Everton Independent Research Data
Review of the year: May 2010
Jan 1 2011 by Neil Jones, Liverpool Echo
THERE is joy for Everton’s ladies team, as they clinch the FA Cup with a 3-2 victory over Arsenal at the City Ground. Natasha Dowie nets the winner in extra time after a dramatic clash. Liverpool end the season a disappointing seventh in the Premier League, after defeat at home to champions Chelsea and a final-day draw at relegated Hull City. Everton finish two points further back in eighth, their form in the second half of the season bettered only by Carlo Ancelotti’s champions. Pepe Reina and Steven Pienaar secure the club Player of the Season awards. Jack Robinson becomes the youngest debutant in Liverpool’s 118-year history; the young full-back appears as a late substitute at Hull City, aged 16 years and 250 days, breaking Max Thompson’s 36-year-old record. Jamie Carragher causes a stir as he takes his place in England’s World Cup squad, three years after announcing his international retirement. Fellow Reds Steven Gerrard and Glen Johnson are also named in Fabio Capello’s 23-man squad, but there is no place for Everton’s Leighton Baines, who misses out despite being named in Capello’s initial 30-man party. Former Reds owner David Moores criticises co-owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks in a scathing, open letter to the Times. Moores claims the American pair promised they would not load the club with debt (something Hicks immediately, and predictably, denies), and expresses his regret at the current state of affairs at Anfield. There is better news at Goodison Park as Jack Rodwell agrees a new five-year contract, despite reports linking him with both Chelsea and Manchester United. David Moyes, meanwhile, clinches a deal to sign Leeds United striker Jermaine Beckford on a free transfer. Tranmere secure their League One status; Les Parry’s men achieve survival after a final day victory at Stockport County, which leaves them one point clear of the drop zone. In basketball there is further glory, as Everton Tigers lift the BBL Play-Off trophy following a narrow 80-72 win over Glasgow Rocks in Birmingham. Also at Birmingham, Beth Tweddle continues her fine form with two gold medals at the European Championships.
Review of the year: June 2010
Jan 1 2011 by Neil Jones, Liverpool Echo
RAFAEL BENITEZ departs Liverpool after six years in charge at Anfield. The Spaniard’s departure is confirmed in a club statement on June 4, and he is appointed manager at European Champions Inter Milan later in the month. Speculation as to his successor at Anfield is rife, with Reds legend Kenny Dalglish confirming his interest in the role, and Fulham manager Roy Hodgson heavily linked, alongside European names such as Frank Rijkaard, Didier Deschamps and Manuel Pellegrini. The month sees rumours of further exits from Anfield reach fever pitch with Fernando Torres, Javier Mascherano, Pepe Reina, Dirk Kuyt and Steven Gerrard all linked with moves away from Merseyside. Gerrard captains England at the World Cup, stepping up from vice-captain after Rio Ferdinand injures a knee in training. Gerrard nets in England’s opening group match with the USA, but Fabio Capello’s men fail to impress as they scrape through to the last 16, where they are humbled by old rivals Germany 4-1. Liverpool boxer Tom Stalker records the biggest win of his career, as the Salisbury ABC star defeats reigning world champion Domenico Valentino en route to a silver medal at the European Championships in Moscow. Meanwhile heavyweight David Price takes his professional record to 7-0 with a first round stoppage of Pavol Polakovic. Tennis legend John McEnroe lights up the Liverpool International tournament, his first appearance on Merseyside for more than 20 years. The three-times Wimbledon champion enters court wearing a Tim Howard Everton strip, and entertains the Calderstones crowd with a familiar repertoire of flamboyant shots and brattish complaints. Meanwhile, at Wimbledon, city star Ken Skupski – with partner Colin Fleming – reaches the second round of the men’s doubles, losing to American brothers Mike and Bob Bryan in straight sets.
Royal Blue: Sam Matterface seems to have been at the Christmas sherry after Everton FC comments
Jan 1 2011 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
SAM MATTERFACE is a respected sports broadcaster and a decent bloke, but his recent views on Everton are so skewed you’d think he’d been at the Christmas sherry since December 1. Writing on his TalkSPORT blog about who the Blues should target in the January market, he says “What a fantastic club Everton are. They have limited resources and squeeze every bit of talent out of their manager David Moyes, who has been brilliant for them. “If he wants to stay, and kick this team on again, I think he should sell Maurouane Fellaini to the highest bidder in January and build the team around Jack Rodwell and Seamus Coleman. “Fellaini is an imposing figure, a battler in midfield with a presence in both boxes but a few German teams have been sniffing around with talk of £15million bids. “If that’s the case, then buying or loaning a top striker is first priority and, if Chelsea are in the market for a forward, as it seems they are, what about Nicolas Anelka? “He loves being top man and thrives on the ball being played in front of him. Failing that, what about trying to tempt Papiss Demba Cisse from Freiburg? He was linked with Fulham and is the second top scorer in Germany.” The former Sky Sports News presenter has had a nightmare here. Sell our best young midfielder in Fellaini? On what planet would that ever make sense? Then to suggest we’d even bother wasting the time it’d take to phone Chelsea and enquire about loaning Nicolas Anelka? I’d cartwheel down Church Street in a Liverpool kit if Chelsea ever agreed to loan one of their best players to a Premier League rival. It’s just nonsense. As it’s January, though, the more discerning among you will already be flinching at the realisation that this won’t be the last time someone makes an outlandish transfer market claim about the Blues. Here’s my tribute to Mr Matterface’s insight – to break the top four Moyes should flog Leighton Baines, Phil Jagielka, Mikel Arteta and Jack Rodwell. Lump that collection cash on a bid for Christian Poulsen, Stephen Warnock, and Carlos Salcido. Then phone up Pep Guardiola and ask for Messi on loan.
Royal Blue: The People’s Club live up to their name
Jan 1 2011 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
FOOTBALL fans like nothing more than indulging in a spot of nostalgia, especially when their side’s fortunes are harder to predict then the National Lottery. Evertonians need no excuse to band about stories of how they fell in love with the Blues, and share those early memories of travelling to games over a pint. Now a new book launched by the Everton in the Community charity has gathered some of the funniest, bizarre and most poignant tales of supporters together for the first time. ‘We are Everton’ is a special compendium of Bluenose anecdotes, and images which are guaranteed to tug on the heart strings of all Blues, and generate many more happy trips down memory lane. Compiled in partnership with the National Literacy Trust the book has a charitable cause at heart, and some of the proceeds of the £10 cover price will go towards helping local school kids to learn to love reading almost as much as they love pulling on their Everton kit and having a kickabout. The book shows the very human heart of the People’s Club, and the tales were largely gathered in person by the club’s community engagement officer Mike Mills. One supporter, Mags Fuller, writes how she became a Blue thanks to a fellow nurse she met on a training course in Medway Hospital in Kent. Julie Hall, she explains, was a Scouser in exile living down South, who had never abandoned her love for the Toffees and always wore an Everton shirt to lectures. Julie developed cancer however, and as she began to accept she would not beat the illness she handed her precious royal blue shirt to Mags and asked her to continue to follow the Blues after she was gone. Mags told Julie that famous truism, that ‘Once Everton has touched you. You’ll never be the same’, and true to form Mags has been an avid Blue ever since. She said: “Within a few weeks of me becoming a supporter my daughter decided to join me, and her bedroom has become something of an Everton shrine. “Unfortunately there was more bad news to follow, though. A couple of years ago, something dreadful happened to my daughter: it emerged she had been groomed by a paedophile and we went through absolute hell. “The police child support staff said that I should try and do something really special for her, something that would take her mind off things – but being a single mum without much money, it was difficult and I knew I wasn’t in a position to do much. However, I knew something that would really make her smile, a signed picture of her hero Tim Cahill. So I made contact with the club. “About a week later I received a call from a lady called Sue Palmer, David Moyes’ personal assistant – I was gob-smacked when she said who she was and even more gob-smacked with what followed. “She told me that the Everton manager had read the letter, and that the football club was horrified by what Megan had been through, she went on today that the club wanted to do something more than just send a signed picture, and we were both invited up to see the Blues match against Stoke City, where I was told, Megan would be introduced to the players – I was totally stunned. When we set off for Liverpool on the day of the match, Megan still hadn’t a clue what had been planned, I just told her we were going up to Goodison to soak up the match atmosphere and visit the club shop. But when we got to the ground it became clear to her that something had been organised, because a photographer came over and said: ‘You must be Megan, we’ve heard what a very brave girl you’ve been.’ We were led out towards the pitch where a few photos were taken, but then a few players started to arrive – Tim Cahill being the first. “He walked up to us, put his arms around Megan kissed her on the cheek, and said: ‘You must be Megan!’ It was that exact moment that my beautiful daughter got her smile back. That day changed her from being a girl scared to sleep on her own, or even go out of the house, someone who rarely smiled or laughed because of what she had been through, into the happiest girl imaginable. “I will never be able to thank Everton Football Club enough for what they did for us that day, a day that proved to me why they are called the People’s Club. I love you Everton and I always will.” Mags' is just one tale in the book, others are more light-hearted, but all of them are soaked in passion for the club. Well worth a tenner.
Barry Horne: My Everton FC wish for 2011
Jan 1 2011 by Barry Horne, Liverpool Echo
MY wish for 2011 is that the Premier League continues to confound and excite in equal measure, as it has done for much of this year, especially of late. I also hope that, by hook or by crook, David Moyes can conjure up the one piece of the jigsaw which has so obviously been missing so far this season. Whether he can do that from within the squad or elsewhere, we’ll have to see. And finally, whilst I accept that the majority of professional footballers are decent, honest souls, I wish the minority would take several leaves out of Phil Neville’s book, and for that matter the vast majority of the Everton squad, and grow up, start behaving like ‘men’, and not the indulged, pampered infants that a few are.
Barry Horne: Everton FC should brace themselves for a New Year’s Day headache at Stoke
Jan 1 2011 by Barry Horne, Liverpool Echo
I WAS at Stoke’s home defeat by Fulham in midweek and, make no mistake, they will be difficult to beat this afternoon. After nine minutes Chris Baird, who hadn’t scored for Fulham in over two and a half years, lashed in two stunning right-footed efforts. Thereafter Stoke absolutely laid siege to the Fulham goal, but on the day the ball didn’t drop for them. They came up against the man mountain that is Brede Hangeland and they couldn’t break through. The Britannia Stadium fans were as vociferous as ever and so despite that setback for Tony Pulis men, Evertonians shouldn’t expect an easy afternoon. The short trip to Stoke will obviously be a good day out for the fans, but it will not be an enjoyable afternoon for the Everton defenders regardless of the outcome.
Barry Horne: Everton FC's Good, Bad and Ugly of 2010
Jan 1 2011 by Barry Horne, Liverpool Echo
EVERTON’S year just gone can be split into three very different parts. January to May was a good time to be an Evertonian. The desperately disappointing Cup exits could not totally tarnish the terrific league form of the second half of the season. There was some scintillating football, much of it coming from my joint players of the year, Leighton Baines and Steven Pienaar. Then there was the summer hiatus with, disappointingly, no Everton representation in the England squad at the World Cup. For me the South African experience was pretty much as expected, with the FIFA publicity, or should we say propaganda machine, going fully into overdrive to proclaim the event an unqualified success. Which clearly it wasn’t. Evertonians did spend the summer, however, confidently predicting a wonderful season. But as the old Evertonian joke goes “Don’t worry you can always rely on Everton . . . to let you down.” And so it proved. The one word to describe Everton’s season so far has been inconsistent. There have been good performances, very poor performances but ultimately too many draws as a result of an inability to find the back of the net. The result is that we are all several steps behind in our expect- ations of where we hoped to be. Our ambitions for 2011 are more down to earth than those lofty thoughts we harboured for a possible Champions League place and a good FA Cup run, after being unceremoniously dumped out of the other domestic. January promises to be a tricky month for David Moyes. At the start of the season I’m guessing that he will have been looking at January as a time to bring in potential rather than proven players, with his squad being as strong as it has ever been. But in reality it’s clear that a goalscorer would benefit the squad. When you have good players, as we have, and you aren’t in a Champions League place there’s a danger you may lose some. Steven Pienaar obviously springs to mind and there have been rumours about Leighton Baines. Lose those two and all of a sudden the squad isn’t quite so powerful. To finish on a bright note, Jack Rodwell and Seamus Coleman have continued to develop very nicely. Hopefully over the next 18 months they will become quality Premier League players. Let’s hope it’s a Happy New Year for them and all Blues everywhere.
Everton FC manager David Moyes ponders using Steven Pienaar in a more advanced role
Jan 1 2011 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
THE Britannia Stadium holds few fond memories for David Moyes, especially after it was the place where his European dream finally died last season. The Blues unlikely chance of qualifying for the Europa League had been bolstered by an outstanding run of form in the second half of last season, but a 0-0 draw in the Potteries meant it was not to be. The frustration of that set-back was intensified when Phil Jagielka had a 72nd-minute headed goal harshly disallowed, after a typically tense and physical contest against Tony Pulis’ upwardly mobile side. Goals where once again an issue during this fixture in May, and that semi-drought has barely improved ever since – something Moyes will need all of his managerial acumen to mend. Against West Ham United on Tuesday, the Blues boss decided to play Tim Cahill as a lone centre forward, and with the Aussie’s absence after today’s clash he is not ruling out other untried combinations to try and spark a timely shower of goals. “Sometimes when you lose big players you can find other ways. You lose a main player and something else falls into place,” says the Scot. “I’ve considered playing Steven Pienaar in more of an attacking role. He plays there for South Africa and maybe a bigger involvement in that role will help us create more opportunities, even if it might not help me score more goals. “His goal scoring is the one thing he maybe doesn’t get enough of. He’s capable of doing it. I’m not sure if you’d put him in the natural category but I’d play him off a front man. It’s something I could look to anyway. “His creativity there would be a plus. But I have other people, and centre-forwards.” Although all three of Everton’s centre-forwards were benched before the Upton Park draw, Moyes insists there was no message for his forward line in that decision. It wasn’t a message to my centre-forwards,” he says. It was simply that Tim Cahill has scored nine goals and is the third top scorer in the Premier League, so I hoped he could do me a job at centre-forward. “If someone else pops up with goals I’ll play them there. I need goals so I will have to keep looking for the solution. “It’s not always falling to centre forwards. Sylvain Distin had two great opportunities to score on Tuesday and didn’t, so it’s not just the strikers.” Moyes admits that the Britannia stadium is not the ideal place to visit when you’re looking for a fast return of points. “Stoke are improving,” he says. “Their football and style is progressing. They’ve spent well too and brought players to the club and that gives them a good chance of climbing steadily.” “I think the quality of players he (Tony Pulis) has now has improved.” The Everton manager can take solace in an excellent away record, with his side losing only four games away from Goodison in 2010. “We prepare well for away games,” he says. “Like Stoke we can be well organised. When we’re asked to be the team with the onus at home we’ve maybe struggled at that game. We’ve got the basis of a very solid defence and in the main we’ve had a consistency there, and have been able to do that a little bit better away from home. “We’re well into the season and because the league is so tight, a couple of poor results can see you at the wrong end of the table. Good form can see you move away from the pack.” Moyes admits that there was little excitement or celebration in Everton’s hotel in the Midlands last night. Instead, only planning for the test ahead and an early night – something he is familiar with after a lifetime in football. He says: “It’s just the nature of the job. “Every club in the country will probably be in a hotel tonight and it’s a small sacrifice we have to give up for a good wage. I think the players would probably rather be in their bed. “Maybe the players have a party and I’m not invited, but they’re probably in bed too.”
Everton FC skipper Phil Neville stoked up for a New Year goal
Jan 1 2011 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
PHIL NEVILLE is determined to try and build on his infrequent goal tally in 2011 – starting today at Stoke City. The Everton skipper’s New Year’s resolution is to hit the back of the net for the first time since April 2008 against Aston Villa, and he will accept a scuffed effort if it helps win three points. The former England star knows Everton must vastly improve on their results from the first half of the season to fulfil his other aim – rapidly improving their league position. He said: “I just want to score. I have had my celebration worked out for more than two years! I have got everything in place. If I can get one this year then great, if not my aim will be this decade. “The first half of the year was fantastic. The period when Landon Donovan was here was amazing. I think in that spell when he was here we beat Manchester United, Chelsea, drew with Arsenal and beat Man City twice – that was a special period for the club. “Another high point has to be the trip to Australia,” he added. “I had always wanted to visit the country and it was amazing. Also to see how popular Tim Cahill and Everton are over there was an eye-opener. “And from a personal point of view to stay pretty much injury free was really pleasing and I am really hoping for more of the same in 2011.” Neville, 33, will be hoping to have Phil Jagielka back alongside him in Everton’s defence today, if the 28-year-old passes a late fitness test following his return to training on Friday. And John Heitinga could be in with a chance of making the squad, after the Dutchman also trained at Finch Farm. Meanwhile, David Moyes has revealed that James Vaughan was set for a permanent transfer to Hull City this week after the clubs agreed a fee for the England U-21 international, only for the deal to fall apart when Vaughan’s agent demanded a larger fee. It means the 22-year-old striker may still be on his way to Cardiff City, with Leicester City and Crystal Palace also waiting in the wings. The Blues manager added that despite speculation, the club have received no interest for the signatures of Yakubu or John Heitinga. Moyes is not pinning his hopes on an influx of new signings in January either. He said: “I’m more pessimistic than optimistic, but things can change very quickly so we’ll see.”
