that set the tempo and really dictated what was going to happen in the game. “Everything went to plan. The crowd picked up on that, we gave them something and they paid us back. We deserved to win. “We hadn’t won at home until this game, so we knew how important it was to, in a way, start the season at home. “I said during the week that we’d never get a better chance to put everything right than this one game (against Liverpool) and we’ve taken that chanceThe clean sheet means Everton have kept three shut-outs in a row and have moved up to the relative safety of 11th place in the Premier League table.
And Arteta added: “Our target now is to keep on winning. We have three clean sheets in a row, and when you keep clean sheets then you have a chance of winning.
“We’ve cut the mistakes out and stopped conceding silly goals, and we are now getting our reward.” Although Liverpool, who are now next-to-bottom in the table, were a distant second best, Arteta dismissed suggestions that it was a straightforward triumph for Everton. “I don’t know if it was easy,” said the midfielder. “It’s never going to be easy, although if you’re 3-0 or 4-0 up then it’s a bit different. But at 1-0 or 2-0 against Liverpool, who have players who can change the game in an instant, you are always on your guard. “Liverpool did much better in the second half. But in the first half we were clearly the better team. “We had three or four players struggling to stay on the field such as myself, Johnny and Ossie. It was hard, we were falling down all over the place! “But for me it was a team performance. Everybody showed what it means to play for this football club and even with kicks, knocks and problems, we stayed out there and that shows a lot. It showed how much we wanted it. “I’ve been here a long time. In fact, when I look back I can’t believe I have been here for nearly six years. But beating Liverpool was one of the great days during my time here.
“We’ve all been talking about how important this season is for the club, and it’s no different for me. It is still going to be important.” Arteta almost missed the game with a hamstring problem and departed 16 minutes from time on Sunday with the same problem. Following a bruising derby encounter, the Spaniard is one of several players who will undergo treatment ahead of Saturday’s trip to Tottenham Hotspur.
Moyes: We've closed the quality gap with Reds
Oct 19 2010 The Mirror
Everton manager David Moyes believes his side have closed the quality gap with neighbours Liverpool despite being at a financial disadvantage. The Reds, who have just been taken over in a £300million deal by New England Sports Ventures, have consistently spent more than their rivals from across Stanley Park.
That has usually seen the Anfield side finish higher in the league but yesterday's derby victory lifted the Toffees into mid-table, with their opponents dropping to an unfamiliar 19th. Moyes admits, despite their recent troubles, Liverpool are in a false position but believes his club are edging closer to matching their rivals in terms of on-pitch quality. "The derby win is only three points but the big thing for us is that we've not been able to beat Liverpool very often in our time here," he said. "I would hope a level-headed football supporter with any common sense would recognise the reasons for that. "But it isn't all about money. If we all wanted football to be about money then we wouldn't enjoy it as much because not everyone is going to be able to have it.
"Am I jealous about it? Yes, because I'd like to be a top team but I wouldn't swap my chairman for anyone from America or Saudi Arabia. "My chairman is a supporter. He backs his manager and he is behind me - which is really important for any manager at any club. "I don't make excuses but I definitely think our squad has got closer to Liverpool's squad. We have got our good players and can compete with Liverpool."
Moyes pointed to the example of 22-year-old Seamus Coleman, a defender who was pressed into action on the right of midfield and set up the opening goal for Tim Cahill.
"We are playing a right-back wide right because we haven't got anyone else in that position," he added. "He's come in and done a brilliant job and it will be great for the boy's development. "There is a lot talked about at the moment about what people spend and we paid 60 grand for that boy from Ireland." Moyes offered some support to Reds counterpart Roy Hodgson, with whom he has a good friendship which stretches back to when the Scot spent some time observing the 63-year-old's coaching at Udinese in 2001. "I think Liverpool are in a false position. They have two or three top players and have international players in every position and they have got a really good manager," he said. "I think as a manager coming into a new club it takes a little bit of time but there are big expectations at Liverpool because over the years they have spent a lot of cash. "At Everton we have not and people understand it is going to be more difficult for Everton (to achieve success) than Liverpool. "I've been here long enough to warrant a couple of dodgy spells and you have to look a bit further to see what Roy has achieved."
DAVID MOYES WINS OUT IN THE BLAME GAME
David Moyes is vindicated by Wayne Rooney's fall out with Sir Alex Ferguson
Tuesday October 19,2010 The Express
By Paul Joyce
VINDICATION for David Moyes came twofold.
On Merseyside there was a first league win in four years over Liverpool to cherish and the sound of his name reverberating around Goodison where three weeks before, following a home defeat by Newcastle, it had been mud. Across the M62 in Manchester, Wayne Rooney’s decision to start proceedings on what promises to be an acrimonious divorce from Manchester United also succeeded in casting Moyes in a favourable light. Everton boss Moyes is not the sort to revel in the fall-out between Rooney and Sir Alex Ferguson, but he would not be human if he did not view the explosive episode at Old Trafford with a sense of exoneration. When Rooney tearfully pleaded with his boyhood club to let him move to United for £27million in August 2004, the mumbled insinuation was that Moyes could not handle English football’s brightest star. Perceived wisdom had it that Rooney would be better off under Ferguson’s remit and he would flourish accordingly under one of British football’s best-ever managers. It was an unfair stain on Moyes’ reputation and one which the fascinating events that are unravelling at United prove can now be wiped clear. Rooney is Rooney and, encouraged by his entourage, will always do what he wants to do. His relationship with Everton appeared to first sour in late November 2003 when, on a scheduled day off, he flew to Madrid to honour one of his many burgeoning commercial commitments by taking part in a Coca-Cola film shoot. Moyes reluctantly sanctioned the trip, but voiced concerns that a rest day should be just that and questioned what effect the jaunt would have on Rooney’s performance against Bolton later that week. Everton duly lost 2-0 and Rooney was replaced by Francis Jeffers after 54 minutes. Rooney had appeared to jar his ankle in the first half, but sprinted to the touchline when the fourth official held aloft a luminous No18, his shirt number at the time, as if to let everyone know he was fit and proceeded to sit glumly on the substitutes’ bench. Sound familiar? Nine months later he left, though the frostiness remained. Moyes later sued Rooney for libel following accusations in the player’s autobiography that he leaked confidential conversations with Rooney. The irony now is that from afar Moyes would appear to enjoy a better relationship with Rooney than Ferguson or, indeed, England boss Fabio Capello. Out of the blue last year, Rooney rang Moyes to apologise for the contents of his book, Wayne Rooney – My Story So Far. And Everton skipper Phil Neville said of his manager: “He just keeps coming back. That is the sign of a top manager. He’s so impressive.” There remains the notion that one day Rooney will return to the club that set him on the road to stardom. But now is not the time, despite his impending availability and Moyes’ need for striking reinforcements.
Everton Reserves suffer defeat against Sunderland
Oct 20 2010 by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Echo
EVERTON Reserves lost 1-0 against Sunderland at the Halton Stadium last night.
Jordan Cook’s first-half goal was enough to give the Wearsiders victory.
Everton started brightly with Magaye Gueye involved in much of their good work. After 12 minutes he went close to giving Everton the lead but sliced his effort.
Sunderland had their first chance of the match when Robbie Weir was denied by Everton keeper Iain Turner, who was equal to his long-range effort. But soon after they took the lead when Cook headed in David Healy's left-wing cross.
Everton’s best chance of the first half came five minutes before the break when James Wallace was denied by Scottish international keeper Craig Gordon after Jose Baxter had put him in on goal. Hope Akpan headed straight at Gordon with 20 minutes left. As Everton chased an equaliser Turner saved from Adam Reed to give them hope. But in the end Sunderland held out. EVERTON RESERVES: Turner, Browning, Bidwell, Wallace (Kinsella 73) , Duffy, Mustafi, Craig (McAleny 68) , Akpan, Baxter, Forshaw (Agard 45), Gueye. Subs: Davies, GarbuttTurner, Browning, Bidwell, Wallace (Kinsella 73) , Duffy, Mustafi, Craig (McAleny 68) , Akpan, Baxter, Forshaw (Agard 45), Gueye. Subs: Davies, Garbutt
Ex-EFC striker Wayne Rooney blasted by jilted Man United manager Alex Ferguson
Oct 20 2010 by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Echo
SHELL-SHOCKED Sir Alex Ferguson has accused Wayne Rooney of failing to respect Manchester United. Exactly a week after Rooney blew his relationship with Ferguson wide open, the United boss has responded in the most damning manner.
In a monologue that lasted exactly six minutes and 33 seconds at the end of a press conference to preview today’s Champions League encounter with Bursaspor, and an interview with MUTV that had been conducted approximately half an hour earlier, which took the Rooney camp completely by surprise, Ferguson confirmed the 24-year-old had asked to leave Old Trafford but declared “the door was still open” for him to stay. A sarcastic conclusion would be that the door is only open because Ferguson smashed it shut so hard it bounced off its hinges. Ferguson will have put every major European club on red alert, including Manchester City, who have more cash than anyone and know just how audacious a move for Rooney would be. Everton are also going to be interested observers considering they stand to pocket 25% of any transfer fee United receive, above the £27million sum they initially spent to buy the player in 2004. Ferguson is not the type to open his heart. Yet that is how it seemed as he tried to draw conclusions from the complete U-turn Rooney’s career path has taken since he announced last spring his intention to remain with United for life. The Scot’s assessment did not make pretty reading for a player who celebrates his 25th birthday on Saturday and whose private life is mired in controversy amid lurid allegations that came to light in September. “I was in the office on August 14 and (chief executive) David (Gill) phoned me,” outlined Ferguson. “He had got a phone call from his agent saying that he (Rooney) wasn’t signing a contract. “I couldn’t believe it. I just was dumbfounded. I could not understand it because only months before he was saying he was at the greatest club in the world and he wanted to stay for life. “We just don’t know what’s changed the boy’s mind. “The next step was going to be important, decisive for us. “I then asked to have a meeting with the boy and he reiterated what his agent had said - he wanted to go. “The one thing I said was ‘Just remember one thing: respect this club. I don’t want any nonsense from you. Respect the club’. “I don’t know if he’s done that. I have got doubts on that because we’re reading things about falling out with me and all that nonsense. It’s disappointing because we have done everything we possibly can to help Wayne Rooney from the minute he’s come to the club.” It is quite extraordinary such news remained secret until Sunday.
Also somewhat surprising is the fact United did not try to cash in before the transfer window closed on August 31 given Rooney now only has 20 months on his present deal left to run.
On days such as this though, Ferguson stands on his own on centre stage and, without mentioning him by name, criticising the influence of Rooney’s long-time adviser Paul Stretford.
“With the modern-day players it is not as easy as it was many years ago,” he said.
“Then the player would trust and depend on the manager. You also had more contact with parents.
“But that has gone now. It is dealing with agents who live in the pockets of players. It’s a pity.”
It is from that position Ferguson is insisting the door is still open.
The chances of Rooney walking through it, even before he was amazingly stretchered off United’s Carrington training ground with an ankle injury – the injury that started the whole explosion a week ago – appear slim, with a January exit rated most likely.
But an offer remains, if not a contract. Discussions never actually got that far.
“We realise and recognise the quality of the player, that’s why the negotiations were starting early summer – two years before his contract was up – to extend that contract,” said Ferguson. “So we were honouring that request from Wayne to stay at the club he loved. “David was prepared, following discussions with our owners to offer Wayne the best contract any player could have. Now there is no offer on the table because they are not prepared to listen to one.” Neither was Rooney prepared to accept Ferguson’s claim that an ankle injury had ruled him out of recent games against Valencia and Sunderland, even though his manager now admits it was partly a device aimed at saving the player from professional humiliation. “He was injured,” said the United boss. “Why he came out and said what he did (in the mixed zone at Wembley), you can only guess yourself. “You have times when you know that a player’s form is a little bit down that you say he has an injury simply because you are protecting him.
“You don’t want to humiliate him because you respect him. “In this case I felt that we would give him a complete break to get rid of all traces of the ankle injury, play for England, hoping we’d get his form back. “That was the intention.”
Everton FC's Tim Howard: We are happy to play through injury for David Moyes
Oct 20 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
PICTURE THE scene, it’s Saturday night in the Moyes family home.
The Everton boss has just learned the news that, in addition to Steven Pienaar, Louis Saha and Jack Rodwell, he now has a major injury doubt over his star playmaker ahead of the following day’s Merseyside derby. Moyes may be mellowing to some degree, but it would be reasonable to imagine him finding it hard to enjoy a relaxed Saturday evening in front of the TV after such a late setback. The Blues squad had trained on Saturday, after a positive week involving a morale-boosting mountain climb in the Lake District, but this was all the Scot needed. Back to the drawing board? How to plan an over-due derby league victory without the artistry of Mikel Arteta. Fortunately the Spaniard pushed himself through the pain barrier to pass a fitness test the following morning. Just. The rest is Merseyside derby history, as Arteta scored the Toffees’ second goal, and the Blues left their rivals lurking near the foot of the table. Arteta’s resilience is, according to team-mate Tim Howard, a quality sparked by a desire to never let down their manager. “We know how it is to play for this club. You have to give a lot of credit to the manager. David Moyes puts a lot of responsibility on his players. He puts a lot of positive belief in them. “He expects so much of you, you don’t want to disappoint him. When you are carrying a knock, you are willing to go out and put your body on the line, because you feel like such a big player to him. “You will maybe play with injuries. You’ve got to be smart but nobody is ever 100%. Playing in a match like the derby is vitally important, and as players at this club that toughness is a trademark.” Another Moyes trademark is defensives solidity, a quality returning in the nick of time, with Howard & Co recording three consecutive clean sheets. “We’ve been limiting opportunities but it’s not just about your goalkeeper pulling off worldies week after week,” says Howard. “At this level strikers are too darned good. It takes a collective effort, and you’ve seen that with limited chances, guys making blocks, and the boys playing strongly. “It’s always that regularity that helps. I remember from my time at Manchester United, the team changed every now and then but there was a regularity about the back four. “I had the same defenders in front of me. I realised how important that was. A couple of seasons ago I had Joleon, and I had Jagielka. They played every game with me, and the same has been true for Sylvain and Jagielka and they’re forming a fantastic partnership.
“It takes time, it’s not just talking. it’s understanding body language, the ins and outs of each other’s game. “I’ve always said that, without discrediting anyone else, if I had to pick a team, Jags would be the first name on my team sheet because he’s so selfless, gets things done and he’s been a rock.” Howard insists that the quality of personnel in the dressing room at present mean there are no longer excuses for poor form.
“We’re no dummies. We look at each other and see the quality. World Cup players, internationals, guys who are expected to perform. There are no excuses,” he says.
“We don’t have a tiny squad anymore and we have quality in abundance.”
The American, who was in typically inspired form against Liverpool, believes Tim Cahill’s first goal has only cemented his growing legend-status among fans.
“I don’t know when you start to call people a legend. But look at Tim,” he says.
“I’ve been here five years, and he’s been here six or seven and it’s getting to that realm. “People will remember his name; for the passion he plays with, the goals he scores, the importance of his goals, his commitment to play through injuries.
“He’s a cult hero. People love him and his celebrations - everything that goes into making him who he is. I don’t think Phil’s (Neville) wrong when he says Tim can be a legend. He can be remembered for the same reasons as Graeme Sharp. “It’s huge that he stays injury free. But he’s a guy you feel that when you look around the pitch and he’s standing next to you, you can feel more confidence and bravado than when he’s not. For that alone, it’s important.” Howard has his own sights set on achieving a lasting legacy at Everton. “This is a place I don’t want to leave,” he says. “I know football is a business and the club can get sick of you, or vice versa. “But I know this is a place, in my heart, I want to stay. I look at Neville Southall, and by God I don’t think I have enough in my engine to catch him, but he has a standard you can’t help admire. “He’s a goalkeeper and did it for the club he, and I, love. It’s hard to focus on milestones, it’s just going to work every day and enjoying it. As long as I’m doing that, and I am, I can’t see it stopping.” Such is the renewed positivity around Everton’s Finch Farm training ground, Howard will not rule out yet a challenge for top four in the league - or an FA Cup stab at glory. “We were so close to it a couple of seasons ago with the cup final. Every player is judged that way, and I feel a little bit more good pressure at Everton,” he says. “I’ve been here long enough to feel I’m a small piece of the fabric. You have to strive to win things, to continually be in Europe, to aim for the Champions League. They are top priorities. “Top four still has to be an ambition for a club like ours. For whatever reason it brings out conversations where you say that to be recognised you have to aim for it. “So we have to set our sights there, we want to be in fourth. But we need to edge closer first until come April we can really crack on and have a go at it.”
Tim Howard urges Everton FC to bring Landon Donovan back to Goodison Park
Oct 20 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
TIM HOWARD has welcomed the prospect of Landon Donovan returning to Everton – after the star admitted he would find another January loan hard to resist. The Toffees goalkeeper believes a return to Goodison for his international team-mate would definitely benefit the ambitions of David Moyes’ side. USA skipper Donovan has publicly admitted he could return to Merseyside, but must first decide if his energy levels are high enough after a World Cup campaign and a long domestic season in the MLS. Howard, Everton’s player of the month, said: “It was one of those weird situations where it seemed to work for everyone, which is not always the case with business and football. “The manager got a fantastic player, the fans loved him, he played well, and MLS and Galaxy didn’t lose a whole lot. “It was off season and he got a chance to play at a high level. I don’t see why it can’t happen again this year. We enjoyed it and so did he.” Donovan’s club, LA Galaxy, continue to be reluctant to consider permanent offers for their star player’s services, but have hinted he could be allowed to depart on loan again in November. The 28-year-old said: “It would be hard to say no. I really hope that, if it’s not this year, I get to go back there and play again.
“But if you asked me now I would lean towards a little more uncertainty. It’s hard for me to say as I’ve had a really long year. But we’ll see after a few week’s rest and we’ll see how it goes.” The forward scored twice in 10 games during his short stay in the Premier League last season, and still holds Everton in high regard. But he says a lack of rest during the Major League Soccer close season is the reason for his hesitation.
“Last time when David Moyes called I was extremely excited about it and I just have to make sure that I get the appropriate rest,” he said. “When I was there I felt loved and accepted and I think they appreciate the way I play.” Meanwhile, Everton stand to make a profit if Wayne Rooney leaves Manchester United in January. The Blues are entitled to a 25% share in excess of the £24million they received in 2004 of any transfer fee United get for the 24-year-old.
Landon Donovan wants to return to Everton FC
Oct 20 2010 by James Pearce, Liverpool Daily Post
LANDON DONOVAN has opened the door for a return to Goodison Park on loan in January by admitting it would be difficult to turn down Everton.
The USA international enjoyed a successful three-month spell with the club last season and manager David Moyes has made no secret of the fact he would love to have him back. Donovan is currently focused on leading LA Galaxy to Major League Soccer glory but admits another stint across the Atlantic appeals to him. “It would be hard to say no to Everton,” Donovan said. “The last time David Moyes called I was extremely excited about it. “When I was there I felt loved and accepted. It was so nice to be there and I think they appreciate the way I play. “It’s been nice through Facebook and Twitter to keep in contact and talk to people. I’ve always been amazed at the respect I’ve had from Everton fans. “I really hope that if it’s not this time then I get the chance to go back and play there again in the future.”Galaxy have just one more regular season match to play against FC Dallas on Sunday and must win to secure home advantage in the play-offs.
After a gruelling campaign 28-year-old Donovan, who scored two goals in 13 appearances for Everton last season, is desperate to put his feet up before contemplating his next move. “At this point it’s hard for me to say what I want to do because I’ve had a really long year,” he added. “I’m tired to be candid and after the play-offs I need some down time to rest and see where my head and body are at.
“If you ask me today I’d lean towards uncertainty but we’ll see after I’ve had a few weeks rest. “I just have to ensure I get the appropriate rest. The last thing you want to do is go somewhere when you are not 100%. You would not only be failing the club but also failing yourself as well.” After impressing at Goodison from January to March, Donovan went on to be USA’s star of the World Cup with his three goals leading them to the last 16 in South Africa. Meanwhile, goalkeeper Tim Howard has been named Everton’s player of the month for September.
Everton FC’s Bellefield training ground planning bid to be approved
Oct 20 2010 by David Bartlett, Liverpool Daily Post
EVERTON FC’s second bid to build luxury homes on its former Bellefield training ground looks likely to finally be approved. In 2008, the council blocked the club’s plans to build homes on the site after around 220 residents complained.
Last year, a planning inspector then quashed the club’s appeal. But now, after changes in planning policies, the club’s latest attempt to build 74 homes on the site off Sandforth Road, in West Derby, is being recommended for approval by council officials. Once more the plans have attracted criticism from local residents.
The council has received 138 letters of objection, voicing the same concerns as those mentioned when the first planning application was under discussion. They are mainly concerned about increased traffic, extra pressure on local schools, doctors and dentists, and the loss of open space. When the club’s appeal against the original rejection was thrown out, a planning inspector said the project would harm the city’s Housing Market Renewal Initiative (HMRI). The HMRI strategy sets out priority areas for new homes and Bellefield does not fall within it. The inspector said there was nothing to suggest the plans would have a detrimental effect on the living conditions of residents by virtue of the increased traffic movements. Since the last planning application, the Regional Spatial Strategy, which sets the terms for the Housing Supplementary Planning Document (SPD), has been ripped up.
This effectively paves the way for the scheme to be given approval.
A report to councillors states: “On balance, the development control manager considers that the proposed housing on this site, at this time would not undermine the existing HMRI proposals and would help to address the need for larger, higher value homes. “Given the unique nature of the redevelopment and of the proposed regeneration benefits, the development control manager does not consider allowing housing development on this site would set any precedent to justify further redevelopment outside the HMRI area at this time.” The city’s planning committee will discuss the plans on Tuesday, October 26. Head of communications at Everton, Ian Ross, said: “We have always believed that high quality housing is the future for the site, and nothing has changed our view down the years.” In 2007, Everton moved to its new training ground at Finch Farm, in Halewood, freeing up the 8.9-acre Bellefield site for housing. If planning permission is approved for the scheme, to be built by Bellway Homes, it will unlock up to £10m for the club. When the plans were first mooted, the club hoped the proceeds of sale of the site would have helped fund Everton’s proposed stadium in Kirkby, which eventually collapsed when the government rejected the plan. The money will now ploughed back into the club and its community charity, The Everton Foundation.
Everton Reserves 0 Sunderland Reserves 1: Everton lose to Jordan Cook strike
Oct 20 2010 Liverpool Daily Post
EVERTON Reserves lost 1-0 defeat against Sunderland at the Halton Stadium last night. Jordan Cook’s first-half goal was enough to give the Wearsiders victory in a game of few chances. Everton started brightly with Magaye Gueye involved in much of their good work. After 12 minutes he went close to giving Everton the lead but sliced his effort. Sunderland had their first chance of the match when Robbie Weir was denied by Everton keeper Iain Turner, who was equal to his long-range effort. But soon after they took the lead when Cook headed in David Healy's left-wing cross.
Everton's best chance of the first half came with five minutes before the break when James Wallace was denied by Scottish international keeper Craig Gordon tafter Jose Baxter had put him in on goal. Kieran Agard continued on the road to recovery following a knee injury when he came on as a second-half substitute. The London-born striker saw a curling effort just over the bar on 55 minutes. Hope Akpan headed straight at Gordon with 20 minutes left and Baxter was off target with another shot.
As Everton chased an equaliser Turner saved from Adam Reed to give them hope.
But in the end Sunderland held out. EVERTON RESERVES: Turner, Browning, Bidwell, Wallace (Kinsella 73) , Duffy, Mustafi, Craig (McAleny 68) , Akpan, Baxter, Forshaw (Agard 45), Gueye. Subs: Wallace. Subs: Davies, Garbutt
Reserves Cook up first win of the season
20 October 2010 The Shield Gazette
SUNDERLAND Reserves got their first win of the season at their sixth attempt last night, with a fine 1-0 away win at Everton. The teams played at Widnes's Stobart Stadium, and it was striker Jordan Cook who scored the only goal of the game, heading home from a David Healy cross in the first half. Healy did not complete the game – the Northern Ireland international limping off five minutes from time – but Scotland goalkeeper Craig Gordon gained another 90 minutes' match practice as he continues his comeback from a broken arm, and kept a clean sheet. He dealt confidently with Everton's two best chances, saving from James Wallace just before half-time after Jose Baxter had put him through on goal, and then stopping a header from Hope Apkan 20 minutes from the end. The result delighted reserves team coach Keith Bertschin, who believes the victory will inject confidence into his youthful side.
"They played well," he said. "We had a few players out of position and a very young team with the exception of Craig and David, both of whom did very well. "We were a bit disappointed with the last game, so this is a confidence booster for the players.
"A result like this will do them the power of good. "We passed the ball well, kept it and upped the tempo when we had to. "The goal was a great bit of play. It was a good performance and, most importantly, it will give the lads a bit of belief in themselves."
Sunderland: Gordon, Weir, Reed, Adams, Madden, Bagnall, Cook, N Wilson, Healy (Knott 85), L Noble, Luscombe. Subs not used: Lynch, Dixon, Lamb, Mitchell.
Everton: Turner, Browning, Bidwell, Wallace (Kinsella 73) , Duffy, Mustafi, Craig (McAleny 68) , Akpan, Baxter, Forshaw (Agard 45), Gueye. Subs not used: Davies, Garbutt
Reserves off the mark at last
Sunderland Echo
Published on Wed Oct 20
SUNDERLAND Reserves secured their first win of the season at their sixth attempt last night, with a fine 1-0 victory at Everton.Striker Jordan Cook pounced for the only goal of the game at Widnes’s Stobart Stadium, heading home David Healy’s cross in the first half. Healy did not complete the game – the Northern Ireland international limping off five minutes from time – but Scotland goalkeeper Craig Gordon gained another 90 minutes’ match practice as he continues his comeback from a broken arm, and kept a clean sheet.
He dealt confidently with Everton’s two best chances, saving from James Wallace just before half-time after Jose Baxter had put him through on goal and then stopping a header from Hope Apkan 20 minutes from the end.
The result delighted reserve coach Keith Bertschin, who believes the victory will inject confidence into his youthful side. “They played well,” he said. “We had a few players out of position and a very young team, with the exception of Craig and David, both of whom did very well. “We were a bit disappointed with the last game so this is a confidence booster for the players. “A result like this will do them the power of good. We passed the ball well, kept it and upped the tempo when we had to. “The goal was a great bit of play. It was a good performance and most importantly it will give the lads a bit of belief in themselves.”
EVERTON RESERVES: Turner, Browning, Bidwell, Wallace (Kinsella 73) , Duffy, Mustafi, Craig (McAleny 68), Akpan, Baxter, Forshaw (Agard 45), Gueye. Subs not used: Davies, Garbutt
SUNDERLAND RESERVES: Gordon, Weir, Reed, Adams, Madden, Bagnall, Cook, N Wilson, Healy (Knott 85), L Noble, Luscombe. Subs not used: Lynch, Dixon, Lamb, Mitchell
Everton FC Ladies look to progress in Champions League
Oct 21 2010 Liverpool Echo EVERTON ladies boss Mo Marley has set herself extra homework to ensure the Blues reach the Champions League quarter finals.
The Toffees take on Danish side Brondby in the last-16, and travel to Denmark for their first meeting on Wednesday November 3. Marley, who guided her side to FA Cup glory last season, is aware of Brondby’s tradition of success and knows she must compile an in-depth dossier on the Scandinavians to get a result. She said: “Brondby are a team with great tradition, and they’re a side who are quite experienced in this competition as well and they’ve got international players. “We know a little bit about them in that respect, but now it’s about finding out what we’re up against, doing our research as we always do. Focusing on what our strengths are and making sure that we are in top shape and feeling positive about the game itself. “Every new team we play and every new environment we play in you analyse it, and we’ll approach it the way we did in the final 32. We’ll go there knowing what we want out of the away leg.”