Stoke City 2-0 Everton
Jan 1 2011 by Phil Kirkbride, Liverpool Echo
THE New Year has not brought any cheer for Everton. If the previous 12 months ended in subdued circumstances then 2011 kicked off with desperate disappointment. David Moyes' men lost an eight away match unbeaten record in the Premier League to Stoke City this afternoon and slipped to 13th in the table. This 2-0 defeat was ultimately gift wrapped by the Blues as first Kenwyne Jones and then an own goal from Phil Jagielka handed the points to Tony Pulis' men who cement their position in the top half of the standings. Everton enjoyed plentiful possession but were unable to offer sufficient craft to unlock a typically resolute Stoke rearguard. The Goodison Park side can rightly point to a first-half penalty decision which did not fall in their favour but could have few arguments they displayed not enough creativity where it mattered and conceded the goals in alarming fashion. Everton made two changes from the side held 1-1 at West Ham United in their final game of 2010 with out-of-sorts striker Louis Saha given the nod at the expense of midfielder Jack Rodwell and fit again Phil Jagielka reclaiming his place at centre half from Tony Hibbert. Manager David Moyes opted to recall French forward Saha and drop Cahill back in behind the frontline after the Blues' top scorer played as the lone man at Upton Park on Tuesday night with limited success. Hosts Stoke City headed into the New Year clash having fallen 2-0 at home to struggling Fulham - a second consecutive loss at the Britannia Stadium for Tony Pulis' men. Within 45 seconds of the game kicking off Everton had legitimate appeals for a penalty waved away from Saha tumbled in the area under pressure from Ryan Shawcross. Moyes was up in arms over the non-decision. Stoke fired back with Kenwyne Jones flicking on Rory Delap's party piece long throw-in but the header fell kindly into the arms of Blues' keeper Tim Howard. Saha would go close with a header from Leighton Baines' corner as Steven Pienaar tested Begovic with a curling effort. However the clearest opportunity of the opening stages arrived in the ninth minute when Ricardo Fuller latched onto Jones' flick-on but skewed his effort wide when clear on Howard's goal. Fuller's blushes were spared though bu his strike partner mid-way through the half when Matthew Etherington evaded both Phil Neville and Seamus Coleman before chipping into the area for the unmarked Jones to place a fine header beyond the reach of Howard to make it 1-0 to Stoke. Tim Cahill so nearly grabbed the equaliser four minutes later when Baines' superb cross to the back post found the departing Aussie but his header agonisingly missed the target. If Everton felt hard done by with the earlier penalty shout, there were incensed by the award of only a booking on Stoke goalkeeper Asmir Begovic for a foul outside the area on Saha. The striker raced clear after Jagielka's long boot upfield and as he lifted the ball over the advancing Begovic, Saha was cleaned out. A trailing defender may just have saved the stopper's skin after a rash challenge with referee Taylor showing leniency. The travelling side almost snatched an equaliser in time added on at the end of the first half Pienaar exchanged passes with Saha but his goalbound effort was blocked by Danny Higginbotham. Everton's mood did not improve in the 56th minute when Seamus Coleman sped onto loose ball and headed towards the Stoke goal only to be hacked down Delap. Again covering defenders saved the midfielder from being shown the red card but all the visitors were left with was a feeling of hardship.
Moyes opted to remove the below par Mikel Arteta for Leon Osman's verve just after the hour mark and sacrificed captain Phil Neville to introduce a second forward in Victor Anichebe. However there was nothing a change of tactics could do to prevent the calamitous second goal of the game. Jones again won the aerial battle to flick the ball into the area and under pressure from Fuller, Jagielka saw the ball cannon off his shin and past a helpless Howard. Baines whipped a free-kick towards the Stoke goal moments later but the ball zipped wide and proved Everton's last meaningful attempt of an afternoon to forget. STOKE CITY (4-4-2): Begovic, Wilkinson, Shawcross ©, Higginbotham, Collins, Pennant (Tuncay 59), Whitehead, Delap, Etherington (Whelan 79), Fuller (Walters 83), Jones. Not used: Sorensen, Gudjohnsen, Wilson, Faye. Goals: Jones (23) Jagielka (og 68) Cautions: Collins, Begovic, Whitehead EVERTON (4-5-1): Howard, Neville © (Anichebe 66), Jagielka, Distin, Baines, Coleman, Fellaini, Cahill, Arteta (Osman 66), Pienaar, Saha (Beckford 79). Not used: Mucha, Hibbert, Bilyaletdinov, Rodwell. Cautions: Cahill REFEREE: Mr Anthony Taylor ATTENDANCE: 27,418
Stoke 2-0 Everton: Sunday Mirror match report
By Lindsay Sutton SUNDAY mirror
JAN 2 2011
Striker Kenwyne Jones showed there’s no Stoke without fire – even though the big striker felt the heat himself last week. The 26-year-old Trinidad international was booed after the Potters’ second successive home defeat against struggling Fulham last Tuesday. But yesterday, he trod the classic “zero to hero” route as he scored Stoke’s crucial opener and then set up their second, which went down as an own goal by the unlucky Phil Jagielka. Boss Tony Pulis revealed also that Jones has family problems to deal with, which made his performance all the more appreciated by the Stoke manager. Pulis said: “He’s had a private issue with family difficulties but I don’t want to go into it. We’ve dealt with it and he’s a loving kid, a good kid and it might have all affected him. “His performances have dipped a bit before this game and there were some groans last week, but I have a lot of faith in him and I’m pleased with his performance.” Jones’ bullet-header ended Everton’s run of eight away games undefeated – and this reversal for David Moyes’ Merseyside outfit leaves him with an even bigger headache. No money, no strikers hitting the target and now no Tim Cahill, the nine-goal Everton talisman who is away on Asian Cup duty with Australia from today onwards. Moyes admitted: “I’m going to have to trawl the loan market and see if there’s anyone suitable. Ideally, I’d like to get in some top players if possible but they will have to be loans. I won’t be buying any players.” On the game, both managers agreed that Everton should have had a penalty after just 30 seconds, when Ryan Shawcross appeared to bring down striker Louis Saha, with ref Andre Marriner ruling “play on”. Moyes said: “He caught him round the midriff and it was certainly a penalty. The ref just has to be ready from the opening whistle onwards.” He added: “I thought we played well enough to get something from the game. “The boys worked tirelessly and we played really well, especially in the first half. Maybe Jagielka could have dealt with the situation better for the second goal but overall he had a decent game.” The crucial moment in the game came in the 69th minute when Everton’s hopes of getting anything were finally dashed. Jones rose superbly from a long ball from Danny Higginbotham and nodded the ball towards strike partner Ricardo Fuller – but Jagielka intervened, only to flick the ball past keeper Tim Howard. But it was Jones’ first-half opener that gave Stoke their confidence to go on and seal all three points. The 26-year-old Trinidadian started the move by heading out to Matthew Etherington on the left flank. The in-form wingman put in a penetrating cross and Jones rose majestically to power home his seventh goal of the season. Fuller then missed a couple of good opportunities, putting his first effort past the post and topping that with a failure to control the ball with the goal gaping. For Everton, Steve Pienaar had three clear chances, his best shot being defelected over by the tireless Higginbotham.
JAGIELKA HOWLER PUTS BLUES IN REVERSE
Sunday January 2,2011 Sunday Express
STOKE 2 Everton 0
PHIL Jagielka’s nightmare Christmas continued as he found his own net once again to condemn Everton to their first away defeat in nine games. The stopper scored an own goal against Manchester City just before the holiday but his team-mates held on at Eastlands to win 2-1.
This time his error proved costly as it killed off the Toffees’ hopes of cancelling out Kenwyne Jones’ opener.
Jagielka came under pressure from Ricardo Fuller as he tried to clear Jones’ header into the six-yard box.
The defender stuck out a boot and watched in horror as the ball spun past Tim Howard to seal Stoke’s first Premier League win over Everton. Blues boss David Moyes was at a loss to explain defeat in a game Everton had controlled for large periods. In the first minute they were convinced a penalty was theirs when Ryan Shawcross caught Louis Saha with a high challenge just inside the box but their appeals were waved away by referee Andre Marriner. Moyes said: “He caught him round the midriff. The referee didn’t seem ready.”
But it was Stoke who took the lead through Jones in the 23rd minute. The big striker started the move by flicking on Ryan Shawcross’ long punt. Matty Etherington collected and drew a rash challenge from Phil Neville before darting towards the byline. He stood up a cross and Jones was unmarked to head past Howard. Everton’s top scorer Tim Cahill nearly found a reply within two minutes but his effort from Baines’ floated cross flew just wide.
The second half produced plenty of bite but few chances until Jagielka buried his side. Stoke manager Tony Pulis said: “Kenwyne has done smashing today. His performances have dipped a little bit recently. “Kenwyne has had an issue off the field I don’t want to go into. It is a family thing. “He is a loving kid and a good kid. That might have affected him.”
Stoke 2-0 Everton: Kenwyne Jones puts Potters back on track
Jan 2 2011 by Janine Self, The People
KENWYNE JONES has been driving the fans flipping potty this season with his unpredictable combination of the sublime and the ridiculous. But yesterday the striker was more flip-top than flip-flop as his seventh goal of the season put Stoke back on track at the Britannia. Jones celebrated his header in trademark fashion – an aerial somersault – then proved again what an asset he can be when he takes his head out of the clouds. The Trinidad & Tobago forward, a record £8million buy, ruled the airwaves all afternoon and claimed an assist for City’s second, a Phil Jagielka own goal. Jones was singled out for special stick in Tuesday’s home defeat by Fulham but that was all forgotten yesterday, much to the delight of Stoke boss Tony Pulis. Pulis, who revealed that the player had been coping with family issues, said: “Kenwyne has done smashing. Although his performances have dipped we have great belief in him. “There are lots of issues surrounding players, some of them off the pitch. He’s a loving kid, a good kid, and that might have affected him.” Everton arrived with an eight-game unbeaten record on their travels but they never really looked like extending it. They might have had a penalty claim in the very first minute, though, when Ryan Shawcross caught Louis Saha but referee Andre Marriner was having none of it. That angered Blues boss David Moyes, who said: “There was a penalty in the first 30 seconds. From the first second the referee has to be ready to blow the whistle.” Pulis sportingly sided with his managerial rival, although he insisted that Stoke had done more than enough to earn the three points. He added: “I haven’t looked at it again but I thought it was a penalty too. It was a big result after the last two home games. Now we have an easy one – a trip to Old Trafford!” Everton could have been behind very quickly had Ricardo Fuller done better with an absolute sitter. There was nothing subtle about the build-up – a hoof from Asmir Begovic and a nod-on by Jones – and Fuller did all the hard work as he rounded Sylvain Distin before somehow scuffing his effort wide. Stoke did take the lead after 23 minutes when Jones headed the ball out to Matty Etherington on the left and trotted into the area while Etherington wriggled round Phil Neville. When the cross came, Jones was on hand to end his eight-game drought in emphatic fashion. Everton should have equalised when a lovely move involving Steven Pienaar and Leighton Baines finished with Tim Cahill flashing a header square across goal. Stoke’s killer second came halfway through the second half when Danny Higginbotham sailed a long free-kick into the area. Jones won the nod-on and as Fuller and Jagielka duelled, the Everton defender turned the ball past Tim Howard. Australia international Cahill now jets off to Qatar for the Asia Cup, meaning Moyes must wave goodbye to his greatest goal threat. Saha, asked to play alone up front, is going to have to start producing quickly or Everton could be sliding back down the table. Moyes added: “I’m frustrated. You could see today that there was nothing wrong with the performance. We had chances but we didn’t take them. “We will trawl the market and we’d like to get some top players in if possible. But I won’t be buying anyone. They will be loans.”
Stoke City 2 Everton 0: match report
By Peter Gardner The Telegraher
Jan 2 2011
Everton were unable to deal with the aerial strength of Kenwyne Jones as they succumbed to their first away league defeat in nine encounters at the Britannia Stadium where Stoke literally deserved their first ever Premier League victory over their visitors from Merseyside. Jones struck Stoke's first goal, a powerful 23rd minute header and then forced Phil Jagielka to turn the ball in to his own net as the home side ran out comfortable winners. Stoke revealed greater awareness and urgency from the outset as they attempted to atone for successive home defeats at the hands of Blackpool and Fulham. Long throw specialist Rory Delap quickly made his presence felt as early as the second minute when he hurled the ball in from the right only for Ricardo Fuller to head straight in to the hands of the Everton goalkeeper Kim Howard. Fuller was even more wasteful in the 10th minute when, from a long clearance by the Stoke keeper Asmir Begovic, Jones headed on only for Fuller to finish wretchedly.
Everton still struggling to keep up with Joneses
Stoke City 2 Everton 0
By John Percy at the Britannia Stadium
The Independent Jan 2 2011
The days of David Moyes spending £8million on a centre forward have long gone at Everton and he will have cast an envious glance at the predatory instincts of Kenwyne Jones after experiencing another afternoon of intense frustration. Moyes is growing increasingly tired of having to defend his toothless team for their lack of goal threat and it was a familiar story for the Everton manager. Jones has been unable to display his repertoire of acrobatics for some time but marked his first goal in eight games with an array of somersaults. And Moyes' misery was complete after Phil Jagielka's comedy own-goal secured Stoke their first win at the Britannia Stadium icebox in four attempts. "I thought we played well enough to get something out of the game," said Moyes. "It was a case of saying more of the same. We had chances but we didn't take them. I'm frustrated.
"Sometimes it's the crosses you don't get into the box and today we got it in but we weren't in there to finish and to win games you have to score goals. We will trawl the loan market to try and bring in some top players if possible." Louis Saha, Jermaine Beckford and Yakubu Aiyegbeni – who was omitted from the squad – have scored three goals between them this season. Jones, Stoke's record signing, has come in for some criticism in recent weeks but his header after 23 minutes was a reminder of how potent he can be in the air. None other than England and Chelsea defender John Terry has described the Trinidad & Tobago international as "unplayable" on his day and he really needs to be producing goals like this more often. Matty Etherington bamboozled Phil Neville and Seamus Coleman on the left before sending over a delicious cross that was given the treatment it deserved by Jones. The visitors toiled for an equaliser but their first away defeat in nine was confirmed when Jagielka bundled Danny Higginbotham's cross pastTim Howard. The Stoke manager Tony Pulis said: "We're pleased, it's a big result after the last two home games. We didn't get the results we deserved against Fulham and Blackpool. "Kenwyne has done smashing. There are loads of issues surrounding players off the pitch. He's been fine and although his performances have dipped we have great belief in him." Attendance: 27,418 Referee: Andre Marriner Man of the match: Etherington
Stoke City 2 Everton FC 0 - reinforcements needed to paper over widening cracks
Jan 3 2011 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
DAVID Moyes could hijack an entire fleet of B&Q lorries and still not have enough wallpaper to mask the widening cracks currently afflicting his squad. For so long this season the accusatory fingers have been reasonably pointed at his strikers. Not enough goals, desire, consistency or fitness from them. Fair enough, but what about elsewhere? In terms of creativity and direct assists Everton have relied solely upon an outstanding full-back; Leighton Baines, a defender turned midfielder in Seamus Coleman, and Tim Cahill, who has worn more hats for the Blues this season than George Melly in his prime. So against Stoke City, during this alarmingly familiar defeat, what could his playmakers muster? From Steven Pienaar and Mikel Arteta, the answer was just one pass each into Stoke’s 18 yard box all afternoon. Indeed, the pair have just one direct assist between them in the Premier League all season. That is not to say Pienaar has not sparkled at times, but he and his highly-talented colleague are symptoms of a wider problem. Neat, tidy, and pretty in possession but with the killer instinct of a new-born kitten could summarise much of Everton’s attacking play this season. Their solitary effort on target during 94 minutes at the Britannia stadium was a tame strike from Pienaar, one that Asmir Begovic could have clutched with one eye closed. At 0-0 and against limited workmen like Dean Whitehead and Rory Delap in central midfield, the quality of Everton’s midfielders should have been overwhelming, but still they failed to find spaces. Passes frequently went sideways and backwards, but rarely did they go forward with any penetration. So, where is the strength in depth which supporters became convinced was in abundance in this strongest squad ever? The nauseatingly incessant feeling is that the summer just gone was a false dawn. Instead of relaxing on laurels after a season which had produced a typically slow start and then a terrific second half, Moyes should have been able to spend. The Scot should have been able to recruit a striker and an extra midfielder at the least. And what of January? The defeat by Tony Pulis’s team leaves Everton 13th, four points off rock-bottom Wolves, and slipping ever further behind a credible challenge for a top six place. Everton are desperate for a fresh injection of creativity and goals, yet Moyes ponders whether he can even fund the wages required for certain proposed loan recruits. It’s fair to say there will not be too much New Year’s bonhomie around Goodison Park at the moment. Lady Luck hasn’t helped much either. The Blues were denied a penalty in the first minute against the Potters, when home skipper Ryan Shawcross fouled Louis Saha, who was restored to the team in attack. That injustice didn’t deter a bright start, and some impressive football from the away side throughout the first half, but the manner in which they conceded was abject. A piece of lovely trickery saw Matthew Etherington bamboozle Phil Neville and Coleman, before the winger delivered an inch perfect cross which was met by Kenwyne Jones, who had split Everton’s central defence to score with an unstoppable bullet header. Cahill narrowly failed to leave a departing gift later in the half, when he leapt to meet a Baines’ cross but headed wide, and the second half saw Begovic rarely troubled. Stoke were fortunate to keep 11 men on the pitch when Rory Delap hacked down Coleman, as the Irishman sprinted past him through on goal, the potentially covering presence of Ryan Shawcross perhaps sparing the dismissal. But it was becoming an increasingly miserable afternoon for the sold-out away supporters as any inspiration quickly waned. A struggling Arteta was replaced by Leon Osman, and Neville made way for Victor Anichebe, but the big striker lacked the impetus he seemed to have from the start against Manchester City. It got worse when a half-fit Phil Jagielka was beaten to an aerial ball in the area by Ricardo Fuller, and the England defender was woefully unlucky as the rebound struck his foot and flew past Tim Howard for his second own goal in three games. Then with the Everton defence unsettled, Jagielka and Distin went for the same ball, neither won it convincingly, and as Fuller raced through it took a heroic intervention from Coleman to spare more misery. With Stoke defending their lead resolutely there seemed no way back, and so it proved. In the spirit of the moment, old acquaintances must be temporarily forgotten now, and Tim Cahill’s absence could provide a natural pause for a rethink. Could Diniyar Bilyaletdinov help spark Everton’s play from a more central position? Will Moyes be able to make the necessary reinforcements in the transfer market that sides like Birmingham, Stoke, Sunderland and Blackburn will be prioritising? Questions outweigh answers in these ever frustrating days.
STOKE CITY (4-4-2): Begovic, Wilkinson, Higginbotham, Shawcross (capt), Collins, Pennant (Tuncay, 58), Whitehead, Delap, Etherington (Whelan, 79), Fuller Walters, 83), Jones. Subs Sorensen, Gudjohnsen, Wilson, Faye.
EVERTON (4-5-1): Howard, Neville (capt) (Anichebe, 66) Distin, Jagielka, Baines, Fellaini, Coleman, Arteta (Osman, 66), Pienaar, Cahill, Saha (Beckford, 79). Subs: Mucha, Hibbert, Bilyaletdinov, Rodwell.
GOALS: Jones (22), Jagielka og (68).
CARDS: Booked – Collins (12) Begovic (30), Higginbotham (47), Delap (56); Cahill (61).
REFEREE: Andre Marriner (West Midlands)
ATTENDANCE: 27,418.
No blame on Phil Jagielka for Stoke defeat, says Everton FC boss David Moyes
Jan 3 2011 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
DAVID MOYES insists Phil Jagielka can shoulder no blame for his side’s inability to deal with the aerial bombardment that condemned them to defeat by Stoke City. The England defender put the ball past his own goalkeeper to seal Everton’s fate during the demoralising 2-0 loss at the Britannia stadium, his second own goal in the last three games. But Moyes acknowledged that the 28-year-old played through the pain barrier to answer his call for solidity against Stoke’s physical presence, and deserves credit for his attitude. He said: “He didn’t kick a lot of balls with his right foot today because he’s got a thigh strain so, he really wanted to come out and play and we have to give him a lot of credit. “We needed him today because otherwise we would have had to come here with Tony Hibbert at centre-half which against their size would have been really difficult. “It’s one of these things. Defenders are liable to score goals if you’re in there and trying to block things and be in the right place. “Jags did great. He put himself up, he could have probably done with a few more days if not longer to get himself fully fit.” Moyes was keen to defend his team’s display against Tony Pulis’ side, which saw the Toffees drop to 13th in the Premier League. He said: “The football today was good enough to warrant more but you’ve got to score goals. You can be nice and pretty and not score. “I’m from a school where it says ‘the job is to win the games.’ I’ve got to win. I’ve developed a style but my job’s to win. Meanwhile, Moyes could turn to Manchester United’s Italian striker Ferderico Macheda as he looks to strengthen his goal scoring options in this month’s transfer window. The Old Trafford club are willing to let the 19-year-old leave Manchester for further match experience, but will insist on whoever secures a deal guaranteeing him games. That could be a potential problem for Moyes, who will be reluctant to make any promises over selection, but may yet sound out his friend Alex Ferguson about a deal for the highly-rated former Lazio star. The Everton boss is also planning to make an enquiry to Manchester City about Roque Santa-Cruz’s availability, as he trawls the market for a goal threat. He said: “We will try and look around and see what we can get. We’ve got to look to see who’s available on loan. There might be a lot of deals done but they might not be done in the first week of January. “I’ve got a really good chairman but that’s the situation we’re in at the moment. You could say about Stoke, their goalscorer (Kenwyne Jones) cost a lot of money. We don’t do that now so we’re not in that market. So it’s a different market for us.”
Everton FC manager David Moyes wants Mikel Arteta to raise his game
Jan 3 2011 by Philip Kirkbride, Liverpool Daily Post
DAVID MOYES has backed Mikel Arteta to get back to his best and help Everton out of their current malaise. The below par performance of Arteta again left many Everton supporters frustrated at Stoke on Saturday and Moyes has urged the Spaniard to rediscover the form which has made him Everton’s most prominent creative force in past seasons. “I think it’s always difficult when you come back from injury,” said Everton manager Moyes. “I thought he played better in the first half in a good team performance. In the second half I had Leon Osman I wanted to see if we could find a way of getting a goal. It’s always difficult when you come back from an injury. “But he’s over his injury now I think it’s just rediscovering the form which people really know he’s capable of. “Mikel knows he’s a big player for Everton, has a big responsibility, he’s really well-thought of by most managers for his football ability. I think today especially in the first half he was doing a lot of the good things we know about him. I think it’s the start and we’ll see him improving again.”
‘We’re buzzing now’, Dean Whitehead warns Manchester United after win over Everton FC
Jan 3 2011 by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Daily Post
MIDFIELDER Dean Whitehead has warned title-chasing Manchester United they will have to contend with a “buzzing” Stoke side at Old Trafford tomorrow. The 28-year-old believes the Potters are now capable of surprising the Premier League leaders after beginning 2011 with an uplifting victory over Everton. Whitehead said: “Everyone is buzzing in there after a win like that. “To get the win means a lot to us – the players, the fans, everybody. “Now we have to lift again and get ready for Man Utd on Tuesday. “The games come thick and fast and we have got to make sure we get the bodies right. “Hopefully we can go there with a bit of confidence and maybe nick a result there.” “There are going to be sticky spells in games and Everton have got a lot of good players,” said Whitehead, who went close to adding a third goal late on with a thunderous volley. “When we are under the cosh we have got to make sure we defend and I think the lads at the back were awesome. “When we got the second it was a little bit more comfortable but it was still a tough, tough game and we are delighted with the three points.” Everton continue to frustrate manager David Moyes in front of goal. All season Moyes has bemoaned a lack of goals and his team cannot achieve the results he feels their performances deserve. He said: “I’m frustrated we didn’t get something out of the game. “The boys worked tirelessly to get a result and the two centre-halves were immense. “The goals were disappointing but I thought they did great and Louis Saha played well up front. “I thought there were an awful lot of good things about Everton’s performance but we didn’t get the result, which is what you are judged on. “Anybody who has watched Everton a lot will tell you it has been a recurring theme.” If there was any consolation for Moyes, who must rely on loans to strengthen his team in the January transfer window, it was that Pulis felt his luck would soon turn. “I think Everton are a very good side,” Pulis said. “They have got all the tools. “They have got good players who keep the ball and move the ball quickly. “They’ve got lots of power too. “The quality of set plays that go into the box is first class and they will go on a run, there is no doubt about that. “They will pick up a lot of points and end up at the top end of the table.”
Stoke City v Everton FC: New Year gives David Moyes opportunity for temporary cure
Jan 3 2011 by Philip Kirkbride, Liverpool Daily Post
IT felt more like Groundhog Day. The opening afternoon of 2011 carried that nagging headache which has seen Everton’s season promise much, but only left supporters with an uneasy feeling in their stomach. Although another performance defined by a lack of killer instinct will have driven some to the bottle for a second consecutive night, fortunately the New Year gives manager David Moyes the opportunity to find a temporary cure. The January transfer window can help Everton alter an all too familiarly depressing tale which unfolded at the Britannia Stadium on Saturday as Stoke City were gift wrapped some belated presents. Apart from the glaring omission of any striking threat – bar the infrequent flashes of promise from Louis Saha - the weekend’s 2-0 defeat to Tony Pulis’ side only served to highlight that Moyes’ men are crying out for spark, verve and invention in midfield. All these attributes were once provided so masterfully by Mikel Arteta but for as long as his impostor continues to occupy the number 10 royal blue shirt then the manager must look to replace the Spaniard with a fresh face. Stoke continue to be wrongly labelled with negative tags about the manner in which they approach the game but few could argue on Saturday they did not provide well drilled and effective opposition to Everton. That said, none of this should have come as any surprise to the travelling side and City do not keep you guessing, yet Everton failed sufficiently to deal with the dual threat of Ricardo Fuller and Kenwyne Jones when it mattered and saw themselves fall into a trap so many sides before them have done. That Stoke are essentially limited in what they can do made them ripe for the picking but not for the first time this season the Goodison Park outfit looked blunt when trying to carve open a resolute defence. To add further insult to a frustrating way to open the calendar year, top scorer Tim Cahill waved goodbye to his team-mates as he jets off for up to a month of international duty and does so with his side in 13th place in the Premier League ahead of the daunting visit of Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday. The Australian had Everton’s best chance of the afternoon, minutes after Jones had nodded the home side in front, but his back post header from Leighton Baines’ cross drifted agonisingly wide of Asmir Begovic’s goal. Going behind in the 23rd minute sparked Everton’s best spell of the game and a dominance for the remainder of it but barring Steven Pienaar’s goalbound effort blocked by Danny Higginbotham as half-time drew near, Begovic remained largely at ease. Of course the afternoon could have taken a much different direction had Everton been awarded a penalty after 45 seconds of kick-off when Saha weaved into the area only to be tripped by Stoke captain Ryan Shawcross. Referee Anthony Taylor waved away the appeals and left Moyes rightly up in arms. Stoke fired back from the scare – which manager Pulis later admitted looked like legitimate claims from the visitors - with Jones flicking on Rory Delap’s party piece long throw-in but the header fell kindly into the arms of Howard. Saha would go close with a header from Leighton Baines’ corner as Pienaar curled a token effort straight into the arms of Begovic from distance. The clearest opportunity prior to the opener arrived in the ninth minute when Fuller latched onto Jones’ flick-on but skewed his effort wide when clear on Howard’s goal. Some may have derided such play as ‘long ball tactics’ but what Everton would have given for such a sight of the home goal. Too much of the visitors’ play was in front of the Stoke backline and all too rarely behind it. Play all comfortable to defend against. Fuller’s blushes were spared though by his strike partner mid-way through the half when Matthew Etherington evaded both Phil Neville and Seamus Coleman before chipping into the area for the unmarked Jones to place a fine header beyond the reach of Howard. Jones profited from the gaping hole in Everton’s defence created by a lack of communication as Phil Jagielka and Sylvain Distin were exposed. Everton to their credit responded and if felt hard done by with the earlier penalty shout, they were incensed by the award of only a booking for Stoke goalkeeper Begovic for a foul outside the area on Saha. The striker raced clear after Jagielka’s long boot upfield and as he lifted the ball over the advancing Begovic, Saha was cleaned out on the edge of the area. A trailing defender may just have saved the stopper’s skin after a rash challenge with referee Taylor showing leniency. The mood did not improve in the 56th minute when Coleman sped onto loose ball and headed towards the Stoke goal only to be hacked down Delap. Again covering defenders saved the midfielder from being shown the red card but all the visitors were left with was a feeling of being hard done by, denied a chance to attack.. Moyes opted to remove the struggling Arteta for Leon Osman just after the hour mark and sacrificed captain Neville to introduce a second forward in Victor Anichebe. However there was nothing a change of tactics could do to prevent the calamitous second goal of the game Jones again won the aerial battle to flick the ball into the area and under pressure from Fuller, Jagielka opted not to match the striker’s jump and saw the ball drop onto his shin and cannon past a helpless Howard. The ever willing Baines whipped a free-kick towards the Stoke goal moments later but the ball zipped wide and proved Everton’s last meaningful attempt of an afternoon to forget. January started in depressingly disappointing fashion but with the addition of new faces could spark a change of fortunes, or so Everton fans hope.
Everton FC manager David Moyes stands by decision to recall Phil Jagielka
Jan 3 2011 by Philip Kirkbride, Liverpool Daily Post
MANAGER David Moyes stood by his decision to select Phil Jagielka despite the defender not being fully fit. A disappointing New Year’s Day was compounded for Everton when England international Jagielka scored an own goal to seal a 2-0 win for Stoke City. Moyes admits he asked the centre-half to play through the pain barrier of the thigh strain – one which kept him out of the 1-1 draw with West Ham United – to help combat Stoke’s aerial threat on Saturday. Deploying Tony Hibbert at the heart of the defence, as at Upton Park, against the presence of Ricardo Fuller and Kenwyne Jones would have been a tall order for the man usually selected at full-back, so Moyes opted for a recovering Jagielka at the Britannia Stadium and praised his efforts. Jagielka’s unfortunate error midway through the second half sealed their fate and leaves them 13th in the Premier League table. “He (Jagielka) didn’t kick a lot of balls with his right foot on Saturday because he’s got a thigh strain,” said Moyes. “But he really wanted to come out and play and we have to give him a lot of credit. “We needed him because otherwise we would have had to come here with Tony Hibbert at centre-half which against their size would have been really difficult. “Own goals are one of those things. Defenders are liable to score goals if you’re in there and trying to block things and be in the right place. “Jags has done great. He put himself up, he could have probably done with a few more days if not longer to get himself fully fit.” Moyes conceded Everton did not show sufficient prowess in front of goal but felt his team’s approach play was deserving of more than the 2-0 defeat inflicted upon them. He said: “The football today was good enough to warrant more but you’ve got to score goals. You can be nice and pretty and not score. I’m from a school where it says ‘the job is to win the games.’ I’ve got to win. I’ve developed a style but my job’s to win.”
Stoke City 2 Everton 0
By ANTONY KASTRINAKIS The Sun
Jan 3 2011
Ricardo Fuller and Kenwyne Jones terrorised Everton and Whitehead turned up the heat ahead of the trip to leaders Manchester United. The Potters midfielder claimed the Red Devils can crumble under pressure. Jones bagged a 23rd-minute opener and Fuller forced Phil Jagielka into scoring an own goal to round things off in the second half. Whitehead said: "Ricardo causes mayhem up top. "He's fantastic, he gets hold of the ball and lights things up. "If he and Kenwyne produce like that at United, then we've got a right good chance. "There are a few games United have won which have been close games - against us here is an example - but if you get at them, they are vulnerable at the back. "So I'm sure we will be working on ways to get at them." Stoke have a simple way of winning games, while Everton have a simple way of losing them. Tony Pulis is the master of Route One - but there is a precision in the Potters' pedestrian approach that makes it palatable. Everyone knows what to expect . . . long balls, huge Rory Delap throw-ins, Jones and Fuller's dominance in the air and clinical finishing. Predictable but tough to beat. Stoke's know-how shows signs of an established force. David Moyes, on the other hand, is a victim of his own success and clearly needs an injection of cash so Everton can take the next step - but where is it coming from? The Merseysiders had never lost to Stoke in five encounters in the Premier League before Saturday. In a desperate bid to keep spirits up, Moyes tried to defend the indefensible . . . his team's defending! The Goodison boss insisted Jagielka played with a thigh strain but the England centre-half's performance against Jones and Fuller should have come with a health warning for the travelling faithful. The opener came from Ryan Shawcross' long ball. Jones nodded on to Matthew Etherington and he found the Trinidad hotshot who rose to head home unchallenged. It is one thing to lose out in the air but another not to get tight. Tim Cahill headed wide and Steven Pienaar's shot was deflected wide at the other end. But Stoke wrapped it up in the 69th minute as the visitors, once again, froze at another long ball. Jones leaped to meet Delap's up 'n under, the ball bounced in front of Jagielka who clumsily slotted it into his own net. Fuller again scared the living daylights out of Jagielka and Sylvain Distin before the end but, this time, Leighton Baines rescued Everton. It summed up the game - Pulis' precision and Moyes' misery.
DREAM TEAM STAR MAN - KENWYNE JONES (Stoke)
STOKE: Begovic 7, Wilkinson 7, Shawcross 7, Higginbotham 7, Collins 6, Pennant 6 (Tuncay 6), Whitehead 7, Delap 7, Etherington 7 (Whelan 5), Fuller 8 (Walters 5), Jones 8. Subs not used: Sorensen, Gudjohnsen, Wilson, Faye. Booked: Collins, Begovic, Whitehead, Delap.
EVERTON: Howard 6, Neville 5 (Anichebe 5), Jagielka 5, Distin 5, Baines 7, Coleman 7, Fellaini 5, Cahill 7, Arteta 5 (Osman 5), Pienaar 6, Saha 6 (Beckford 4). Subs not used: Mucha, Hibbert, Rodwell, Bilyaletdinov, Rodwell. Booked: Cahill.
STOKE 2 EVERTON 0: JAGIELKA HAS A KNEES-UP!
January 3 2011 The Daily Star
The stopper scored an own goal against Manchester City just before Christmas but his team-mates bailed him out – holding on for a 2-1 win. This time his clanger killed off Everton’s hopes of cancelling out Kenwyne Jones’ 23rd-minute opener. Jagielka came under pressure from Ricardo Fuller as he attempted to clear Jones’ header into the six-yard box The defender stuck out a boot and watched in horror as the ball came off his knee and spun past Tim Howard to seal Stoke’s first Premier League win over the Toffees. The victory was set up by Jones as he ended his six-game goal-drought with a powerful header. Everton controlled the game for long periods and in the first minute they were convinced they had a penalty when Ryan Shawcross caught Louis Saha with a high challenge but their appeals were waved away by ref Andre Marriner. Saha looked lively after being recalled to the side and his header from Leighton Baines’ corner flew over the bar. Asmir Begovic’s goal was under pressure again when Steven Pienaar cracked a shot on target in a bright opening for Everton. But with their first attack Stoke should have snatched the lead. Begovic’s kick was flicked on by Jones for Fuller. He worked his way past Sylvain Distin but with only Tim Howard to beat, hooked his shot wide. Stoke boss Tony Pulis could not hide his frustration but his anger disappeared when Jones scored.The big striker started the move, flicking on a diagonal punt from Shawcross. Matty Etherington took the ball towards the byline and stood up a tasty cross for Jones to leap unmarked and head past Howard. That should have seen Stoke turn up the heat but gutsy Everton had other ideas. And within two minutes top scorer Tim Cahill nearly found the net. Baines sent a cross to the far post where the Aussie midfielder was lingering. He aimed his effort across Begovic and was left with his head in his hands as the ball flew just past the upright. And Everton were denied an equaliser just before the break when Pienaar pulled the trigger only for Danny Higginbotham to fly in and make a brilliant block. The second half saw plenty of bite but few chances – until Jagielka buried his side. Everton manager David Moyes said: “It was a penalty in the first 30 seconds. He caught him round the midriff. The referee didn’t seem ready. “Phil could probably have dealt with the second goal better but we nullified their threat and dealt with the balls into the box – apart from the one for the first goal. Pulis said: “Kenwyne has done smashing today. His game has dipped a bit recently but we have a lot of belief in him. “Using two wide players suits him and the goal was an absolute cracker.”
Stoke City: Post-match stats for Stoke's Premier League clash with Everton
January 3 2011 This Is Staffordshire
STOKE CITY 2
(Jones, 23; Jagielka, 69 og)
EVERTON 0
POSSESSION
Stoke City 51 per cent
Everton 49 per cent
GOAL ATTEMPTS
Stoke 7 (3 on target)
Everton 10 (4 on target)
CORNERS
Stoke City 1
Everton 5
THE REFEREE
Andre Marriner (West Mids) 6
FOULS
Stoke City 14
Everton 8
CARD WATCH
YELLOW – Stoke: Collins (foul, 12), Begovic (foul, 31), Whitehead (foul, 48), Delap (foul, 57). Everton: Cahill (dissent, 62). RED – Stoke: None. Everton: None.