The away leg, which kicks off at 5.30pm, will take place at the 29,000-capacity Brøndby Stadium, a short distance from Copenhagen. Marley’s side will then welcome the Danes to the Halton Stadium in Widnes for the home tie on Thursday November 11 for a 7pm kick-off. Everton advanced to the final 16 of the competition after thrashing Budapest side MTK Hungaria 7-1 at the Halton Stadium in Widnes last week, having been held to a goalless draw in the first leg in Hungary. The Blues has surpassed their previous achievements in the Women’s Champions League, reaching this stage of the competition for the first time in their history. Brondby -a highly experienced side when it comes to European competition - were knocked out at the last 16 last season to eventual winners Turbine Potsdam of Germany. In the current campaign the Danes’ form has echoed Everton, and they have sailed through the qualifying stage finishing top of their group in the mini-tournament back in August.
However, Brondby only just secured a meeting with the Blues in the last 16 after drawing 2-2 over two legs with Poland’s RTP Unia Racibórz in the round of 32 - advancing only on their away goal advantage. Striker Toni Duggan, who netted a brace in last week’s rout over MTK Hungaria, says their solid performance on home soil has helped develop a positive mindset ahead of facing such strong opposition.
“We’re really glad to get through to the last 16,” Duggan said. “Everyone played their part against MTK and in the second leg it was a good team performance. “Brondby are a good team, but any team who gets to the last 16 of the Champions League will be tough. But I’m confident we’ve got a good enough team for the girls to really dig in and get something out of the game.”
Everton FC fans letters: Sunday was probably the easiest Merseyside derby ever
Oct 21 2010 by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Echo
A FAMOUS derby victory by the Blues in a pulsating game with Distin and Jagielka both colossal at the back. Equally, Cahill and Yakubu were industrious and influential, which they need to sustain to help us ebb away from the bottom three.
Yes, it was another clean sheet, Coleman again resplendent at times, but fundamentally and discernible was the team ethic which earned us our victory on Sunday. Liverpool improved from their paralysis after the break and with a bit more of a cutting edge, could have scored a couple of goals themselves.
We must continue this form and stay totally focused and not get carried away with this victory. In terms of points we are still perilously close to the relegation zone and play Spurs next who are playing exceptionally well. I couldn't agree more with Dave Prentice's accurate succinct dissertation regarding Duncan Ferguson as an “injury prone, jailbird.” To me he was the epitome of a dilettante, who should never have played for Everton. Why Everton fans idolised him is inexplicable.
David, Aintree
LET’S hope we kick-on after Sunday’s derby triumph. After all, it is still only three points separating us from the drop zone. However the signs are there we can do it. It would be nice if we could get one of our strikers actually scoring goals though.
Bileyperm OUR first league derby win since September 2006 was achieved without key personnel like Steven Pienaar, Louis Saha, Marouane Fellaini and Jack Rodwell.
In a way this helped Everton, mad as it seems. David Moyes always seems to do better when his hands are tied with his squad. I don't know why, but at the start of this season when he had a full quota, he struggled. Either way, it was a great performance on Sunday. Maytal SUNDAY was probably the easiest derby win I have seen.
I just hope they get relegated now. It couldn't happen to a better club.
BlueNose81
REGARDING the possible re-signing of Landon Donovan, with Tim Cahill possibly away for the Asia Cup in January, and foreseeing any more injuries, The Don would make a great addition to our midfield. Shortbus THE Don on loan is fine.
We don’t want to be signing any player over the age of 27 – unlike the other lot over the Park who are all joining the over-30s club. Remember a certain Walter Smith turned us into relegation fodder doing that! Franki1 NOW it looks like all the speculation is true and Wayne Rooney is leaving Manchester United, what about the idea of Rooney returning to Everton? I know deep down ALL Evertonians would want him back. OK he left under a cloud but he also left as a young boy; now he is an adult, he’s won his medals, he’s got all the money in the bank he could wish for.
What about his statement recently that he still is an Evertonian? Now let him prove itŠ ONCE A BLUE ALWAYS A BLUE. Jim Roche, Croxteth Park
Everton FC jury: Blues fans reflect on a satisfying Mersey derby win
Oct 21 2010 by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Echo
Everton FC juror Lee Molton: Evertonians have still got smiles on their faces after Sunday’s derby triumph
EVERTONIANS woke up this morning still with huge smiles on their faces!
It’s great winning a derby and leaving your neighbours in the bottom two!
The performance was terrific and full of passion from the first minute to the last.
Cahill and Arteta were great in midfield and the defensive duo of Jaglieka and Distin were outstanding. They kept their attack very quiet. The Yak was full of power and strength with one of his best games in a Royal Blue shirt. He needs a goal! The crowd were terrific too, Goodison was rocking. The win now sees us sitting nicely in mid-table and we will go to Spurs full of confidence. We need to take the game to them and there is no reason why we can’t keep our winning run going to make us climb the table even further. We are still smiling and feeling proud of our team!
Everton FC juror David Wallbank: It’s a shame we didn’t embarrass Liverpool FC even more at Goodison Park
CONGRATULATIONS must go to Liverpool after escaping Goodison Park on Sunday only being beaten 2-0. It’s a shame we didn’t totally embarrass our neighbours with a more impressive scoreline. You got the impression it was our day when the Yak was chasing people down and flying in with tackles. God help any Premier League defence if they face the Yak in this mood. Cahill probably has been taken for granted at Everton, but he has never taken our club for granted. Tim just doesn’t stop working, and usually ends up in the right place at the right time. Rumours suggest that a certain USA player wants to continue his love affair with the Toffees. Fingers crossed this comes true. It will be important to have numbers in the squad, and Landon’s quality will be a massive boost.
Everton FC juror Richard Knights: Sunday’s derby saw an outbreak of Houllier-Benitez Syndrome at Goodison Park
“EASY, EASY, EASY...”
It was alarming to witness a serious outbreak of ‘Houllier-Benitez Syndrome’ last Sunday. The symptoms of this terminal affliction were there for all to see, 37,000 spectators in Goodison Park and millions watching the match on TV. Yet one man insisted that it was a “good performance”. Mr Hodgson, lock your self in a darkened room and re-watch the game on a continuous loop. The decline of a great club?
Rather than producing whiny videos with the usual OTT celebrities competing for exaggerated analogies, fans should be wondering why American money was accepted in the first place, with no questions asked. Just repeat 'Anfield traditions' – here's the keys to the Shankly Gates. So greetings from our “small club”. Revenge is a dish best served cold.
Everton FC juror Debbie Smaje: Derby was Tim Cahill’s big day
AT long last, after five derby goals, Tim Cahill has his own iconic derby.
Despite his great personal haul against Liverpool, our team’s record has been poor in that time. Sunday was Cahill’s day. Probably his best performance in a long time, he just summed up what has made him so valuable to this club for the last six years. The hard work, the strength, never giving the Liverpool defence a second, he is a priceless talisman for Everton, and Sunday will be one of the first days Everton fans recall when they remember his years at the club. Looking ahead, we have a shocking record in post-derby games, and Spurs are a tough enough trip at the best of times. We could be catching them at a bad time following what will have been a draining trip to Inter Milan last night, but keep up Sunday’s level of performance, and we can’t fail to keep going upwards.
Everton FC’s Seamus Coleman praises Blackpool boss Ian Holloway
Oct 21 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
SEAMUS COLEMAN believes eccentric Blackpool boss Ian Holloway helped give him the confidence to take his game to another level at Everton this season.
The Republic of Ireland defender was one of the Blues star men during last Sunday’s conv-incing 2-0 win over derby rivals Liver-pool, and Cole-man has been tipped for a bright future at Goodison Park. The former Sligo Rovers right-back, who was on loan at Bloomfield Road last season and played a big part in getting Blackpool promoted to the top flight, has steadily built on his promise so far this campaign. Holloway was keen to keep Coleman, 22, for another loan deal but David Moyes was adamant he wanted him back, and has had no cause to regret his decision after the Irishman solved his right-sided dilemma. Moyes has also been full of praise for the youngster, who received his first call-up to the Republic of Ireland senior squad for their recent Euro 2012 qualifier against Russia earlier this month. But Coleman, who signed a new four-year contract this summer, believes Holloway deserves credit for the way he has developed.He said: “Ian Holloway has really helped me and my career. I learned a lot from him – he’s a good motivator – and I have to thank him for giving me an opportunity to play. “I got the experience thanks to him and am now looking forward to kicking on from here.” Coleman, who only cost Everton £60,000 when he made the switch from Irish football to the Premier league two seasons ago, scored his first goal for the Blues in their ill-fated Carling Cup third round tie against Brentford last month. Meanwhile Everton academy prospect Hallam Hope continued his hot streak for England Under-17s with a goal to earn the Three Lions a 1-1 draw away in Georgia. England’s second Euro qualifier finished all square as the hosts came from a goal down to level matters in Tbilisi. Hope fired the Young Lions into the lead on nine minutes, with his third goal in two games, but Bachana Arabuli equalised for the hosts on 63 minutes. Both sides are now locked on four points after two matches though a point for England against Poland on Saturday would be enough to see them through to the Elite Qualifying Round.
Everton FC defender Sylvain Distin insists refusal to hide and shirk responsibility key to return to form
Oct 21 2010 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
SYLVAIN DISTIN believes a refusal to hide and shirk responsibility has been the key to both his and Everton’s revival in form. The French defender produced and outstanding defensive display to shackle Fernando Torres in the 2-0 derby victory over Liverpool on Sunday. It was Everton’s third successive clean sheet and second straight victory to move them away from the relegation zone after a poor start to the season that saw them slip to bottom less than a month ago. Distin himself came in for criticism after a difficult afternoon during the 3-3 draw with Manchester United last month in which he was guilty of some uncharacteristic mistakes. But the 32-year-old bounced back from that display with an approach that has been echoed throughout David Moyes’s team. “The thing in football is that it is really easy to hide,” said Distin. “If you don’t want the ball players can hide and put themselves in a position where they will be marked. “But at the end, when they have finished the game I think they know – maybe no-one will see it in the stadium – but they will definitely know in themselves, and that is the most important thing. “They will feel that they’ve let down their team and let down themselves. “In football, you have to be there and ride out the mistakes.“After the Manchester United game earlier this season I was thinking a bit about my performance because I made one or two mistakes and was punished for it.
“But you see week in, week out top defenders making mistakes. “That is football; everybody makes mistakes. “The most important thing is how you are going to react in the next game and make sure you don’t have two bad games in a row.” Distin believes Everton’s change in fortune has been coming given solid performances earlier in the campaign were not met with the reward they deserved. “I think we have played well, created a lot of chances, we have defended well, even against Manchester United when we conceded three, it was more down to individual errors and mistakes,” added the Everton centre-back. “We haven’t struggled against anyone and the opposition haven’t been on top of us. We have played well. “Now in our last three games we have kept clean sheets. “Things are going to turn our way now, I think.
“I am sure it is going to carry on now.” Mikel Arteta, John Heitinga and Leon Osman are all receiving ongoing treatment for the injuries that they sustained during Sunday’s bruising derby victory and face a race against time to be available for this weekend’s trip to Tottenham Hotspur.
Blue Watch: Why the latest derby must be named after Jamie Carragher
Oct 21 2010 Liverpool Daily Post
ALL the most remarkable derby games are named after someone. There’s the Andy King derby, the Graham Sharp derby, the Danny Cadamerteri and Andy Johnson derbies and, to lend some balance, there are also the clashes remembered for the contributions of Clive Thomas, Graham Poll, Glenn Keeley and Gary McAllister too.
So who do we name the latest after, considering it was billed as the most significant in 30 years? Tim Cahill is the obvious choice, because of the opening goal and his all-round performance that more or less encapsulated all that is good about the Australian and his contribution to the David Moyes era at Everton. However, Cahill makes a habit of scoring against Liverpool, and so it might be somewhat deceiving to dedicate this one match to him. There were plenty of other good performances from the boys in blue, with Seamus Coleman, Mikel Arteta, Sylvain Distin and Yakubu Ayegbeni in particular taking the fight to the worst Liverpool team to visit Goodison since, well, last season when Rafael Benitez’s team were actually outclassed even worse.
Seriously, if Roy Hodgson, whose pinched face and trembling hands make him look more like Dot Cotton with every passing interview, wants to watch a genuine derby travesty he should take a look at that encounter.Sticking with the Reds, it’s from amongst their ranks that the derby’s name should come, because if anyone summed up the disparity between the two sides on the day it had to be Jamie Carragher.
Watching him take the occasional break from screaming at the referee and his teammates to lurch down the wing like a shopping trolley being pushed into a canal was one of the most wonderful sights in derby history. And the fact that Liverpool have just given him a new two-year deal is as big an indicator of the trouble they are in than anything that the latest speculator John Henry and his syndicate will have discovered when going through the books. Given Everton’s propensity for self-destruction we are all loathe to jump to too many conclusions, but this game did have that watershed feeling about it. Something changed in the dynamic between the two clubs – we saw there was nothing to fear from just another badly run football club with a very ordinary team, and this time we dealt with them accordingly. Contemptuously, almost. And for that reason the Carragher derby will always hold such great memories
Howard Kendall: Wayne Rooney will leave Manchester for a fresh start - not to win trophies
Oct 22 2010 by Howard Kendall, Liverpool Echo
LIKE everyone else in football I’ve been glued to the coverage of the ongoing Wayne Rooney saga. My first thought was that it must be very hard for Sir Alex Ferguson to swallow. There is a pride about Manchester United that will have him, and fans bridling at the suggestion they can no longer match Rooney’s ambitions.
Alex is a manager with a great reputation for nurturing young talents like Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes, so this fall out will perplex him. But I don’t think Rooney wants out to win trophies elsewhere. I believe he wants a clean break in his private life, and a break from the British national press. I expect him to go abroad.
Howard Kendall: Everton FC defender Seamus Coleman can follow example of Gareth Bale
Oct 22 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
WHISPER it quietly but this could be a good time to play Spurs.
Harry Redknapp’s side did well in the second half to grab back three goals and give themselves more than a fighting chance of progressing through their group in the Champions League. It was a tough game in the San Siro against Inter though, and returning to Premier League action against a rested Everton side won’t be ideal for them. David Moyes will be very aware of the threat which Gareth Bale brings, and don't be surprised if he asks his side to double up on him. The Everton manager will want Seamus Coleman to use all his own pace to keep Bale pegged back a bit, and then to cover for Phil Neville or Tony Hibbert at right back. Like Bale, Coleman has that joyous lack of fear which lets him run at opponents so directly and at pace, which led to him creating that opening goal for Tim Cahill in the derby. It will be a big game for the young Irishman. So many players just want to keep it safe these days and play it backwards rather than risking giving the ball away. It’s so refreshing to watch lads like Bale and Coleman who are throwbacks to a more cavalier era. I hope neither ever has their exuberance coached out of them.
Howard Kendall: Only one Liverpool FC player would get into the Everton FC team
Oct 22 2010 by Howard Kendall, Liverpool Echo BEFORE the derby I stated my belief that only two Liverpool players would get into the Everton team. Phil Thompson wasn’t happy, and he gave me a right grilling on Soccer Saturday, insisting that at least five of Roy Hodgson’s side would be good enough to get into the Blues starting line-up. Well, in hindsight, I have to hold my hands up and admit I got it wrong. I’d only take ONE Liverpool player, Steven Gerrard. The rest were woeful.
On form in the derby you’d have to say Yakubu would be worth his place ahead of Fernando Torres. I thought the Yak was a revelation. He was everywhere. Pushing defenders out of the way, and holding the ball up superbly so he could bring other blue shirts into the attack. Even when he found himself isolated, he didn’t lose the ball which was a big plus. Obviously when David Moyes had his team running up mountains in the Lake District, it worked wonders for them.Sometimes a change of scene helps players. I used to take my lads to Southport and have a walk along the sea-front, then some lunch. Derbies are normally 100mph affairs, but there was only one team playing at that speed on Sunday. Everyone in a blue shirt was closing down, in stark contrast to the opposition. I have to disagree with Roy that his team played well. Sometimes you say things to protect your team. but you can’t kid the fans. They are knowledgeable and passionate enough to deserve better than that. I think it would have been wiser for Roy to hold his hands up, and to let everyone know he thought it was unacceptable. For Moyes it’s all smiles - three nice clean sheets.
Angus Loughran: Many Liverpudlians agreed Everton deserved to win the Derby
Oct 22 2010 Liverpool Echo
I would imagine the blue half of the city are still smiling after last week’s convincing derby victory. To be fair many Liverpudlians I know agreed Everton thoroughly deserved their win. I also know that Fred had to pay out a fair few quid on Cahill first goal (best priced with Betfred) and the scorecast of Cahill 2-0, which was 66/1.
Looking at this weekend I think Everton at 5/2 are a great price to win at Tottenham, considering Spurs had a tough game at Inter on Wednesday when down to 10 men for most of the game. Couple this with the confidence that must be brimming within the Everton squad, I have to favour the away win. I was very surprised to hear Roy Hodgson’s post match views of the derby, I know it’s riled many reds who just want to hold their hands up, take the ‘stick’ and move on. Hodgson’s position has been questioned in the betting world this week with plenty of money coming for Frank Rijkaard to be the next Liverpool manager, I guess time will tell.With Blackburn next up at Anfield it could be tricky, while Liverpool should win they just aren’t performing, so at odds on I couldn’t be putting them in my coupon. From a betting prospective the value may lie with no goalscorer at 15/2. Blackburn drew 0-0 on Monday and would probably take a draw while Liverpool are lacking a cutting edge, so it may be worth a bet. Looking at the other games, Stoke (7/2) may well be worth a bet against Man United in the Rooney saga aftermath. As for Rooney and where he may be going, all the money has been for City where he is 11/8 to end up serving his trade next. You can get 100/1 for him to go to either Liverpool or Everton, somehow I can’t see either happening!
Spurs v Everton: Same old story as Toffees fight back from false start
By Ben Pearce
Friday, 22 October, 2010 Tottenham, Wood Green & Edmonton Journal
Everton’s season is following last season’s pattern, with a false start being followed by a quick recovery - but will that continue against Tottenham at White Hart Lane this Saturday? To send a link to this page to a friend, simply enter their email address below. The message will include the name and email address you gave us when you signed up. Email address Send link To send a link to this page to a friend, you must be logged in. EVERTON spent part of the international break trudging up mountains in the Lake District after David Moyes decided to take his squad on a bonding trip to Cumbria. It was, in many ways, a brilliant metaphor for the club’s fortunes on the field, as the Toffees start the slow, painful climb up the league after another dismal start to the campaign. Last season Moyes’ boys kicked off with a 6-1 home defeat to Arsenal and were three points above the relegation zone at the end of November.
The recovery began with the visit of Spurs in December, as the Toffees battled back from 2-0 down in the final 12 minutes to equalise, and then survived a Jermain Defoe penalty in injury-time. Everton went on to lose just two of their last 26 league fixtures, with one of them coming in a narrow 2-1 defeat at White Hart Lane. Spurs went 2-0 up again, but Yakubu hit back in the second half and Everton were only denied another 2-2 draw because Landon Donovan somehow failed to net an open goal from two yards out. Despite that, the Toffees went on to finish eighth, two points behind Liverpool. Everton were primed for an exciting campaign in 2010/11, but another false start has left them playing catch-up again. Moyes’ side took three points from their first six games and failed to record a league win in August and September, leaving them in the bottom three at the start of this month. However, the recovery has already started, and an impressive win away at Birmingham was followed by a 2-0 derby victory over Liverpool at Goodison Park on Sunday. Despite their slow start to the season, Everton are just five points behind Tottenham, and a deceptively strong line-up is more than capable of competing with the top sides if they can close the gap.
Keeper Tim Howard kept goal for the USA at the World Cup during the summer, while England centre-back Phil Jagielka is a firm favourite with Fabio Capello.
Playmaker Mikel Arteta has also been linked with England, despite being Spanish, and the 28-year-old doubled his goal tally at the weekend, scoring the second goal against Liverpool after netting against Manchester United. Arteta is likely to be protected by Johnny Heitinga in the absence of Marouane Fellaini, but Everton also have plenty of ammunition in attacking areas. Having unearthed the likes of Wayne Rooney, Jack Rodwell and Dan Gosling in recent years, Everton seem to have found another gem in 21-year-old Seamus Coleman, a right-back who has been moved up to the flank – much like Spurs’ own Gareth Bale. Indeed, it was Coleman who beat Bale to set up Everton’s first goal at Goodison last season, and it was Coleman who raced to the by-line to set up Tim Cahill for the opener against Liverpool at the weekend.
That was Cahill’s fourth goal from his seven appearances so far this season, and Moyes will also have been pleased with Yakubu’s performance in the derby.
The 27-year-old has scored just six goals in 42 games since suffering a serious Achilles injury at White Hart Lane in November 2008, and Moyes could have both Louis Saha and Victor Anichebe back from injury this weekend.
However, Nigerian striker Yakubu looked back to his best on Sunday, combining pace and power to give the Reds rearguard a torrid time. The verdict: Spurs have won three of their four games after Champions League matches this season, but were behind against both Wolves and Aston Villa before coming back to win at the Lane.
The Lilywhites have home advantage again this weekend as they return from Milan, but hard-working Everton have the players to capitalise if they get their noses in front.
Last season’s clashes were both rollercoaster thrillers and both sides go into this lunchtime clash with back-to-back league wins behind them. It could be close but Spurs’ trump card, Rafael van der Vaart, didn’t play in Milan so he will be raring to go. He could make the difference – again. Prediction: 2-1 – Spurs go third in the table and then sit down to watch their rivals bid to emulate their victory.
Dave Prentice: The curious case of Mark Clattenburg
Oct 22 2010 by David Prentice, Liverpool Echo MANY referees have been accused of secretly celebrating when one team scores in a derby match. But on Sunday it actually did happen – publicly and openly. Happily the air punching took place off the pitch.
St Helens’ respected referee, Chris Foy, is an Evertonian – and supporters siting alongside him in the Main Stand when Tim Cahill struck were left in no doubt of his allegiances. Not that Mr Foy ever hid his Evertonian affections. The only match he ever took charge of involving his boyhood heroes was at Villa Park in 2002, when a gruelling goalless draw in the dying embers of the Walter Smith regime hardly tested his impartiality. After that game he declared his interest and hasn’t been near an Everton match since. Which is why he can confidently sit in Goodison’s main stand cheering on his side. Also sitting close to Chris Foy was Howard Webb’s dad – and it is with absolutely no sense of ‘told you so’ smugness (see last week’s column) that I enjoyed his son’s derby display. After all, the World Cup final ref had previous.
In his two previous derby assignments he showed two and five yellow cards respectively, a conservative total for the most volatile fixture in Premier League history. His handling of last Sunday’s clash ensured that yet another red card was unnecessary. He could have booked Mikel Arteta and Steven Gerrard early on, but settled instead for a stern warning. Only when players refused to heed those warnings – ie Maxi Rodriguez – did he finally show a yellow. By the pedantic letter of the law he might have dismissed Jermaine Beckford late in the match, too. Instead he listened to the Everton substitute’s plea that the cautioned striker hadn’t heard a whistle when he fired his first on-target shot of the season into Pepe Reina’s net, and allowed the post-match talking points to be all about the football. Howard Webb will be welcome back in charge of a Merseyside derby any time soon. Unlike the man responsible for one of the most wretched derby displays since Glenn Keeley pulled on a blue jersey and pulled off Kenny Dalglish’s red shirt. Mark Clattenburg hasn’t been near a Merseyside derby since his October 2007 horror show, in fact he hasn’t been near an Everton match full stop.
Is the FA mindful of Evertonian sensitivities?
If so, there has clearly been a change of policy since the days of the arch egotist Clive ‘The Book’ Thomas.
Evertonians accused him of the most heinous of derby day crimes in the dying minutes of an FA Cup semi-final – disallowing a winning goal because he thought, incorrectly as it transpired, that the scorer must have handled. (Clive ‘The Book’ was such a gifted official he didn’t need to actually witness an offence to give it).
But he was back at Goodison – in the same competition – months later.
His attempt at gallows humour as he walked out to take charge of Everton versus Aston Villa failed. He put his hands over his ears as if to drown out the cacophony of booing, merely intensifying the booing to an even greater pitch. He proceeded to award Everton a dodgy penalty and sent off Leighton Phillips as they triumphed 4-1.
As if to confirm their refusal to buckle under fan pressure, the FA then put Thomas in charge when Everton faced their neighbours in the FA Cup again in 1981.
And he was involved in further Everton controversy at Brighton at couple of years later – telling Jim Arnold he had moved after saving a late penalty kick, and giving the home side the chance to retake and score. So why the extra sensitivity over Clattenburg? Are Evertonians more vengeful in the modern era? Or is the FA more supporter sensitive? Either way Mark Clattenburg has now taken charge of 54 matches since that Goodison horror show – not one here on Merseyside.
Not that he’s been missed, mind .
Everton FC goalkeeper Tim Howard keen to help the Blues taste victory in North London
Oct 22 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
IT WAS in the middle of his most prolific season yet, so Jermaine Defoe was odds-on to bury his decisive penalty at Goodison Park last November. Such was the diminutive forward’s hot streak, there were groans all over Goodison Park when he picked up the ball and planted it on the spot before the Park End. Never overly prone to optimism, few Evertonians could have predicted anything less than a last-gasp defeat to pour ice-cold water on their side’s impressive performance. Step forward Tim Howard. The American goalkeeper’s stunning reflex save was the best from a penalty fans inside the Old Lady had witnessed in a long time. Defoe went on to register 24 goals in a scintillating personal season, but Everton didn’t look back either. That hard-earned point was one of the catalysts which propelled David Moyes’ side onto a run of form which saw them surge up the table. Now the Everton boss will be hoping a fixture against Harry Redknapp’s upwardly mobile Londoners can help him build on the optimism generated by a convincing derby win at Goodison on Sunday. Although Moyes will be hoping to catch Spurs with energy levels at rock bottom after their leg-sapping Champions League away defeat by Inter Milan on Wednesday, he will be wary of a few things. Chiefly, the Goodison boss will be hoping his side can limit Tottenham’s in-form star Gareth Bale from making the type of bursts forward which led to an impressive hat-trick in the San Siro. If Bale does manage to squeeze past his markers, the Blues will have to rely on their Mr Reliable between the posts once again. Howard’s shut-out against Liverpool was his 59th for Everton in the Premier League, and his 70th in all competitions. The American who came to Goodison with a point to prove in 2005 has silenced any doubters. But Howard and his team-mates must be on top form to reverse a poor record at WhiteHart Lane - the Blues have only won 5 of their 36 Premier League meetings with the North Londoners. “There were all sorts of turning points, but that was one we desperately needed,” says Howard, reflecting on that save from Defoe. “Although it turned out to be only a point, it was the manner in which it happened. Spurs have built such a tremendously talented squad. “It doesn’t matter who gets injured for them or who they have missing, they are very strong. Away from home they beat us in the Carling Cup last year and they beat us down there in the league. “Before that we’d had a decent record. But we’re going to have to go and roll our sleeves up, and really dig in and we feel we’re capable of doing it.” Howard, like all Everton supporters, tries to avoid feelings of envy when watching Spurs’ take on the cream of European football in a competition they are desperate to grace. “You’re hat has to go off to them,” says the 31-year-old.
“They were fantastic over the course of a season. We don’t look at them with jealousy, because standing toe to toe with them we know we can give them a good shot and they can give us one. “They pipped everyone for that fourth spot last time around and it’s something we’d obviously like to do.” The very fact that Howard is prepared to even talk about a bid for fourth place again, after the Blues’ dismal start, hints at the renewed confidence in the Everton dressing room. Like all of David Moyes’ squad, though, Howard is determined to keep talks of their league place next May to a minimum until they have at least returned to the top half of the Premier League table. A rare victory away at White Hart Lane would benefit their cause vastly.
“At the moment we’re still looking ahead of ourselves, trying to catch a few more teams,” says Howard, who was voted the club’s player of the month for September.
“But more consistency could make that an option again.”
Everton FC star Yakubu says he is ready to rediscover the goal-trail for the Blues
Oct 22 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
YAKUBU is determined to banish the ghost of his horrendous injury at White Hart Lane two years ago by scoring his first goal this season against Spurs tomorrow.
The Nigerian striker believes he is finally 100% fit after a long journey back from the Achilles tendon injury he suffered in North London in November 2008, and a troubled summer when he was linked with an exit from the Blues. The former Portsmouth hit-man won plaudits for his all-action performance in last weekend’s derby win, and is now convinced he is on the brink of a goal-scoring run. Yakubu notched 21 strikes in his debut season for David Moyes’ side, and has no doubt he can hit those heights again. He said: “White Hart Lane is where I got my injury and when I played there last season I did think about it. I scored as a substitute but we lost and I wasn’t at my best.
“The injury is out of my mind now and I am not thinking about it. I feel so much better this season and I really want to go there and perform well and forget the injury once and for all. “It would be special to score a goal there on top of a good performance as two years ago I had my bad injury. A goal this time would put that memory away once and for all. I want to score goals and it would be nice to get going at Tottenham. The Yak has started Everton’s last four games, and insists he has put the doubt and confusion of the summer, when he was pursued by West Ham, behind him. He said: “Starting and playing regularly helps me so much. My fitness is much better than last season and my injury is now behind me. For me I just want to start scoring and helping the team. “In football you never say never but I am here and I am happy to be here. “The fans and the Club have been so good to me and I love it here.
“The mentality here is different from where I have been before and that is great. Sometimes in football you are thinking about moving but not now. I am enjoying my football. I just want to play and repay the fans and the Club for being so good to me, especially when I was out injured. “My injury was a really bad one and it took me a year to get better and I have been recovering ever since. Last season I played some games but I wasn’t quite there – now I feel 100 per cent better.” Meanwhile, Sylvain Distin credits a refusal to shirk responsibility as the key factor to both his and Everton’s revival in form. The 32-year-old bounced back from criticism of his display in the Blues 3-3 draw with Manchester United, with a courageous approach that has been echoed throughout the squad. He said: “After the Manchester United game earlier this season I was thinking a bit about my performance because I made one or two mistakes and was punished for it. “But you see week in, week out top defenders making mistakes. “That is football; everybody makes mistakes. “The most important thing is how you are going to react in the next game and make sure you don’t have two bad games in a row.” Tickets are still available for Everton against Stoke on Saturday 30 October at 3pm. Prices start from £29 for adults, £19 for OAPs and £14 for juniors. To buy tickets call 0871 663 1878 (press option 1), visit evertonfc.com or drop into the Box Office at Goodison Park.
David Moyes enjoys full backing of united Everton FC squad, says Tim Howard
Oct 22 2010 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
AS the rest of the country has watched on with a mixture of bemusement and surprise at the very public parting of ways between Manchester United and Wayne Rooney, there is one person who would be forgiven for allowing a knowing smile to spread across his face. After all, David Moyes has been here before. Six years ago, an eerily similar situation faced the Everton manager as the then fledgling teenager Rooney decided the ambition of the Goodison outfit did not match his own, and that it was time to move on. Old Trafford was Rooney’s next destination, with the perceived wisdom being that there was no better place for England’s brightest young thing to prosper than under the experienced wing of Sir Alex Ferguson. By insinuation, such a widely-held belief suggested Moyes himself was not up to such a task, having endured a number of run-ins as the young Rooney, with help from outside influences, soon began to realise his own value and potential. Now, as a shocked Ferguson frantically attempts to salvage the situation with Manchester City and Chelsea gleefully rubbing their hands in anticipation of a January bid, history is repeating, Rooney proving as difficult to keep in check as he is on the pitch. With Moyes still basking in the afterglow of a first Premier League derby triumph over Liverpool in more than four years, this has been a week in which his reputation, under scrutiny after Everton’s poor start to the season, has been hugely bolstered. Such vindication, though, has been a long time coming. Moyes’s relationship with Rooney soured to such an extent that he sued for libel after the player claimed in his autobiography that the Everton manager had leaked confidential conversations between the pair. That frostiness has cooled over the years, although it was still a shock for Moyes when he received an unexpected phone call from Rooney earlier this year apologising for the comments made in his book. Now, with a sense of delicious irony, it could be argued that the 24-year-old enjoys a better relationship with his former Goodison manager than either Ferguson or England head coach Fabio Capello. Moyes is held in similarly high regard by those that remain at the club. Having dropped to the bottom of the Premier League less than a month ago, successive victories over Birmingham City and Liverpool have kickstarted their campaign and moved them to the safety of mid-table.
And goalkeeper Tim Howard believes the change in fortunes has been prompted by the squad willing to put their bodies on the line for the team and the manager.
“We know how it is to play for this club,” says the United States international. “You have to give a lot of credit to the manager. David Moyes puts a lot of responsibility on his players. He puts a lot of positive belief in them. “He expects so much of you, you don’t want to disappoint him. When you are carrying a knock, you are willing to go out and put your body on the line, because you feel like such a big player to him.
“You will maybe play with injuries. You’ve got to be smart but nobody is ever 100%. Playing in a match like the derby is vitally important, and as players at this club that toughness is a trademark. “We’re no dummies. We look at each other and see the quality. World Cup players, internationals, guys who are expected to perform. There are no excuses. “We don’t have a tiny squad anymore and we have quality in abundance.”Howard has proven a huge success since arriving from Manchester United four years ago, and has a burning desire to leave a lasting mark at Goodison.
“This is a place I don’t want to leave,” he says. “I know football is a business and the club can get sick of you, or vice versa. “But I know this is a place, in my heart, I want to stay. I look at Neville Southall, and by God I don’t think I have enough in my engine to catch him, but he has a standard you can’t help admire. “He’s a goalkeeper and did it for the club he, and I, love. “It’s hard to focus on milestones, it’s just going to work every day and enjoying it. “As long as I’m doing that, and I am, I can’t see it stopping.” The strong finish to the previous Premier League campaign, when they lost just two of their final 24 games, had many observers, including United manager Ferguson, tipping Everton as outside bets for a championship challenge.
But despite the missteps of the opening months, Howard is convinced a top-four finish and Champions League qualification remains the target.
“We were so close to it a couple of seasons ago with the cup final. Every player is judged that way, and I feel a little bit more good pressure at Everton,” says the goalkeeper. “I’ve been here long enough to feel I’m a small piece of the fabric. You have to strive to win things, to continually be in Europe, to aim for the Champions League. They are top priorities. “Top four still has to be an ambition for a club like ours. For whatever reason it brings out conversations where you say that to be recognised you have to aim for it. “So we have to set our sights there, we want to be in fourth. But we need to edge closer first until come April we can really crack on and have a go at it.”
Everton FC striker Yakubu wants Tottenham goal to banish his White Hart pain
Oct 22 2010 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
EVERTON striker Yakubu is eyeing a goal tomorrow to finally confirm his full recovery – at the place where his woes started. It was almost two years ago that the Everton striker’s injury problems first began in a 1-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur.
And he is hoping to banish the nightmare when David Moyes’s side look to continue their own renaissance in tomorrow’s early kick-off in the capital. Yakubu fell to the White Hart Lane turf and ruptured his Achilles tendon soon after helping Everton go ahead in November 2008. It forced the Nigerian on the sidelines for more than a year.
And it has been even longer for him to rediscover the form of the early part of his Goodison career. There were glimpses last season of the Nigerrian getting back to his best and he took part in the World Cup with Nigeria. He has looked much sharper in recent weeks since taking advantage of an injury to Louis Saha to stake his claim for a place. He was key performer in last weekend’s derby victory, but is now looking for a goal to cement his return to form. The Nigerian forward said: “White Hart Lane is where I got my injury and when I played there last season I did think about it.
“I scored a goal but we lost and I wasn’t at my best. The injury is out of my mind now and I am not thinking about it. I feel so much better this season and I really want to go there and perform well and forget the injury once and for all. “It would be special to score a goal there on top of a good performance as two years ago I had my bad injury. A goal this time would put that memory away once and for all. I want to score goals and it would be nice to get going at Tottenham.” Manager Moyes revealed he had dismissed interest from West Ham United for the £11million striker this summer. And despite being on the bench for the early part of the season, Yakubu has played in the last four matches – two of which have resulted in victories over Birmingham and Liverpool. He is delighted with Everton’s form but is hoping he can chip in with goals to continue the run. He insists he is feeling fitter and stronger and is hopeful of going on a scoring spree sooner or later. He added: “Starting and playing regularly helps me so much. My fitness is much better than last season and my injury is now behind me. For me I just want to start scoring and helping the team. “My injury was a really bad one and it took me a year to get better and I have been recovering ever since. Last season I played some games but I wasn’t quite there – now I feel 100% better. Sometimes as a striker you can play four games and not score but once you start it is a different matter, so hopefully I can get one against Tottenham and it will get my season going. “In the past when I’ve started scoring I haven’t stopped. I am a striker and I love scoring goals. Players like Tim (Cahill) and Mikel (Arteta) have been scoring the goals and that is great but I want to start helping them.” Now he can concentrate on his football he is eager to repay the manager and the clubs fans who supported him through his injury problems. Yakubu said: “In football you never say never but I am here and I happy to be here. “The fans and the club have been so good to me and I love it here. “I just want to play and get back to my best. I am enjoying my football. I just want to play and repay the fans and the club for being so good to me, especially when I was out injured.”
Can Redknapp take Inter Milan positives into game with Toffees?
8:50am Friday 22nd October 2010
Haringey Indepentent
THERE will be mixed emotions for Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp and his players as they prepare to entertain Everton tomorrow lunchtime, writes Ross Davies.
The negative thoughts dominating the manager's mind will be the worrying state of his defence, which was more porous than a sieve against Inter Milan during the first half of their Champions League clash at the San Siro on Wednesday. Granted, the club are in the midst of a shocking injury crisis, which sees Ledley King, Michael Dawson and Jonathan Woodgate all sidelined. However, the experienced William Gallas and Sebastien Bassong should really have been able to contain a potent Inter attack better than they managed. That the team were three down after 13 minutes of the contest says everything one needs to know about the malaise that engulfed Redknapp's backline. Indeed, the problem also extends to the full-backs, who were both caught out for the first two goals, Alan Hutton first failing to track Javier Zanetti for the opener. The second saw Benoit Assou-Ekotto caught on his heels as Jonathan Biabiany galloped past him to win a penalty after keeper Heurelho Gomes was forced to pull him down, earning a red card. Then there are the pluses. And that amounts to one player, really: Gareth Bale. After his manager put a rocket up the team in the away dressing room at half-time, it was the Welsh winger that took most note, scoring a sublime hat-trick to almost haul Tottenham back from the dead. And it is the effects of that remarkable second-half comeback – achieved with just ten men – that will stay with the players as they get set for what promises to be an extremely tough encounter with a recently-rejuvenated Everton side. Even if the team's defence crumbles under the weight of the decidedly less dangerous Toffees, at least they will have one player to Bale them out.
Can Tottenham see off Toffees?
Friday 22nd October 2010
Haringey Indepentent
SPURS return to Premier League action this Saturday. Everton are the visitors to White Hart Lane. Boss Harry Redknapp will be hoping his side do not suffer a European hangover. It is difficult to know how they will react to Wednesday's memorable encounter against Inter Milan. At least Gareth Bale should be on a high after his sensational hat-trick. Everton are picking up after a poor start to the season and go into the game full of confidence after last weekend's defeat of Liverpool.
Our prediction: Spurs 1 Everton 1.
Tottenham Hotspur v Everton: match preview
Read a full match preview of the Premier League game between Tottenham Hotspur and Everton at White Hart Lane on Saturday Oct 23, 2010, kick-off 12:45 BST.
22 Oct 2010 The Telegraph
Saturday, October 23
Tottenham Hotspur v Everton
White Hart Lane
Kick-off: 12.45 BST
TV: Live Sky & highlights, BBC Match of the Day.
Tottenham (Possible, 4-4-1-1): Gomes; Hutton, Corluka, Bassong, Assou-Ekotto; Modric, Huddlestone, Jenas, Bale; van der Vaart; Pavlyuchenko.
Everton (Possible, 4-4-1-1): Howard; Neville, Jagielka, Distin, Baines; Coleman, Bilyaletdinov, Arteta, Osman; Cahill; Yakubu.
Referee: Mike Jones. Matches: 5. R0. Y17.
Tale of the game
Tottenham return to Premier League action after the 4-3 defeat in Milan, against Inter, and Rafael van der Vaart, suspended for the game at San Siro, returns for a Spurs side those record following European games so far this season is good. After four Champions League games – two in the play-offs and two in Group A – they have won three and lost one. Three of the four games were at home, where they suffered the one loss, against Wigan. They return to White Hart Lane where they have so far scored only five goals, in four Premier League games. But Everton arrive with only two away goals all season, both at Birmingham in their previous game on the road when they secured their first win of the season. Everton added a second victory in last Sunday’s Merseyside derby meaning that they go into this game attempting to win three games in succession for the first time since January 2009. They have also kept three straight clean sheets, going a total of 315 minutes – more than six hours – without conceding a goal in the Premier League. When Everton arrived at White Hart Lane last season they boasted a run of three straight victories there, but two early goals, from Roman Pavlyuchenko and Luka Modric pointed Spurs to a 2-1 win – Yakubu replied for Everton. On the injury front, Spurs still miss Michael Dawson, Jamie O’Hara, Jermain Defoe, Younes Kaboul and Jonathan Woodgate while Ledley King is a doubt with his groin problem. Everton will still be without Marouane Fellaini (groin), Louis Saha (calf) and Steven Pienaar (groin) and now Johnny Heitinga is doubtful with a calf problem picked up against Liverpool.
Last season: Tottenham 2 Everton 0, Everton 2 Tottenham 2.
Stat of the game: Spurs are bidding to win consecutive games for the first time in 10 Premier League games following the 2-1 victory at Fulham last Saturday.
Betting tip: Everton improving, Spurs tired. Try 1-1 and get 6-1.
Greg O’Keeffe: Why it would be a shame for Seamus Coleman to lose his fearlessness along with his rough edges
Oct 23 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
SOMETIMES you watch a Premier League footballer, and in an instant they can make years of cynicism about the state of the game unravel for a moment. It’s increasingly rare, but when it happens and the player in question is wearing the shirt of your team, it’s a sight to behold. I’ve been fortunate enough to witness two recent incumbents of the royal blue jersey make me sit up and genuinely applaud someone playing the game with unbridled abandon, and affection for what they’re doing. Not a jaded, over-coached veteran going through the motions, but someone who still retains that element of a young lad on the school field sprinting up the touchline with the ball at his feet. The first was an unlikely candidate. Even though he was captain of the USA and their all time leading goal scorer, there was nothing to suggest Landon Donovan could be a hit in the unforgiving environment of the Premier League. Then, even if he was, as a footballer who is regarded as a poster boy for the sport back home who was, at the time, dating a high-profile TV star, few could have expected the man himself to be so humble, genuine and in love with the game. But watching him briefly electrify the right flank for Everton over three months last winter was a pleasure. Perhaps his entire tenure was summed up in the magnificent evening against Chelsea at Goodison Park when the Blues won 2-0, and Donovan gave the world’s best left back Ashley Cole a torrid time. Or was it seeing him, on his debut, try and push the ball around his marker and race past him the other way. How many home-grown players would try that old trick under the intense pressure of a top flight game? Not many. I was reminded about my initial and enduring admiration for the second player while reading something Brian Reade wrote about Gareth Bale in his excellent Daily Mirror Saturday football column. ‘Gareth Bale looks weird. Not in a Sid from Toy Story, Planet of the Apes, or Lee Evans with an over-gelled head way. ‘But in a 'didn’t we always have a lad like that at school?' way. The one you always passed to. The one who oozed skill, whose only thought on receiving the ball was to bomb at the opposition, burn them for pace and try to score or create a goal. ‘The one who found drink, fags and girls at 16 and fell by the wayside. Or got a break as a semi-pro and had all that natural, attacking intent rollocked out of him by his manager, or kicked out of him by hatchet-men. ‘Bale is a one-off in that he survived all that to become the most exciting young British talent in the game. ‘But until we find out why he’s a one-off, our home nations will continue to struggle against the best technical countries in the world.’ Seamus Coleman could yet replicate the impact of Gareth Bale, the young Irishman has the same lack of respect for opponents, and similar pace to burn. While Everton’s 22-year-old can’t be held in the same bracket just yet, there are certainly parallels. But I was thinking about Brian’s piece during the weekly press conference David Moyes holds at Finch Farm. The Everton boss, who, despite what some think, is as excited by Coleman’s potential as anyone, was describing how the former Sligo Rover’s defender is occasionally hampered by his lack of academy schooling. Unlike most of his team-mates, Coleman did not join an academy at the age of eight and is not therefore the finished product in technical terms that players like Jack Rodwell could be. Moyes admitted there are rough edges he must work on to help Coleman to discover his full potential. I’m sure the Everton manager is right. Hopefully Coleman can catch up on the slight deficiencies his game may suffer from, and lose his naivety. But it would be a huge shame if somewhere along the way his innate attacking fearlessness was lost too.
If Wayne Rooney ever does return to Everton FC it should be while still in his prime
Oct 23 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
ONE large order of humble pie for all those frantic, and slightly ludicrous, rumour mongers who insisted Wayne Rooney was ready to buy out his own contract at Old Trafford to engineer a move back to Goodison. Whispers persist that Rooney would still like, one day, to return to his boyhood club but it was never going to be any time soon. At least Evertonians who would have struggled with their consciences have been spared the dilemma. But if the 24-year-old ever does come ‘home’, it should be when he is 28 or earlier – not some quaint retirement plan. Everton are not Oldham Athletic and Wayne Rooney is not Paul Scholes.
New deals for Everton FC pair Tony Hibbert and Leon Osman make footballing sense
Oct 23 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
AT least loyalty is still rewarded in Merseyside football. No sooner have Liverpool rewarded Jamie Carragher’s dedication with a further two year contract extension, then the Blues tie-up Tony Hibbert and Leon Osman to deals which effectively mean they will both end their top flight careers on Merseyside. The homegrown pair have put pen to paper on two year extensions to their existing deals, meaning both will be contracted to Everton until 2014. Ossie has previously emphasised his desire to finish his career at Everton, while Hibbert, is the Blues’ longest serving player. Between them they have made over 500 appearances for Everton, are both products of Everton’s prolific academy system and were part of the 1998 FA Youth Cup winning squad. Osman said: “I’m feeling great, it has been under discussion for a few weeks and I’m really happy to put pen to paper. “There was never any question that I wanted to extend.” Hibbert added: “It is good to have a couple more years on top of what I had. We have come through as two local lads and made a good career.” The deals are not based on sentiment though, both players still have plenty to offer David Moyes’ squad.
Everton FC boss David Moyes is no fan of player power but accepts it is going nowhere
Oct 23 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
HIS rage may not combust as easily or with as unintentionally amusing consequences as Ian Holloway’s, but make no mistake David Moyes is not a fan of player power in 2010. While the Blackpool boss is always more likely to provide the TV cameras with a memorable clip, Moyes is more philosophical. We are, he stresses, unable to do much about the financial juggernaut which football has become both globally and nationally. It was inevitable though, that Moyes and his peers up and down the country would be asked whether player power is out of control after a week when the Wayne Rooney saga has dominated football news. As the only other manager who knows all too well about public spats with the prodigious England striker, Moyes would have been prepared to be put under the spotlight when the journalists arrived at Finch Farm yesterday. But the Scot is rarely keen to express his views on somebody else’s affairs. His views were simple and brief; Rooney and Alex Ferguson are a good pair, few knew the full facts and so were authorised to comment, and the market for opinions of the episode was over-saturated anyway. Besides, Moyes has his hands full dealing with his own examples of dealing with player power, even among the normally calm waters of his own squad. “I don’t know what can actually change,” says the Everton boss. “You have the Bosman ruling and Webster ruling, so it’s very difficult to see it going any other way. “So many clubs now are really struggling financially, and these are companies that should be trying to make some kind of profit if they can just like in any other business. “Maybe everybody needs to come together. It used to be that if the club made any money, it would go back to the players. “Nowadays the clubs are becoming overdrawn to accommodate the players.” Moyes concedes the size of the problem is emphasised when even a club the size of Manchester United are embroiled in a player power spat. “For Manchester United to be encountering it, that is the thing,” he says. “But there have probably been players who have wanted to leave Real Madrid and Barcelona for whatever reason. “I’m sure the partnership they have at Manchester United is a good fit for Sir Alex and for Wayne.” While arguably Rooney’s representatives used the media to get their golden goose a stellar new contract, Everton’s own John Heitinga has not been shy of giving interviews mentioning his own future beyond Merseyside.Barcelona, Manchester City, and Bayern Munich have all been mentioned by the Dutchman, who recently insisted he is going nowhere. “He didn’t speak to me about it, I didn’t know where it had come from,” says Moyes. “Maybe his comments came from a bit of disappointment at not starting in the team. But for me, he hadn’t been starting because I didn’t think he had regained his focus from the World Cup. “You could argue there are a few players that have come back from the World Cup and not got back to form. “Johnny needed to regain his focus, we gave him as much time off as we could. I think he now realises that there is a big competition for places here, and it doesn’t matter if you played in the World Cup final for Holland, if you don’t play well then we can’t start you in the team. “He’s the type of character who knows that is right and that’s the way it should be in football. I told him I didn’t think he was playing well and hadn’t regained his focus, and in a way he accepted that. “He has been coming off in games with cramp, very much like this time last year, so it’s maybe something he needs to build up to. That has been pretty noticeable in the games.”
Everton FC boss David Moyes asks for improvement from Russian midfielder Diniyar Bilyaletdinov
Oct 23 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
DAVID MOYES will give Diniyar Bilyaletdinov the chance to convince him he can adapt to the Premier League against Spurs today. The Toffees boss is without injured midfielder Leon Osman for between four and six weeks, so will hand the Russian his first start in the league since the draw with Wolves in August. Moyes admits the 25-year-old is still struggling to fulfil his potential, and continues to find the pace of the English game problematic. The Scot hoped Bily would use his goal-scoring exploits from Everton’s successful run in towards the end of their last campaign, and a promising pre-season, to establish himself this time around. Instead, the £9m capture from Lokomotiv Moscow, has found first team starts difficult to come by so far, and has much to do at White Hart Lane. He said: “Bily is struggling a bit with his confidence. I thought pre-season would be a chance for him to come through. But it probably took Steven Pienaar a year to fit into the team, and Bily may well get his opportunity in the coming weeks so it is up to him to take it.“He is probably still coming to terms with the general speed of English football. But he had a real influence in the goals we scored last season. “Maybe he wasn’t quite at the top of his game, but he was important at different times, he has contributed by getting us important goals at different times at games. “We were all hoping we’d see something extra this season and at the moment we haven’t seen that. The boy knows he needs to improve his all-round play. “The language barrier isn’t a problem though, his English is really good, and he is a really talented footballer, but he maybe needs to add an overall quickness to his game. But there are players who have come here, even English boys, and taken time to settle.” Losing Osman was a massive blow for the Blues, after the 29-year-old impressed in the Merseyside derby, during which he sustained the ankle injury which has ruled him out. But until a specialist clarified the situation, Moyes feared losing the star for up to six months. That would have been a disaster, on the day it was confirmed Osman and defender Tony Hibbert have signed contract extensions keeping them both at Goodison until 2014. Moyes is, however, hoping that Steven Pienaar and Louis Saha could feature against Spurs today, although Mikel Arteta will have to pass an early fitness test in London. Pienaar’s contract situation at Goodison remains unresolved, with the South African yet to sign a new deal and able to talk to prospective new clubs from January. Moyes has not given up on keeping the 28-year-old yet though. He said: “I don’t know if it’s inevitable. I said this time last year that if it came to this situation, that I was happy to let his contract run down. “For what we paid for him, it is worth doing it. I’m hoping he would choose to stay, but if he doesn’t then that happens.” There was at least some good news on the injury front, as midfielder Jack Rodwell makes rapid progress with his rehabilitation. Moyes said: “Rodwell will join us in training next week, he is way ahead of schedule. He’s been out for almost eight weeks and we thought it would be 12, so in the next two to three weeks we should have him back.”
Everton FC secure a point with battling 1-1 draw against Spurs
Oct 23 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
EVERTON secured a point thanks to a battling performance against Spurs at White Hart Lane. The Toffees were good value for the draw, largely containing a strong Tottenham side who did not appear to be suffering from any mid-week Champions League lethargy. Such is the strength of Harry Redknapp’s squad; the Londoners dealt with the leg-sapping defeat in the San Siro and still had a bench with the calibre of Roman Pavlyuchenko, Niko Kranjcar and Jermaine Jenas – not to mention the injured Jermaine Defoe, Michael Dawson and Verdan Corluka watching from the sidelines.
Spurs’ captain Luka Modric went closest to opening the scoring, snapping a low drive narrowly wide after prolonged possession from the home side on the edge of Everton’s box. But the Toffees took the lead though thanks to a fantastic free kick from Leighton Baines. Yakubu cleverly won a free kick outside the Spur’s area when he was impeded by Younes Kabul, and Everton’s left-back curled a precise effort over the wall and into the top right hand corner. The Blues had soaked up a considerable amount of pressure from Redknapp’s side, clearly emboldened by their second half fight-back against Italian giants Inter Milan in mid-week. Their equaliser had none of the quality of the game’s first goal, but will have left David Moyes’ frustrated. Alan Hutton swung a cross into the area which Tim Howard mis-judged as he tried to claim. The ball reached Peter Crouch who nodded it across the goal, for Van Der Vaart to tap home. Everton’s lead had lasted just two minutes. Modric looked dangerous whenever he had the ball, and almost scored when he drifted in from the left flank and unleashed an exocet that smashed the hoardings just wide of Howard’s post. Seamus Coleman’s pace won the Blues a free kick on the half hour when the Irishman was bundled over, but this time Baines’ delivery was not quite as precise as and sailed over the bar. Yakubu was continuing in the bustling, industrious form he displayed in the Merseyside derby and used his physique to hold the ball up commendably. In Mikel Arteta’s absence, Steven Pienaar was restored to the side after a month-long injury absence, and the South African was asked to be playmaker, operating in the centre of midfield. On the left flank, Diniyar Bilyaletdinov replaced the injured Leon Osman. The game was finely balanced at the break, Spurs, however, wasted a good headed chance from Crouch just before the interval. Spurs started the second half brightly, almost scoring twice. First Gareth Bale flashed a header just wide from substitute Sandro’s cross. Then Sylvain Distin missed a header which allowed the lurking Crouch through on goal, but the French defender recovered impressively to make the block and divert the ball safely back to Howard.
Everton were playing well, although they clearly missed the creative influence of Osman and Arteta. Pienaar battled admirably but short of match fitness, struggled to have his usual impish effect on the game. With half an hour gone, Louis Saha made his first Everton appearance since the away defeat against Aston Villa, replacing a tiring Yakubu. But it was Spurs who continued to press, Bale swapping wings to try his luck against Baines, and Crouch nimbly side-stepping a challenge to draw a low save. At the other end Tim Cahill, clearly buoyed by his first goal with his feet in a long while against Liverpool, sent another stinging drive close. Jermaine Beckford replaced Seamus Coleman with seven minutes of normal time left. But Spurs continued to threaten, and but for crucial blocks by Distin and substitute Tony Hibbert could have scored through Van Der Vaart. As the clock raced down, Bilyaletdinov appeared to lose focus and allow Bale too much space. Yet the Blues won a corner, Baines whipped it in and the ball was cleared only for Phil Neville to try an ambition right-footed volley from 30 yards which was full of venom if not accuracy – before the final whistle. The draw moved the Blues temporarily up to ninth in the table, and given David Moyes’ growing injury list, is likely to be a result the Everton boss will take as a positive. The Blues are now unbeaten in four, and looking stronger by the game.