THE CROWD
Attendance 27,418
MATCH RATING
Entertainment 7
1 BEGOVIC: Unsettled by first-half booking, it seemed, but kept his head and safely ushered in valuable clean sheet 7
28 WILKINSON: Given a tough time by Baines down Stoke's right, but stuck to his job superbly 7
5 COLLINS: A safe pair of hands defensively, so to speak, and never shy to offer help going in the other direction too 7
17 SHAWCROSS: Nervy opening after that penalty shout, but recovered typical prominence and stood firm to keep second-half pressure at bay 7
3 HIGGINBOTHAM: Solid and dependable return to the ranks epitomised by one superb and potentially goal-saving block 7
16 PENNANT: No questioning his desire and commitment after signing a contract before a premature withdrawal 7
18 WHITEHEAD: Dodgy little spell when booked, but otherwise gave a superb exhibition of defensive midfield play 8
24 DELAP: Not too far behind his midfield compatriot in disrupting the play, and we'll forgive one horribly wayward pass 7
26 ETHERINGTON: Scurrying performance and did superbly to tee up the first goal 8
10 FULLER: Left his scoring boots at home, but contributed massively in other areas, and has moral claim to second goal 7
9 JONES: Excellent in the air and what a relief to see him score – particularly after trying domestic circumstances 8
SUBSTITUTES
20 TUNCAY (for Pennant, 59): Sniped away down the left flank without producing the killer pass, and mucked when needed 7
6 WHELAN (for Etherington, 80): A cool head in the middle of the park to try and retain greater possession late on 6
19 WALTERS (for Fuller, 84): A couple of goalward charges as he chased for the cause 6
Not used: 29 Sorensen, 7 Gudjohnsen, 12 Wilson, 25 Faye.
EVERTON: 24 Howard, 18 Neville, 3 Baines, 6 Jagielka, 15 Distin, 23 Coleman, 25 Fellaini, 17 Cahill, 10 Arteta, 20 Pienaar, 8 Saha. Subs: 28 Anichebe (for Neville, 66), 21 Osman (for Arteta, 66), 16 Beckford (for Saha, 80). Not used: 1 Mucha, 2 Hibbert, 7 Bilyaletdinov, 26 Rodwell.
Stoke City: Fans have their say on Stoke's Premier League victory over Everton
This Is Staffordshire Jan 3 2011
OUT with the old and in with the new ... and hopefully the performance against the Toffees is the new Stoke City of 2011. The game certainly wasn't easy – we held our breath at times – but it was a massive improvement on our performance in the Fulham game. Of course, some things never seem to change – it was an awful display from referee Andre Marriner, who was suffering from a bad case of "big team syndrome". Kenwyne Jones was much better than he has been of late. He scored an excellent goal, which I hope will help restore his confidence. Ricardo Fuller, on the other hand, looked tired and was not at the races at all. We really needed to get something from this game with Old Trafford beckoning tomorrow. No problems there then! SUE BRYAN, Meir Park WE started the new year on a much happier note than we ended the old. Eighth in the Premier League isn't too bad, so let's hope this is how things continue. It was great to see Kenwyne Jones finally end his mini goal drought with a magnificent header. Now it is Ricardo Fuller's turn tp find a goal. He missed chance after chance on Saturday, although it was his perseverance that led to Phil Jagielka putting through his own net in front of a delighted Boothen End, who promptly started chanting "sign him up".
Even with a trip to Old Trafford looming, perhaps things aren't too bad after all.
Happy New Year.
DAVE HARRISON, Eaton Park WE started the game looking a bit nervous, probably because of the two previous home games that we had lost. For me, Danny Higginbotham should never be out of this Stoke side. He has never let us down. I thought he slotted in very well on Saturday and had a great game. He is a better defender and a better left-back than Danny Collins, and the place should be his. Ricardo Fuller is lacking a bit of confidence at the moment, and badly needs a goal. I've seen him miss quite a few clear-cut chances lately. I though Everton looked a decent side, and one we could aspire to be – an established Premier League team who enjoy a few cup runs.
STEVE BEAUMONT, Tean
Stoke City: Potters profit as Everton can't score for toffee
By martin spinks This Is Stafforshire
Jan 3 2011
IT may have escaped the notice of all except the saddest of anoraks among us, but Stoke are in serious danger of ending this season as the number one Midlands club for the first time in their history, writes Martin Spinks. With the East Midlanders marooned in the Championship and the West Midlanders marooned dangerously close to the bottom of the Premier League, the title has every chance of dropping into Stoke's lap after more than a century of doffing their caps to the Villas, Albions and Forests. Even in Waddo's heyday of the 1970s, there was always Cloughie's Derby around to finish above Stoke. And even when they came within one win of lifting the league title in 1946, defeat in Stoke's final fixture left them finishing fourth behind a cluster of clubs that would include Wolves. While that particular notch on the bed post must wait for a different day, another was neatly carved on Saturday with Stoke's first Premier League victory over Everton. That just leaves the scalps of Chelsea and Manchester United still to be claimed among regular Premier League opposition and, with a hell of a lot of luck, it might leave just Chelsea by the end of tomorrow evening. Saturday's victory was yet another of those illogical outcomes we've seen this season when you consider Stoke's two preceding home defeats and Everton's eight-match unbeaten run on their travels. It would be remiss to overlook the two big decisions which, rightly or wrongly, went Stoke's way relatively early in the piece to help lay the foundations for this one. A penalty, or at least a free-kick on the edge of the area, could have befallen Stoke inside the first 40 seconds after Ryan Shawcross waved a foot at Louis Saha, a player ready to re-write the laws of gravity whenever the merest contact is made. And let's be honest, once Andre Marriner had blown for a foul after Asmir Begovic collided with Saha just outside his area later in the opening period, how many of us were anticipating red instead of yellow? Marriner might also have looked less favourably on Dean Whitehead's second foul in as many minutes when sitting on a yellow card early in the second half.
But a red card then would have been rich from the very referee overlooking Gary Neville's infamous second foul on Matthew Etherington in the home game against Manchester United earlier in the season. With 11 on the pitch, Stoke were always destined to be a match for a competent Everton side when the measure being taken was for effort and competitiveness. And when it came to finishing there was, as the scoreline suggests, only one winner. Given his six matches without a goal and the recent revelation of personal family problems off the field, just about every Stoke fan would have surely gifted the Potters' next goal to their number nine. His 23rd-minute strike was vintage Stoke at their best as an aerial flick on, excellent wing play and a thumping header all combined to set them on their way. It was Kenwyne Jones himself nodding on – not for the first or last time on Saturday – to free the ever-eager Etherington tight to the left touchline. Phil Neville slid in and made far less contact than his older brother once did on Etherington, leaving Stoke's bundle of energy to skip clear and occupy the attentions of a second opponent before sitting up the kind of cross upon which Jones has forged his goalscoring reputation. The big Trinidadian duly leapt highest to "slam dunk" a firm header past the keeper's full-length dive and inside his left-hand post for 1-0, following up with a double back flip by way of releasing all that pent up emotion that has been inhibiting his game for so many weeks. If only his strike partner could have enjoyed such clinical precision in front of goal, but for once Ricardo Fuller took second billing to the finishing power of someone else in a Stoke shirt. For a neat Fuller header to control a Jones knock down deserved a better finish than his subsequent shot dragged wide with the game still 0-0, while another flash of canny anticipation should have made it 3-0 later in the afternoon when his feet became tangled after a step-over to try to fool the on-coming keeper. But even when his radar in front of goal is slightly askew, the enigmatic Jamaican can still apply the kind of pressure under which Phil Jagielka was to buckle as they tussled for yet another flick-on from Jones in the 69th minute. Jagielka's only disappointment is the fact that his impromptu stab at the dropping ball, which careered into the Boothen End goal via the underside of the Everton bar, wasn't quite so clean as his fizzing back header into his own net from arguably Rory Delap's fiercest ever throw when these two first met in the Premier League two seasons ago. Everton could certainly produce nothing quite to deadly at the other end as their insipid goal threat hindered them once more against a Stoke defence largely untroubled by Robert Huth's one-match ban. And when midfield goal machine Tim Cahill misses with a relatively routine header – as he did when steering a deep left-wing ball across the face of goal in the first half – you begin to sense that a disciplined defensive performance could eventually do for the visitors. Danny Higginbotham, the man so admirably deputising for Huth, did have to brilliantly deflect a seemingly goal-bound shot on to the roof of his net at the end of the first half. But there were no such alarms in front of Stoke's goal in the second period as Everton failed repeatedly to turn promising possession into serious pressure. No wonder manager David Moyes, a man whose cold stare can kill from 50 yards, looked ready to commit murder from far closer range in the Everton dressing room.
Stoke City: Moyes green with envy as Potters outgun Everton
This Is Stafordshire Jan 3 2011
NOT so long ago, the prospect of Stoke welcoming in a new year in the top half of the Premier League seemed as likely as little green men watching the game from the Seddon Stand, writes Michael Baggaley. It was appropriate therefore that the 27,418 who saw this close encounter with Everton were joined by an extra terrestrial – albeit of the inflatable variety – which was being bounced among the partying season-ticket holders. There was plenty to celebrate for those fans, be they from Pluto or Penkhull. City had been outplayed by Blackpool and Fulham on the way to defeats in their last two home games, but they were worthy winners against an Everton side who are in the bottom half of the table, but were unbeaten in their last eight league away games.
City couldn't have worked harder to earn the result and the clean sheet. The visitors had long spells of possession, but whenever they threatened they would be frustrated by a team working ferociously behind the ball to defend a lead supplied by Kenwyne Jones's brilliant 23rd-minute header. The clean sheet was all the more impressive as City were without the suspended Robert Huth, who has arguably been Stoke's best defender this season. His absence saw Danny Higginbotham make a triumphant return to the side, having been picked ahead of Abdoulaye Faye to fill the sizeable hole in the defence left by Huth. City are being linked with a £1.5m move for Middlesbrough centre-back David Wheater, but Higginbotham's performance suggests they are well stocked in central defence. The highlight of Higginbotham's performance was a superb block to deny Steven Pienaar an equaliser just before the break, but the defender wasn't the only Stoke player who was out of this world. Dean Whitehead was everywhere in midfield, while Jones worked his socks off up front and Took his one clear chance when he thumped home Matthew Etherington's inch-perfect cross. Etherington himself was a constant threat on the left in the first half before switching to the right in the second, where he helped keep Everton's rampaging left-back Leighton Baines occupied. Stoke had one slice of luck, having got away with a penalty when Ryan Shawcross swung at the ball and missed in the first minute, instead appeared to connect somewhere near Louis Saha's nether regions. No wonder the French striker grimaced when referee Andre Marriner waved play on, to the obvious fury of David Moyes, who would terrify Ming the Merciless in a staring contest. Moyes later showed just how times have changed when he said Everton would only be in the market for loan players this January, and also pointed out that he couldn't spend £8m on a striker, as Stoke were able to do with Jones. City fans are allowed to pinch themselves at this point. After all, Everton only had to flex their financial muscles to take Adrian Heath and Peter Beagrie from Stoke in years gone by. The Everton boss felt his team were hard done to by the result, but Stoke would have won by more had Ricardo Fuller's finishing touch not deserted him when he had a clear-cut chance in each half. The visitors' best opportunity fell to Tim Cahill in the first half, but the midfielder, who is usually imperious in the air, managed to steer his header wide of the far post. The Aussie held his head in his hands and gawped in disbelief at the Boothen End, whose unsympathetic response was to chant "Where's your Ashes gone?" He wasn't the only visiting player to have his leg gently pulled by the crowd. Poor Phil Jagielka must have nightmares about the penalty area in front of the Boothen. Two seasons ago he headed into his own net there from a Rory Delap long throw. This time, he managed to top that effort with a 69th-minute flick over Tim Howard, having been put under pressure by Fuller. The Stoke striker didn't bother to celebrate, instead looking a little miffed that Jagielka had stolen his thunder. For Jagielka, there was only the miserable knowledge that the goal had sealed Everton's fate – so he would have taken no consolation from the chants of "sign him up" from appreciative Stoke fans. The goal was fortunate, but the result certainly wasn't as Stoke pulled themselves further away from the relegation scramble which is enveloping half the division. With Tony Pulis's expertise and Peter Coates's backing, then City really can go, if not to infinity and beyond, at least to a fourth season in the Premier League.
Moyes ready to make Macheda move
By David Anderson
January 3 2011 Daily Mirror
David Moyes is ready to swoop for Manchester United striker Federico Macheda to solve his goalscoring problems. The Everton boss desperately needs to boost his firepower with top scorer Tim Cahill away for the rest of the month at the Asia Cup and his strikers badly off colour. Sir Alex Ferguson is keen to loan Macheda out for the rest of the campaign to get him games and the Italian Under-21 striker would be a natural fit for Moyes. Macheda, 19, would like to move to Serie A and Parma, Fiorentina, Juventus and Lazio are said to be interested. However United feel it would be more beneficial if the teenager continued is football education in the Premier League and Everton would be an obvious destination. Moyes is restricted to scouring the loan market because he has no cash to spend this month and Macheda has already proved he can score goals in the Premier League. He has managed four in 16 appearances, most of which have been from the bench, and he scored at Villa Park to inspire United’s dramatic comeback in November. Moyes is also interested in Roque Santa Cruz, but the Paraguayan’s wages and Everton’s strained relationship with City make that deal complicated. There are no such obstacles in the way of a loan move for Macheda and Moyes has the best relationship of any Premier League manager with his fellow Glaswegian Ferguson. Moyes was non-committal when asked about his January targets and says he is keeping an open mind. “You could ask me about lots of people and I would say ‘well maybe’,” he said. “But in truth I don’t know at the moment. “We will try and look around and see what we can get. We’ve got to look to see who’s available on loan. There might be a lot of deals done, but they might not be done in the first week of January.”
Stoke 2-0 Everton: Daily Mirror match report
By David Anderson
January 3 2011 The Daily Mirror
Everton's goalscoring problems have taken a worrying new twist. If finding the back of the net was not taxing enough for the Blues, now Phil Jagielka can’t stop hitting it at the other end. His own goal against Stoke was his second in successive games and the unfortunate England defender has scored in the wrong net six times. Only Richard Dunne with eight and Jamie Carragher with seven have scored more own goals in the Premier League. Blues boss David Moyes shrugged off Jagielka’s latest gaffe as unlucky and mounted a much stronger defence of him than his backline had managed at the Britannia. Jagielka climbed off the treatment table to face Stoke, even though he wasn’t fully fit, and Moyes, a fully paid-up member of the centre halves’ union, said: “Jags has done great. He put himself up when he could have probably done with a few more days or longer to get himself fully fit. “We needed him because otherwise we would have had to come here with Tony Hibbert at centre-half, which against their size would have been really difficult. “His own goal was one of those things. If you’re in there, trying to block things and be in the right place, it happens. “He didn’t kick a lot of balls with his right foot because he’s got a thigh strain, but he still really wanted to come out and play and so we have to give him a lot of credit for that.” Jagielka’s own goal on 69 minutes finished off Everton and he hooked Kenwyne Jones’ flick-on into his own net with his right foot under ¬pressure from Ricardo Fuller. Like many visiting central defenders, Jagielka and his partner Sylvain Distin had an uncomfortable 90 minutes against Jones and Fuller and at one point they collided as they went for the same header. Jones won flick-on after flick-on and midway through the first half, he found Matthew Etherington on the left and the wideman produced a dazzling piece of wing play before crossing the ball in for the Stoke’s record £8million signing to head home the opener. As uncertain as Everton were at times at the back, their main problem remains sticking the ball in the net. Louis Saha and Steven Pienaar fluffed good opportunities and it must have been catching as the normally-reliable Tim Cahill, who is Everton’s top scorer with nine, headed a perfect cross from Leighton Baines across goal. Danny Higginbotham also produced a superb block to deflect another goalbound Pienaar effort over and Everton might have had a penalty when Ryan Shawcross took out Saha in the opening seconds. The upshot is that Moyes has a headache to rival that of a New Year’s Eve reveller as he figures out how to plug the gap left by Cahill, who yesterday headed off to the Asia Cup with Australia for the rest of the month.
Ian Snodin: Let’s make Tottenham game a night to remember
Jan 4 2011 Liverpool Echo
I’M pleased that we’re taking on Tottenham in a night match tomorrow. It may sound strange, but the atmosphere for evening kick-offs always seems to be a little livelier, a little more raucous, and that’s what we’ll need tomorrow. Managers always tell you to get the crowd on your side in the first 10 miniutes. By that they mean win a strong tackle, have a couple of efforts at goal, try to whip up the crowd and make it uncomfortable for the visitors. Our fans – especially the ones who travel away – are magnificent and they can be influential tomorrow. In a couple of games this season there has been a nervousness amongst the fans which has transmitted to the players – I’m thinking particularly of the game against Wigan when the lack of visiting fans made for a quiet atmosphere. We need a loud and noisy Goodison tomorrow to cheer us on to an important first win of the year.
Ian Snodin: Everton must get nasty again to start winning matches
Jan 4 2011 Liverpool Echo
TONY PULIS became the latest in a long line of Premier League managers to sing Everton’s praises at the weekend – after his side had secured a decent result against us. He described how strong we were, how hard his own team had to work – And how he was convinced Everton would suddenly start winning games and climbing up the table. It’s pleasing to hear, but unfortunately we are in command of our own destiny. We have to stop listening to people saying nice things about us and start to make them moan and bitch about us. The next few weeks will be very important for the remainder of the season. Progress in the FA Cup, a decent result in the Anfield derby and home wins over Tottenham and West Ham can set us up for a storming second half of the season. But if anything were to go wrong in a couple of those games we could be in for a long and bleak midwinter. It’s in our hands to turn the season around – and we can do that starting tomorrow against Tottenham.
Ian Snodin: Leighton Baines and Gareth Bale can put on a left flank masterclas at Goodison Park
Jan 4 2011 Liverpool Echo
WE could well be in for a left-flank masterclass at Goodison Park tomorrow. Gareth Bale and Leighton Baines have both enjoyed outstanding seasons so far. And both Everton and Spurs look likely to produce their most threatening work down that wing. Phil Neville, of course, shackled Bale’s threat quite magnificently down at White Hart Lane earlier in the season and we’ll need the Blues captain to do the same again. I was told about Bale’s quality when he was just a 16-year-old. My brother Glyn was working at Southampton with George Burley and I expressed my surprise when they sold Wayne Bridge to Chelsea. He told me they already had a kid ready to step straight into the first team – a player with pace, strength, someone who could strike a ball and take a long throw-in – all at the age of 16. When I saw Bale for myself play in the Championship he confirmed everything I had been told, and more. But while he will clearly pose a danger tomorrow, our own left-sided danger has enjoyed an outstanding season. With Leighton Baines charging down one flank and Gareth Bale burning up the other, it could be a lively night for the right-backs!