David Moyes praises inspirational Everton skipper Phil Neville
Oct 24 2010 by David Kidd, The People
DAVID MOYES paid tribute to skipper Phil Neville for reviving Everton’s season – and insisted he could soon be gaining a place in the side simply for his vocal leadership. Everton had slumped into the Premier League relegation places while Neville was sidelined with a foot injury. But since Neville’s return, the Goodison men have been unbeaten in four matches – with the captain shackling Tottenham’s man-of-the-moment Gareth Bale in yesterday’s 1-1 draw. And Moyes said: “Phil is someone who may be part of a dying breed, he’s a great leader. “We have a good squad and there was consideration about Phil’s position but the team just seems to function better when Phil plays. “It might get to the stage where he might not be the best player but the team still needs his leadership qualities. “You should see and hear him in the dressing room before a game. He’s a top man. He prepares himself right and that’s why he has had nearly 60 England caps and why he’s got longevity in his career.
“He is terrific at motivating and cajoling and is always the first one to put his hands up if he’s not on his game. “There was a lot of canny defending from him on Peter Crouch and on Gareth Bale.” Moyes admitted Everton’s goalscorer Leighton Baines rarely manages to get afree-kick in edgeways when Mikel Arteta is fit. But he took advantage of the Spaniard’s absence with a 20-yard pearler past Heurelho Gomes to open the scoring at White Hart Lane. Moyes said: “We can’t get Mikel off the free-kicks when he plays, but Leighton practises them too and that was a great strike.
“It looked almost impossible to get it up and down but thankfully he did it.
“It was a good point for us because this is a tough place to come and it was important for us to build on last week’s win against Liverpool.”
Tottenham 1-1 Everton: Battling Toffees stifle Rafael Dutch ace Van der Vaart
Oct 24 2010 by Dave Kidd, The People
RAFAEL VAN DER VAART hasilluminated the Premier League since his arrival on transferdeadline day – and the Dutchman conjured up yet another highlight yesterday.
It was not Van der Vaart’s goal – a fifth in four appearances at White Hart Lane – which defined this match, though. It was the moment, 10 minutes from time, when the gifted midfielder exploded with frustration and took a wild kick at an advertising board, earning a yellow card and risking fractures to his twinkling toes.
That said it all about Everton’s performance, a masterclass in gaining an away point against vibrant opposition. It was the failure of a linesman to award him a corner that saw Van der Vaart reach the end of his fuse, but it was David Moyes who had struck the Swan Vesta in the first place. Without being overly negative, the visitors had suffocated Spurs elusive Lillywhite Pimpernel – with his countryman, World Cup final villain Johnny Heitinga, the mosteffective strangler. Gareth Bale, the midweek hat-trick hero of a glorious defeat in the San Siro, was equally stifled by Everton skipper Phil Neville – who played for England 59 times and could still shout for his country on the basis of an ear-splitting display of leadership yesterday.
Spurs boss Harry Redknapp will celebrate two years in charge at White Hart Lane tomorrow, having propelled the club from the bottom of the Premier League to the grandest stages in Europe. Yet for all his side’s class, squad depth and resilience – they keep roaring back from behind – maintaining their status as a Champions League club will remain a tough ask for Redknapp. For Everton this was an excellent point, a fourth unbeaten game, and another positive step after last week’s Merseyside derby triumph. Leighton Baines gave the Moyes boys a 17th-minute lead with an outstanding free-kick – only for Tim Howard’s blunder to gift Van der Vaart an equaliser three minutes later. After that it was a tale of toil and denial for Spurs – leaving Redknapp to admit Everton had done a good job on his side. Redknapp said: “Rafa had to be booked for kicking the hoarding, you can’t do that. He over-reacted and got a booking. “Everton make it hard for you, they played the extra man in midfield and Heitinga got around him. He’s his team-mate in the international side, and knows him. It was a really good Everton away performance.” Redknapp had recalled Wilson Palacios to his midfield – to placate the Honduran’s angry mother, he had claimed. Yet Palacios was booked after just nine minutes for impeding Yakubu as Evertonattempted a breakaway – and was hauled off at half-time, with Redknapp admitting he feared a red was on its way. Old Mother Palacios might now be swinging her handbag in the direction of ref Mike Jones, who was a little quick on the draw. But when Younes Kaboul committed a needless foul on Yakubu on the edge of the box soon after, the consequences were far more dire for Spurs. Moyes admitted that Baines was only on free-kick duty in the absence of the injured Mikel Arteta, which turned out to be something of a blessing in disguise as the England left-back curled home an effort that Heurelho Gomes hardly managed to react to. The Everton boss admitted: “I thought their wall was too tall, with Peter Crouch and a few others in there. I was saying: ‘Don’t try to go over the wall.’ I was wrong!” But three minutes later, Alan Hutton sent over a deep cross from the right, Howard missed his punch and Crouch, beyond the far post, chested into the path of Van der Vaart who fired into an empty net from a yard. Luka Modric sent a low 20-yarder just wide and Spurs had a penalty shout turned down when Neville seemed to nudge Crouch. The rest of the afternoon was a nightmare for England’s lanky frontman. He spurned one decent chance before the break – a header straight at Howard – and two more soon after the restart, dragging one effort wide and seemingly stubbing his toe on the ball soon after.
After this third chance went begging, Spurs fans started singing for sub Roman Pavlyuchenko and Crouch reacted with asarcastic round of applause. Then Van der Vaart launched the best example of hoarding rage since ex-Newcastle nutcase Temuri Ketsbaia was in his pomp. There was a half-smile of satisfaction on Moyes’ lips, which said it all. Job done.
HARRY REDKNAPP'S PARTY IS SPOILT AS BAINES HITS REAL PEACH
Sunday Express October 24,2010
By Harry Pratt
TOTTENHAM 1 EVERTON 1
As anniversary parties go, this stalemate was a dull, flat affair. But Spurs boss Harry Redknapp, who today celebrates two years in the White Hart Lane hot seat, was not complaining. After all, throughout his remarkable spell in N17 – during which he has guided the club from the foot of the Premier League into the Champions League – bad days at the office have been few and far between. So even if his high-flyers struggled to hit the heights against fast-improving Everton, Redknapp took it on the chin.
And this point, secured by Rafael van der Vaart’s fourth goal in five games, moved Spurs into third spot overnight and stretched their unbeaten league run to three.
Not a bad position to be in given where they were when Redknapp quit Portsmouth for Spurs in October 2008. The Spurs boss last night played down the incredible turnaround in fortunes under his watch. He said: “It’s another two years of your life gone. That’s the worst part of it. You come here and hope things go well and they have. But you never know and you never get carried away. “It’s week-to-week this job. You have a good run, you have a bad run – and people can turn on you quickly. We’ve been lucky so far during the two years. Let’s hope it continues. “There won’t be any special celebrations this weekend. No way. I’ll go out for a bit of pasta with the wife as normal. If Spurs were a tad sluggish after their midweek exploits at Inter Milan – Gareth Bale in particular looked a yard off his usual electric pace – Everton were nothing of the sort. Lifted by their first Merseyside derby win in four years last weekend, David Moyes’ men signalled their intent during the early exchanges to take another major scalp. And they seemed well en route to doing so – and making it three wins from four outings – when Leighton Baines broke the deadlock in the 17th minute with a peach of a free-kick. It is highly unlikely the England fringe left-back will strike a better ball between now and next May than the one which he curled in from 20 yards. Spurs’ Brazilian stopper Heurelho Gomes stood no chance. He was rooted to his spot, utterly helpless, watching the ball fly over the wall and inches inside the post.
No wonder Moyes was purring post-match – while hailing his side’s rearguard action against Spurs in a one-sided second half. The Scot said: “It was a fantastic free kick, but Bainsey has the ability to do that. I thought the wall looked too big to go over but thankfully he didn’t. “It was important for us to keep our run going today and if I’d been offered four points, against Liverpool and Spurs, I’d have taken it.” Everton’s lead barely lasted two minutes. There seemed no danger when Alan Hutton sent a looping cross to the far post but Tim Howard flapped at thin air. Crouch kneed the ball back across goal and Van der Vaart smashed home into an empty net. Had referee Mike Jones not missed a shove by Phil Neville on Crouch shortly afterwards and ignored the penalty appeals, Spurs might well have snatched a third successive win. But Redknapp added: “I’d have to see it again to be sure. But overall I’m happy with a point because Everton will be in the top six or seven come the end of the Season.”MAN of the MATCH: Alan Hutton – the Scot is fast making the right-back role for Tottenham his own. His storming, overlapping runs are a constant menace.TOTTENHAM: Gomes; Hutton, Kaboul, Gallas, Assou-Ekotto; Lennon (Pavlyuchenko 68), Palacios (Sandro 45), Modric, Bale; Van der Vaart, Crouch. EVERTON: Howard; Neville, Distin, Jagielka, Baines; Coleman (Beckford 84), Heitinga (Hibbert 77), Pienaar, Bilyaletdinov, Cahill; Yakubu (Saha (63). Ref: M Jones Att: 35,967
Tottenham Hotspur 1 Everton 1: Rafael van der Vaart cancels out Leighton Baines' free-kick
By Patrick Collins
24th October 2010 Sunday Mail
At the close of a demanding week, David Moyes was in philosophical mood. ‘Anyone who gets a point from Tottenham this season is going to have to play well,’ said the Everton manager. Harry Redknapp’s week was even more demanding and his mood equally sanguine. ‘You don’t get an easy game with Everton,’ said the Spurs manager. ‘It was as tough as I expected.’ Moyes and Redknapp simply expressed the mutual respect which their teams had revealed on a bright morning in north London. Everton had arrived from a derby win over Liverpool, Spurs from a Champions League defeat in Milan. A point each seemed acceptable reward. Level pegging: Rafael van der Vaart makes things all-square from close range The football had reflected the common ethos of the two clubs down the years. They share the admirable belief that if you pass well enough and swiftly enough, then good things will eventually happen. Until the last 20 minutes — when Tottenham’s tired legs led them to seek the head of Peter Crouch and Everton’s desire for the point saw them launch the ball from deep — both sides obeyed their better traditions. The bright players, Luka Modric and Gareth Bale of Spurs, and the impressive young Seamus Coleman and Steven Pienaar of Everton, made it a resourceful match, a match well worth watching for the first hour. Modric was diligently excellent in his desire to create, while Bale — fresh from that improbable hat-trick in the San Siro — is enjoying the kind of form which only descends upon the genuinely outstanding footballers. Yet, both managers stressed the contribution of a man of slightly older vintage. Screamer: Leighton Baines' precise free-kick sailed into the top corner Phil Neville brings enormous experience and a tested technique to the Everton effort, along with the passion which has distinguished his entire career. He screamed, bawled, threatened and cajoled his younger colleagues, making one of the day’s outstanding contribution. Moyes spoke of his effectiveness, of the fact that his influence will probably outlast his form. Redknapp awarded him the professional’s praise: ‘Gareth’s been murdering everyone but Neville did a decent job on him,’ he said. ‘He knows what he’s doing.’ The match probably warranted more than the couple of goals but they came within three minutes of each other and were most welcome. Everton took the lead after 17 minutes with Yakubu — enjoying one of his truly productive days — winning a free-kick on the edge of the area in a central position. Leighton Baines stepped up for the kick and his manager started to panic: ‘I said: ‘‘Their wall’s too big. They’ve got people like Crouch in it. I hope he doesn’t try and go over the top’’.’
MATCH FACTS
TOTTENHAM ( 4-4 -1 -1 ): Gomes; Hutton, Gallas, Kaboul, Assou-Ekotto; Lennon (Pavlyuchenko 69min), Palacios (Sandro 46), Modric, Bale; Van der Vaart; Crouch. Subs (not used): Cudicini, Jenas, Keane, Bassong, Kranjcar. Booked: Palacios, Van der Vaart, Sandro.
EVERTON ( 4-1 -4 -1 ): Howard; Neville, Jagielka, Distin, Baines; Heitinga (Hibbert 78); Coleman (Beckford 84), Pienaar, Cahill, Bilyaletdinov; Yakubu (Saha 62). Subs (not used): Mucha, Gueye, Duffy, Baxter. Booked: Coleman.
Referee: M Jones (Wales)
This was precisely what Baines did; taking the shot over the Spurs resistance and swirling it left-footed into the wall of the net. His accuracy was impeccable, his technique a small marvel. The Tottenham equaliser was streaked with fortune. Bale set off on one of his surging runs and switched the attack right to Alan Hutton. It was the kind of cross which Tim Howard would come and collect all day. But this time, he failed. The flight was misread, the ball was knocked back by Crouch and Rafael van der Vaart was required to score from inside a yard. He was equal to the task.
Neither side could assemble many similar chances after this exchange and with Spurs running short of stamina and Everton of ambition, an informal truce was agreed.
Everton’s early season misgivings have been blown away and they seem set for their usual top-eight finish, which is a significant return for a club of their means.
Flying Dutchamn: Rafael van der Vaart feels the force of Phil Jagielka's challenge
Spurs will continue to introduce themselves to Europe, without possessing the artillery to threaten the season’s glittering prizes. Redknapp was informed this was the second anniversary of his time at Spurs. He became a touch morbid. ‘Two years?’ he said. ‘Another two years of your life gone, just like that. Scary.’ He mentioned a few famous old Tottenham players who have passed away of late: Eddie Baily, Mel
Hopkins among them. The endlessly mobile face seemed strangely sombre. Then he brightened: ‘We’ve been lucky. It’s been a good two years so far,’ he said.
He was taking Mrs Redknapp for a meal last night. ‘Bit of pasta. Nice.’ The world was treating him well. He would enjoy it while he could. It is, after all, a long old season. Time enough for things to go wrong.
Tottenham 1-1 Everton: Sunday Mirror match report
Sunday Mirror Mike Allen
October 24 2010
Two years ago, who would have thought Tottenham would be resting players after playing Inter Milan in the Champions League. But as anyone at the top of their game will tell you, getting there to be able to mix it in the big league is the easy part, staying there is harder. Harry Redknapp knows that more than anyone, 24 months after taking over at White Hart Lane with the club seemingly on course for relegation – and now his team are discovering it too. Redknapp denied it, but his players seemed to be suffering from their exertions in the San Siro as they enabled Everton to leave the Lane with a point. David Moyes’ men had taken the lead through Leighton Baines’ superb free kick – only for Everton keeper Tim Howard to gift Rafael Van der Vaart the easiest goal he will ever score three minutes later. Moyes organised his Everton team to try to nullify Spurs’ threats, and in leaving the Lane with a point considered it a job done, a week after humiliating Liverpool in the Merseyside derby. Gareth Bale, star of that extraordinary game at the San Siro, will have to start getting used to the kind of attention he received from wily Phil Neville and youthful Seamus Coleman.
Redknapp said: “Gareth’s been murdering everybody, but I knew that Neville wouldn’t be easy today because he knows what he’s doing. “I think he’s an underrated player. He’s a good pro and knows how to play and I felt he did a decent job on Gareth, really – as good as anybody’s done with him for a long time.” Moyes said: “We had to make special plans for Spurs, because they have got really good footballers. Good wingers, good ball-players and an aerial threat in Peter Crouch.
“We were without important players – Mikel Arteta, Marouane Fellaini, whose height would have been really useful for us, and Jack Rodwell – so I was very proud of the team.” Redknapp gave Tom Huddlestone a rare day off, though, and Wilson Palacios was recalled, after Redknapp got a finger-wagging from his Honduran midfielder’s mum. What she thought of his half-time substitution because Redknapp feared he would be sent off is anyone’s guess. But it was Palacios who set up Luka Modric with the first real chance of the match, although the Croatia playmaker’s 20-yard effort went just wide of Tim Howard’s post. Modric was on the receiving end of a brilliant Van der Vaart backheel moments later, but could not capitalise, and it was left to Baines to show how it is done. When Yakubu showed hitherto unseen agility to turn and draw a foul from Younes Kaboul on the edge of the box, Baines stepped up and sent a curling free kick over the wall and into the top corner, leaving Heurelho Gomes rooted to the spot. It almost constituted a good start for Spurs. After all, in the Champions League they were already a three goals and a man down by the same stage on Wednesday night. And this time they fought back quicker. Aaron Lennon and Alan Hutton were causing Everton problems down the right and it was from that side the Scotland full back delivered a hanging cross to the back post that Howard inexplicably misjudged. Despite Phil Jagielka shepherding him, Crouch headed back across the face of the unguarded goal and Van der Vaart followed in to smash the ball into the roof of the net from a few inches for his fourth goal in as many matches.
It was the first goal Everton had conceded in 336 minutes of Premier League action.
Moyes said of Howard: “He put his hands up to the error at half-time, but he stuck to the job and at times was brave. I told Tim we were going to need him to keep coming for the crosses and he did that.” It could have developed into an excellent game, but it never kicked on. The expectation on Spurs now is that they will find a way to score. But Everton were too well organised for that. Crouch claimed he should have a penalty late in the first half, and should have done better when fed by Bale, while substitute Roman Pavlyuchenko was not at his sharpest when fed by Benoit Assou-Ekotto. Moyes whipped up his troops to launch an offensive in the last 10 minutes as he sensed Spurs starting to tire, and said: “It was a bit of a gamble but certainly didn’t make things worse.”
Redknapp praises side's character, Moyes equally happy after draw
By Sunday Mirror
October 24 2010
Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp hailed the character of his players after they again fought back to avoid defeat in today's Barclays Premier League encounter with Everton. Rafael van der Vaart scored his fifth goal in as many games to send Spurs third in the standings after a 1-1 draw against the visiting Toffees. The Holland midfielder's effort cancelled out Leighton Baines' brilliant free-kick while Peter Crouch wasted more than one chance to seal what would have been Tottenham's fourth comeback win in five league matches. "You don't get an easy game with Everton, you never do," Redknapp told Sky Sports. "We had the better of the chances but it was always going to be a tough day on the back of a hard week, but I couldn't fault the effort of the players. They worked hard again today. "We just needed a break, but it just didn't quite come. But to come back again from 1-0 down shows a lot of character. "We go behind, we never give up, we come back. That's a fantastic thing in a football team so I'm proud about that." Redknapp's opposite number David Moyes was equally content with the performance of his players, who have now gone four games without defeat after a slow start to the campaign. "Tottenham is a really good team at the moment and we're without one or two today, so it was good," Moyes told Sky Sports. "I thought we did great defensively, the boys stood up to a lot of a balls to [Peter] Crouch. With the pace of [Gareth] Bale and [Aaron] Lennon on either side, they've got a real good balance. "It was a good point, a hard-earned point. We had a few opportunities on the counter-attack which we didn't take late on, but overall I'm pleased we came here and got a hard-earned point." Today's stalemate at White Hart Lane comes on the back of a morale-boosting victory over Liverpool in the Merseyside derby, and Moyes hailed his players for their efforts in turning their season around. "Before Liverpool and Tottenham if you'd given me four points I'd have said I'd take that right away," he said. "I've got to give the players a lot of credit, they worked really hard for the points. We've come here today without Mikel Arteta, Marouane Fellaini and Jack Rodwell, so the players have done a great job."
Man of the match Baines felt the Everton backline coped admirably in the face of Spurs' myriad attacking options. "They've got a bit of everything Tottenham and they play some really good football," said the former Wigan full-back. "They've got some quick players and they can mix it up and knock it long, so it's difficult to know what they're going to do but I thought we fared pretty well against them today. "It was important that we maintained our unbeaten streak if we can, and a point today is a good result for us."
David Moyes and Tottenham’s Harry Redknapp united in praise of Everton FC skipper Phil Neville
Oct 25 2010 Liverpool Echo
DAVID MOYES and Harry Redknapp were unified in their praise for Phil Neville after the veteran Everton captain stopped man-of-the-moment Gareth Bale in his tracks in today’s 1-1 Barclays Premier League draw at Tottenham. Bale has been on fire this season, hitting new heights on Wednesday night with a sensational hat-trick in Spurs’ Champions League defeat at Inter Milan and running Maicon – the man many consider to be the world’s best right-back – ragged. But he was largely nullified by 33-year-old Neville on Saturday, who used all of his 15 years’ top-flight experience to keep the 21-year-old quiet. Former Manchester United star Neville also helped Phil Jagielka double up on Peter Crouch, and Everton boss Moyes was delighted with the leadership his skipper showed. “I don’t know if it’s a dying breed but he’s a great leader,” Moyes enthused. “The team seems to function much better with him in the team. “He might get to the stage where he might not be the best player but, certainly, the team needs his leadership qualities. “You should hear him in the dressing room; you should see him before the game. “He’s a top man, he really is. He prepares himself right. “That’s why he’s had 50-60 England caps and that’s why he’s got longevity in his career. “He’s a terrific leader, motivating, cajoling and he’ll always be the first one to put his hand up if he thinks he’s not been right on it.” Opposite number Redknapp was equally effusive about a player whose ability has often been called into question. “Gareth’s been murdering everybody,” Redknapp said. “But I knew that he (Neville) wouldn’t be easy today because he knows what he’s doing.“I think he’s an under-rated player. He’s a good pro and he knows how to play and I felt he did a decent job today with Gareth, really - as good as anybody’s done with him for a long time.” Moyes revealed he had made special provision for Bale and fellow talisman Rafael van der Vaart, who nevertheless scored for the fifth time in as many games to salvage a point for Spurs. But the Scot added: “We can’t say, ’We’ll stop Bale’; you can’t say, ’We’ll just stop Van der Vaart’. “They’ve got players in all areas of the field that need taking care of. “I’d give our players a great deal of credit.” Van der Vaart levelled less than three minutes after Leighton Baines had given Everton a 17th-minute lead with a stunning free-kick. Admitting the left-back probably would not have taken it had star midfielder Mikel Arteta been fit, Moyes said: “Bainesy does practise them and he’s got that ability. “I thought when I looked at the wall that it was too big. “It was nearly impossible to get it up and down.” Everton might easily have folded following Van der Vaart’s equaliser, with Tottenham having come from behind to win in three of their previous four league games. And Moyes revealed he gave goalkeeper Tim Howard a half-time pep talk after his flap led to the equaliser. “I said to him at half-time, ’We’re going to need you to keep coming and taking it’,” Moyes said. “And I thought he was brave at times in the second half. He kept coming and he clutched a couple of really important crosses for us.” The draw followed Everton’s Merseyside derby victory and left them in a comfortable mid-table position. Moyes, who was hoping Arteta would recover in time for Saturday’s game at Stoke, said: “If you’d given me four points from Liverpool and Tottenham, I would’ve taken it.”
Leighton Baines wants to challenge Mikel Arteta for Everton FC free-kick duties
Oct 25 2010 by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Echo
LEIGHTON BAINES has warned Everton team-mate Mikel Arteta he now expects to take his fair share of free-kicks following an inch-perfect effort in the 1-1 Premier League draw at Tottenham. Baines’ 17th-minute goal at White Hart Lane yesterday was one of the best dead-ball strikes of the season but Baines would almost certainly have deferred to star midfielder Arteta had the Spaniard not been missing with a groin strain. Arteta looks set to be fit for Saturday’s game against Stoke and Baines acknowledges his recall would mean a return to playing second fiddle in the free-kick stakes. Baines said: “I don’t know if there is an understanding as much as he just takes them! “When we get over it, we discuss it, and Mikky ends up taking his fair share and I take a few as well. “I wouldn’t say either of us are massive specialists, so if one of us says we really fancy it then we leave it to each other. But hopefully I’ll be able to take a few more.” Baines’ goal was his first in the league for 14 months and only the eighth of his entire career in all competitions. “I’ve not scored a lot of goals but when I have scored they have tended to be memorable ones and that’s another one for me really,” he said. “It was very nice for me to see it come down and end up in the back of the net and I’m very pleased with it.” Baines did not have long to revel in his big moment, with team-mate Tim Howard’s flap three minutes later allowing Crouch to set up Spurs dangerman Rafael van der Vaart for the easiest of equalisers. “You’re looking for a solid 10 minutes after you’ve scored, especially away from home, so the timing wasn’t ideal,” Baines said. “It was a bit of a soft goal to concede as well. I’m not too sure what happened - it might have been a miscommunication.” The goal was the first Everton had conceded in the Premier League in four matches, while Tottenham once again failed to keep a clean sheet. Not since the opening day have Spurs shut out the opposition in the league but yesterday saw a marked improvement in their defending from that of recent weeks – especially Wednesday night’s Champions League defeat at Inter Milan. Everton were restricted almost exclusively to shots from outside the box, with Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp hailing the performances of centre-halves William Gallas and the fit-again Younes Kaboul. “I thought Kaboul and Gallas did ever so well at the back together,” said Redknapp, who singled out the former’s performance on what was his first appearance for more than a month. “Kaboul’s got everything to be a top player. He lacks concentration at times. “But he’s got pace, he’s great in the air, he can pass, can come out with the ball.”
I did question my management methods after poor start - Everton FC boss David Moyes
Oct 25 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
DAVID MOYES admitted he questioned his methods during Everton’s poor start to the season – but is now dreaming of Europe again. The Blues boss cannot fathom why his squad started the campaign sluggishly despite a deliberate effort to avoid the pattern repeating itself. But, speaking after his team secured a hard-fought point at White Hart Lane, he insisted he can now begin to plan for an assault on the top half of the table. He said: “I thought at the start of the season that we would be up there pushing for Europe and I still do. “We are a little bit short in the strength department and when the early results didn’t go too well, you start questioning your own self but in most of the games we have played well. “I really thought this would be a year to enjoy. A year to have a go and challenge but the start was really disappointing. I could not put my finger on why except to say that we couldn’t score. “One thing is that you can normally walk away and take some little bit of pleasure from the performance, but this went on for two, three, four games and I was asking ‘Wait a minute. Have I got that wrong?’ Maybe not playing as well as we should be, I have to find another way of winning games. “A manager’s job is to find ways of winning games whether you do it the purist way or do whatever you have to to win.“I don’t hit the books but I watch the videos and we all work hard on the training ground. The players will tell you how hard we have worked on the training ground, I can’t be rewarding a team that don’t win.” Moyes stressed he thought his side had played better during their winless start to the campaign, than during their convincing derby win and draw in North London on Saturday. He said: “We probably played better in those opening games than we even did against Liverpool and maybe today against Tottenham. “I don’t think you absolutely doubt yourself when things go wrong, this is as good as I have had, a good balance of experience of Phil Neville and Sylvain Distin and the emerging players Phil Jagielka and Leighton Baines, Jack Rodwell, and Fellaini will be a really good player. I hope the players didn’t get worried about it because I said to them that I thought we were playing well. “I kept using the words that we had to be tougher, we were losing an easy goal, Tim dropped one in on the opening day against Wolves, we have not had luck but keeping the clean sheets is probably something that has been getting us results. We didn’t keep one today but it was close to another one. “I think we are getting healthier, I think we are good enough to get up there but whether we can. Every season, we have tried not to have to play catch up – I have changed the pre-season, we went somewhere different, we changed the training ground. “I’m not superstitious but I had to try and find a solution to what was happening even though I thought that what we were doing most of the time wasn’t wrong.”
Spurs 1, Everton FC 1: Greg O'Keeffe sees the Blues gear up for Euro surge
Oct 25 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
THE last time Wayne Rooney petulantly demanded a transfer Everton went on to finish fourth without him. He might not have been wearing a royal blue shirt when he showed his true colours this time, but Toffees would gladly accept the same outcome. Optimists could feasibly claim that David Moyes’ current crop are already one step ahead of that side. Everton lost twice to Spurs in the 2004-05 campaign, when they memorably qualified for the Champions League after that summer of upheaval when the Croxteth boy-wonder departed. With West Brom currently sitting pretty in a European place, and Liverpool second from bottom – who knows what could happen in this bewildering season. Everton’s performance at the home of the latest club to break up the Premier League’s closed shop provided even more cause for hope. Without key personnel like Mikel Arteta, Maoruane Fellaini and Leon Osman, the strength in depth of David Moyes’ squad shone through, as the Scot nevertheless fielded a team which asked serious questions of Harry Redknapp’s star-studded ranks. The Everton boss would still give his right arm for a reliable, 20-goal a season centre forward, and may still try and do some business in January, but he was at least able to re-introduce Louis Saha at White Hart Lane, and witness Yakubu’s transformation back into an effective performer continue. And but for an uncharacteristic error from Mr Reliable Tim Howard, the Blues could have nicked an impressive away win, although they would be hard pressed to argue that a share of the spoils was not fair.Leighton Baines’ precision free kick was a goal fine enough to win any game, even if the lead it gifted his side lasted only two minutes. The sloppy manner in which Everton conceded the equaliser, Howard dropping a clanger and Rafael Van der Vaart thumping home from close range, was a rare error in an oasis of defensive solidity. Phil Jagielka and Sylvain Distin were steady and commanding, tightly marshalling the lively Peter Crouch and Luka Modric. But the main defensive plaudits go to Phil Neville, who proved that there is no substitute for experience and unremitting focus when your task is shackling the man touted as the best attacking left-sided player in the country at present. Neville, aided by a solid, responsible shift from Seamus Coleman, had Bale in his pocket and Harry Redknapp conceded afterwards that the 33-year-old Everton skipper played the mercurial young Welshman better than anyone has in some time. John Heitnga too, until hobbling off in the second half, limited the potency of Van der Vaart and went some way to winning back the affection of his manager after a series of dubious declarations of interest in playing elsewhere. Such is the strength of Harry Redknapp’s squad; the Londoners dealt with their leg-sapping defeat in the San Siro and still had a bench with the calibre of Roman Pavlyuchenko, Niko Kranjcar and Jermaine Jenas – not to mention the injured Jermaine Defoe, Michael Dawson, Jamie O’Hara and Verdan Corluka watching from the sidelines. Spurs are rarely mentioned alongside the uber-rich of England’s top flight; Chelsea and Manchester City, but they spend almost as much as the former and have amassed a squad which should consider finishing fourth as a minimum requirement. But Everton have their own strength in depth. In the injured Mikel Arteta’s absence, Steven Pienaar was restored to the side after a month-long absence; the South African asked to be playmaker, operating in the centre of midfield. On the left flank, Diniyar Bilyaletdinov replaced the injured Leon Osman. Moyes had asked the Russian to provide evidence he can cut it at this level, and he responded with a mixed display. His work-rate has improved, witness headers being won and more physical commitment, but the Russian international seems a fish out of water on the left flank. Too often in the second period he failed to provide cover when Gareth Bale was lurking, and his performances on the wing beg the question whether he would be better deployed inside left, or behind a forward. That debate, however, ignores the Moyes’ dictum that a player must operate where he asks him, and adhere to a system with discipline and responsibility - Leon Osman or Tony Hibbert perfect examples of reliability even when played out of position. Rightly so, at Everton it is team before individual. The game was finely balanced at the break, Spurs, however, wasted a good headed chance from Crouch. The Londoners started the second half brightly, almost scoring twice. First Gareth Bale flashed a header just wide from substitute Sandro’s cross. Then Sylvain Distin missed a header which allowed the lurking Crouch through on goal, but the French defender recovered impressively to make the block and divert the ball safely back to Howard. Everton were coping, although they clearly missed the creative influence of Osman and Arteta. Pienaar battled admirably but short of match fitness, struggled to have his usual impish effect on the game. Yet, although Spurs continued to push with the end stages approaching Everton rarely looked overly troubled. They even went close to grabbing a riotous, in every sense of the word, winner when Tony Hibbert connected venomously with a 30-yard-volley which flew wide. The point consolidated the revival. A familiar pattern of resurgence is emerging and not before time. Everton face three fixtures now where they must really prove their newly rediscovered mettle.Stoke City, Blackpool and Bolton – three games when the Blues should have the edge in creativity and technical ability. Nine points, in theory, are there - but David Moyes’ team must focus on what can make them so special. That dual combination of artistry and industry, mixing it one minute, and playing silky football the next. A return to the lacklustre displays of Wolves and Newcastle will see one step forward become two back. If Everton are serious about rescuing their ambitions this season, they must hit Stoke hard, get Goodison behind them, and earn the right to play. Then they will be able to aim as high as Spurs, a side they have proved they can compete against even with a depleted squad. Mikel Arteta should return in time for the visit of Pulis’ team, Victor Anichebe and Jack Rodwell are not far behind him, and Louis Saha may yet play a pivotal role. The rest of the Premier League might be impossible to second guess, but the omens are good that after Everton’s predictable annual slow start is set to follow their usual dominant surge. Like those echoes of 2004/05, Evertonians can only hope their team sticks to the script. “We're a bit harder to beat right now and we look a bit more likely to score. When we get our players back from injury, we'll be a match for anyone.” DAVID MOYES points to the positives after a hard-fought point."
“They're a good side and you're never get an easy game (against Everton). I thought we had the better chances but it didn't quite drop for us.” HARRY REDKNAPP acknowledges Everton’s resurgence.
TOTTENHAM (4-4-1-1): Gomes, Hutton, Kaboul, Gallas, Assou-Ekotto, Lennon (Pavlyuchenko, 69), Bale, Palacios (Sandro, 45), Modric (capt), Van Der Vaart, Crouch. Not used: Cudicini, Jenas, Keane, Bassong, Kranjcar.
EVERTON (4-4-2): Howard, Neville (capt), Distin, Jagielka, Baines, Coleman (Beckford, 83) Heitinga (Hibbert, 77), Bilyaletdinov, Pienaar, Cahill, Yakubu (Saha, 61).. Not used: Mucha, Gueye, Baxter, Duffy.
GOALS: Baines (17), Van Der Vaart (19)
CARDS: Booked – Palacios (10), Coleman (51), Van Der Vaart (72), Sandro (77)
REFEREE: M Jones.
ATTENDANCE: 35, 967.
Phil Jagielka: Everton FC must rotate squad to emulate Spurs' Euro success
Oct 25 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
PHIL JAGIELKA believes Everton must adapt to a squad rotation system if they are to emulate the success of European place rival Spurs. The England defender accepts that Harry Redknapp’s vast, star-studded squad is ideal for making the step up to Champions League football. Jagielka insists Everton will be in a similar position of strength with everyone fit, but insists the transition for the squad will not be easy. He said: “It’s a different mindset and a different skill. Most of the players are used to playing week in, week out and it’s different when you’re not. To come in then and still perform is a skill. That’s what the top players do though. “They might not play for three weeks, or have a game on and off. It’s not only switching on mentally, it’s physically as well. “The demands of the Premier League are really high, especially if you’re not playing and getting your sharpness. If you’ve got such a big squad and it’s being rotated, there are extra pressures on the players. “It’s totally different, but hopefully with a fully fit squad and maybe adding a few, we’ll get to those levels.” Jagielka put in another strong performance at White Hart Lane, and is not overly concerned by Everton’s growing injury list. He said: “We would have liked to hold onto our lead a bit longer, but it’s a point away from home against a side playing Champions League football. “If you add up both of our squads they’d be a million miles away price wise, but we’re happy with what we’ve got.“We’ve got a lot of injuries at the moment, the squad is thinner than we’d like, but we’ve still got enough to get out a good team. “I’m not too worried about the injury front. Now we’ve lost a few lads for four to six weeks, where last season it was four and six months at a time. “It was a shame to lose Ross (Barkley) for such a long time, but we’re getting Victor (Anichebe), Jack (Rodwell) and Mikel (Arteta) back soon. And it’s not like we’ve just had a bench full of kids. We had Louis and Hibbo coming off the bench at Spurs. “It’s not as bleak as it has been. Sometimes it helps when the gaffer has not got a lot to choose from. It allows for a bit of continuity. We’re a good bunch of lads, and we’ll dig in when the going gets tough and continue on four good results.” Despite missing England’s last Euro 2012 qualifier against Montenegro, due to a ham-string injury, the centre-half believes his body is in not danger of succumbing to niggly injuries. He said: “I’ve had a little cyst on the other side of my knee, but it’s nothing major. “It was my hamstring with England and we had a scan and realised the damage wasn’t as bad as we first feared. “So it was up to me and the medical team, whether we tried it for the derby. Thankfully the decision we made was okay.”
Everton FC captain Phil Neville relished Gareth Bale Tottenham challenge
Oct 25 2010 by Philip Kirkbride, Liverpool Daily Post
PHIL NEVILLE said pitting himself against the most exciting winger in football was a challenge he relished. The Everton captain was tasked with job of marshalling Tottenham Hotspur flyer Gareth Bale on Saturday at White Hart Lane, just days after the Welshman hit a stunning hat-trick in the Champions League. But where the Inter Milan defence failed, Neville prospered in keeping Bale quiet for much of the weekend’s 1-1 draw but the former England international admits he owes Seamus Coleman a debt of thanks for sharing the burden. The draw in the capital extends the Goodison Park side’s unbeaten Premier League run to four matches but the Everton captain was left disappointed his side could not have made it three consecutive wins and pushed up the table. “Gareth’s probably the most in-from left winger in the world at the moment, certainly the most talked about, and I was so lucky that I had Seamus Coleman in front of me,” said Neville. “He did a great job and at times I had to use my experience. Bale has probably outpaced every full-back in the league and with Leighton Baines on the other wing against Aaron Lennon, you probably won’t find two faster wingers anywhere. “So we had our work cut out on Saturday but I thoroughly enjoyed the battle and it is what I came into football for, to play against the best players and at the moment Gareth Bale is one of the best players. “I was pleased with the way it went, you have got to make sure Seamus and the midfielders were in the right positions and then just use your experience. “At times I had to be aggressive with Bale and at times drop off. I couldn’t give him space to open his legs because once he does that then no full-back in the world is going to catch him. I just needed to make sure I was never in that situation. “It was a hard earned point and we knew we were going to have to defend well. With a little bit more quality on the counter attack we could’ve nicked it. When you go a goal up you hope to keep possession for 20 minutes and see out the first half. If we had gone in at half-time 1-0 up then I’m sure we would’ve won the game but we conceded a soft goal. “I don’t think there is much to choose between the two teams, we’ve both got quality and they’re always good games between us because of the ability we have. “It was a really enjoyable game to play in and there is a real hunger in the squad and when you have that it is really good to play in these games. “I think we’ve been in good form all season but the results haven’t shown that but now they are. After the wins over Liverpool and Birmingham we came here with the feeling the momentum is growing and building, there was a real belief we could come down here and get a win. “We didn’t do that but the run keeps going and we need to maintain that against Stoke next weekend.” Neville has been vocal in his praise for rookie Coleman and after another assured performance at Spurs on Saturday the captain believes the youngster provides Everton with an alternative model of how to scout for talent in the future. “He’s learning from game to game and each match he’s learning something different,” added Neville. “Fitness wise he’s learning that winger is physically a harder position to play but like I said after the derby last week, Seamus gives 110%, he’s a real team player. He cost this club £60,000, didn’t go through the academy system and played his football in Sligo. “There is a real hunger and determination about him and maybe that is something we should look at in terms of our past players, that you don’t have to go through the academy system and don’t have to be pampered.”
We can push for a place in Europe, insists Everton FC manager David Moyes
Oct 25 2010 by Philip Kirkbride, Liverpool Daily Post
DAVID MOYES remains confident Everton can still push for a place in Europe after they extended their unbeaten run to four matches. The Goodison Park side frustrated Tottenham Hotspur into a 1-1 draw at White Hart Lane on Saturday and continued their rehabilitation from a poor start to the season. Moyes admits the difficult opening to a new Premier League season which brought with it great hope, left him questioning his methods and searching for answers.
But reassured with the belief he has assembled the best squad of his Everton reign allowed the manager to keep faith and now is delighted his side are heading in the right direction. “I thought at the start of the season that we would be up there pushing fro Europe and I still do,” said Moyes. “We are a little bit short in the strength department and when the early results didn’t go too well, you start questioning your own self but in most of the games we have played well. “We probably played better in those opening games than we even did against Liverpool and maybe on Saturday against Tottenham. “I don’t think you absolutely doubt yourself when things go wrong because this is as good as I have had. “We’ve got a good balance of experience with Phil Neville and Sylvain Distin and the emerging players Phil Jagielka and Leighton Baines, Jack Rodwell and Fellaini who will be a really good player.“I really thought this would be a year to enjoy, a year to have a go and challenge but the start was really disappointing I could not put my finger on why, except to say that we couldn’t score. “I think we are getting healthier, I think we are good enough to get up there but whether we can, I don’t know. “Every season, we have tried not to have to play catch up. I changed the pre-season, we went somewhere different, we changed the training ground, I’m not superstitious but I had to try and find a solution to what was happening even though I thought that what we were doing most of the time wasn’t wrong. “I changed everything hoping we could get off to a decent start but it just did not happen. “One thing is that you can normally walk away and take some little bit of pleasure from the performance but this went on for two three four games and I was asking ‘Wait a minute have I got that wrong?’ maybe we are not playing as well as we should be, I have to find another way of winning games. “A manager’s job is to find ways of winning games whether you do it the purist way or do whatever you have to, to win.”Meanwhile, Moyes admits he may have asked too much of summer signing Jermaine Beckford too soon. The Everton manager intends now to slowly bring the former Leeds United hot-shot up to speed with the rigours of the Premier League.
“What I wanted to happen was him coming off the bench for 20 minutes or so but I ended up starting with him in the early season and I don’t think that helped. “My real intention was to start him from the bench, people say he is not settling but Baines took a year to settle and Jagielka took a year to settle. “Pienaar and Arteta took time, I want to take Beckford off the bench and get him used to the Premier League. “He did well last week but he didn’t get many opportunities when he came on late in the game on Saturday. “He won’t be happy with being on the bench but if you ask him what does he think is best for his development then that is probably the best. “I can see in his training that it has to be upped but that will come. “He has seen the level to what he has to get to. His development will have to come from improving his training. “When he gets on the field there is lots of stuff he needs to get used to, the defenders will be quicker sharper he might not get as many opportunities but one thing is certain – he is definitely a goal scorer.”
Tottenham in need of a breather while Everton's revival continues
David Laceyat White Hart Lane The Guardian,
Monday 25 October 2010
Tottenham Hotspur appear to be coping with the twin demands of competing in the present Champions League while challenging for a place in next season's tournament. Up to a point anyway, and the one they took from the draw with Everton has kept them in the pack that will spend most of the season in or around the top four.
Spurs' performance in coming from behind for the fourth time this season to get something from a game confirmed the powers of recovery they demonstrated in Milan three nights earlier, when a late hat-trick from Gareth Bale brought them to the brink of an astounding comeback after they had been 4-0 down to Internazionale at half-time. Yet in the end their failure to take a larger proportion of their chances, several of which fell to Peter Crouch, cost them a routine home win. Everton dealt rather better with Bale than the European champions had done and this was due largely to the experience and defensive expertise of Phil Neville, their captain and right-back who, with the assistance of Seamus Coleman, ensured that the young Welshman found few opportunities to cut in from the touchline and let fly with his awesome left foot.
"Gareth's been murdering everyone," Harry Redknapp, the Tottenham manager, said, "but I knew Neville wouldn't be easy because he knows what he's doing. I think he's an underrated player. He did a decent job with Gareth, as good as anybody's done with him for a long time." For a few minutes Leighton Baines, Everton's left-back, appeared to have given David Moyes's side the initiative after leaving Heurelho Gomes helpless as his free-kick cleared the line of defenders and found the top near corner of the net. Then Tim Howard failed to deal with Alan Hutton's high centre to the far post, Crouch played the ball back off his solar plexus and Rafael van der Vaart brought the scores level with his fifth goal for Spurs. With Crouch and Van der Vaart again an item, a win for Tottenham would surely follow and that might have been the case had Crouch not risen for a free header in first-half stoppage time, again from Hutton's centre, only to nod the ball straight into Howard's hands. Afterwards Redknapp was at pains to emphasise the importance of Crouch's height as an attacking alternative when faced with the thicket of bodies Tottenham were apt to encounter in the approaches to Everton's goal. "He gives us an important option," the Spurs manager said, but there are times when Crouch's 6ft 7in should give him no option other than scoring. At least Redknapp found himself fielding questions about his attack, which made a change from doubts concerning his defence. After a string of injuries Spurs have already had more partnerships at centre-back, 11 so far, than your average gentleman's excuse-me. Younes Kaboul and William Gallas had been once around the floor before Saturday and found few problems containing Yakubu Ayegbeni's thrusts through the middle while keeping a weather eye on Tim Cahill, forever lurking, always looking. Kaboul's ability to bring the ball out and use it constructively partly made up for the absence from midfield of the injured Tom Huddlestone, although the latter's authority was missed as Tottenham lost some of their momentum and a contest nicely balanced at half-time petered out disappointingly. Redknapp appeared as happy with the result as Moyes and at least Spurs now have a week's rest before they go to Manchester United on Saturday, with Inter at White Hart Lane three days later. Even life not quite at the top can be tough.
Tottenham 1 Everton 1
By PAT SHEEHAN
25 Oct 2010 The Sun
IN the week when Spurs gave us the boyo from Brazil, the real boy from Brazil stood up at White Hart Lane.
Welshman Gareth Bale's hat-trick against Inter Milan had team-mate and Brazil stopper Heurelho Gomes insisting he could stroll into his country's side.
Midfielder Sandro has started just one game for Tottenham since he arrived from Internacional in an £8million deal in January. Yet his appearance as a sub for Wilson Palacios indicated it could be the beginning of the end for the Honduran.
Sandro, who was part of Brazil's World Cup squad, is out of the Palacios mould - big, terrific engine, a box-to-box player who uses his physique and his brain. Spurs boss Redknapp was joking Palacios' mum badgered him into giving her son a rare game when he bumped into her while out shopping. Well, Harry confessed he would be avoiding her now after he took Palacios off at the break for fear he would get sent off against Everton. At one time it was unthinkable a Spurs team would be named without Palacios starting but it has now become the norm for him to be a bench warmer. Redknapp knew all about former Wigan midfielder Palacios before he bought him but Sandro was brought to White Hart Lane on recommendation alone. He never saw him in the flesh. He revealed: "Sandro was mentioned to us last year. I couldn't get to Brazil to see him play, it was impossible. So I sent out scout Ian Broomfield over there. "Ian told me 'I think he's worth taking'. It was difficult because other clubs were in for him. I spoke to Dunga, the manager of Brazil, about him. He gave me a fantastic recommendation." Even then, there were obstacles in the way like Inter Milan steaming in and plenty of red tape at the Department of Employment.
Redknapp added: "We had to get the work permit for him and that caused a few problems because he hasn't got the required amount of caps. "He's just got into the Brazil squad now and played for them the other day. I think he'll be a good player. He's a good athlete, has energy, is disciplined, is a big lad at 6ft 2in. "Sandro's not the typical Brazil-style player. He's similar to Wilson. "I'll dodge Wilson's mum now, she won't catch me again. For me to go shopping was a miracle. I haven't been for about 25 years. I don't know what I was doing!" Redknapp will not have a word said against Palacios, who has been a key figure in Tottenham's rise from the division's dead wood to a growing title threat. He added: "Wilson? He's just been unlucky. He has done so much for the team. He gave us something we never had, real bite." Another 'new boy' also suggested the changing of the guard could be happening at the Lane as Younes Kaboul put in a terrific performance at centre half alongside William Gallas.
Ian Snodin: The Wayne Rooney saga has left a sour taste
Oct 26 2010 Liverpool Echo
THE whole saga over Wayne Rooney’s new contract has left a sour taste in the mouth.
For starters, I don’t think any footballer should be earning that amount of money.
My concern is that those sorts of figures just drive football further and further away from the ordinary fan. Those supporters who fork out a large part of their income on season tickets and kits couldn’t dream of earning £200,000 a year – let alone for a week’s work. The issue is that it won’t stop here. Rio Ferdinand and Dimitar Berbatov will probably be phoning their agents demanding a hefty new deal. I’m sure Wayne will say his agent has done a fantastic job, but in reality it’s been an undignified mess. United are a proud, respected club and I don’t think things unfolded properly. I’d be surprised if the fans don’t give him stick. Ian Holloway’s reaction was hilarious. I love watching his interviews. You can’t get enough characters in the game.
Holloway can make you laugh, and make you think and when he comes out with metaphors about a lad trying to cop off on a Saturday night he makes me laugh.
Baines deserves England re-call soon
HOW Leighton Baines cannot get into Fabio Capello’s England set-up based on his form is beyond me. His free-kick against Spurs was first class, and I don’t think they could have stopped it with Heurelho Gomes AND Carlo Cudicini in goal – it was that precise. To get it up and over that wall, and then drop into the corner was impressive to say the least. I’ve got no doubt that if he carries on like this, he will eventually force his way back in but he should be there now.
Gareth Bale was always going to be a star
PHIL NEVILLE deserves every last bit of praise coming his way for handling Gareth Bale so adeptly at White Hart Lane. I recall when my brother was at Southampton and they sold Wayne Bridge. I was chatting to George Burley about how he would cope without Bridge, and he assured me they had a 16-year-old coming through who was even better. Bale didn’t settle immediately after he signed for Spurs, but now he has got everything needed to be a world class star.
Stoke are no mugs, so the Blues must be prepared to scrap
STOKE City arrive at Goodison on Saturday and as ever they will be a difficult proposition. Tony Pulis’s side are a well-established, hard to play Premier League team now who don’t have to worry about relegation anymore. But if the Blues can match them physically and stand-up to their initial bluster, they can take another important three points in their revival. It would be foolish to think Stoke have only got one way of doing things though – in Tuncay and Matthew Etherington, they can play through the midfield and whip crosses into the box, where they have strikers who can cause headaches. Another asset which Tony Pulis can count on is the fantastic travelling support, which Stoke always impress with, and they will help to create a tasty atmosphere inside Goodison Park. Everton have got to remember what helped them reach the levels they did last season, which was being able to play tough when necessary and not being bullied by anyone. It won’t be easy for the first half hour, and there will be big tackles flying in so men like John Heitinga and Phil Neville will be important to stand up and lead Everton’s response.
Ian Snodin: Draw against Spurs was vital for Everton FC momentum
Oct 26 2010 Liverpool Echo
THE difference a few results can make is astounding. Some were starting to doubt whether Everton could achieve anything this season on the back of their slow start, but a crucial win on the road at Birmingham, the massive lift which three points in the derby brings, and then a point at White Hart Lane and things are looking positive again. It was vital David Moyes kept the momentum going from the victory over Liverpool, and probably not ideal to go to North London to face a team who are adapting well to the Champions League big time. From four down Harry’s team did superbly to drag it back to 4-3, and with the size of their squad they can cope with the gruelling schedule of a game on Wednesday and then a Premier League game on the Saturday. You only have to look at the quality names on the Spurs’ bench, Niko Kranjcar, Roman Pavyluchenko, Sandro, Robbie Keane and Bassong – then take into account who they have out injured – Michael Dawson, Jonathan Woodgate, Jermaine Defoe, Verdan Corluka – the list goes on. They have so much strength in depth it’s ridiculous.On the other hand, Everton have improved the overall quality of their squad and David Moyes now has 18 strong players who can all push hard for a place.
I don’t think he would want a squad as vast as Tottenham’s, because it becomes absolutely impossible to keep everyone happy and can lead to a lot of disharmony in the dressing room. You only need a few unhappy, rotten eggs to take hold and you can ruin an otherwise good team spirit. Everton will want to continue to add numbers eventually, especially if they aspire to the Champions League, but Moyes will be wary of when to draw the line. Of course, he won’t have to worry too much. He is unlikely to have the sort of money Redknapp has spent any time soon.
Everton FC star Tim Cahill reveals key to his heading technique
Oct 26 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
TIM CAHILL has revealed the secrets behind the heading ability which has made him Everton’s lethal weapon. The Aussie, 30, consistently defies the odds to belie his 5 ft 10 frame, and rise above opposition defenders to find the net. Cahill is roundly considered one of the best scorers of headed goals in the Premier League, and insists his ability is down to the appliance of science and hard graft on the training ground.
He said: “Ever since a young age, I’ve done a lot of plyometrics, jumping and working on things that actually work for me. “To make sure I can direct the ball to go in the goal when I’m up in the air is something that I make sure I train a lot for to make it work. “You have to look at the quality of the ball. Bainesy is someone I work a lot with. I get him to put quality crosses in and try to guide them into the net.
“You do so much sports science in football that you can always try to be better at different things in training. I suppose I’m lucky enough that I’ve got that spring but, once you’re up there, you have to make sure that the execution is right and that you’re strong enough to hold people off. “These days in football, someone’s constantly holding you, nudging you or pushing you – as you could see against Liverpool – so you have to be a bit cute because it gets harder every year.” Meanwhile, Sylvain Distin has urged his teammates to keep up the good work as they stretched their unbeaten run to four games with a 1-1 draw against Tottenham. Everton conceded their first goal in over five hours at White Hart Lane but were assured of a point courtesy of a 17th minute free kick by Leighton Baines. Distin has warned that Everton must build on his team’s revival to prevent slipping back down a very tight Premier League.
He said: “At the moment we’re on a good run but two weeks ago everybody was saying the opposite. “It’s football, when things go wrong you have to keep working, but when things go well you have to do the same. In football it can change very quickly.” Tottenham’s equalising goal came via Rafael van der Vaart after a rare misjudgement from goalkeeper Tim Howard allowed the Dutchman to slam home from close range. Whilst Distin admits that the Blues could have dealt with the goal better, he believes that ultimately a point in North London will prove a good result.
“It was 1-1 with a goal we could have avoided, so I don’t think we should be ashamed about our game it was a good result for us,” said Distin. “The only downside was the way we conceded, but I’m still happy about the result altogether.” “We have to be realistic we were away from home against a good team and I think it’s a good result.”
Revealed: How Everton FC’s Tim Cahill has become the head boy of the Premier League
Oct 26 2010 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
TIM CAHILL has revealed the secret to becoming the Barclays Premier League’s head boy with Everton. Since arriving at Goodison Park more than six years ago, Cahill has scored a remarkable 27 headed goals in 172 top-flight appearances.
It puts him ahead of the likes of Alan Shearer, Les Ferdinand, Dion Dublin and former Everton team-mate Duncan Ferguson as the most prolific scorer of headers in Barclays Premier League history. Twelve of Cahill’s last 15 goals have been with his head, with more than half of that overall tally coming from crosses by Leighton Baines. And the Australian has told how a combination of good service and good early practice has helped maintain his undoubted aerial prowess. “Ever since a young age, I’ve done a lot of plyometrics, jumping and working on things that actually work for me,” said the 30-year-old. “To make sure I can direct the ball to go in the goal when I’m up in the air is something that I make sure I train a lot for to make it work.
“You do so much sports science in football that you can always try to be better at different things in training. “I suppose I’m lucky enough that I’ve got that spring but, once you’re up there, you have to make sure that the execution is right and that you’re strong enough to hold people off. “These days in football, someone’s constantly holding you, nudging you or pushing you, so you have to be a bit cute because it gets harder every year.”The Australian midfielder added: “You have to look at the quality of the ball. Bainesy is someone I work a lot with. I get him to put quality crosses in and try to guide them into the net.” It was the turn of Baines to find the net at the weekend when his sumptuous free-kick put Everton ahead in their 1-1 draw at Tottenham Hotspur. David Moyes’s side are unbeaten in their last four Premier League games, a run which has moved them up from rock bottom to mid-table.
But Sylvain Distin has warned they cannot rest on their laurels having worked their way through a poor start to the campaign. “At the moment we’re on a good run but two weeks ago everybody was saying the opposite,” said the centre-back.
“It’s football, when things go wrong you have to keep working, but when things go well you have to do the same. “In football it can change very quickly.”
Tottenham equalised at the weekend when a rare Tim Howard mistake gave Dutch international Rafael van der Vaart the chance to smash the ball home. But Distin added: “The only downside was the way we conceded, but I’m still happy about the result altogether. “It was 1-1 with a goal we could have avoided, so I don’t think we should be ashamed about our game it was a good result for us. “We have to be realistic we were away from home against a good team and I think it’s a good result.”