Win a free copy of Everton: The School of Science
Jan 4 2011 by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Echo
THE ECHO has teamed up with deCoubertin Books to offer three of our readers a free copy of James Corbett’s new edition of Everton: The School of Science. Fully revised and updated to include all the action to the closing stages of the 2009/10 season – plus this term’s 2-0 derby win at Goodison Park – it remains one of the most comprehensive biographies of the club. To stake your claim for a free copy simply answer the following question: What was the date when David Moyes took charge of Everton for the first time with a 2-1 win over Fulham? Don’t forget to include your name, address and telephone number and mark your answers SCHOOL OF SCIENCE COMPETITION, e-mailing them to sport@liverpool.com or posting them to Sports Desk, Liverpool ECHO, PO Box 48, Old Hall Street, Liverpool L69 3EB. Entries must be received by Monday January 10. Usual rules apply, see www.liverpoolecho.co.uk for details.
Ian Snodin: Everton FC should play two strikers and end Goodison goal drought
Jan 4 2011 Liverpool Echo
A NEW Year is a time for new beginnings – and Everton must start again against Tottenham tomorrow night. The loss of Tim Cahill for the best part of a month is a major blow. But it also gives David Moyes an opportunity to try something different. We haven’t won many matches using one player operating behind a lone striker, so why not try two up top? David has suggested that he may try Steven Pienaar or Leon Osman in the role that Tim Cahill performs so effectively. Both could do a decent job there, I’m sure. But why not give two strikers a chance to shine while Tim is away at the Asia Cup? Whether it’s Louis Saha and Yakubu, or Yakubu and Jermaine Beckford makes no difference. To get to the 20 match mark of the season with just four wins to our name simply isn’t good enough. We’ve drawn an awful lot of matches and the reason for that is obvious, we haven’t scored enough goals. To get past the halfway mark of the season with only 21 league goals to our name is desperately disappointing. Using one forward up front on his own hasn’t worked all season, so it has to be worth trying something different. As I’ve said before, though, it shouldn’t just be the responsibility of the strikers to score goals. That’s their primary role and three league goals between all three of them simply isn’t good enough. But we also need midfielders to be chipping in with more goals, we need defenders to take a chance and be desperate to get on the end of set pieces and we need to offer more of a threat from all areas of the pitch. Tomorrow’s visitors to Goodison Park do just that. Roman Pavlyuchenko and Rafael van der Vaart might be their most reliable goal providers this season, but Gareth Bale has scored seven in the Premier League alone while Alan Hutton, Sebastien Bassong, Tom Huddlestone, Younes Kaboul and Luka Modric have all chipped in and taken the pressure off their forwards. We have players capable of doing that like Marouane Fellaini, Mikel Arteta, Steven Pienaar and Leon Osman, but we need them all to start firing quickly.
David Moyes would have steered Everton to 1970s title, according to author James Corbett
Jan 4 2011 by Chris Beesley, Liverpool Echo
WHEN updating his authoritative history of Merseyside’s oldest professional football club, Everton: The School of Science, international football writer James Corbett travelled up from his London home to return to his home city to interview David Moyes in his Finch Farm office. During their lengthy conversation regarding the Scot’s near-nine-year-reign at Goodison Park, Corbett asked Moyes if he ‘used to’ work 16-hour days when establishing himself as Everton manager. It remains a question – and answer – that will stick with the author for a long time. He recalls: “For the only time his eyes fixed into that famous icy stare. ‘I do,’ he interrupted, not liking the implication that he is slacking. ‘I do every day...If I don’t work that hard then somebody else will be overtaking me. Someone else will be taking my job. I have to work every day, every week as if it’s my last.’ Corbett admits that while he had always admired the current incumbent in the Goodison Park hotseat from afar – his work for World Football Insider as European Correspondent mean that his own team aren’t always ‘on his beat’ – he could not help but be impressed when meeting Moyes face-to-face. He said: “Moyes has an ambition and a desire to win whatever the odds might be against him. “I’ve been fortunate enough to interview the likes of Guus Hiddink, Pep Guardiola and Fabio Capello in my work and while his achievements can’t match those kind of coaches yet, his personality and charisma is right up there with them.” Considering the uneven financial playing field Moyes has to contend with against many of his rivals, Corbett insists that the former Preston man is doing a tremendous job despite the team’s struggles this season. He said: “You have to consider that he’s facing an uphill battle all the time. “His net spend over the years at Everton is tiny compared to most of the major Premier League clubs. “Everton have been on the verge of being a very good team for two or three years now but then you get somebody like Manchester City coming along with their billions and the battleground for the Premier League changes again and Moyes has to think of new ways of trying to outsmart his rivals.” Although the 47-year-old has still yet to bring any silverware to Goodison Park despite three personal LMA Manager of the Year awards, Corbett believes that his relative success would have reaped greater rewards in past eras. He said: “I’m convinced that if Moyes had been working at Everton in the 1970s or 80s then we’d have been leading the table, he’d have won the league by now. Unfortunately football has changed from the game I grew up with and not for the better. Now it’s all about managing debt unless you have an oligarch owner. “There are always going to be people who scream and shout on the internet message boards while others take ‘Nil Satis Nisi Optimum’ to extremes but we’ve got to be realistic and perhaps some older Evertonians were spoilt given the football they witnessed in the Harry Catterick and first Howard Kendall eras.” The original publication of The School of Science came about following Corbett’s idea to write a book on the 100 greatest Everton players. He said: “That wasn’t quite right but a lot of the research was in place and I decided to write a history of the club. “However I wanted to tell a story through a player-led theme so we have chapters like ‘The Golden Vision’ for Alex Young and ‘The Three Graces’ for Harvey-Kendall-Ball.” Corbett is now working on The Everton Encyclopedia which he hopes to release in autumn this year. Unsurprisingly a lifelong Blue himself, he is delighted with the thirst for knowledge amongst his fellow Evertonians. He said: “David France led the movement in the revivalism of ‘Evertonia’. “There’s such a rich oral culture at the club with memories passed down from fathers to sons and grandsons. “My grandfather is 86 and lives in Crosby and he talks about his grandfather watching Everton in the 19th century and I know that our family are far from unique in that respect.”
Landon Donovan wants fairytale return to Everton FC
Jan 4 2011 by David Prentice, Liverpool Echo
LANDON DONOVAN is desperate to recreate his “unbelievable” Everton experience next year – but told Evertonians his body simply wouldn’t allow him to repeat last season’s loan spell this January. Donovan reluctantly told David Moyes before Christmas that he would not be able to return on loan again this season. But the USA international insists that doesn’t mean he has turned his back on the Blues for good. “I don’t know what the proper analogy is, but if you went to Disneyland when you were five years old, you’re always going to want to go back,” he declared. “I don’t know in what capacity it will be, but I really, really hope that the offer still stands to go back next year and that also weighed into this decision. “I thought to myself a lot, ‘If you say no, then what’s going to happen next year? Are they going to let you back?’ That was hard, because I don’t want to close that door, I always want the opportunity (to go back). If I don’t have the opportunity ... I mean I’m an Evertonian for life now.” Donovan made 13 appearances at the start of last year, a spell that included victories over Manchester City, Manchester United and Chelsea – and David Moyes investigated the possibility of repeating the move. But the 28-year-old admitted he turned down Everton’s approach reluctantly. Speaking via podcast to Everton fans website www.followtonians.com, he added: “It wasn’t easy for me. After the season ended, my immediate thought was that there’s no way I am going to be ready (to play for Everton). “It was only up until probably a couple of weeks ago that I even started having a thought that maybe it was possible. I had a chance to speak with David Moyes and we talked a lot about the move. “I also let him know that I was going to take off to Hawaii during the middle of December to just gather my thoughts and kind of chill out by myself a little bit. At the end of that trip, I felt that my body still wasn’t ready. “I didn’t think it would do anybody any good if I went there and wasn’t fully prepared – it doesn’t help me, it doesn’t help the team. It was difficult, because I had such a good time last year. “Everything in me was telling me that I could somehow make it work, but it’s not fair to The Galaxy who pay my wages and the US National team that has a big year next year. So I had to make the wiser decision, although my heart was telling me to go to Everton.” Donovan admitted that the manner in which the Everton fans instantly embraced him made the decision even more difficult. “I’ve never before in my life experienced anything like that,” he added. “It was unbelievable and it made me feel at home from day one. “Even as the games went on it became evident that it was just a really good fit, that’s what made it really hard for me not to go back. “If another team had called and asked me to come on loan – and a few actually did – my answer was, ‘No thanks. I have zero interest.’ I thought about what went on last year and it’s hard to say no to that and I have to be mature and make sure I make the right decision. But my heart was pulling pretty hard.” There are still tickets available for Everton’s fixture against Spurs tomorrow (8pm). To buy your ticket visit evertonfc.com, call 0871 663 1878 or visit the box office at Goodison Park.”
Bayern Munich admit defeat in Everton FC defender Leighton Baines pursuit
Jan 4 2011 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
BAYERN MUNICH have given up in their attempt to lure Leighton Baines away from Everton. The Bundesliga giants had tracked Baines for some time having been alerted to the left-back’s consistently impressive performances of recent weeks. Bayern scouts had the player watched on several occasions last month and were in attendance when Baines netted in Everton’s 2-1 win at Manchester City. Although David Moyes has been adamant he will not cash in on any of his leading players during the January transfer window, Bayern were poised to test the Everton manager’s resolve with an opening bid of £9million. But with Baines himself having dismissed a possible move, the German side have now clearly accepted there is little chance of prising the 26-year-old away from his boyhood club. “We cannot force him (Baines) to join us,” said Bayern chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge. ”He would rather live in Liverpool than Munich, and that’s that.” Baines will be part of an Everton defence that will hope to improve on a record of just one clean sheet in 10 games when Tottenham Hotspur visit Goodison tomorrow evening. The backline was breached twice at the weekend with the 2-0 defeat at Stoke City bringing their eight-match unbeaten away record to a shuddering halt. Phil Jagielka was pressed into service at the Britannia Stadium despite Moyes admitting the player was not fully fit, and endured a miserable afternoon that was capped by a second own goal in as many games. Jagielka continues to be hampered by a thigh complaint and the Goodison manager must decide whether to take another chance on the England international tomorrow or ask Tony Hibbert to reprise the makeshift centre-back role he filled in the 1-1 draw at West Ham United last Tuesday. With Tim Cahill having now joined up with Australia for the forthcoming Asian Cup in Qatar, Moyes is pondering how to fill the void left by his team’s top scorer for up to a month. The Everton manager may pair two of his misfiring strikers in attack or could push either Steven Pienaar or Mikel Arteta into a more attacking role. And Moyes has thanked Australia boss Holger Osieck for allowing Cahill to remain at Everton until the New Year. Moyes said: “We’ve known that for as long as the calendar has been in place this season that we were going to lose him. We are thankful that we got him for a couple more games – the Australian manager was very good with us and left us with him for a few games and we are pleased about that.”
Everton FC manager David Moyes is ‘up there with Hiddink, Guardiola and Capello’
Jan 4 2011 by Chris Beesley, Liverpool Daily Post
WHEN updating his authoritative history of Merseyside’s oldest professional football club, Everton: The School of Science, international football writer James Corbett travelled up from his London home to return to his home city to interview David Moyes in his Finch Farm office. During their lengthy conversation regarding the Scot’s near-nine-year-reign at Goodison Park, Corbett asked Moyes if he ‘used to’ work 16-hour days when establishing himself as Everton manager. It remains a question – and answer – that will stick with the author for a long time. He recalls: “For the only time his eyes fixed into that famous icy stare. ‘I do,’ he interrupted, not liking the implication that he is slacking. ‘I do every day...If I don’t work that hard then somebody else will be overtaking me. Someone else will be taking my job. I have to work every day, every week as if it’s my last.’ Corbett admits that while he had always admired the current incumbent in the Goodison Park hotseat from afar – his work for World Football Insider as European Correspondent mean that his own team aren’t always ‘on his beat’ – he could not help but be impressed when meeting Moyes face-to-face. He said: “Moyes has an ambition and a desire to win whatever the odds might be against him. “I’ve been fortunate enough to interview the likes of Guus Hiddink, Pep Guardiola and Fabio Capello in my work and while his achievements can’t match those kind of coaches yet, his personality and charisma is right up there with them.” Considering the uneven financial playing field Moyes has to contend with against many of his rivals, Corbett insists that the former Preston man is doing a tremendous job despite the team’s struggles this season. He said: “You have to consider that he’s facing an uphill battle all the time. “His net spend over the years at Everton is tiny compared to most of the major Premier League clubs. “Everton have been on the verge of being a very good team for two or three years now but then you get somebody like Manchester City coming along with their billions and the battleground for the Premier League changes again and Moyes has to think of new ways of trying to outsmart his rivals.” Although the 47-year-old has still yet to bring any silverware to Goodison Park despite three personal LMA Manager of the Year awards, Corbett believes that his relative success would have reaped greater rewards in past eras. He said: “I’m convincing that if Moyes had been working at Everton in the 1970s or 80s then we’d have been leading the table, he’d have won the league by now. “Unfortunately football has changed from the game I grew up with and not for the better. Now it’s all about managing debt unless you have an oligarch owner. “There are always going to be people who scream and shout on the internet message boards while others take ‘Nil Satis Nisi Optimum’ to extremes but we’ve got to be realistic and perhaps some older Evertonians were spoilt given the football they witnessed in the Harry Catterick and first Howard Kendall eras.” The original publication of The School of Science came about following Corbett’s idea to write a book on the 100 greatest Everton players. He said: “That wasn’t quite right but a lot of the research was in place and I decided to write a history of the club. “However I wanted to tell a story through a player-led theme so we have chapters like ‘The Golden Vision’ for Alex Young and ‘The Three Graces’ for Harvey-Kendall-Ball.” Corbett is now working on The Everton Encyclopedia which he hopes to release in autumn this year. Unsurprisingly a lifelong Blue himself, he is delighted with the thirst for knowledge amongst his fellow Evertonians. He said: “David France led the movement in the revivalism of ‘Evertonia’. “There’s such a rich oral culture at the club with memories past down from fathers to sons and grandsons. “My grandfather is 86 and lives in Crosby and he talks about his grandfather watching Everton in the 19th century and I know that our family are far from unique in that respect.”
Mark Lawrenson: Sadly, David Moyes can only influence so much at Everton FC
Jan 4 2011 Liverpool Daily Post
I’VE always warned Everton fans off the idea that David Moyes has taken the club as far as he can. But now I’m starting to worry that the manager himself might be sharing those thoughts. I can just imagine him thinking to himself, ‘what more can I do about this?’ It’s a dangerous place for the boss of any team to be, especially when the answer appears to be: ‘Not a lot’. He won’t get the big money he needs to buy a striker just by magic. Everton would have to cash in on a prize asset to do that, but the last thing a manager as ambitious as Moyes wants is to be in charge of a selling club. He has done his best to limit the impact of not having a fully fit, in-form centre-forward to call on but the strain of this as been evident all season. It has undermined Everton’s attempts to gain any momentum, like in their failure to build on the excellent win at Manchester City. It’s now one win in 11 games and it seems Moyes is now relying on certain players to step up and do the business for him. The likes of Fellaini, Saha and Anichebe have got to start coming up with the goals that will propel the team up the table. But you still get the feeling that maybe too much is out of the manager’s control at the moment and that’s a concern.
Everton FC v Tottenham Hotspur match preview
Jan 4 2011
To be played at Goodison Park, Wednesday 5 January 8pm
Everton's last five games
Jan 1: Premier League - Stoke 2 Everton 0
Dec 28: Premier League - West Ham 1 Everton 1
Dec 20: Premier League - Man City 1 Everton 2
Dec 11: Premier League - Everton 0 Wigan 0
Dec 4: Premier League - Chelsea 1 Everton 1
Spurs' last five games
Jan 1: Premier League - Tottenham 1 Fulham 0
Dec 28: Premier League - Tottenham 2 Newcastle 0
Dec 26: Premier League - Villa 1 Tottenham 2
Dec 12: Premier League - Tottenham 1 Chelsea 1
Dec 7: Champions League - FC Twente 3 Tottenham 3
Past meetings at Goodison
Played: 80 Won: 34 Drawn: 27 Lost: 19 Goals for: 115 Goals against: 87
The Blues' last home victory against Spurs was a fairly comfortable one, with defenders weighing in with the goals. David Unsworth, Gary Naysmith and Joseph Yobo were all on the scoresheet as Everton ran out 3-1 winners.
26 March 1977 - Everton 4 Tottenham 0
Everton smashed four past Spurs towards the end of the 1976/77 season. Mick Lyons, Andy King, Martin
1) The Blues drew 2-2 with Spurs at home last season - who were Everton's two scorers?
2) The last time Everton played a game on 5 January, they lost to Oldham in the FA Cup - what was the score?
3) The last win for the Blues against Spurs was a 1-0 victory at White Hart Lane in November 2008 - which Tottenham player scored the decisive own goal?
4) An Everton player smashed a hat-trick against Tottenham at Goodison on 5 October 1991 - who was it?
5) Tim Cahill has been knocking goals in for fun this season - how many does he have in the league now?
Ones to watch
Everton
With the Everton defence decimated by injuries, Sylvain Distin is the main man at centre-back and may need to guide an unfamiliar partner - be it Tony Hibbert, Phil Neville or someone else - through proceedings. At the front the Blues will be without goal machine Tim Cahill who is on international duty, so Yakubu and Louis Saha will need to play vital roles in attack should either be called upon.
Spurs
Harry Redknapp's side are undefeated in 11 games in all competitions and have won their last three Premier League clashes. To stop these runs continuing, the Blues will have to nullify influential playmaker Rafael van der Vaart. While Spurs are missing Jermain Defoe through suspension, former Liverpool striker Peter Crouch could be brought into the fold in his absence.