Mark Lawrenson: Everton FC’s Tim Howard should just move on from mistake at Tottenham Hotspur
Oct 26 2010 by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Daily Post
EVERTON’S point at Tottenham Hotspur could prove to be a valuable one because there are going to be a lot of teams returning from White Hart Lane this season with nothing. It was a great goal from Leighton Baines and it will be interesting to see what happens with free-kicks once Mikel Arteta returns. In reality, Everton turned their corner a while ago and they’re several weeks ahead of Liverpool in terms of their recovery. They weren’t playing that badly to be fair but have just looked a bit toothless up front at times. Tim Howard’s mistake for Tottenham’s equaliser was a bit of a strange one for me. I don’t know why he didn’t use the pace of the cross to try and tip the ball away. Things are a bit different for Tim this season as he’s got another international goalkeeper with World Cup experience breathing down his neck in the shape of Jan Mucha so there is much more competition for the gloves. But I’m sure David Moyes trusts Howard and while he also made an error for Blackburn’s winning goal on the first day of the season, you can generally count the number of mistakes he makes throughout the campaign on one hand. I’d expect Tim to shrug off this latest setback though. He’s already been brilliant at times this season and he’s a model pro who will try and put things right at Finch Farm this week. Tim trains like a dog and he’s of such an age now that when he does make a mistake he can just forget about it and move on. You can never expect an easy ride in the Premier League but after coming out well of a sequence of potentially difficult matches, Evertonians will now be looking at their next few fixtures expecting to get a few more points on the board. You know it will be a battle against Stoke but Moyes’s men will be confident.
Everton FC star Tony Hibbert describes his special week involving a Mersey derby win and a new deal
Oct 27 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
EVERTON stalwart Tony Hibbert has described a ‘special’ seven days which saw him celebrate a derby win and sign a new contract. The 29-year-old defender rounded off a week which began with the 2-0 defeat of Liverpool, by finalising a two-year contract extension on the eve of Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Tottenham. The right-back is a one-club man with more than 250 senior appearances under his belt, and is now keen to finish his career with his boyhood heroes having committed himself to Goodison Park until 2014. The Academy product, who started as a central midfielder before being converted into a full-back by Walter Smith, said: “I have been here so long now and it is great to get another deal and extend that stay. "I always wanted to, and planned to, and I am just glad the club have asked me to stay longer. “I would love to finish my career here. Everton is a big part of my life. “I have been here since I was kid and it is great for me and for my family to be given a couple more years on top of what I have already got. “It has been a special time – it was great news for me to get a new contract and a derby win in the same week is just fantastic.” Hibbert was joined in his new deal by fellow Academy graduate Leon Osman, who has also signed a two-year extension. The two players have almost become synonymous with the club over the years, and Hibbert admitted he was delighted to see his friend also get a new deal.
“It is nice to have been with the one club – you don’t see it very often and it is nice for myself and Ossie. “We are two local lads who have come through the system and made good careers out of football and to stay with just the one club is special.
“We have been here together for a long time and I am delighted for him – he deserves.”
More than 50 players to gather for 10th anniversary of Everton FC former players foundation
Oct 27 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
A HOST of Everton legends are to gather for a unique dinner in honour of the foundation which changed some of their lives. More than 50 ex-players, many who lifted silverware throughout the Blues history, will be reunited at the event at Goodison Park, to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Everton former players foundation. Alongside Blue heroes like Bob Latchford, Duncan McKenzie, Andy King, and Joe Royle, will be goalkeeping great Gordon West, who is indebted to the work of English football’s first registered charity to aid ex-players. The man who once cost a world record breaking transfer fee, has previously gone on record to describe how a debilitating knee injury rendered him a house-bound recluse until the Foundation stepped in to offer him medical and financial support. “They changed my life,” he said. “By the nature of the work they do, many of the people they help can’t or won’t come forward. “But I don’t mind saying they have changed my life completely. “When my knee was bad I was stuck in the house all the time. I’m a different person now.” West will be joined by Ronny Goodlass, the club’s most successful ever manager Howard Kendall, Jim Pearson, Fred Pickering, and, Ray Wilson. Bob Latchford will fly from Germany, where he now lives with his partner, to be present at the Club Everton Marquee along with former Everton and Arsenal midfielder Anders Limpar who will travel from Sweden. Foundation trustee Philip Ross, son of Goodison Chaplin Harry, said the charity does more than simply help ageing former stars fund operations on weary joints. He said: “It has made a significant difference to the lives of a lot of former players, which is something we’re all very proud of. “But we will try and offer our help in response to a range of problems our former players may encounter. “One former player who is living down South had developed a serious alcohol problem and the foundation paid for him to have rehabilitation treatment in a clinic similar to the Priory. “It helped him enormously and he has since kicked the booze and is now planning to get married.
“Gordon West is a big success story for us and he very graciously give us credit for helping him get out and about now. “But we have earned admiration from all over Europe for what we do. We became part of the European Association of Former Players Associations in 2004, and through that have forged strong links with FC Barcelona and clubs in Italy, and Greece as well. “I have spoken to a former Barcelona player who says he looks to us as an example, which is fantastic.”
The event, on November 15, will be attended by Pat Labone, widow of Everton great Brian, who was instrumental in setting up the foundation. Ross said: “Brian played a huge role in getting us up and running in the early days. “That’s why it’s so satisfying that Pat is involved as Foundation administrator and we’re immensely grateful to all her hard work and commitment.” The evening will include a three- course meal, a Q & A session with former players, raffle, and auction Representatives from the club’s most successful era, the Eighties, will include John Bailey, Derek Mountfield, and Kevin Sheedy along with the first man to play for Everton and Liverpool, Tony McNamara, and a man who featured for all three Mersey clubs, Dave Hickson.
We’ve done all we can to keep Steven Pienaar at Everton FC - Phil Neville
Oct 27 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
PHIL NEVILLE admits Everton can’t do any more to persuade Steven Pienaar to stay with Everton – and the decision over his future now lies solely with the player.
The Everton skipper admits that the South African midfielder is burdened with the choice of whether to sign a new contract with the Toffees or agree a pre-contract with a foreign club in January. Bafana Bafana star Pienaar was offered a lucrative new deal to remain on Merseyside over the summer, but has so far declined to sign amid reports linking him with clubs in Italy and Germany. But Neville insists his team-mate will not let his performance levels drop regardless of his eventual decision.
He said: “To be fair to Steven he’s got that hanging over him, but he keeps playing well for us. “It would be a massive blow to lose him. He’s such an influential character. But it happened to Joleon Lescott a few years ago and we didn’t want him to move. It’s happened to other big players. But we as players can’t do anything about it. “You can say to Steven every minute of every day that we don’t want him to leave but at the end of the day it’s his decision. “He’s from South Africa, he’s played in Ajax, then Dortmund now he’s been to Everton and had the happiest days of his career I think. The club wants him to stay, but there’s not much else we can say.
“He’s probably weighing up his options now and you just hope for our sake that he signs. “I wouldn’t want another player delving into it, if I was in this situation. It’s between the manager, Steven and the chairman. It’s just up to Steven to make the right decision now.” Meanwhile, Tim Cahill believes it is only a matter of time before Jermaine Beckford hits top form. Cahill is determined the former Leeds man has what it takes to become a hit in the top flight. He said: “There’s no shadow of a doubt about Beckford’s ability. He’s scored the goals and you can see in training what he can produce and what a great player he is. “It’s only a matter of time. You need consistent game time and that’s all it is. "He’s got everything and I think we’re very lucky to have a player of his calibre because his speed and his finishing is pretty impressive.”
Mersey football film The Ballad of Dixie and Kenny set to hit big screen
Oct 27 2010 By Laura Jones
FOOTBALL farce is set to return to the big screen with the release of Merseyside feature film Reds and Blues, The Ballad of Dixie and Kenny. Anfield and Goodison legends including ECHO columnist Phil Thompson, Howard Kendall and Ian St John all put in cameos in the tale of cut-throat but comic rivalry between Reds and Blues.
The film was written by Dave Kirby and executive produced by Paul Flanagan, the men behind the hit Liverpool FC DVD Fifteen Minutes that Shook the World.
But the pair of passionate Reds admitted they had to bring a ‘bluenose’ onboard, in director Ian Lysaght, to get a balance. Dave said: "I was really careful.
"I’m a Red and Ian’s a Blue. Over the eight drafts [of the script] it was diluted and diluted and Ian was a massive help in that process with his Blue allegiances."
He added: "The Blues are great, great Scousers. "I’m also a Scouser as well and I want this to be for the whole city." The film’s plot follows one determined Blue’s attempts to scupper a party at his neighbour’s to celebrate Liverpool’s fifth European Cup victory. Ian agreed that directing the film was a delicate balancing act.
He said: "You’ve got to take a dig at your own club - it’s a bit of a tight rope to walk.
"If you lose a derby - like Liverpool just have - you’ve got to go into work the next day and face that banter. "I wouldn’t have it any other way." Alan Kennedy, John Aldridge, Jimmy Case, Tommy Smith, Mark Ward and Graham Stuart all appear in cameo alongside the film’s leads Paul Duckworth, Andrew "Scully" Schofield and Lindzi Germain. The film premieres tomorrow night at a red and blue carpet gala showing at Liverpool One.
Everton FC Bellefield bid hits further delays
Oct 27 2010 by Marc Waddington, Liverpool Echo
EVERTON FC faces further delays to its long-running bid to build luxury houses on its former Bellefield training ground. The application for 74 homes was deferred until the planning committee can go and see the site for themselves. Two years ago, Liverpool City Council blocked the club’s plans to build homes on the West Derby site after 220 residents complained. A planning inspector later quashed Everton’s appeal. After changes in planning policies, the new bid was recommended for approval. A site visit will be held on November 9.
Everton FC star Tim Cahill reveals key to his heading technique
Oct 26 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
TIM CAHILL has revealed the secrets behind the heading ability which has made him Everton’s lethal weapon. The Aussie, 30, consistently defies the odds to belie his 5 ft 10 frame, and rise above opposition defenders to find the net. Cahill is roundly considered one of the best scorers of headed goals in the Premier League, and insists his ability is down to the appliance of science and hard graft on the training ground.
He said: “Ever since a young age, I’ve done a lot of plyometrics, jumping and working on things that actually work for me. “To make sure I can direct the ball to go in the goal when I’m up in the air is something that I make sure I train a lot for to make it work. “You have to look at the quality of the ball. Bainesy is someone I work a lot with. I get him to put quality crosses in and try to guide them into the net.
“You do so much sports science in football that you can always try to be better at different things in training. I suppose I’m lucky enough that I’ve got that spring but, once you’re up there, you have to make sure that the execution is right and that you’re strong enough to hold people off. “These days in football, someone’s constantly holding you, nudging you or pushing you – as you could see against Liverpool – so you have to be a bit cute because it gets harder every year.”
Meanwhile, Sylvain Distin has urged his teammates to keep up the good work as they stretched their unbeaten run to four games with a 1-1 draw against Tottenham.
Everton conceded their first goal in over five hours at White Hart Lane but were assured of a point courtesy of a 17th minute free kick by Leighton Baines.
Distin has warned that Everton must build on his team’s revival to prevent slipping back down a very tight Premier League. He said: “At the moment we’re on a good run but two weeks ago everybody was saying the opposite. “It’s football, when things go wrong you have to keep working, but when things go well you have to do the same. In football it can change very quickly.” Tottenham’s equalising goal came via Rafael van der Vaart after a rare misjudgement from goalkeeper Tim Howard allowed the Dutchman to slam home from close range. Whilst Distin admits that the Blues could have dealt with the goal better, he believes that ultimately a point in North London will prove a good result. “It was 1-1 with a goal we could have avoided, so I don’t think we should be ashamed about our game it was a good result for us,” said Distin.
“The only downside was the way we conceded, but I’m still happy about the result altogether.” “We have to be realistic we were away from home against a good team and I think it’s a good result.”
Everton FC skipper Phil Neville stoked for Tony Pulis challenge
Oct 27 2010 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
PHIL NEVILLE believes Everton face a stern task to continue their unbeaten run this weekend – due to the “outstanding” efforts of Tony Pulis. Pulis travels north with his Stoke City on Saturday to face a Goodison outfit looking to build on a run of four games without defeat that has dragged them off the foot of the Premier League into mid-table. Everton skipper Neville is a huge fan of the Stoke manager, who led his team to the top flight for the first time in 23 years in 2008 and has subsequently steered the Potters clear of serious relegation concerns. And the 33-year-old said: “We are going to have to defend well against Stoke, that’s for sure. “I think Tony Pulis has been outstanding. Every time I hear him speak, he speaks with class and his team is getting better and better because he is signing a better quality of player.
“There’s no drama around that place, they just sign players and get on with it and are slowly but surely, building a team to cement their place in the Premier League.
“He’s got quality in that team and when you sign players like Eidur Gudjohnsen and Jermaine Pennant these are players who have played on the top stage and it shows Stoke are moving forward. “I’ve nothing but admiration for Tony Pulis, I’ve met him a few times and he’s an outstanding person as well.” Neville can see similarities between Pulis and Everton manager David Moyes, and has dismissed criticism of Stoke’s playing style and their use of Rory Delap’s long throw-ins as an attacking weapon. “I see the way Tony talks and the way our manager talks and can see the similarities,” he added. “I know our manager is good friends with Tony.
“Tony’s a class act and his team gets criticism for the way they, criticism from other managers in the way they play, but from everyone here, they get nothing but total respect because it’s about winning football matches at the end of the day.
“And just because they’ve got someone who can take a long throw-in, doesn’t mean that’s a bad way to win a football match.”Meanwhile, Tony Hibbert is intent on spending the rest of his playing days at Everton. The homegrown defender, the squad’s long-serving player, last week signed a fresh contract that extends his Goodison commitment until 2014. That would take Hibbert past his 33rd birthday and, having come through Everton youth ranks, the right-back is intent on remaining a one-club man. “I have been here so long now and it is great to get another deal and extend that stay,” he said. “I always wanted to, and planned to, and I am just glad the club have asked me to stay longer. “I would love to finish my career here. Everton is a big part of my life. “I have been here since I was a kid and it is great for me and for my family to be given a couple more years on top of what I have already got.”
Fellow Academy graduate Leon Osman has also signed a two-year extension, and Hibbert said: “It is nice to have been with the one club – you don’t see it very often and it is nice for myself and Ossie. “We are two local lads who have come through the system and made good careers out of football and to stay with just the one club is special. We have been here together for a long time and I am delighted for him – he deserves it.” Everton have run the rule over Wrexham’s Wales under-21 international goalkeeper Chris Maxwell, who has spent two days on trial at Bellefield.
Everton FC Bellefield bid hits further delays
Oct 27 2010 by Marc Waddington, Liverpool Daily Post
EVERTON FC faces further delays to its long-running bid to build luxury houses on its former Bellefield training ground. The application for 74 homes, which could sell for up to £500,000 each, was deferred until the planning committee can go and see the site for themselves. Two years ago, Liverpool City Council blocked the club’s plans to build homes on the West Derby site after 220 residents complained.
A planning inspector later quashed Everton’s appeal. After changes in planning policies, the new bid was recommended for approval. A site visit will be held on November 9 before any decision.
Everton FC Fans’ forum - Blues supporters on Pienaar, Osman and more
Oct 28 2010 Liverpool Echo
SOME people just never know when they’re best off. We rescued Steven Pienaar’s career that showed so much promise in his youth, but failed to materialise after moving clubs. We will move on if we need to, but the players need to realise that the grass isn’t always greener. He’s not a local lad so I don’t expect any loyalty (sometimes you don’t even get it from the local ones either), but for his sake and the club’s, he should sign a new contract and carry on enjoying his football.
davidjw
STEVEN PIENAAR is one of our best players but if it’s taking him this long to decide wether he wants to stay, then he shouldn’t be here. He will be a big loss but I would prefer someone who wants to wear the shirt.
scousejosh
LET’S be honest here. Steven Pienaar left Ajax and he left Dortmund and he can leave Everton if he chooses to. He has been a great player for us and I wish him luck if he decides his career is outside of Merseyside.
Sully
Do the RIGHT thing Steven and sign a new contact.
Bluewinner
AS much as I like to see local lads in the team, I don’t think they should be kept on.
Osman just isn’t Premier League class. He can’t run, tackle, beat a man and is also pushed off the ball too easily. As for Hibbert, although he tackles well, he is woeful with the ball at his feet.
kstom
SO Blackburn Rovers manage to find multi-billionaires to take over their club, and yet Bill Kenwright’s 24/7 search for investment still goes without a resolution.
Just why do us Everton fans allow Kenwright to get away with his claims of searching for buyers and investors?
Clearly he has no intention of giving up his ‘train set’ and he should come clean to the supporters about this.
John Cowell, Kensington
I HOPE some knee-jerk Evertonians don’t start crying about Blackburn’s new investors and demanding to know why they have not come to Everton.
Haven’t we seen enough failed owners and businessmen in the Premier League in the last few years? Portsmouth will barely survive their Gaydamak era, and Liverpool were a matter of minutes away from going into administration. Before people start hurling abuse at Bill Kenwright let’s just see if these Indian businessmen are actually competent at running a football club. Everton is a financially stable club at the moment with great harmony between the boardroom and the management. There are not many clubs that can say that nowadays.
Tony Watkins, Kirkby
THAT was a well-deserved draw against Tottenham last Saturday.
Some people passed negative comments about Tim Howard after the match.
The guy has done lots of stuff for us. Not every goalkeeper can keep everything out of the net. It was just a misjudgement of the ball and it happens in football Give Howard some credit. He kept out many shots against Spurs.
C_M
Australia’s Newcastle Jets are taking a look at former Everton player Francis Jeffers
Oct 28 2010 Liverpool Echo
THE Newcastle Jets have flown out former Everton striker Francis Jeffers to assess him for a 10-week guest stint with the club. Jeffers, who scored against Australia on his only appearance for England, arrived in Newcastle last weekend and has been training with the Jets under the watchful eye of head coach Branko Culina.
Jeffers as been a free agent since being released by Sheffield Wednesday in May and sees the chance to join the Jets as a way to re-ignite his career. “You can see he has got a better touch than the average player but his fitness is a fair bit off, but you can only help that if you are training I suppose,” Culina said. “But we will make a decision on him in the next couple of days. We don’t want to keep him here for too long if we don’t sign him,” Culina feels 29-year-old Jeffers does not fit easily with his side’s style of play, but with skipper Michael Bridges sidelined for another two months with a knee injury and New Zealand international Jeremy Brockie also injured, the Jets are in dire need of a proven goalscorer. “Looking at him he is not a target man, and it would require us to change our style of play, but if it meant scoring goals then I would be prepared to do that,” Culina said. “But it is a big outlay so we have to feel quite confident he can do the job for us.”
Evertonian Matt Dawson relishing return to city for Echo Arena show
Oct 28 2010 by James Pearce, Liverpool Echo
MATT DAWSON is relishing the chance to return ‘home’ next week and rub shoulders with one of his sporting heroes. The former England rugby union international and World Cup winner is currently on the road as part of the first ever ‘A Question of Sport’ live UK tour. Since the dates were announced team captain Dawson has been counting down the days to next Friday’s Bonfire Night show at the Echo Arena. Born in Birkenhead, the 37-year-old spent the first six years of his life in Oxton before his family moved to Southampton. Over three decades may have past since he left Merseyside but he remains a devout Evertonian. And much to his delight one of the guest panellists at the Echo Arena will be Blues legend Graeme Sharp.
“I’ve been looking forward to this trip back to Liverpool for a long time,” he said.
“I’m from just over the water and it’s always great to go back. My grandparents still live in Oxton and hopefully I’ll get the chance to see them. “When I was a kid my dad was a Tranmere fan and my mum supported Liverpool but from a young age I was smitten with the Blues. “Growing up in the early 80s I really admired the likes of Graeme Sharp, Trevor Steven, Adrian Heath, Neville Southall and Kevin Ratcliffe. What a side that was. “Sharpy was my big hero and the fact he’s going to be on the show with us is going to be incredible. I just hope he’s on my team.” Since retiring from professional sport in 2006, Dawson has carved out an impressive television career ranging from Strictly Come Dancing to Celebrity MasterChef and working as a rugby pundit. It means he often has to support his beloved Blues from afar.
“I don’t get to see anywhere near as much of Everton as I would like,” he said.
“Getting to Goodison is difficult but I always try to get to the away games in London. I know that’s a little bit plastic but that’s because of work. “We had a tough start to the season but we were unlucky with a few results and I always thought we would pick up. “There is real quality in the side now with Cahill, Arteta, Pienaar and Jagielka. When they tick we look a completely different side.” Dawson is also passionate about ‘A Question of Sport’ and six years on from when he joined the show he’s loving it more than ever. “It was a big enough honour just to go on the show but to be asked to be a captain was fantastic,” he said. “It was always my favourite show so this job is a dream come true for me. “But never in my wildest dreams did I think we would take it on tour.” The BBC show has been a hit for 40 years and clocked up over 900 episodes. It currently has a five-year waiting list for people wanting to be in the audience so the live tour was developed to meet fans’ insatiable demand. Many of the 19 dates have already sold out and only a limited number of tickets remain for the Echo Arena show. Dawson believes he knows the secret to the programme’s appeal. “We started in Birmingham last Wednesday and it’s been totally amazing,” he added. “The crowds have been brilliant, the guests have been great value and we’ve had fun. “It should be a belter in Liverpool and I’m expecting a big night. “I can guarantee plenty of laughs and clowning around with some good sport trivia. There will be lots of opportunities for crowd participation.
“On the show you get to see sports men and women in a different environment. With them having fun and relaxing you see a different side to them and people enjoy that.”
Presenter Sue Barker and captains Dawson and Phil Tufnell will be joined in Liverpool by guest panellists Sharp, Steve Parry, Beth Tweddle and Phil Thompson.
For tickets call 0844 847 2549 or online at: www.aquestionofsporttour.com
Leon Osman: Everton FC is only club I want to be at
Oct 28 2010 by James Pearce, Liverpool Echo
LEON OSMAN has declared his desire to spend the rest of his career with Everton after admitting: “There is only one club I want to be at.” The 29-year-old midfielder signed a two-year contract extension last week to tie him to the Blues until 2014.
Osman, who is currently sidelined with an ankle injury he suffered in the Merseyside derby, has no interest in playing elsewhere. “I am delighted to have agreed to stay on,” he said. “There was never any doubt on my part and I was just eager to put pen to paper – I want to stay here as long as I can. “I am really happy to be at a club of this stature and it is obviously a club I have strong feelings for. It is great they still want me here. “I have said before I would love to finish my career here but I cannot predict what is going to happen down the line. As far as I am concerned there is only one club I want to be at.” The Academy graduate, who made his debut for Everton in January 2003, had loan spells with Carlisle and Derby early in his career but has gone on to establish himself as a key member of David Moyes’ squad. Osman scored on his first start for the Blues in May 2004 and has netted 34 times in 247 appearances.
He played alongside Tony Hibbert in Everton’s FA Youth Cup winning side in 1998 and was delighted to see his close friend also sign a new deal to remain at Goodison until 2014. “I think we have been good for one another,” Osman added.
“Tony is obviously a friend of mine and I think we have been able to lend each other a hand here and there, pick each other up when we have needed a lift and so forth.
“I was really glad to see Tony rewarded with a deal as well. It is great news for both of us.”Skipper Phil Neville admits spirits are high ahead of Saturday’s clash with Stoke City at Goodison. Eight points out of the last 12 have lifted Everton up to 11th place in the Premier League. “It is a different challenge but a bigger challenge in a way as now people expect us to win,” Neville said. “In some ways maybe the pressure was off a little bit against Tottenham and Liverpool. “It is a totally different level of expectation but I can’t help but feel momentum is with us. Our confidence is sky high, we are playing with a really good shape and we are looking forward to every game.
“I know from past experience that when the feeling is there like that and the buzz is around the place then we are a very hard team to play against.” Meanwhile, boss David Moyes has confirmed he wants to bring LA Galaxy captain Landon Donovan back to Goodison on loan. The USA international recently admitted he would find it hard to turn down the chance to return following a successful three-month spell with the Blues last season. Moyes said: “If he'd like to come back, then we'd be delighted to have him.” The Merseyside derby at Anfield has been put back a day for television coverage. The game will now be played on Sunday, January 16 (kick-off 2.05pm) and will be screened on Sky Sports.
Match Preview: Everton FC v Stoke City, Premier League
Oct 28 2010 By Sean Bradbury
Everton's last five games
Oct 23: Premier League - Tottenham 1 Everton 1
Oct 17: Premier League - Everton 2 Liverpool 0
Oct 2: Premier League - Birmingham 0 Everton 2
Sept 25: Premier League - Fulham 0 Everton 0
Sept 21: Carling Cup - Brentford 1 Everton 1 (4-3 pens)
Stoke's last five games
Oct 27: Carling Cup - West Ham 3 Stoke 1
Oct 24: Premier League - Stoke 1 Man United 2
Oct 16: Premier League - Bolton 2 Stoke 1
Oct 2: Premier League - Stoke 1 Blackburn 0
Sept 26: Premier League - Newcastle 1 Stoke 2
Past matches
Everton's overall record against Stoke
P 117 W 57 D 30 L 30 Goals for 208 Goals against 125
Selected matches
17 November 1984: Everton 4 Stoke 0
On the way to clinching the First Division title in the 1984/85 season, Everton blasted Stoke off the park at Goodison in November. A brace from former Stoke man Adrian Heath as well as goals from Peter Reid and Trevor Steven sent the Potters packing on the back of a 4-0 rout.
7 January 1984: Stoke 0 Everton 2
The Blues played Stoke in the third round of the FA Cup in the 1983/84 campaign. Goals from Andy Gray and Alan Irvine saw Howard Kendall's men run out 2-0 winners on the day. Everton went on to lift the trophy for the fourth time in May of that year, beating Watford 2-0 in the final.
Ones to watch
Everton
Tim Cahill is leading the goalscoring charts for the Blues this season, with four goals in the Premier League so far. Get some insights into the Aussie's heading technique in Stoke
Stoke manager Tony Pulis has challenged Turkish striker Tuncay Sanli to build on his cameo against Man United - which including a stunning equaliser - and spur the team on to victory against Everton. It was the forward's first league goal of the season and in the possible absence of Kenwyne Jones at the weekend, a repeat performance would be much appreciated by Potters fans.
Injuries/suspension
The Blues will be missing Leon Osman (ankle), John Heitinga (calf), Marouane Fellaini (hamstring) and Jack Rodwell (ankle). For Stoke, Ricardo Fuller (shoulder) and Mamady Sidibe (calf) remain on the sidelines, while Kenwyne Jones and Jermaine Pennant have caught a bug and are doubts for Saturday.
Everton - 8/13
Draw - 14/5
Stoke - 5/1
Euro giants Inter Milan and Bayern Munich eyeing a move for Everton FC’s Steven Pienaar
Oct 28 2010 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
EUROPEAN heavyweights are lining up to court Steven Pienaar with Everton becoming increasingly resigned to losing the South Africa international in the summer. Pienaar, who is out of contract at the end of this season, has so far refused to sign a new Goodison deal that has been on the table for months and would make him one of the highest-paid players in the history of the club. While David Moyes has not yet given up hope of the midfielder putting pen to paper – only last week dismissing suggestions Pienaar’s departure was “inevitable” – the player will be able to open negotiations with foreign clubs in January. And with Champions League finalists Inter Milan and Bayern Munich among the interested parties, the Bafana Bafana star will have a number of potential suitors in the forthcoming transfer window, although he could also wait until June before pursuing a move to another English club.
Moyes has previously stated he would have no qualms in letting Pienaar running down the remainder of his contract and lost the player for nothing should Everton require his services, and it seems that scenario will now be the most likely.
Meanwhile, Leon Osman has followed Tony Hibbert in declaring his desire to play out the remainder of his career at Goodison. Like close friend Hibbert, the 29-year-old signed a contract extension last week that ties him to the club until 2014.
Osman, currently sidelined until December with an ankle injury, scored on his first start for Everton in May 2004 after earlier loan spells with Carlisle United and Derby County, and has gone on to make almost 250 appearances under Moyes.
And the midfielder said: “It (the contract) has been a discuss-ion for a few weeks now and I am de-lighted to have agreed to stay on. “There was never any doubt on my part and I was just eager to put pen to paper – I want to stay here as long as I can.
“I am really happy to be at a club of this stature and it is obviously a club I have strong feelings for.
“It is great they still want me here. “I have said before I would love to finish my career here but I cannot predict what is going to happen down the line. “As far as I am concerned there is only one club I want to be at.” Osman played alongside Hibbert in the team that won the FA Youth Cup back in 1998 and believes that their friendship has helped their respective careers blossom. “I think we have been good for one another,” he added. “Tony is obviously a friend of mine and I think we have been able to lend each other a hand here and there, pick each other up when we have needed a lift and so forth. “I was really glad to see Tony rewarded with a deal as well.
“It is great news for both of us.”
Everton FC legend Alan Ball’s 1966 World Cup final shirt sold at auction
Oct 28 2010 Liverpool Daily Post
EVERTON legend Alan Ball’s 1966 World Cup final shirt has been sold.
It fetched £51,755 in the Nobby Stiles collection, after the ex-Manchester United star auctioned off his memorabilia in Edinburgh. The two midfielders had swapped shirts following the 4-2 victory against West Germany. Stiles’s winning medal was bought for a record-breaking £188,200 by former club United, the price trumping the £165,000 fetched by Ball’s own World Cup medal five years ago. Stiles, 68, made a total of £424,438 from his collection. United bought several of the 45 lots, reportedly to display in the club’s museum.
BLUEWATCH: Tim Howard’s blunder makes defence all the harder at Everton FC
Oct 28 2010 by Mark O'Brien, Liverpool Daily Post
TIM HOWARD really makes it hard for you to defend him sometimes.
He does so much right for so long and then, just when you are starting to trust him completely, he does something crazy, with Tottenham’s equaliser on Saturday the perfect illustration. Leighton Baines’s sublime free-kick had given the Toffees a great lead to defend against a side coming off the back of a tough Champions League match in midweek, but Howard’s bizarre punch, which was more Glee than Golden Gloves, allowed Spurs to draw level. In fairness to Harry Redknapp’s side, they showed more positivity throughout – even if it only manifested itself in long balls up to Peter Crouch – and we could hardly complain about a point from a ground where Everton only started winning in recent years. The media have labelled White Hart Lane a bit of a happy hunting ground ever since the Blues’ ten men secured a memorable victory a few seasons back, but Evertonians still have painful memories of being put to the sword by the likes of Darren Caskey, so any points picked up in North London are still viewed as something of a plus.Going back to Howard’s blunder, and the one he made at Ewood Park on the opening day, goalkeeping errors must be amongst the most difficult for managers to handle. On the one hand, all players should feel a degree of competition for their place so as to avoid complacency, but rotating keepers sends out a different message than, say, resting a fullback or trying a different combination up front. Confidence is such an issue, and goalkeeper is such a unique position, that dropping the first-choice custodian is only ever a last resort. Thomas Myhre, for instance, was never the same player once Walter Smith punished him for a number of high profile errors. The problem was exacerbated by the fact that until Nigel Martyn signed, none of the players who succeeded the Norwegian were any more trustworthy. With hindsight, would Smith have been better advised to publicly praise him and rebuild his confidence in the way that Moyes does following every Howard howler?
On a similar note, Moyes and Tim Cahill have been singing Jermaine Beckford’s praises this week in a clear, concerted effort to bolster the striker’s self-belief.
Hopefully the ex-Leeds man responds in the same way that Howard does, because despite the occasional head-in-hands moment, the big American is still one of the better keepers in the Premier League.
Everton FC earns £1.1m from 10-year link with Britannia
Oct 28 2010 by Neil Hodgson, Liverpool Daily Post
CO-OPERATIVE Bank subsidiary Britannia is marking the 10th anniversary this weekend of its partnership with Everton FC. The club has so far earned £1.1m from payments made by Britannia linked to the 10,000 savings accounts or mortgages held by Blues fans. Britannia’s Richard Davis said: “The collaboration has allowed us to grow our customer base while Everton has benefited from the ongoing monetary contribution Britannia makes from its club-linked savings accounts and mortgages.”
Stoke City: Striker Kenwyne Jones doubtful for Everton mission
October 28 2010 This is Staffordshire
DOWN AND OUT: Stoke players look stunned after Manuel da Costa scores West Ham's second goal in the Potters's Carling Cup defeat at Upton Park. Photo: Shaun Smith By stoke city martin spinks
STOKE striker Kenwyne Jones will spend the next 48 hours under doctor's orders in a bid to make Saturday's trip to Everton following last night's Carling Cup exit at West Ham, writes Martin Spinks.
Jones played – and scored – with a high temperature in the fourth-round tie at Upton Park, but failed to last the pace and is now a major doubt for the weekend visit to Merseyside. "It's a case of dusting the players down and getting them ready for Everton after the disappointment of losing a long match like this," said Pulis, pictured right, after last night's 3-1 extra-time defeat in East London. "We're hoping Kenwyne and Jermaine Pennant will be all right because they were both feeling under the weather and had to come off.
"There has been something going around the camp. Kenwyne didn't really want to play, but I gave him a bit of a cuddle to get him out there. "He felt very sweaty and cold. He said he'd had it over a week now, but he'd said nothing about it before."
Jones had given himself a shot in the arm by scoring his first goal for three matches early on, only for concerted West Ham pressure to be rewarded with Scott Parker's 84th-minute equaliser. And the Hammers retained their ascendancy in extra-time to storm into the quarter-finals on the back of goals from Manuel da Costa and Victor Obinna. "We got into some smashing positions to finish them off, but didn't do it," Pulis observed. "I think if we'd got the second goal it would have been all over.
"I thought we were comfortable and played some smashing football in the first half, but our final ball was poor and we needed that second goal. "They came at us second half, which you'd expect because it was a cup tie and they had nothing to lose.
"We worked very hard for 75 minutes and we tired a little bit at the end."
City have now lost three games on the bounce after conceding late on in games against Bolton, Manchester United and West Ham. "We've been in the Premier League for two years, so we know there's highs and lows like this," Pulis added. "We've got tough games coming up, including quite a few away, but they are a great group of players." Ricardo Fuller, Matthew Etherington and Danny Collins all remain under treatment ahead of the visit to Everton after being forced to sit out last night's defeat.
EVERTON v Stoke: Mikel Arteta facing late fitness test while Jack Rodwell just misses out
Sportsmail Reporter on 29th October 2010 (Daily Mail)
Everton manager David Moyes will make a late decision on Mikel Arteta's availability for the Barclays Premier League match with Stoke at Goodison Park.
Midfielder Arteta, who missed last week's 1-1 draw at Tottenham with a slight hamstring strain, will undergo a fitness test.Doubtful: David Moyes may risk starting Arteta Moyes concedes the game comes 'too soon' for Jack Rodwell who is closing in on a return after two months out with an ankle injury, meaning he remains on the sidelines alongside Leon Osman (ankle), Marouane Fellaini (hamstring), Ross Barkley (broken leg) and Victor Anichebe (knee).
Provisional squad: Howard, Neville, Distin, Heitinga, Baines, Hibbert, Cahill, Arteta, Beckford, Bilyaletdinov, Gueye, Coleman, Yakubu, Mustafi, Silva, Baxter, Wallace, Mucha, Pienaar, Saha.
Stoke’s Jermaine Pennant and Kenwyne Jones could miss Everton FC clash due to a virus
Oct 29 2010 Liverpool Echo
STOKE manager Tony Pulis is trying to limit the effects of a virus that has hit two of his key players over the past week. Winger Jermaine Pennant and striker Kenwyne Jones both came down with the bug at the start of the week. They have suffered high temperatures and flu-like symptoms. Both players started in Wednesday’s Carling Cup defeat at West Ham, but were substituted during the second half.
Pulis said: “The two of them weren’t feeling that brilliant after the Manchester United game, so we were a little bit careful with them. “Kenwyne actually felt worse when he was up in London after he woke up from a sleep on Wednesday afternoon, but we persuaded him to give us an hour. “He looked very good when he played.
“We didn’t get back in until half past three this morning, so we’ve given them the day off.” Pulis is confident both players will be well enough to start against Everton on Saturday, but was set to assess them this evening. He said: “They’ll report back tonight and we’ll look and see who’s ready to go and who’s not, because it’ll be a tough game.” Despite some of his squad playing 120 minutes in the game at Upton Park, Pulis has no qualms about throwing them in at Goodison tomorrow.
“We’ll make some changes, but the players work very, very hard on their fitness,” he said. “They get paid damn good money, so to ask them to play three lots of 90 minutes, or whatever it is, over a week, I don’t think is too much. “It’s a mental thing as well as a physical one, and we’ll try to get that right as well.” There was positive news on the contract front from Stoke today, as Danny Higginbotham signed a one-year extension. The 31-year-old former Manchester United and Sunderland defender is now tied to the Potters until 2013.
Angus Loughran: Liverpool FC continue to draw caution while Everton FC should win with ease
Oct 29 2010 Liverpool Echo
NEXT week I have a trip to the Breeders Cup so I’m hoping for a few winners this weekend. I’ll give my views on the Breeders Cup next week direct from Kentucky but one horse stands out early doors to me in ‘Red Desire’ who opposes the odds on shot Midday in the Filly and Mare Turf. At 6/1 I believe she represents far more value, hopefully she will pay for my trip. Talking of a red desire, I’m sure the Liverpool fans will be buoyed by the far better display they showed last week. It’s the best I’ve seen them play so far and with a trip to Bolton in Sunday’s live Sky game, they have been well backed in Fred’s offices. I’m still cautious with Liverpool and would probably favour the draw here at 9/4. Once they string a few good displays together I have no doubt they will climb the table, especially if Torres goes on a scoring run.
The most popular bet on the game so far is Torres first goal and Liverpool to win 2-0 which is priced at 50/1. Everton return to Goodison after the draw at Spurs which was somewhat unlucky considering the manner of the equaliser. I believe Everton will beat Stoke with ease this weekend and not many teams will do that to the well organised outfit that Stoke have become. Yakubu is definitely due to score, he is 5/1 to score first – I’m coupling him up with a 3-0 win for which the scorecast pays 50/1.
Newcastle seal deal for ex-Everton FC striker Francis Jeffers
Oct 29 2010 by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Echo
Newcastle seal deal for ex-Everton FC striker Francis Jeffers
A-LEAGUE outfit the Newcastle Jets have signed former Everton striker Francis Jeffers. Jeffers arrived at the club on Wednesday and the Jets wasted no time in securing the services of the 29-year-old on a 10-week guest stint. Jeffers, who left Goodison for Arsenal in 2001, scored in his only England appearance against Australia in 2003. “I like what is happening with the club. It is an exciting period here and hopefully I will be able to assist the Jets to climb up the ladder during my time here,” he said.
“The lads and everybody at the club have been great and made me feel welcome from the time I landed and I can’t wait to get going.” Newcastle coach Branko Culina was delighted to have Jeffers at the club and hopes he can help the younger players with his experience. “We are excited to have him on board, he is a player with great pedigree who has played at a high level and we hope his experience and knowledge will rub off on many of our younger players.” Jeffers is expected to be available for the Jets’ home match against Adelaide on Saturday November 13.
New book on roots of Everton FC & Liverpool FC a timely reminder of football's founding ideals
Oct 29 2010 Dan Kay
A NEW book exploring the ecclesiastical and community roots of, amongst others, Everton and Liverpool Football Clubs has been launched by Peter Lupson, author of 'Across The Park', a renowned study explaining the origins of the Mersey Big Two and provides a timely reminder of the founding ideals of the beautiful game
Tony Pulis: Stoke aim to replicate Everton FC's successful Premier League model
Oct 29 2010
Ahead of side's upcoming match against the Blues, Tony Pulis says Stoke City are aiming to replicate Everton's successful Premier League model
Liverpool FC and Everton FC legends turn out for premiere of The Ballad of Dixie and Kenny
Oct 29 2010 Janine Yaqoob
LIVERPOOL and Everton football legends turned out in force for the world premiere of Merseyside feature film Reds and Blues, The Ballad of Dixie and Kenny.
Howard Kendall: Everton FC were good value for point at Spurs
Oct 29 2010 by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Echo
I WAS thoroughly impressed with the nature of Everton’s performance, and their deserved point at White Hart Lane last weekend. I predicted that it was a good time to play Harry Redknapp’s side because they were likely to be tired after a draining tie with Inter Milan at the San Siro on the Wednesday. But that was forgetting the sheer depth of Spurs’ squad. They had no problems coping with the demand, and started the game looking fresh and as fired-up as the Blues. That makes the result doubly impressive. Luka Modric and Peter Crouch were a handful, but Jagielka and Distin defended manfully and kept their chances at a minimum. Tim Howard made a rare mistake which was costly for the Blues, disappointing because you don't expect that from him. He is as reliable a goalkeeper Everton could want, and in the same mould as Neville Southall, and Nigel Martyn. Phil Neville’s handling of Gareth Bale has rightly taken a lot of plaudits too.Steven Pienaar was bright, and busy on his return to the side – emphasising what the Blues would miss if he were to leave in the summer. He was hinting before the World Cup that he could move, and was probably banking on having a very strong tournament. That didn’t quite happen, but his performances for Everton have been good and he is likely to be sought after. David Moyes has said his piece on the situation, and the ball is in the player’s court. The contract is there for him to sign so let’s hope he realises that he should stay where he is happy. We need to keep hold of our better players and he certainly is one.
Beware Tony Pulis’ ultra organised Stoke
I REMEMBER speaking to Peter Reid when he was coaching at Stoke City, who travel to Goodison tomorrow. He stressed how single minded Tony Pulis was and how he is very focused and clear in how he asks his team to play. You get no surprises from Stoke, and the players are all very aware of how Pulis expects them to perform. Over the summer they have added some more footballers to their mix, so if anything they represent an even tougher prospect for David Moyes’ side. It’s vital they build on their revival and don’t sink back to the levels of the Wolves and Newcastle games. Kenwyne Jones can be a tough, physical presence to defend against and in the young lad Jonathan Walters they have a prospect who can cause problems, just as Matthew Etherington can from the wing. They showed against Manchester United that they have quality, and then to be able to call on a player of Tuncay’s calibre from the bench is something many other Premier League managers would envy. The travelling Potters fans will bring their usual character and noise and it will be a great occasion. If Mikel Arteta returns as predicted, and Tim Cahill maintains his form it should be a good afternoon.
Bosman ruling went too far
IT WAS an unusual week which culminated in Wayne Rooney signing his new contract with Manchester United. Largely it was strange seeing Manchester United seeming to be at the behest of a player, and Alex Ferguson in such a difficult situation. The player/power evolution started with the Bosman ruling and that’s where it went wrong. I don't disagree that clubs had too much power back then, in terms of holding onto a player’s registration even after their contract has expired. But the power balance went too much the other way. There should have been more of a compromise, and you wouldn’t see wrangles like this splashed over the newspapers all the time.
Phil Neville demands Everton FC do not let their focus weaken against Stoke City
Oct 29 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
PHIL Neville has been a professional footballer long enough to treat praise and criticism with equally short shrift. Whoever said ‘Flattery is a counterfeit money which, but for vanity, would have no circulation’ was not thinking of the Everton skipper. While the 33-year-old’s handling of in-form Spurs winger Gareth Bale was receiving widespread plaudits from the media, and former players, Neville appeared distinctly uncomfortable. The former England international seeks no personal acclaim, and although he is too modest to shout it from the roof-tops, has dealt with arguably better players than Bale during a career which has seen him amass six Premier League winners medals, three FA Cup medals, and a European Cup final, along with 59 caps. It his fastidious, highly-organised approach to games - a quality in tandem with his current manager - that makes him such an under-rated yet formidable opponent for players like Bale, who seem to have the world at their feet. It was Neville who delivered the perfectly-timed tackle on Cristiano Ronaldo two seasons ago at Goodison Park which gave Everton the belief they could go toe to toe with the very best. “It’s like I do against wingers,” he says. “I study them hard. I watched the Spurs, Inter Milan video twice, and you try to pick up a few little tips about what they do and the positions they take up. “I knew I was up against the most in form winger in world football and I had to make sure I was using my experience in terms of what positions I was asking Seamus Coleman to take up as well.“It’s fine marking a winger out of the game, but to do that you need the players around you need to be on the same level. You need to stop the ball getting to them, because with the ball he has embarassed every full back he has played against this season. “I wasn’t worried about him running past me. He has run past better players than me this season. “I was concerned with everyone on my side; Seamus, Tim and Johnny all being in positions where we stop the ball getting to him. The manager set us up brilliantly for that.” Neville is experienced enough not to worry too much about the worst case scenario. I didn’t envisage him running at me one on one before the game,” he says. Tottenham is a tight pitch and I knew we could restrict him space wise. “Once he got it to his feet, that’s my job then. But it’s no different than when I played against Marc Overmars or other wingers. Giggs and Beckham in training, even Joe Cole in the derby. “It’s getting in the right positions.” Neville acknowledges that he faces another stern test tomorrow, when Stoke arrive at Goodison with the tricky Matthew Etherington given licence to run at him. The Potters are, Neville insists, as big a test as Spurs were. “It will be a real big test. With Tottenham, Liverpool, and Birmingham in a way because of their home record; the expectation and the pressure wasn’t on us as much. “But we’re expected to deliver against Stoke at home.“Yet you go back to Wolves at home and Newcastle at home and we didn’t perform. “Saturday is a big test for us, but you can just smell that the confidence and momentum is growing.” Neville was particularly pleased with the positional discipline and shape of his team-mates at White Hart Lane, especially as injuries to Mikel Arteta and Leon Osman forced David Moyes into an untied midfield formation. “The shape was tremendous against Spurs. The defenders were probably the best protected back four in England. “Everyone in front of us was working hard. It was an unknown midfield in Seamus, Bily and Pienaar but it was tight. The shape has to be the same against Stoke.” As Everton once were, Stoke are occasionally damned by faint praise for their rigid, physical approach. But the Toffees veteran believes Tony Pulis’ tam have grown each season they have remained in the top flight, to the point where they can comoete with anyone. “Stoke can mix it now,” he says. “I was saying to Bainesey that we’ve played against Lennon and Bale last week, but the players we face on Saturday are every bit as effective - Pennant and Etherington. “They hug the touchline and they can skin you. Our focus must be the same. “Stoke have improved every year and have players like Kenwyne Jones, Pennant and Etherington. Then they have Gudjonsen on the bench, a player who can grace any team in the world.” It is likely Neville will spend his Friday night examining DVDs of Stoke’s performances against Manchester United, and West Ham in the Carling Cup. Just don’t expect him to lap-up the headlines if Matthew Etherington is snuffed out like Gareth Bale. The Phil Neville iPhone training App is available to download via the iTunes App store, alongside the official App of Everton, iEverton.
Everton FC fans are the best – Steven Pienaar
Oct 29 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
STEVEN Pienaar believes Everton’s away support are the best in the league, as he bids to ignore the distraction of his contract wrangle and help the Blues to victory against Stoke City. The silky-skilled midfielder returned to the side after a month-long absence last weekend in the hard-fought draw with Spurs at White Hart Lane. He is yet to sign a new deal, and team-mates Phil Neville and Tim Howard have publicly urged him to put pen to paper. David Moyes was given a much-needed boost by Pienaar’s on-schedule return to fitness last weekend, with Leon Osman, Jack Rodwell and Marouane Fellaini all injured. The Blues are at least likely to welcome Mikel Arteta back against Tony Pulis’ team tomorrow. But Pienaar will do everything possible to be fit to reward the Toffees’ supporters who have won his admiration. He said: “Everton has the best away support in the Premier League. When I first arrived I was amazed at how many fans we would take to the away games and that gives you confidence even before the game starts. “I’ve played for the club all over Europe and the following we have had has been unbelievable. At Goodison as well, when the fans are right behind us and the stadium is bouncing, it really can help players raise their game.” Pienaar, who is an ambassador for anti-racism in sport charity Kick It Out, is one of Everton’s trio of free-kick takers. And Mikel Arteta insists he will continue to share free-kick duties. In the Spaniard’s absence last weekend, Baines curled a sublime left footed strike past Heurelho Gomes to earn a point from White Hart Lane. The influential Spaniard, who has a stunning archive of dead-ball successes to his name, insists he does not have a monopoly on free-kicks. “It is not about rivalry, “he said. “He knows he can score a free kick, as I can, and it helped us to get a point there. “Who takes the free kick depends on many things; the distance, the angle, where the keeper is.” Arteta has been nursing his hamstring problem for some time, with the affliction almost keeping him out of the Merseyside derby before he had to miss out at White Hart Lane. He said: “I am trying my best to get fit for Saturday. “We have a good chance to climb the table again and we want to get three points on Saturday.”
David Moyes press conference - Everton FC v Stoke City
Oct 29 2010 By Sean Bradbury
David Moyes discusses Everton's performance against Spurs and backs Phil Neville to be a future managerial success in his press conference ahead of the Blues' home game against Stoke City.
Tim Howard: Why we need to keep Steven Pienaar at Everton FC
Oct 29 2010 Liverpool Daily Post
TIM HOWARD believes persuading Steven Pienaar to stay can help attract more top-quality players to Everton next summer. Howard has joined the growing list of voices urging Pienaar to end his contract impasse by signing a new deal to extend his Goodison commitment. The South African is in the final year of his current agreement and, with negotiations having stalled, is free to talk to foreign clubs in the New Year. European giants Bayern Munich, Inter Milan and Chelsea, along with Tottenham Hotspur, are among a host of clubs tracking Pienaar. But Howard is keen for Pienaar to stay put and help the club move on to the next level under manager David Moyes. “Well I think everyone knows how we feel about Steven,” said the United States goalkeeper. “He helps to make our team go and we are a much more successful side with him in it. “I don't pretend to have the first idea about Steven and his contract issues. “I want him to stay, everyone wants him to stay, but that's up to him and the club. “It is important for us to keep those core players happy and settled and keep them here for a long time because that's how we attract better top quality players. “That's how we move up the table and sustain ourselves in the European places every year so it is vitally important.” Meanwhile, Mikel Arteta has set his sights on a return for the visit of Stoke City tomorrow – but won't be desperate to reclaim free-kick spotlight from Leighton Baines. Arteta missed last week's 1-1 draw at Tottenham Hotspur after a long-term hamstring problem flared up during the Goodison derby win over Liverpool. In his absence, Baines assumed dead-ball responsibilities and subsequently curled a brilliant left-footed strike past Heurelho Gomes to earn Moyes's men a deserved point. But while keen to get back into action, Arteta is unconcerned the plaudits may go elsewhere. “It is not about rivalry,” said Arteta. “He knows he can score a free kick, as I can, and it helped us to get a point there. “Who takes the free kick depends on many things; the distance, the angle, where the keeper is. “Bainesy has done really well since he came here, he has been terrific over the past two or three seasons and he's a really important player for us.” Stoke are alongside Everton in the Premier League table on 10 points, but have lost their last three games including Carling Cup defeat to West Ham United in midweek. And Arteta added: “I am trying my best to get fit for Saturday. We have a good chance to climb the table again and we want to get three points on Saturday.”
Stoke City: Peter Reid has no concerns over Potters' fate
29th October (Thisisstaffordshire.com)
PETER Reid is confident Stoke City won't be relegated this season – regardless of how they get on at Everton tomorrow, writes Michael Baggaley. Reid has continued to keep a keen eye on Stoke's fortunes since leaving his post as City's assistant manager in June to take over as boss at Plymouth Argyle. But he will take a special interest in tomorrow's game as Stoke take on the club that Reid helped become champions of England twice, as well as winning the FA Cup and the European Cup Winners' Cup. The first of those league titles – in 1985 – came after Reid and Everton won 2-0 at the Victoria Ground in a game which relegated Stoke from the top flight, condemning them to what would turn out to be a 23-year exile. However, having spent last season working closely with Tony Pulis, Reid has no fears for City, even though they are only a point above the drop zone. He said: "It is only the start of the season and Stoke have played some good sides recently. "I look at Stoke now and I honestly see them as established with players of the quality of Ryan Shawcross and Robert Huth at the back, two top-class goalkeepers, and quality on the bench as well. "The success is because of a combination of things. A very good manager to start with. But also a very supportive chairman and not just in the good times when it is easy, but in the bad times too. "I have to say the crowd at Stoke has played a huge part in their success as well. "When I was there the atmosphere was fantastic, an absolute credit to the club. "I remember the old Victoria Ground when the atmosphere used to be rocking, but the Britannia is very good as well. "Also, it is a knowledgeable crowd. It was Stoke's second season in the Premier when I was there, but the fans weren't complacent. They understood what the manager was trying to do and the fact it is tough. "There are similarities with the Everton fans in that respect, they are two sets of very knowledgeable supporters." The tremendous success enjoyed by the Everton sides managed by Howard Kendall and featuring the likes of Reid and ex-Stokies Adrian Heath and Paul Bracewell has been tough for the club to match in the last two decades. However, Reid doesn't think the success of the 1980s has made life harder for the Everton teams who have had to try to live up to those standards. He said: "I don't see it like that, I think it was just an exciting time for the club. "When I was there, people talked about the 1970s team and Alan Ball, Colin Harvey and Howard Kendall. "But Everton have some excellent players now with the likes of Tim Cahill, Phil Jagielka, Mikel Arteta and Louis Saha. "I think they will finish well in the top half, although the top six will be difficult competing against the likes of Aston Villa and Manchester City." Stopping Everton will be tough for a Stoke side who have lost their last three games and will be feeling the effects of Wednesday night's extra-time defeat at West Ham in the Carling Cup. However Stoke approach the game, Reid is certain that kicking the Toffeemen off the park will not be on the agenda. The former Stoke assistant boss was staggered by Danny Murphy's suggestion that Tony Pulis, Sam Allardyce and Mick McCarthy pump their Stoke, Blackburn and Wolves teams up to the point that reckless and dangerous tackles are inevitable. Reid said: "That was ridiculous. Danny Murphy should concentrate on playing football. "He's a good player, but when it comes to management he would be better keeping his mouth shut. "None of those managers have to apologise to anyone for their teams working hard or being physical. It is a great attribute to have. "I have been in a Bolton dressing room with Sam Allardyce and, of course, worked with Tony Pulis at Stoke last season. "Never once has either of them said anything to their players about being over-physical. "You play to the strengths of the players at your club, and there's nothing wrong with that." Tony Pulis will be casting a nervous eye over his injury list today as City take on an Everton side who had the luxury of no midweek match. Stoke are hoping Kenwyne Jones and Jermaine Pennant will be fit after their midweek exertions, but some concern remains over Matthew Etherington, who remains under treatment after missing the Hammers game. Having worked with Etherington last season, Reid is a huge fan of the 29-year-old left-winger. He said: "I think Adam Johnson has jumped over him in the England reckoning, but Matthew remains a top-drawer winger. "He's an intelligent player who doesn't just beat players, he then gets in good deliveries as well. "It is not too late for him to be picked for England, as Kevin Davies has shown by getting a call-up. "Matty's a good professional who doesn't neglect his defensive duties. "He's probably not the greatest tackler in the world, but you can't have everything. But he still gets back and shuts players down and make it difficult for them." Reid gave up working with Etherington and the rest of City's Premier League squad in order to take the Plymouth job. That is a lower standard than Reid is used to having managed Sunderland, Manchester City and Leeds in the top flight and Coventry in the Championship. However, Reid is relishing the challenge of reviving the Devon club, who were relegated from the Championship last season. He's had mixed success so far, but his team lifted themselves up to 17th with an impressive 2-1 home victory over promotion hopefuls Huddersfield last week. The former Stoke assistant even has his own Rory Delap at Home Park, long-throw expert Kari Arnason, whose deliveries have been far more deadly this season since Reid took charge. Reid said: "He's probably not got the variations that Rory has, but we have still had success. "The great thing is that when people pack the box to defend the long throw, you can always play it short." Reid will be checking on the final result from Everton tomorrow, but only after focusing all his efforts on Plymouth's game 40 miles away from Goodison at Oldham Athletic. He said: "It is smashing at Plymouth, although we have been inconsistent. We are three points off the relegation zone, and four off the play-offs. "This is a nice part of the world and I enjoy being a number one again."It is something I wanted to do and I thank Stoke City and especially Tony Pulis and Peter Coates for helping me."