Quiz answers
1) Louis Saha and Tim Cahill
2) 0-1
3) Vedran Corluka
4) Tony Cottee
5) Nine
Latest odds from Betfred
Everton - 17/10
Draw - 9/4
Tottenham - 17/12
I’m not going to quit, says Everton FC manager David Moyes
Jan 5 2011 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
DAVID MOYES has vowed he will not walk away from Everton despite facing the most difficult transfer window during his time at the club. Rumours swept across Merseyside in the aftermath of Saturday’s 2-0 defeat at Stoke City that the Goodison manager was poised to end his near nine-year tenure.Moyes, though, is determined to oversee a transformation in fortunes this season with Everton standing just three points clear of the relegation zone. The manager accepts his moves in this month’s transfer window will once again be restricted to loan deals, with Tottenham Hotspur’s David Bentley among those under serious consideration. But such is Everton’s financial plight, Moyes may have to first lower his squad’s wage bill before bringing in any new faces. And asked if he could throw in the towel at Goodison, Moyes – whose team entertain Tottenham this evening – responded: “I wouldn’t do that. At the end of the day, look at the record, I’ve been here more than eight years and we have finished in Europe four times. “We have had dodgy spells and come through it so you hope everyone keeps the faith and keeps believing. “Does that attitude make me suffer as a manager? If that’s the case, then I suffer “I’m the manager and I’m at a really good club with good players and need players to play as well. But I pick the team and I take responsibility. “I always say you know where I will be because I will be on the touchline on Saturday or Wednesday or whenever we play.” One player who could be on his way out of Goodison is Yakubu. The Nigerian was left out at Stoke City on Saturday, and while West Ham United remain interested, ambitious npower Championship side Leicester City are also considering a bid for the forward. After losing just four of their last 24 Premier League games last season, Everton have won only four of their first 20 top-flight fixtures this time around. It has led to suggestions that the current squad may have reached the end of its natural cycle, but Moyes retain faith in his squad. “If it has come to the end of the cycle, I can’t do much about it can I?” added the Goodison manager. “But I don’t think it has. I think what the team needs is a couple of addition to freshen it up but I don’t think it has. “If you look at Sir Alex (Ferguson), he still needs Giggs and Scholes and his core players. We have our core players here also. “But we need freshness and we haven’t had that in the last couple of windows, certainly. “Nobody knows how bad I feel that the team is not in the position that I think it should be.“Nobody is hurting more than me and putting in more hours than me just know so all I can do is keep putting all my energies into getting us away from the position we are in.“We have not won enough games and we need to move forward – but I don’t think that has changed.” Of Bentley, Moyes added: “There is a little bit of interest in him but that is all I can say right now.” Phil Jagielka will miss both tonight’s match and Saturday’s FA Cup third round tie at Scunthorpe United after aggravating his thigh strain at Stoke City last weekend. With John Heitinga having returned to training this week, Moyes must decide whether to risk the Dutchman at centre-back or ask Tony Hibbert to again fill the makeshift role. Seamus Coleman is also a doubt this evening with a rib injury sustained at the Britannia Stadium. Moyes must also decide how to fill the void left by top goalscorer Tim Cahill, who has joined up with Australia ahead of the Asian Cup in Qatar.
Everton v Tottenham Hotspur Preview: Why the money divide has never been more obvious
Jan 5 2011 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
THE difference between the haves and the have-nots can rarely be more graphically illustrated than at Goodison this evening. Just 18 months ago, Everton ended the Premier League season in fifth place, their third successive European qualification and a full 12 points ahead of tonight’s opponents Tottenham Hotspur. If anyone was going to challenge the quadopoly of the Champions League berths, it was David Moyes’s side. Of course, it hasn’t panned out that way. While the Goodison manager has been forced to work within tight financial restraints, Tottenham counterpart Harry Redknapp has been lavished by huge backing from the White Hart Lane owners. What a net spend of more that £20million – on top of the £20m outlay from the previous 12 months – has bought is clear, with Tottenham following last season’s top-four finish by reaching the knockout stages of the Champions League and launching a genuine title challenge. By contrast, Everton now stand just three points above the relegation zone when the two teams meet at Goodison tonight. And having worked hard to help his team punch above their weight in recent years, Moyes concedes pure finance is in danger of surpassing coaching talent in the modern game. “I’ve said many times that if the game of football just becomes about money then that will be sad,” says the Goodison manager. “I have to hope that it’s not always the big spenders that win and there are young managers coming through that can challenge those big teams. “You hope that it is not just money that becomes the biggest thing. Tottenham have spent but we have tried to keep our best players and not sell them and when I took the job that was the one thing I asked. “Sometimes you can’t stop them but we have done that. I have said many times that Sunderland, Stoke and Birmingham are the sides that have spent recently. We have tended not to be in that position for quite a while.” Of Tottenham’s improvement, Moyes adds: “It is something which has been coming, the club has continually invested in players. “I think you would expect them to come through. “We have been competing with them over a few years, finishing fifth or sixth, but I think Tottenham have always had that financial clout that comes from being a big club in London. “They have got a massive squad. Look at the spending they have put into the club over the last few years. “They’re probably as big spenders as most clubs, including Chelsea. Not as big as Man City, obviously, but up there with the best.” Everton’s supporters are more than aware of the club’s financial predicament, highlighted by their chants at Eastlands during the 2-1 win against moneybags Manchester City last month. And Moyes is realistic enough to accept that the Goodison outfit require fresh investment if they are to resume their progress of recent years. “Yes, I say it all the time,” says the Scot. “I look and I think Everton would be a great club to buy. We have a consistent and great fanbase and we have assets and money on the pitch. “We have a decent training ground, we are obviously short of a stadium so I have said many times that I’m surprised. “But the chairman has said to anybody interested to come and speak to us. He is still out there lobbying. “It is not something the chairman is hiding and he is out there saying we need investment and that is a fact. But it is a good club to be involved with, it’s a great history and there is a lot of value and investment on the pitch.” That value is not something Moyes considered cashing in on last summer. And despite Everton’s struggles in the first half of the campaign, the Goodison manager is standing by that decision. “You have to look at why we said keep them together,” says the Scot. “We had not had people playing well, we had guys coming back from injuries namely Jagielka, Victor, Yak and Arteta and we lost two out of 24 games from shortly before Christmas time. “You could see by the results that we were getting the goals even though we didn’t score them through centre-forwards. “I reckon if we had let one of them go and been in this position then people would be saying ‘you’re in this position because you let X or Y go’. “But we kept them and it’s the same group of players who five or six months ago were knocking away most teams in front of them. “I believe in them because I know what they can do. “We need to be more ruthless and carry a but more luck at times but overall we have the same group. “But the players have to produce more because we are not getting results and we need to produce more. “The manager will always take the flak it is my team and my responsibility and you cannot duck away from that and it will always be the case but the players cross the line and we will do everything we can to prepare them and get them ready.”
BLUEWATCH: Everton need to find extra bit of something needed in ‘watershed’ game
Jan 5 2011 by Mark O'Brien, Liverpool Daily Post
WITH Everton playing badly and struggling to find a win against even the most modest of opponents, hosting Tottenham Hotspur is arguably the worst fixture we could face. Under David Moyes, the Blues have only beaten Spurs once at Goodison Park, and in the game played on February 2007, following a late goal by Jermaine Jenas, the Everton boss suffered some of the most stinging criticism of his Everton career. In all honesty, the way things stand at the moment, especially after the desperate performance at Stoke at the weekend, another poor result is certain to provoke a similar reaction from the exasperated Goodison crowd. Everyone has their own theory as to what needs to be done to get things back on an even keel and, crucially, move away from the bottom of the table, but however Moyes lines his side up, minus Tim Cahill, the most important thing is that all the players start to give, as Gina G famously said, just a little bit more. Tim Howard, for instance, needs to start being braver when the ball is in the area. Whether he catches it, punches it, or whatever, he needs to make his mind up and dominate the penalty box. If in doubt, attack the ball, the defender and the striker, because the chances are the referee will award a free-kick in his favour anyway. Marouane Fellaini needs to get out of his comfort zone too. Playing sideways passes when under no pressure doesn’t constitute good football. He should bring the ball forward and commit an opponent first before playing the simple ball and then moving and looking for a return. Similarly, Mikel Arteta, once the most fouled player in the league, needs to get hold of the ball and take people on instead of simply shuttling it along, almost as if he’s afraid to get kicked. Louis Saha, or whoever plays up front, needs to be braver as well. If you make life awakward for the central defenders you stop them building from the back and, as Ricardo Fuller showed at the Britannia Stadium, you can also force them into making serious errors. The players not being picked need to up their game too, and put pressure on those in the side. Seamus Coleman has set the benchmark for all of them, in terms of how he has seized his opportunity. Let’s hope they all respond and give that bit extra then, because this game really does have ‘watershed’ written all over it
Everton FC boss David Moyes hopes there is still something to football beyond money
Jan 5 2011 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
AS David Moyes prepared to welcome another hard-fought three points from the City of Manchester Stadium last month, he allowed himself a wry smile at the familiar chant emanating from the away end.The healthy throng of travelling Evertonians gleefully reminded their Mancunian counterparts that they were trailing to a club who had spent nothing by comparison.In times likes these, such against the odds optimism is something to savour for the Everton boss. But as he prepares to face another club once considered Everton’s equal but now galloping ahead in the progress stakes thanks to investment, he must once again ponder the difference money can make.Everton sit just three points from the drop zone, and 14 points behind Harry Redknapp’s side, which even with injury worries ahead of tonight’s Goodison clash, could still field two teams strong enough to compete in the Premier League.Moyes admits he feels the frustration at the financial gap, but tries to balance it with a hope that it can still be bridged in other ways.“You hope that it is not just money that becomes the biggest thing,” he says.“Tottenham have spent but we have tried to keep our best players and not sell them, and when I took the job that was the one thing I asked. Sometimes you can’t stop them but we have done that.“I have said many times, Sunderland Stoke, Birmingham etc are the sides that have spent recently. We have tended not to be in that position for quite a while.” Moyes is not overly optimistic of being able to use the loan market to bolster his squad, and defeat by Stoke City at the weekend has left many questioning whether his squad was never worthy of the plaudits which emerged after such a strong surge towards the end of last season.Some fans may no longer believe this is the best squad under Moyes’ reign, but the manager is not yet ready to lose the faith.“You have to look at why we said keep them together,” he says. “We had not had people playing well, we had guys coming back from injuries namely Jagielka, Victor, Yak and Arteta and we lost two out of 24 games from shortly before Christmas time.“You could see by the results that we were getting the goals even though we didn’t score them through centre forwards. “I reckon if we had let one of them go and been in this position then people would be saying ‘you're in this position because you let X or Y go’ but we kept them and it’s the same group of players who five or six months ago were knocking away most teams in front of them.“I believe in them because I know what they can do. We need to be more ruthless and carry a bit more luck at times but overall we have the same group. “They have to produce more because we are not getting results and we need to produce more. The manager will always take the flak – it is my team and my responsibility and you cannot duck away from that and it will always be the case but the players cross the line and we will do everything we can to prepare them and get them ready.”
The post-mortem of that defeat at the Britannia Stadium led some to wonder if the team has outlived its natural cycle, but it is theorising Moyes insists he cannot afford.
“If it has I can’t do much about it can I? But I don’t think it has,” he says. “I think what the team needs is a couple of additions to freshen it up but I don’t think it has.”
The Everton manager remains perplexed at the lack of people prepared to invest in Everton.
“I say it all the time,” he says. “I look and I think Everton would be a great club to buy. We have a consistent and great fan base and we have assets and money on the pitch. “We have a decent training ground, we are obviously short of a stadium, but we have assets on the pitch and I have said many times that I’m surprised. “But the chairman has said ‘Come and speak to us’, and if someone came and spoke to us I’m out there lobbying too. “It is not something the chairman is hiding. He is out there saying we need investment and that is a fact. But it is a good club to be involved with, it’s a great history and there is a lot of value and investment on the pitch.” Moyes may be into his ninth year at the helm of Everton, but he refuses to believe his current predicament is a result of his players becoming overly familiar with his methods. “I’m aware of that possibility, and I always see myself as a coach and I try and keep myself as fresh as I can to keep it right. But I also see myself as a manager and that changes with experience and I hope the players see all that as well.”
Gareth Bale planning to get out of a tight spot after Everton put the squeeze on him at the Lane
Simon Johnson
5 Jan 2011 London Evening News
Gareth Bale has grown used to being a marked man this season but expects to face his toughest test at Everton tonight. The reason for that is because Everton kept Bale quiet at White Hart Lane in October, just three days after he scored a stunning hat-trick against Inter Milan in the Champions League. The midfielder's nemisis during the 1-1 draw was Everton captain Phil Neville and he will be lining up against him again at Goodison Park. Neville's team mates also did their bit in shackling Bale and the 21-year-old is preparing for another hard battle. “He [Neville] has a lot of experience but it will be a difficult game for everybody,” said the Wales star. “Hopefully, everyone can win their personal battles and we come out on top. “At White Hart Lane it wasn't just him that made it hard for me, he had two or three players helping him. The right winger was right on my toes all the time so I couldn't get the ball and the midfielder or centre-back would come across if I got past him. “It was the way they set the team up, teams do that against me and Aaron Lennon at the minute. We have to figure ways to get around it now. “Every match we go into now will always be tough. Teams are lining up against us in a defensive way and it is hard to break them down. It's a compliment for them to do that and shows how well we are doing. We just have to take advantage of that now. “It's nice to have a different challenge and to improve as a player, which is the most important thing. Hopefully, I can keep doing that and keep helping Tottenham.” Although Everton are just two points above the relegation zone, Bale is taking nothing for granted as Spurs try to stretch their 11-match unbeaten run. He added: “We want to continue our run going but it's always tough up at Everton. We know what a good team they are even though they're not in the League position that they'd like. “It's still going to be difficult for us, they always make it hard for us. They showed it at White Hart Lane and I think this will be even more difficult up there. “They are definitely better than their position in the League suggests. It has been difficult for a lot of teams this season because everyone is beating everyone. “There are a lot of teams down there who probably shouldn't be. We will be prepared and ready and hopefully get the three points.” Jermain Defoe and Younes Kaboul are suspended for the match while there are doubts over Alan Hutton, who has a foot injury, and William Gallas, who has damaged his hamstring. But Everton have key absentees of their own as defender Phil Jagileka has a thigh problem and top scorer Tim Cahill is away on international duty with Australia. Meanwhile, Newcastle have rejected an inquiry from Tottenham concerning England striker Andy Carroll. A Newcastle spokesman said: “The simple and straightforward answer is that Carroll is not for sale.”
Everton 2 Tottenham 1: Report
Jan 5 2011 by Merseyside Sport, Liverpool Echo
Everton put Tottenham’s title aspirations and ambitious plans to sign David Beckham in the shade with victory in a compelling Barclays Premier League encounter tonight. Seamus Coleman grabbed a 75th-minute winner at Goodison Park after the outstanding Rafael van der Vaart had cancelled out Louis Saha’s superb early opener. Both sides had numerous opportunities to win an absorbing contest but it was Everton, rediscovering the spark that has been missing for much of the season, who held on for a victory greeted with much jubilation. The only consolation for Spurs was that they retained fourth place in the table thanks to yet another defeat for ailing champions Chelsea. Fans’ favourite Robbie Keane was thrown on 10 minutes from time on the day it was confirmed talks had begun over a possible £7million to Birmingham. But the Republic of Ireland striker could not make a final telling contribution and his Spurs career could now be over. Spurs were caught cold after just three minutes as Saha finally ended his 11-month league goal drought with a fine strike from 25 yards. William Gallas backed off his fellow Frenchman outside the area and the striker took full advantage to unleash a ferocious low shot which beat Heurelho Gomes from distance. The visitors were stung into action and went close as Peter Crouch headed on for Van der Vaart and the Dutchman attempted a left-foot lob from 30 yards which curled narrowly wide. Everton felt they should have had a penalty after an apparent push by Alan Hutton on Steven Pienaar, but referee Lee Probert saw nothing untoward. Hutton then compounded Everton’s frustration by swinging in the cross from the right which led to Spurs’ equaliser after 11 minutes. Crouch pounced on a Heitinga slip to head the high ball back across goal and Van der Vaart was the first to react, meeting it with a powerful header Tim Howard could not keep out. Jermaine Beckford had an opportunity for Everton when he turned Gallas inside the box after a neat pass from Saha, but shot well over. Another shooting chance opened up for Coleman after a slick Everton move but Jermaine Jenas slid in to make a vital block. Spurs responded as Luka Modric got a sight of goal but Sylvain Distin got in the way. Crouch thought he had put Spurs ahead on the stroke of half-time when he sidefooted home from a Gareth Bale pass, but the flag was raised for offside. Van der Vaart then fired narrowly over from a free-kick as Spurs ended the first half in the ascendancy. Everton boss David Moyes appeared to speak to Probert as the official left the pitch at half-time, possibly about his side’s failed penalty appeal, before heading down the tunnel. But his players remained fully fired up and had the chance to start the second half much as they did the first as Saha released Coleman down the right. The Irishman raced into the box but ignored Beckford in the middle and shot straight at Gomes. Spurs suffered a blow as Bale, who had been brought down by Neville while on the charge moments earlier, appeared to limp off after being fouled again just before the hour. Van der Vaart almost caught Everton out again when he beat Distin on the edge of the box but Howard palmed away his dipping shot. Everton went straight back onto the attack and Saha met a Coleman cross with a powerful first-time volley but Hutton scrambled back to deflect the goalbound effort wide. Saha was gifted another chance when a Gallas interception rolled into his path, but Gomes was equal to his shot. Howard was then called into action twice in quick succession at the other end, first producing a brilliant point-blank save to deny Van der Vaart from six yards after a weaving run by Modric. Crouch then found space to shoot from distance but Howard tipped the ball over. Everton threw themselves forward again as Beckford sent Saha clear, and this time it proved decisive. Saha cut inside and although Gomes parried his long-range piledriver, Coleman followed up to put home the rebound with a diving header. Ayegbeni Yakubu should have added a third late on when clean through, but dwelt too long on the ball.
Everton FC jury: Fans give their thoughts on the Blues' start to the New Year
Jan 6 2011 by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Echo
Dave Wallbank
TIM CAHILL now departed to the Asian Cup for up to a month ultimately reduces our already slim chances of scoring. We’ve struggled this season finding the net, and it doesn’t seem to be getting any easier for Moyes and his men. Cahill is a massive player for us, not only for his goals but his all-round play. He is probably overlooked sometimes as people solely concentrate on his goal-scoring ability with his head, but he brings so much more to the table. The question now is who is ready to step up to the plate and dig us out of the relegation battle, which at least 10 teams find themselves involved in. Tim’s absence could be an opportunity to play a different system – should we go 4-4-2 with two strikers? After last night’s game, it’s Scunthorpe next. I get the feeling it’s going to be Brentford all over again. The last chance for silverware rides on this. But with little or no luck on our side, I wouldn’t like to assume we’ll be in the hat for the fourth round.
Mike Drummond
WHO could ask for a better start to the New Year? Beaten by a distinctly average team, our reportedly highest earner not looking interested in playing at all, our top scorer flying off to another competition for a month and the VAT increase! I am sick of it all now to be honest. The articles that reiterate how poor we are, the links with hasbeens and the “let’s get back to winning ways!” rally cries from the players...just do your talking on the pitch!