Phil Neville has what it takes to be top manager if he develops a nasty streak, says Everton manager David Moyes
Oct 30 2010 by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Echo
Phil Neville has what it takes to be top manager if he develops a nasty streak, says Everton manager David Moyes EVERTON manager David Moyes believes nice guy Phil Neville has it within himself to become “nasty and horrible” when he eventually decides to move into football management. Toffees skipper Neville recently expressed his desire to become a manager, claiming it is “the obvious step” for him after 16 years as a professional player. With 59 England caps to his name, and after working primarily under Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson and Moyes, Neville feels he has the grounding that will allow him to make the transition. But whether Neville has the character is another matter as the 33-year-old is viewed as one of the game’s more mild-mannered players. Moyes, for one, is convinced Neville would bare his teeth should the need ever arise. “Phil will find it when it comes to it,” said Moyes. “When you have to get results for the team you soon become nasty and horrible. I’m sure Phil can do that. “But he has all the other credentials – he’s a great leader, a good motivator, and he loves the game. “It is really important you actually like football, that you want to be involved and are willing to put in the hours. “There are an awful lot of people who think ’yeah, I’ll have a go at that,’ but actually don’t want to put in the hours and the time. “I’ve got to say, when you go into football management, it’s an all-consuming job.” Convinced Neville has all the qualities required, Moyes is also certainly willing to give Neville a hand where he can along the way. “I’ll advise him, and I have done so by telling him to take his coaching courses,” added Moyes. “He knows that at any time, if he wanted any help or wanted time working with the younger players, we would give it to him.” The only problem Moyes sees is that Neville is far from ready to hang up his boots just yet, believing that injuries permitting he can “definitely see him playing for a while.” “When you’re playing and you’re at his age, it’s difficult to try and put your concentration and preparation into playing,” said Moyes. “The preparation Phil puts into playing takes up all his time because of his age. “Folk think it’s easy, but it isn’t. You have to train as hard, maybe harder, and you have to rest more. You have to make sure you are correct in what you are eating. “So if you want longevity then you have to do that, and sometimes when you are doing that, it makes it difficult to go on coaching courses or coming in at night to take the under-14s or 15s. “But at the right time Phil will do it, and I don’t think it’s quite the right time yet.” For now Neville has a job to do within the team, with Moyes again today stating his side has a better feel to it with its talismanic leader on the pitch. Following an abysmal start to the season, Everton have recovered to stay unbeaten in their last four games, taking eight points in the process. Next up today are a Stoke side enduring a real rollercoaster of a campaign. After losing their first four matches, a run of three wins in four games followed only for the Potters to slump again as they have now been beaten in their last three. Moyes, though, is refusing to be fooled as he said: “Stoke have a pretty good side. “Tony (Pulis) has spent a few bob on new players, strengthening the team, and they are always going to be solid and hard to beat. “They’ve a couple of wingers in there (Matthew Etherington and Jermaine Pennant) who are important to them, and big Kenwyne Jones up front, so they’ve the balance of a good side.”
Everton FC boss David Moyes fears that Everton’s revival could be derailed if his strikers do not start finding the back of the net.
Oct 30 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
DAVID MOYES today admitted that Everton’s revival could be derailed if his strikers do not start finding the back of the net. None of the Blues front-men have scored in the Premier League yet this season, and while results have lifted lately, the Scot insists goals must start to flow from his strikers. The Toffees front line against Stoke today is likely to be led once again by a revitalised Ayegbini Yakubu, with Tim Cahill in support, as the Blues aim to haul themselves into the top half of the table with three points. Moyes had hoped to call on last-season’s top scorer Louis Saha, after the Frenchman came off the bench against Spurs last weekend for his first Premier League appearance since September’s 3-3 draw with Manchester United. But the frustration surrounding the 32-year-old striker continues, with a family bereavement and a thigh problem leaving a question mark over his involvement. Moyes said: “It’s a concern. You can’t go through a season without your strikers scoring goals because you won’t get your quota. “Tim Cahill could be classed as a striker, a cross between an attacking midfielder and a forward, and he’s had his couple. “But we’re not getting enough from other areas. Not just strikers. I don’t know if any centre-halves have scored from corner kicks. It’s not just the forwards who need to pitch in. “We’re beginning to look like we’re getting a bit better, and I hope the goals will start flowing shortly.” “But we’re short of numbers in attack so I’m looking to try and get Louis Saha back playing, get Marouane Fellaini back, Leon Osman back and Victor Anichebe back.” While Moyes will assess Saha before deciding whether he is even fir for a spot on the bench, Mikel Arteta is more likely to return from a hamstring strain. Meanwhile, John Heitinga admits he is bemused by the fuss surrounding Stoke City and their perceived use of strong-arm tactics. The Potters have been stung by recent criticism of the way in which they approach the game. Fulham midfielder Danny Murphy named them as one of three sides he feels exceed acceptable levels with the ferocity of their tackling and physical intimidation of the opposition. It sparked Tony Pulis to release a statement in defence of his team, but Heitinga cannot see a problem. He said: “In football people are always talking about such things but talk is talk and you have to show it on the pitch. “They (Stoke) play the way they want to play and it is fair. If they want to play like that then it is up to them, it is their choice. “And if a team does that then you have to cope with it, you have to adapt and prove you are a better team. “The games in England are tougher than in Spain for example. Here you have to fight for 90 minutes and that is why I like the Premier League and that is why, in my eyes, it is the best league in the world. “There are a lot of teams with a lot of skills, but along with that everyone works hard and fights to the last whistle – that is why it is so enjoyable to play here. It is a nice league and I think it suits me to play in England. “It will be a tough game and they will come and do their long throw-ins and their corner kicks. “If you can stop them making the most of their set-pieces then you have a great chance of beating them.”
David Moyes: We must learn the lessons of our slow start
Oct 30 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
HE COULD never say it then, but David Moyes felt a twinge of negativity when he surveyed the new fixture list in June. While all the talk understandably centred around a definitive season which could culminate in a crack at Champions League qualification, the Blues boss had a nagging feeling that the fixtures computer had handed him a wretched start. Games against Blackburn, Wolves, Newcastle and Fulham may not seem at first glance enough to have given the Everton boss cause to worry, but in hindsight it was a mine field. Yet while the Blues laboured without a win until their visit to St Andrews earlier this month, and the odds of a successful campaign grew longer, the Scot felt his team were playing well albeit without that vital currency – goals. It is an irony which still irks Moyes, even as that gloom begins to lift from his camp and results have started to reflect pre-season optimism. “The first nine games of the season I felt we had a bad draw,” he says. “Only four of the nine at home, and two of those against Manchester United and Liverpool. “Five of the away games; we had a poor record at Craven Cottage, Birmingham hadn't lost for a year at home, and we had to go to Aston Villa and Spurs, and start it all off at Blackburn who very rarely lost at home. It was a bad start and what made it worse was I got only one point from Wolves and Newcastle. So it was always hard. “We're wary of falling back to those levels. But I actually thought we had more passes against the likes of Wolves and Newcastle than we did against Tottenham. “The football was better earlier than against Liverpool or Spurs. I could show you the reasons why we played pure football better. “But I want to win matches so arguably the games against Liverpool and Spurs were better. We had more of the ball in those other, earlier games. But maybe having too much of the ball is not so good for us. “We defended better and it was a tighter game at Tottenham. We need to carry on defending well, but the important things is taking chances. “We had a couple of chances we didn't take in the Wolves game. Likewise against Newcastle. If we don't do that we are always vulnerable.” For Moyes, today’s home clash with Stoke has assumed huge importance. Three points can catapult the Blues into the top half of the table for the first time this season. “Now I'm going into a period were I've got to be positive and start taking points,” he says. “We can give ourselves a real chance and I think it becomes a real important game for us. “If we want to get back where I felt we should be, then I think maybe a result against Stoke then the next two or three games, people can say Everton are in a good position, maybe where they expected us to be. “We'd be in a good position to strike at the right end of the league.” Moyes is wary of the incremental improvements made by Tony Pulis each season he has remained in the top flight. “Tony has built his team and you can see it's improving,” he says. “He's got some footballers, and it's not all just about long throws, and balls into the box. “He's got that in his armoury but I'm sure Tony's plan is to improve that year in, year out.” While the Potters are no longer simply long-ball, tough-stuff merchants, Moyes will be hoping Sylvain Distin’s renewed solidity continues against them. “He has played really well,” says the Blues boss. “I think that Sylvain would say he found it maybe a bit of a culture shock coming here. A step up. And I think he's done well. “We needed a left sided centre back and it needed to be seamless after Joleon left. “He had a couple of mistakes against Man United but he works hard, and he's conscientious about his work. “Obviously we'll have to try and look after him as the season goes on because he's played all our games. “But I know I can slide John Heitinga in if needs be at the back. We're not quite at the part of the season where rotation is suitable yet though, as we're still trying to find a rhythm of results.”
Peter Reid: Everton FC can bag points from Potters
Oct 30 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
PETER Reid has the inside track on today’s opponents Stoke, and firmly believes the Toffees can take all three points. Reid – who served as Tony Pulis’ assistant manager before taking over at Plymouth Argyle in the summer – says the Potters have attempted to evolve their style this season, adding a dash of flair to their blend.
But while certain signings have brought something different to the party, he says Stoke’s ethos remains the same, with brute force and unapologetic directness.
“Stoke are big and powerful,” he said. “Tony Pulis has done well this season and he has brought in some quality players with the likes of Gudjohnson, Walters and Pennant. They are decent footballers but the team is still very physical and very fit so it won’t be an easy game. “Tony gets the best out of players and Kenwyne Jones is a good example of that. In the past he has been a bit lethargic at times but since going to Stoke he has looked very motivated and when he is at full tilt he is a very tricky customer. “If Everton are at their best and mix it with Stoke physically then they have enough to beat them. “They will hope to make home advantage count but it won’t be easy and they’ll have to stand up to them.”
ROYAL BLUE: Phil Neville leading the way for Blues on and off the pitch
Oct 30 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
JACK RODWELL might have suffered a frustrating injury-ravaged start to this season, but he will shortly be fit to resume where he left off, honing a reputation as the Next Best Thing in English football. The midfielder is edging ever closer to a return to action, something David Moyes, and some Sunday tabloid writers will be grateful for. Moyes, of course, will be pleased because he can renew the conundrum of finding a place in his team for the most exciting emerging talent he has handled since Wayne Rooney. The Sunday paper rumour merchants will breathe a sigh of relief, as they can once again fill an inch or two with baseless rumours about Rodwell joining Manchester United or Chelsea. One of the most ludicrous stories of last season was when Rodwell, fresh from committing his immediate future to the Blues for five years, was nevertheless linked with a transfer to Stamford Bridge the very next day. Rodwell is not the type of character to agitate or manipulate. Like fellow bright prospect Seamus Coleman, he is a refreshingly humble, intelligent and grounded young man who belies the myth of the enfant terrible modern footballer. Unfortunately that stereotype is supported at Old Trafford, where Wayne Rooney is fair game for some of the criticism he has received over the way he and Paul Stretford inveigled a new, stellar £200,000 per-week contract from Manchester United. Fame, money and off the field issues have altered the perception and behaviour of Rooney drastically. Which is why it would be a huge shame to imagine either Rodwell or Coleman one day dragging their club through such a public slanging match in order to bag a new contract. This week I spent some time chatting with Phil Neville, a man who knows both Rooney and Everton’s current crop of stars well, and his take on the whole wrangle was illuminating. The Blues skipper insists it is too simplistic to paint Rooney as the bad boy, but wishes that young players were less influenced by agents. “I think it happens all the time in football now,” he says. “With the media things get blown out of proportion and leaked. The media look for problems sometimes, and add more onto it. “The conclusion with Wayne is that he signed for the club he wanted to sign for. I think it surprised everyone how it turned out. “It wasn't very Man United, but Alex Ferguson handled it perfectly. It's done and dusted now and everything that is to be said about it has been. The intrusion from all quarters escalated it into something that it wasn't. “It happens all the time now. If you think players don’t get tapped up - they do. “Players get influenced by their agents more and more. It's the way society and football is going. “People are signing four and five year contracts with clubs, and the day after the ink is dry, they are getting linked with other clubs. “Jack's an example. Johnny Heitinga too. These are people who are happy playing football at their clubs. Who does that? It's got to be their agents who are after a quick buck. Maybe players need to take a bit more responsibility for their action and say 'no'. “Players need to say; the most important person is myself, the second is the manager and the third is my family. Like Alex Ferguson said: Maybe we should start listening to our parents a bit more and not our agents.” It is reassuring to know that Neville, a manager of the future, still believes things like family and loyalty have a place in the mind-set of a modern footballer. Everton supporters should be relieved that he is at the heart of their club, and hope his message can continue to trickle down to the Wayne Rooneys of tomorrow. Neville proved at White Hart Lane that he is still capable of making his mark on the pitch for the Toffees, while also leaving a legacy off it.
Everton FC star Steven Pienaar speaks out on racism
Oct 30 2010 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
STEVEN Pienaar is an honest, and often intriguing interviewee. The South African, an ambassador for anti racism in sport campaign Kick It Out, has spoken about his experience of racism in football. He said: “It happened to me when I played in Germany and Holland. The away fans would shout racist abuse but I used it as motivation to do well against the teams. “I was determined not to let it get to me because if I had have done then they would have won. “Kick It Out carries a very important message. The fight against racism is one that the game is winning but we must continue to fight.”
Denis Smith: Toughest assignment for defeated Stoke
30th October 2010 (Thisisstafforshire)
EVERTON away is probably the last Premier League fixture I'd choose after the fortnight Stoke have just had. Now that may sound daft when you could have been landed with something like Chelsea or Manchester United away. But I say this because Everton are a team that will test you and work you, particularly on their own patch in front of that vociferous support of theirs. Everton are what Stoke are aspiring to be in terms of mixing quality with organisation, character and endeavour to such an extent that you can compete for the cups and Europe. Nobody turns Everton over, even when they're going through a bad patch. As for Stoke, they travel to Goodison licking their wounds after late defeats in their last three games against Bolton, United and now West Ham in the Carling Cup. What Tony has to do in the short time available between Upton Park and Goodison Park is put an arm around his players and remind them how good they are. Yes, they might be feeling sorry for themselves, but they mustn't forget that they should have got a point at Bolton, could have got one against United and were within six minutes of reaching the Carling Cup quarter-finals the other night. Tony has a tricky decision to make about whether to gamble on both wingers Matthew Etherington and Jermaine Pennant – if they have overcome their respective injury and illness – or shift a midfielder, such as Rory Delap or Dean Whitehead, out wide. Everton left-back Leighton Baines will occupy much of Tony's thinking because he's great going forward, but the worst of their defenders. So do you try to exploit his weakness, or cater for his strength? I'd gamble on both wingers because they have great energy and will work back when needed to help their full-back. But that's an easy call from where I'm sitting and we don't know for sure just how fit the two of them will be come 3pm tomorrow. Everton look strong at the back collectively when you consider that Phil Jagielka is playing as well as any centre-half right now, while Sylvain Distin has proved to be the good buy we thought he would be. They're also strong across midfield, particularly if Mikel Arteta is back from injury, and Steven Pienaar is attracting the big clubs as he approaches the end of his contract. Yakubu is one of those frustrating players because you're never sure what you're going to get from him – and unfortunately for Stoke he seems to be firing at the minute. And we all know Tim Cahill can chip in with a goal or two arriving from deep, usually with that lethal head of his. David Moyes, pictured left, clearly deserves enormous credit for what he's achieved over the best part of eight years now at Goodison. He had a bit of a wobble last year when he might have been close to leaving, but he's back on song now and one of those likely to be in the frame when Sir Alex finally calls it a day. Well, you know those Scots stick together, but I know Alex also genuinely rates David. Finally, I'd like to thank everyone who has wished me well during my recent and difficult recovery from an ankle operation a couple of months ago. I'm still hobbling around, but feeling much better, and I'm taking this opportunity to tell people how I am as my old mate Alan Bloor is fed up of everyone asking him!
Everton 1-0 Stoke: Yak's fast 'n furious for David Moyes
Oct 31 2010 By Richard Gibson, The People
Yakubu ended his six-month goal-fast but furious Stoke boss Tony Pulis felt starved of justice. “Feed the Yak and he will score,” so the terrace chant goes. Well, he was on a serious diet until midway through the second half at Goodison Park.
Nigerian striker Yakubu had not netted for Everton since the winner at Blackburn in April – but lashed in after Tim Cahill had hit the woodwork. Potters’ chief Pulis was convinced his men had grabbed a point but Tuncay’s effort was disallowed.
The Turk bundled in at the far post only to be penalised for a shove on Leighton Baines. “I’m really disappointed with the disallowed goal, it looks a very poor decision that has gone against us again,” blasted Pulis. “It was a very even game and I don’t feel as though we deserved to lose on that performance.” Everton made it 11 points from their last five games after Steven Pienaar left Danny Collins for dead with a burst down the right. And although his delivery was poor, Yakubu regained possession and teed up Cahill on the edge of the area. He then reacted first when the Aussie’s shot cannoned off the base of a post to lift the ball into the roof of the net from a narrow angle. “It was great for Yak to get the goal – if you work hard your supporters and your team-mates appreciate you and he has improved his work,” said Blues boss David Moyes. “He is beginning to feel more confident in himself, and he scored a [typical] Yakubu goal. “Everybody needs their strikers to score and we’ve been struggling with that recently. “But he was much more like the old Yakubu: he held the ball up well and brought other people into the game. “I wouldn’t even say his goal was a good chance but you need players sometimes to do things like that.
“The top clubs have strikers who do things that win them the games – Rooney, Drogba, Torres – and we needed somebody to do something and it was the Yak skipping past and rifling one home.” Everton, boosted by the return of Mikel Arteta following a hamstring injury, dominated first-half possession but failed to expose Stoke’s Achilles heel. This was only the second time this season they had been level at the interval – they were behind in the other eight. Their game-plan of frustrating their hosts worked to a tee and even earned a rebuke for time-wasting from referee Lee Probert, administered to captain Ryan Shawcross on half-time.
Stoke’s deep-lying defence and midfield worked tirelessly to thwart Everton’s livewires, led by the artistic Arteta. And when Cahill appeared set to head in his 50th goal for the Toffees, Abdoulaye Faye threw himself into the way, receiving a blow to the face for his trouble. It was typical of the visitors’ resolute display as Everton weaved their customary patterns in midfield but could not get through the red and white wall. Even when they attempted to stretch their opponents, their advances lacked a clinical finish. Pienaar’s 25-yard strike, after ghosting in off the left flank, lacked venom while Phil Neville’s chance to mark his 600th appearance in club football with a goal was snuffed out when Faye blocked his toe-poke.
Stoke’s unsubtle approach reaped few opportunities. Kenwyne Jones was presented with a shooting chance after Sylvain Distin’s clearance ricocheted off Arteta.
And Faye seized on Matthew Etherington’s corner at the far post. Both were skewed horribly wide. But their threat from set-pieces could have earned them a point.
Shawcross flashed a volley inches wide with Tim Howard rooted to the spot after Robert Huth’s effort was blocked before Tuncay was controversially denied.
Toffees have the sweet smell of confidence back in the camp
By David Maddock SUNDAY mirror
Phil Neville believes Everton have got the scent of success back in their nostrils once again. For the Goodison skipper, that means climbing the Premier League table and cementing a top six finish. Everton made their now customary disastrous start to the season and were bottom at the end of September. But impressive wins over Birmingham and city rivals Liverpool, plus a fine point at Spurs last time out, has turned their season around. Neville, 33, said: “You can smell the confidence and momentum growing. There is a sense of things coming together with the team now.
“Everyone is working hard for each other and we believe we can still achieve a lot.”
Stoke’s loan signing from Real Zaragoza, winger Jermaine Pennant, is struggling to shake off a virus and face Everton. Potters boss Tony Pulis said: “Jermaine has done really well for us, but he could be a little bit burned out.”
Everton 1-0 Stoke City: Sunday Mirror match report
By Derick Allsop
October 31 2010
Jonathan Walters of Stoke City moves away from a challenge by Leighton Baines
Everton required something out of the ordinary to break Stoke’s resilience and that is precisely what they got. It came in the shape of Yakubu’s first goal for more than six months and sustained Everton’s aspirations of challenging the Premier League’s established order. Yakubu’s lack of conviction had characterised much of Everton’s offensive play and the anxiety coursing through the stands reflected the collective struggle. Yet the burly striker’s instincts returned as Tim Cahill’s shot came back off the foot of a post and he gleefully thumped in an unstoppable winner. Stoke had their moments, especially in a second half considerably more active than the first. Tuncay had the ball in the Everton net only to be penalised for a push and Ryan Shawcross will be pained for some time by his glaring miss. But the home side, driven by their inspirational captain Phil Neville and the subtle skills of Mikel Arteta, gradually pieced together their game to force down the red and white barrier. Everton boss David Moyes said: “Stoke are an improving side, we’ve seen that, so it’s a great three points for us. It was great for Yakubu to get that goal and it was probably a Yakubu sort of goal. It will be great for us if we get back the old Yakubu. “You need somebody to do something to win you a game, like the Rooneys and Drogbas, and we probably needed Yak to do that. He worked hard and if you do that, the fans and your team-mates will appreciate it.” Stoke boss Tony Pulis blamed his defenders for allowing Yakubu in for the goal, but felt more aggrieved with referee Lee Probert for disallowing what would have been an opening goal. Pulis said: “I’m really disappointed with the disallowed goal. It looks like a poor decision against us. It was an even game and if you get an opportunity you have to take it – Everton did that.”
Yakubu ought to have made more of an earlier chance. He had an unhindered run on goal only to shoot tamely straight at Asmir Begovic. Steven Pienaar managed to generate more power from outside the area, but again Begovic was able to field with little trouble. Arteta then played an exquisite through ball into the path of Neville. His skipper, alas, failed to capitalise. With Rory Delap on the bench, Stoke had to rely on set-piece deliveries to test Everton’s resistance and when Matthew Etherington’s corner found its way to Abdoulaye Faye, the defender thrashed the ball woefully off target. After the break, Everton went close through Seamus Coleman but Stoke countered with a threat of their own, Marc Wilson spoiling his clever approach play with a wayward shot. Shawcross squandered an opportunity minutes later to the frustration of the animated Pulis on the touchline. Arteta went close with an effort that was deflected wide before Tuncay bundled the ball into the net. In the process, he also sent Leighton Baines sprawling and the referee blew for a foul. Cahill’s drive was blocked at the other end and he must have thought the gods were conspiring against him when he hit the post. But Yakubu gathered in the rebound and beat Begovic with a blast high into the net at his near post. Etherington nearly snatched a late equaliser for Stoke, but it was Yakubu’s day.
Everton 1 Stoke 0: Yakubu out of the wilderness as Toffees sink City
By Bill Thornton 30th October 2010 Sunday Mail
David Moyes hailed Yakubu as a Rooney-style matchwinner after the Nigerian hit his first goal of the season. Yakubu cashed in after Tim Cahill's shot came back off a post, extending an unbeaten run for Everton stretching back to September 18.
'You need somebody to do something to win you a game, like Rooney, Drogba and Torres - and Yak did that for us today,' said the Everton manager.
Feed the Yak and he will score: Yakubu netted the only goal of the game to continue Everton's recent revival
MATCH FACTS
EVERTON (4-1-3-2): Howard; Neville, Jagielka, Distin, Baines; Heitinga; Coleman (Saha 62min), Arteta, Pienaar; Cahill, Yakubu (Bilyaletdinov 85). Subs (not used): Mucha, Hibbert, Beckford, Gueye, Rodwell. Booked: Baines.
STOKE (4-4-1-1): Begovic; Huth, Faye, Shawcross, Collins; Walters (Pennant 73), Whitehead, Wilson (Whelan 77), Etherington; Tuncay; Jones. Subs (not used): Nash, Higginbotham, Gudjohnsen, Delap, Wilkinson. Booked: Wilson.
Referee: L Probert (Wiltshire).
'He did well by robbing the full-back before hitting the net and it was the kind of goal that does wonders for confidence. 'Lack of goals by the strikers has been a problem, so it was good to see Yak getting back on target and it will be great if we soon get the old Yakubu back. He was more like his old self today, holding the ball up well.'
Everton's influential midfielder Mikel Arteta had recovered from the hamstring strain that kept him out of last week's draw at Tottenham, while Stoke were boosted by the return of Kenwyne Jones after a midweek injury scare. The big striker raised the home fans' hopes when he swung his boot after Sylvain Distin miskicked 15 yards out. But his snap-shot flew five yards wide.
statATTACK
Everton may not have expected Yakubu to score against Stoke - his goal yesterday was his first in the Premier League since April - but they should have been confident of avoiding defeat. They have now not lost to Tony Pulis's side in their last 12 matches. Then a delightful pass by Steven Pienaar sent Yakubu racing into the box but he shot straight at goalkeeper Asmir Begovic. Stoke produced some dangerous moments of their own as the match sparked into life after the break.
Manager Tony Pulis could only shake his head in despair as Abdoulaye Faye shot wide from the edge of the six-yard box, Ryan Shawcross missed from 12 yards and, when Tuncay bundled the ball into the net, he was penalised for barging through Leighton Baines. Tread gingerly: Everton's Louis Saha (left) sends Stoke's Danny Collins tumbling Pulis described referee Lee Probert's decision as 'very poor,' adding: 'This is a tough place to come to but we had a right go and I'm really disappointed with the disallowed goal.' Moyes's frustration grew as Seamus Coleman fired straight at Begovic and Cahill saw his fierce, first-time effort crash off Faye's shoulder.
But all was forgotten when Yakubu broke the deadlock in the 67th minute, rifling the ball high into the net to raise the roof at Goodison.
Everton 1 Stoke City 0: match report
Read a full match report of the Premier League game between Everton and Stoke City at Goodison Park on Saturday Oct 30 2010.
October 31 2010
Premier League
Goodison Park
By Ben Findon at Goodison Park
Sunday Telegraher
You can set your watch by them. When the clocks go back, that’s when Everton get going forward. This is the third successive season David Moyes’s side have been slow to shake off the summer torpor before hitting a purposeful stride as the long nights approach. Victory over Stoke City was not pretty, and not entirely convincing, but Moyes was well satisfied with a firm display of resolve. The Everton manager said: “Stoke are an improving side and it was a good three points. It was also good that Yakubu got the goal, he is getting more confidence in himself and it will be good to get back to the old Yakubu.” Buoyant after the derby defeat of Liverpool and a well-won point at Tottenham, Everton opened briskly, with Mikel Arteta and Steven Pienaar prompting an opening wave of attacks on the visitors’ goal. They should have moved ahead after a quarter of an hour when Pienaar slipped the ball behind the Stoke rearguard for Yakubu, who came barrelling in from the left but rolled a tame shot at Asmir Begovic. Pienaar also drove straight at the goalkeeper from 20 yards out.
Stoke, however, were far from being overrun and looked increasingly comfortable as the half progressed and might even have grabbed the lead when, four minutes from half-time, Matthew Etherington’s corner reached Abdoulaye Faye, who spun before shooting just wide from close in. Stoke had lost three of their four away league matches but sensed they had a chance to spring an upset early in the second half.
Pienaar, dawdling in midfield, was dispossessed by Marc Wilson, who raced forward to blaze over from the edge of the penalty area, before Ryan Shawcross volleyed powerfully but inaccurately from just inside the box. There was a further warning for the home side when Tuncay forced the ball over the line, only for referee Lee Probert to call play back for an infringement on Leighton Baines, a decision that brought a withering response from Stoke manager Tony Pulis. “I’m really disappointed with the disallowed goal, it looks a very poor decision,” he said. It finally all came right for Everton midway through the second half. After Yakubu had won back the ball, Tim Cahill’s low shot cannoned off Begovic’s right-hand post, falling for the Nigerian, who controlled the ball before lashing high into the Stoke net from a tight angle.
Stoke have managed only four away league goals this season and they drew another blank here, though Everton could never rest easy, especially when Etherington’s shot skidded across the face of Tim Howard’s goal 10 minutes from the end.
October 2010