I cannot look forward to the next month without Tim Cahill, his unavailability is a huge blow to us, but will we play with two strikers in his absence? Probably not. Our only chance of retaining some credibility from this campaign is a good run in the FA Cup. I would settle for another little trip to Wembley in April/May given how we have been, so for this reason, I hold some optimism.
Debbie Smaje
THINGS don’t look good. As if our league position and performances aren’t worrying enough, we now have to look to improve things without Tim Cahill. There have been times this season where you feel his partnership with Leighton Baines has saved us from falling even lower. Replacing Cahill isn’t a simple case of putting a player in his position, but given that our system is geared towards getting the best out of him, our whole tactics need to change without him. Whether that change should be moving to two up front, or giving someone like Bily or Osman or Pienaar a run in that position behind the lone striker, that is Moyes’ decision to make. What is certain is that it must be time for Yakubu or Beckford to be given a run.Both have to be given a chance to rediscover the good form they have shown on occasions this season.
Cole Fraser
WITH Tim Cahill now away, we’re looking for players to step up to the plate. The strikers have to pull their socks up and try to pick up where Tim left off on the goal-scoring front. Everybody expects to see either Saha, Yakubu or Beckford on the teamsheet; however, I’m wondering how close James Vaughan is to a place in the squad. Vaughan managed to grab five goals during his spell at Palace and probably have a little more confidence in-front of goal at the moment than our other misfiring forwards. Cash or no cash, we need to bring in reinforcements this month. I’d be looking to offload Johnny Heitinga to hopefully free up some funds for the transfer kitty. The trip to Scunthorpe is one that I hope we don’t take too lightly. A good cup run would give everybody a big lift after a tough season so far.
Everton FC fans views: Buy or else Blues are in for a relegation fight
Jan 6 2011 by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Echo
THE dissembling rhetoric of being the best squad for sometime had another reality check with a woeful attacking display at Stoke resulting in a 2-0 defeat. Then again, this result should come as no surprise, considering Moyes persists consistently with the ineffectual Saha and the want-away Arteta, whose free-kicks were frankly dreadful. Furthermore, the attacking impetus was seriously weakened with the cull of the Fellaini/Rodwell axis. To compound matters, Cahill leaves for Qatar, Yakubu is not the player he was and Beckford, Anichebe and Vaughan do not seem to be able to cement a first team place. Therefore it is inexplicable why the likes of Bilyaletdinov, Magaye Gueye or even Jose Alves Silva have not been given sustained opportunities. It is imperative within the transfer window the Blues bring in at least two strikers, a creative midfielder and a right-back who can cross the ball. Players such as John Carew, Nicolas Bentdner, Robbie Keane, Peter Crouch, Emmanuel Adeyabor, Sam Ricketts, Charlie Adam and Stephen Ireland should be on Everton's radar. If the Blues stick with the status quo then a very competitive relegation battle will ensue. If finance is an issue to bring players in, then sell Saha and Arteta. Loyalty should not get in the way of progress. David Kearns, AintreeTHAT was utter embarrassment against Stoke on New Year’s Day. David Moyes should go and for all apologists, don't ask “who are you going to get?” I just want him gone. Blue_Lid1878 HAS Moyes begun to lose the plot? Same old team selection, same old formation. Something’s really is not right and it's just not good enough. It's a relegation fight now, lads. Y2J SUGGESTING David Moyes should be sacked is a complete over-reaction. We have had a bad season so far and it’s hard to see where goals are going to come from at the moment with various players under-performing. But to call for Moyes or chairman Bill Kenwright to go is absurd. GET A GRIP! bluey2010RE Landon Donovan’s desire to return next year to Everton. Landon, you were great but I'm telling you, lightning doesn't strike twice. When I returned to Liverpool for my first visit after about 30 years, many of the great memories I had been nurturing were dashed. Places that had been pivotal in my life seemed so much smaller and a bit disappointing. Your time at Goodison was a fairy tale. Do not spoil your memories. Twobob LANDON DONOVAN is 28, and his main asset is his pace. While he could probably continue in the MLS until he's 38, he's rapidly running out of time as regards being a success in the Premier League. Staygold
David Moyes revels in Everton FC’s sizzling display against Tottenham
Jan 6 2011 Liverpool Echo
EVERTON boss David Moyes felt his side had at last rediscovered their zest after a thrilling win over Tottenham last night. The Toffees put a dent in the Londoners’ Premier League title aspirations with a 2-1 victory in a compelling end-to-end encounter at Goodison Park. Seamus Coleman grabbed the decisive goal 15 minutes from time after the outstanding Rafael van der Vaart had cancelled out Louis Saha’s superb opener. The result lifted Everton to 11th in the table but it was the manner of the performance that offers hope for the rest of the season. Moyes said: “I’m pleased with that, I thought it was a really good game. “Whoever plays Tottenham is going to have to play well to beat them because they are a really good side. “There was an edge to the players tonight - they played with improved vigour and determination. “We made sure we got more balls in the box than we have in previous games. “We looked as if we were liable to score. In previous games we haven’t looked that. “We have found it difficult to score, even tonight we had three or four chances you’d hope we’d score. “But we got the couple of goals we haven’t been getting.” Moyes was impressed by the performance of Saha, whose 25-yard strike in the third minute was his first league goal since last February. Moyes said: “I think that is what everyone knows Louis Saha is capable of, why he has been revered. “Anyone who has worked or played with him can tell you that on his day he can be an unbelievable talent. I thought he showed that tonight.” Spurs manager Redknapp said: “At half-time if I’d have been offered a draw I wouldn’t have taken it. “I thought we could have won this game and we should have scored before half-time. “Gareth Bale broke away - he has either got to score himself or Crouchy has got to make sure he scores. “Crouchy shouldn’t be offside there, he has got a tap-in. “Between the pair of them we should have scored really. It was farcical. “But credit to Everton, they lifted it. They got after us much better in the second half and they missed some good opportunities. “They pressed us well, worked their socks off and made it difficult for us. “We didn’t pass the ball as well as we did first half and they got on top of us.” Redknapp added: “I should have taken Bale off at half-time. His back went into a spasm and he didn’t feel good.” Fans’ favourite Robbie Keane played for the final 10 minutes off the bench on the day it emerged talks had begun over a potential £7million move to Birmingham. The Republic of Ireland striker has fallen down the pecking order at White Hart Lane and now looks set to leave, but Redknapp said it was not necessarily his final appearance. Redknapp said: “They have made an offer, about £7million, but it is up to Robbie. “If he doesn’t go to Birmingham, he will either leave permanently or stay here. “He certainly won’t be going on loan anywhere, not a chance. “He either goes permanently or he stays with us, it is as simple as that. We can’t loan him again. We paid good money for him.”
Everton FC can flourish without new faces insists Tim Howard
Jan 6 2011 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
TIM HOWARD insists Everton can flourish even if David Moyes is unable to being in new faces this month. The Toffees goalkeeper believes last night’s thrilling 2-1 victory over title contenders Spurs proved the Blues have enough quality to thrive regardless of their financial situation, as they rose to 11th in the Premier League. Howard, who made a string of stops to keep Everton in the lead against Harry Redknapp’s side, said: “I look at the league as a whole and it’s still topsy turvy. "The results tell you that. The Villas, and Spurs fighting for a foot hold up there are getting odd results. “You’ve got to be confident in this squad. "We have all the ability in the world. "We haven’t hit top form individually or as a team, but it’s no time to panic. "We need to build on this now and provide more top performances.” Before the game David Moyes answered questions about his Goodison future, but Howard believes any doubts over the manager’s ability are absurd. He said: “It’s the way of the world in football at the moment but the players are right behind the manager as we’ve always been. He’s right behind us too and gives us all his backing and faith. “None of that is going to change. It’s nonsense. The camaraderie here is as strong as ever. “We’ve been under a lot of pressure. We haven’t played at Goodsion for a while and we owed the fans and ourselves a good performance. “Everyone knows how good Spurs are, and they came and gave us a good game. But like against Man City, we dug in and got a result against a top team. Even though we consider ourselves a top team, the table doesn’t say that right now.” The American knows Everton’s third home win of the season must trigger further victories at Goodison if they are to maintain their climb up the keague. He said: “We’ve drawn too many games, and even though they keep you ticking over, three points are always more valuable.”
Everton FC 2 Tottenham 1 - Fellaini stars as Everton grab vital win
Jan 6 2011 Liverpool Daily Post
DAVID MOYES refused to quit and so did his players. As the Everton manager reaffirmed his commitment to the cause in the face of needless rumours this week, his squad responded with a performance to subdue the critics. At times almost cavalier against Tottenham Hotspur last night, the Goodison outfit were certainly always determined to shake their season into shape after it spluttered over the festive campaign. That it marked only a third home win in 10 matches – although one which takes them 11th in the Premier League table and above Liverpool - will sober any over exuberance, the manner of victory over the in-form Londoners will at least leave many reinvigorated with their club today. It was a night in which Louis Saha notched a first strike of the campaign and one where Mikel Arteta and Steven Pienaar teased with glimpses of their former selves. Seamus Coleman too deserves special mention for a terrorising raid down the right wing which unnerved Spurs and his winning goal was rich credit for an illuminating evening under the floodlights. However Everton's tides of pulsating attacks were underpinned by the graft of Marouane Fellaini who succeeded in being the master spoiler of Tottenham's artistry. The Belgian's influential on the win can not be underplayed in a performance which resonated with the way Chelsea were dismissed here in February – fittingly the last time Saha found the back of the net. Everton manager Moyes made two enforced changes from the side who failed to penetrate the Stoke City defence on New Year's Day – and it gave the home team a more traditional and attacking system. Moyes opted for the frontline pairing of Saha and Jermaine Beckford as the men in royal blue started with two strikers having relied on the supporting role of Tim Cahill – absent on international duty – to supplement the work of the usual lone man for much of the season to date. The injured Phil Jagielka made way for John Heitinga who had recovered sufficiently from a knee injury which had kept him out since the end of November. October's meeting at White Hart Lane, which ended 1-1, saw Everton produce the calibre of resilient performance which has come to define them in recent seasons and looking nervously at the relegation zone over their shoulder prior to kick-off, a similar show of character was called upon against the in-form Londoners. However it was not grit and determination which brought the opening goal but a start defined by vigour. Saha found space 25 yards from goal and arrowed the ball past the despairing dive of Heurelho Gomes – the Frenchman's first goal of a troubled campaign produced a roar the likes of which Goodison has barley mustered in this period of home discomforts. Everton's beginning to the match was wholly positive but the gentle nudge of Rafael Van der Vaart's audacious, but so nearly successful, lob from 30 yards reigned in the early excitement. And that prod became a full blow shove when Van der Vaart nodded home the equaliser on 10 minutes after Alan Hutton's cross was redirected back into the Dutchman's flight. Everton in particular were playing with an adventure not seen in a long time and though it created opportunities for Fellaini, who shot straight at Gomes, it too only stirred the attacking senses in the visitors and made for a blistering spectacle. The invention of Phil Neville and Coleman down the right flank was proving infectious as Saha created an opening for Beckford which the former Leeds United man blazed over before Arteta caught the bug and threaded the ball through for the same man, only to be foiled a second time. A more realistic pace was established mid-way through the half but Everton hearts began to race when Saha gifted the ball to Gareth Bale deep in home territory and his low cross was converted by Crouch. Fortunately the England striker was yards offside and the effort was ruled out. Heading in at the break level was what Everton deserved though Moyes felt they should have more and remonstrated with official Lee Probert over an early shove on Beckford in the area which went unpunished. Spurs were handed another let-off five minutes into the second half as Coleman raced clear of the struggling Benoit Assou-Ekotto but fired his close range effort directly at Gomes. At the other end Tim Howard made a smart save as Van der Vaart wriggled free before Saha connected with Coleman's neat chip only to see his volley cleared off the line by the retreating Hutton. The Frenchman would have further snap shots of Gomes' goal but fire either wide or at the grateful Tottenham goalkeeper. Everton were too indebted to their keeper when Luka Modric weaved to the touchline before pulling the ball into the area for Van der Vaart to hit first time from close range. However a sprawling Howard produced the save of the evening to thwart the Spurs man. And it would prove particularly vital as not long after Everton swept from the back through Pienaar and the aware Beckford to set Saha en route to goal. The forward's drive at Gomes was parried into the path of the on-rushing Coleman who nodded home to make it 2-1 and hopefully provide a tonic for the remainder of the season. As the crowd roared, the calls for Moyes' resignation were only whispers in the frenzy.
Everton FC find their edge, but David Moyes remains cautious
Jan 6 2011 Liverpool Daily Post
A PROUD David Moyes paid tribute to his side following victory over Tottenham Hotspur – but insisted one win would not see Everton getting carried away. A first goal of the season from Louis Saha and a second from Seamus Coleman helped Moyes’ outfit to a 2-1 win on an evening of high energy at Goodison Park. Dutch play-maker Rafael Van der Vaart had levelled for the visitors but Coleman’s second half header sealed a first win in three matches and moved Everton up to 11th in the Premier League table – above Liverpool on goal difference. Moyes believes the entire team are deserving of credit for the manner in which they matched the attacking flair of one of the country’s most in-form and dangerous sides. But the return to the scoresheet of Saha and the buccaneering exploits of Coleman on the right flank drew the highest praise from a delighted manager. “I was pleased with that,” said Moyes. “It was a really good game and whoever plays Tottenham this season have to play well to beat them because they are a really good side. “There was an edge to the players tonight, there was an improvement, vigour and determination. “We made sure we got more balls in the box than in other games. Previously I have been disappointed with the amount of balls we have got into the area. But tonight we were always liable to score.
Spurs miss chance to pull clear of Chelsea after Everton defeat
6 Jan 2011 London Evening Standard
boss David Moyes felt his team at last proved they can compete with the best after a thrilling win over Tottenham last night. The Merseysiders beat Spurs' much-celebrated attack at their own game as they edged an absorbing end-to-end contest at Goodison Park 2-1 with goals from Louis Saha and Seamus Coleman. Moyes' side did beat another of the Barclays Premier League's top four in Manchester City last month but that was more of a backs-to-the-wall success. It was the manner of the performance against Spurs, full of energy and attacking zest, as much as the result which pleased Moyes and offered encouragement for the remainder of the season. Moyes said: "I think we are a good team and we can play against the best teams. "We just haven't been good enough to show it against other sides. "Whoever plays Tottenham is going to have to play well to beat them because they are a really good side. "There was an edge to the players - they played with improved vigour and determination. "We made sure we got more balls in the box than we have in previous games. "We looked as if we were liable to score. In previous games we haven't looked that." The victory lifted Everton to 11th in the table but the result could have gone either way. Everton started superbly as Saha struck his first league goal in 11 months from 25 yards after three minutes, but the outstanding Rafael van der Vaart levelled with a header seven minutes later. Both sides then squandered numerous chances to take the lead. Van der Vaart went close on three occasions for the visitors and Peter Crouch also had a goal disallowed for offside on the stroke of half-time. Saha, Jermaine Beckford and Coleman had the pick of Everton's chances. Coleman eventually settled the contest 15 minutes from time when he followed up as Heurelho Gomes parried a Saha shot and headed home. The main consolation for Spurs was they stayed fourth in the table thanks to another defeat for Chelsea. Spurs boss Harry Redknapp said: "At half-time if I'd have been offered a draw I wouldn't have taken it. "I thought we could have won this game and we should have scored before half-time. "Gareth Bale broke away - he has either got to score himself or Crouchy has got to make sure he scores. "Crouchy shouldn't be offside there, he has got a tap-in. "Between the pair of them we should have scored really. It was farcical. "But credit to Everton, they lifted it. They pressed us well, worked their socks off and made it difficult for us."
Everton 2 Tottenham Hotspures 1
By PHIL THOMAS The Sun
January 6 2011
GUESS which former Manchester United hero was the name on everyone's lips at Goodison Park last night? Well all those answering David Beckham would be wide of the mark. About as far off, in fact, as Tottenham were off the pace. For the one-time Old Trafford idol they were all talking about was NOT Golden Balls and Spurs' desperate pursuit for the England ace. No, the ex-United favourite in the spotlight was Louis Saha, the man who had gone so long without a goal everyone was beginning to think he had forgotten how to score. Everton's French striker had not found the net since his two goals helped beat Chelsea here in February - some ELEVEN months and 25 Premier League games ago. Talk about making up for lost time, as Saha took just 150 seconds to blast a hole in the Tottenham resistance, before taking a key role in Seamus Coleman's 75th-minute winner. Saha pounced before Spurs knew what had hit them, sending a 30-yard drive fizzing past Heurelho Gomes and into the corner. And after Rafael van der Vaart had nodded Harry Redknapp's men level, Gomes could only beat away another Saha rocket, and Coleman reacted quickest to head in the rebound. It eased the pressure on at least one Merseyside manager - and Blues chief David Moyes was quick to hail Saha's contribution. Moyes said: "Everybody knows that is what Louis is capable of. "Anyone who has worked or played with him will tell you he's a fantastic talent and can produce that sort of thing. "If you are not scoring regularly then it can affect your confidence and to score lifts it immensely. "Overall he played really well and even if he hadn't scored I would have said he did really well. "But the goal is important for him and for us. We are a good team who can play against the good teams and perform well." With his bright orange hair, Saha bore a striking resemblance to a Duracell battery - and Spurs certainly had no answer to his power. Even so, they found themselves level within eight minutes of Saha's opener, from Van der Vaart. The Dutchman has been a major success story of an incredible campaign for Spurs and took his tally to 11 with the leveller. Alan Hutton looped a deep cross to the far post, Peter Crouch nodded back across goal and there was Van der Vaart to head into the corner - helped by a woeful Sylvain Distin challenge. Crouch was then guilty of the most careless of offsides, straying half a yard too far forward as he waited to reach a Gareth Bale cross for a tap-in - and it was downhill all the way from there. Everton bossed the second half and the only shock was it took so long for the winner to arrive. Redknapp, now with just one win in 28 visits to Merseyside as a manager, admitted: "I came in at half-time and thought we could win the game. "We should have scored just before half-time, Crouchy shouldn't be offside there, but credit to Everton. "In the second half they were great and had some great chances to score. They pressed us well and worked their socks off." It was Everton's first home win over Spurs in seven years and only their second in the last 11 games. A delighted Moyes added: "I am very pleased with that, I thought it was a really good game, because whoever beats Tottenham is going to have to play well. "I think we are a good team ourselves, but we find it difficult to score. We had improved vigour and determination and made sure we got more balls into the box than recently. "We needed to show something tonight - all the players and me. We did that, we were outstanding and we showed we can play against the top sides."
TOFFEES REDISCOVER ZEST
Thursday January 6,2011 Daily Express
Everton boss David Moyes felt his side had at last rediscovered their zest after a thrilling win over Tottenham. Seamus Coleman grabbed the decisive goal 15 minutes from time after the outstanding Rafael van der Vaart had cancelled out Louis Saha's superb opener. The result lifted Everton to 11th in the table but it was the manner of the performance that offers hope for the rest of the season.
Moyes said: "I'm pleased with that, I thought it was a really good game. Whoever plays Tottenham is going to have to play well to beat them because they are a really good side. "There was an edge to the players - they played with improved vigour and determination. We made sure we got more balls in the box than we have in previous games. "We looked as if we were liable to score. In previous games we haven't looked that. We have found it difficult to score, even here we had three or four chances you'd hope we'd score. But we got the couple of goals we haven't been getting."
The major consolation for Spurs was that they maintained fourth place in the table thanks to another defeat for champions Chelsea. Manager Harry Redknapp nevertheless felt his side had blown an opportunity for another good victory. He was particularly disappointed that Peter Crouch had strayed offside in the act of scoring what looked like a second Spurs goal on the stroke of half-time. Redknapp said: "At half-time if I'd have been offered a draw I wouldn't have taken it.
"I thought we could have won this game and we should have scored before half-time.
"Gareth Bale broke away - he has either got to score himself or Crouchy has got to make sure he scores. Crouchy shouldn't be offside there, he has got a tap-in. Between the pair of them we should have scored really. It was farcical."
Coleman takes the plaudits after halting Tottenham run
Everton 2 Tottenham Hotspur 1
By Darren Witcoop at Goodison Park
Thursday, 6 January 2011 The Independent
Forget talk of David Beckham, there was only one winger who was the talking point here at Goodison Park. And for a change, it wasn't Gareth Bale, either. Instead, it was the turn of Everton's Seamus Coleman to catch the eye, marking an impressive display with the late winner. No Goldenballs here, but the golden head of Coleman proved the difference. It shouldn't have come as surprise. Everton appear to raise their game against the top sides. Manchester United, Manchester City and Chelsea can vouch for that already this season. You can now add Tottenham Hotspur to the list. "Gareth Bale should get major plaudits from everyone this season and Phil Neville did an unbelievable job," admitted Everton manager David Moyes "But if you want to talk about a winger tonight it can only be Seamus Coleman. He gave [Benoît] Assou-Ekotto a good night. "Whoever plays Tottenham will have to play well to beat them as they are a really good side. "I think we are a good team. We've found it difficult to score, even tonight we missed three or four chances. We can play against the best teams." So it proved here, even if they rode their luck at times to end Tottenham's 11-game unbeaten record. For Louis Saha, though, it was a night of redemption. Without a Premier League goal all season, his third-minute strike saw the confidence immediately come back into his veins. Rafael van der Vaart, a threat himself all evening, levelled in the 11th minute when he headed home from Peter Crouch's knockdown. But that was as good as it got for Tottenham. A stuttering performance, they lost their shape when Bale hobbled off with a back injury, and it was no surprise to see that man Coleman grab the winner. The fact that Saha was in the thick of it was also no great shock, the Frenchman, who had twice come close to extending his tally, saw his shot saved by Heurelho Gomes before the on-rushing Coleman headed home the rebound. "If you are not scoring regularly then it can affect your confidence, and to score lifts it immensely," said Moyes of the French striker. "Overall, Louis played really well and even if he hadn't scored I would have said he did really well. But the goal is important for him and for us. "We needed to show something tonight – we all did, the players and me. We did that, we were outstanding, and we showed we can play against the top sides." Harry Redknapp, who later played down suggestions Tottenham's loan move for Beckham was a done deal, admitted the England veteran could have brought something different to his side on the night. "It's not done, one million per cent not," said the Spurs manager, who admitted that the club had agreed a £7m fee to sell Robbie Keane to Birmingham City. "I don't know what's happened as I've left it to the chairman to deal with," Redknapp said of the Beckham move. "I think we could do with his knowhow. I think he's got something to offer. "It's out of my hands and whether a deal will be done I don't know at the moment. "He will keep the ball, in the second half we didn't do that as we didn't give them problem with pace. I also think he would get it out of his feet, and if Crouchy is playing, he will deliver the ball. [Beckham] would be the perfect foil for him. "We had some chances on the break, but didn't play well in the second half. It's difficult to understand how but we were sloppy at times. "We missed Gareth [Bale] when he went off, but he wasn't fit. With his pace, he's an outlet for us."
Everton (4-4-2): Howard; Neville, Distin, Heitinga, Baines; Coleman, Arteta, Fellaini, Pienaar (Osman, 86); Saha (Rodwell, 88), Beckford (Yakubu, 77). Substitutes not used Mucha (gk), Hibbert, Bilyaletdinov, Anichebe. Booked Neville.
Tottenham (4-5-1): Gomes; Hutton, Dawson, Gallas, Assou-Ekotto; Lennon (Keane, 80), Jenas, Modric, Bale (Kranjcar, 58), Van der Vaart; Crouch. Substitutes not used Pletikosa (gk),Pavlychenko, Palacios, Bassong, Corluka.
Match rating 7/10.
Man of the match Van der Vaart.
Referee L Probert (Wiltshire).
Everton 2-1 Tottenham: Saha derails Spurs title tilt
Daily Mirror, January 6 2011-By David Maddock
Who needs the fizz of Becks when you can enjoy the Oranje Boom of Rafael van der Vaart and the glittering Gold Label of Louis Saha? Spurs boss Harry Redknapp insisted last night that David Beckham will add lustre to his squad, and his Everton counterpart David Moyes also wanted the England star, before being beaten to the punch. But both teams served up such an intoxicating brew at Goodison that it is hard to see how even Goldenballs could have bettered it. Becks may be the darling of the glossy mags, but on the pitch he would be hard pressed to match the profile of Dutch master Van der Vaart, who produced a larger than life display that confirmed his status as one of the true showmen of the Premier League But it was the magic of Saha that ultimately won the game, as he scored a stunning opener, then created the winner in the dying minutes to justify his outrageous gold-coloured hairstyle. Van der Vaart could so easily have trumped the Everton striker himself, with a goal of his own and then a simply glorious strike just before the home side's winner, but he was denied by the world-class reflexes of Tim Howard. But that would have been cruel on Everton, who produced a pulsating display, inspired by Saha's early strike, which culminated in a second-half barrage that eventually saw the visitors crack. They had been denied by the excellence of Spurs keeper Heurelho Gomes, but with 15 minutes remaining, after a fine run and shot by Saha was again beaten out by the Brazilian, youngster Seamus Coleman raced in to convert the rebound. It was no more than the Blues and their targetman Saha deserved. He belied his quite baffling lack of goals over the previous 11 months by finding the net from 20 yards with a radar-guided shot that showed his class and had boss Moyes purring. "Everybody knows that is what Saha is capable of," said Moyes. "Anyone who has worked with him or played with him will tell you he's a fantastic talent, and can produce that sort of thing. He is a matchwinner, and that is what he did." Incredibly, Saha hadn't scored since last February in the league, but he could easily have had a hat-trick here, and his performance outshone even the genius of Van der Vaart and the electric pace of Coleman. Tottenham were irresistible in the first half, with the Dutchman running the show, and it was no surprise when Van der Vaart equalised Saha's early strike after he ghosted onto a knockdown from Peter Crouch to head home on 12 minutes. Spurs should have led by the break, but Crouch criminally ran offside when presented with a simple tap-in, and Everton's compelling second half display left them pointless, and their manager admitting that he would desperately love Beckham's experience in those situations. "I think we could do with Beckham, to be honest/ He has a lot to offer, and I've made it clear we would like him, but it's up to the chairman, and I'm not sure how close it is," said Redknapp. "He would keep the ball for us. I think Beckham would get it out of his feet if Crouchy is playing, and deliver the ball. We showed with our goal that when we get the ball in we are dangerous with Crouchy up there, and David would be the perfect foil for him." Even without Beckham's precise delivery, both sides created enough chances to have produced a rugby score, with Van der Vaart going agonisingly close with some exquisite skill, and both Jermaine Beckford and Coleman missing gilt-edged chances before the young Irishman got a reward for his incredible pace and energy with the winner. **
Everton: Howard 7; Neville 7, Heitinga 6, Distin 6, Baines 6; Coleman 6, Arteta 5, Fellaini 7, Pienaar 6; Saha 7, Beckford 6. Spurs: Gomes 7; Hutton 7, Gallas 6, Dawson 7, Assou-Ekotto 7; Lennon 6, Modric 6, Jenas 6, Bale 6;(Kranjaer 60, 6) Van der Vaart 8; Crouch 6. Referee: Lee Probert 5. Hero: Louis Saha may not be goldenballs, but his golden display was enough to justify his golden locks and win the game for the Blues. Villain: Referee Lee Probert had an indifferent game, and Everton will be cursing that he missed one of two pushes that came before Tottenham's first half equaliser. Match stat: Everton's starting line up last night, had managed just 10 league goals between them all season, before the game got underway.
EVERTON 2 - TOTTENHAM 1 - HERO SEAMUS COLEMAN BLUNTS SPURS
Daily Star Jan 6 2011 BY Kevin Francis
SEAMUS COLEMAN was the hero of Goodison when he headed the Everton winner that stopped the Tottenham bandwagon in its tracks. Louis Saha sent over a teasing cross which Spurs keeper Heurelho Gomes punched clear. But Coleman was right on the spot to head the ball straight back into the net and send the home fans crazy. Saha, who hadn’t scored a league goal all season, had got the Toffees off to a great start by breaking his duck after just two minutes. Steven Pienaar threaded a great ball through to the Frenchman who controlled it well before taking a couple of strides forward. He then let fly with a fierce right-foot shot that somehow squeezed between Gomes and the post. But the joy of being ahead lasted just eight minutes for Everton as Spurs struck back. A well-hit right-wing cross from Alan Hutton was headed into the six-yard box by beanpole striker Peter Crouch. Ninth Everton defender Sylvain Distin lost out in an aerial duel for the ball with Rafael Van der Vaart just four yards out. And the Dutchman made no mistake with his header, guiding the ball past keeper Tim Howard for his ninth League goal of the campaign. The goal was hard to swallow for Everton because they had been denied what seemed a perfectly good penalty appeal just a minute earlier. Hutton certainly appeared to push Jermaine Beckford in the penalty area as they both went for a cross. But referee Lee Probert waved away the loud claims of angry Everton players as manager David Moyes shook his head in disbelief on the touchline. other shooting chance opened up for Coleman after another slick Everton move but Jermaine Jenas slid in to make a vital block. Spurs responded with Luka Modric getting a sight of goal but Distin raced to get in a solid block. And Beckford spurned another chance when he headed over from Coleman’s cross. With just one victory in their previous 13 matches, Everton had gone into the game in 13th place – just three points above the drop zone. And to add to Moyes’ woes, he was also without his nine-goal top scorer Tim Cahill who has flown off on Asian Cup duty with Australia. In his absence, the team fielded by Moyes had claimed only ten Premier League goals between them this season. In contrast, Spurs arrived at Goodison Park in high-flying mode with an unbeaten 11-match run behind them. Robbie Keane was named on the Spurs bench as talks continued over a possible move to Birmingham. The much-travelled Republic of Ireland striker has fallen down the pecking order at White Hart Lane but was surprisingly named among the subs hours after confirmation talks with Blues had begun. With Everton so determined to improve on their League position and Spurs really in-form, it made for an attack-minded match. And the honours mainly went to Everton in the adventurous stakes with Saha and company piling on plenty of pressure. Marouane Fellaini had one shot saved low down while Beckford scooped a left-foot effort over when falling to the ground. But it was certainly not a case of one-way traffic, particularly in the first half, with Spurs always ready to burst upfield whenever the chance arose. Gareth Bale was always prepared to embark on one of his trademark runs down the left wing. They invariably concluded with him sending over the kind of cross that was always likely to cause the Everton rearguard the biggest headache. And he looked to have done the business, too, just two minutes before the break when he gratefully accepted a mis-kicked ball from Saha. He pushed a low pass into the six-yard box for Crouch to comfortably tap home what everyone thought was a goal. But Mr Probert disallowed it after a linesman’s flag was raised, the TV replays confirming it was the correct decision. Van der Vaart then fired narrowly over from a free-kick as Spurs ended the first half on the front foot. Everton had another chance in the 51st minute when Coleman broke through and powered towards goal. But, with Beckford clear to his left, he shot at goal where Gomes comfortably gathered the ball to wipe out the danger. Spurs lost Bale to an injury in the 58th minute after a tackle from John Heitinga which brought the Everton man a booking.
Everton FC rumour mill: David Bentley, Yakubu, Stephen Pienaar
Jan 6 2011 Sam Bisby
David Bentley
Out-of-favour midfielder David Bentley has caught the interest of Everton boss David Moyes, whose team have been lacking on the right wing now for some time. With last season's loan hero Landon Donovan remaining Stateside and other players failing to impress on the right side, it is imperetive for the Toffees boss to fill in the position sooner rather than later. The former England prospect has had a nightmare term at current club Tottenham Hotspur since he signed from Blackburn Rovers for a massive £17 million and seems certain to leave White Hart Lane in the near future. Likelyhood Rating (Out of 5): ***
Yakubu Ayegbeni
One of the stars of the last Merseyside derby, Yakubu has been a downward spiral ever since this season, especially since team mate Louis Saha returned from injury. The latest talk indicates that Championship side Leicester City are wanting to take the Nigerian on loan for at Likelyhood Rating (Out of 5): ***
Stephen Pienaar
Specualtion has surrounded the South African international with midfielder yet to sign a new contract at Goodison and his manager admitting defeat in keeping one of his star players. Tottenham seemed to be in the running for Pienaar for some while before the deal seemingly broke down and with Spurs after more expensive targets such as Andy Carrol, it would be apparent that the deal will not come back around a second time. However, with no pen to paper for a new contract, Moyes will either have to let him go this month for a small fee or risk losing him on a free come the summer.
Howard Kendall: Spurs result was just the tonic for Everton FC
Jan 7 2011 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
THERE seemed to be very little New Year’s cheer on the horizon - so the win over Spurs was just the tonic, and the result the fans have been waiting for. I’m glad the victory over Spurs came at Goodison Park, because they have been due a strong performance there, and it was helped by the visitors coming to win the game. Spurs tried to attack and take Everton on, and the result was a thrillingly open game for everyone although managers in the dug out are never as keen on such open games. It’s telling that the Blues have struggled when teams like Stoke and Wolves have instead set up a bit more negatively to not lose, which is of course their right, but it is very hard to break down.
Everton have always been capable of matching anyone on their day, but certain teams have found a weakness in Everton and it has tended to be those that close the game down. Even though the Premier League shows they are currently a fair way apart, Everton and Spurs have similar goals - both are justifiably determined to qualify for Europe, although the Londoners may yet talk of an outside shot at the title. Before the game I usually like to have a flutter and I noticed that Louis Saha was 11-2 to score the first goal against Spurs. It seemed a strange price to me, he should have been more like 10-1, so I decided to avoid it but after three minutes I was kicking myself. The lad showed what he is really capable of, and what he has lacked in confidence clearly flooded back as soon as he hit the back of the net. I think the fans appreciated what a performance he had as well, and let’s hope he can keep it up.
No new signings for Everton FC is no problem!
THIS month is going to be dominated in the media by talk of the manager merrygoround, and transfers. It’s a fact of modern football that transfer windows create a sort of frenzy and supporters are desperate for their club to sign someone, sometimes it feels like it’s even just for the sake of it. Evertonians are more clued-up than that - but I insist that David Moyes should be happy with the squad he has. It won't be the end of the world if he doesn’t bring anyone in. He has gone on record as wanting two or three players but if nothing happens he should still be confident. The team now needs to go on a run, starting with the FA cup game against Scunthorpe tomorrow. I hope nobody is rested, and am sure that the manager will name a strong side because he may have hit upon his strongest line up and you change that at your peril. Getting away from Scunthorpe and being in the fourth round has to be everyone’s priority now. The FA Cup will be as difficult as ever because sides like Chelsea will field strong line-ups as they are determined to make-up for their own poor league form with a morale-boosting cup run themselves.
Everton can still play 4-4-2 with Tim Cahill
THE success of Everton playing 4-4-2 against Spurs could, if it persists, lead to a conundrum when Tim Cahill returns. Having two up front helped Everton’s shape and attacking play to flow, and I’d be sad to see if shelved when the Aussie returns. Obviously you can’t leave Tim out because he offers too much, but you should not build a formation around him. I am confident you could accommodate him on the inside left of midfield, and he can still provide an attacking threat by dropping off and coming inside. He has the energy to cover for Leighton Baines, and you’d still be able to have two strikers. Then you’ve got Seamus Coleman on the right – a player who just gets better!
Everton FC’s King Louis Saha ready to wear his crown once again
Jan 7 2011 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
LOUIS SAHA insists he is ready to become the King of Goodison again – after finally putting the pain of 11 goal-less months behind him. The Everton striker is hoping the ‘worst year’ of his career is now over.
“UNEASY is the head that wears the crown,” wrote Shakespeare in Henry IV, and Goodison’s own King Louis would agree after 11 demoralising months when scoring seemed like a distant memory. The striker had endured almost a year without scoring in the Premier League before finally ending his drought in spectacular fashion against Spurs on Wednesday. At times Saha, who is so admired by his team-mates for that regal air and eye-poppingly flawless training ground technique, had simply looked lost. Along with Yakubu and Jermaine Beckford, the Frenchman’s form has been the subject of supporters, and occasionally his manager’s, ire. But David Moyes has remained insistent about the 32-year-old’s impressive attitude and work-rate throughout that leanest of lean spells, and now the man himself simply hopes that goal - and stellar all-round performance in Wednesday’s 2-1 victory, will be the beginning of brighter days. “It’s been really, really hard for me,” he says after training at Everton’s Finch farm complex. “I’ve found it tough to understand why that when I’ve tried my hardest, I’ve stopped doing things instinctively and what normally comes naturally to me. “I have been looking for form, so trying too hard and I haven’t had the best luck. But I’m confident in my ability, and I’ve been waiting for my time. It happened against Spurs, and hopefully it will carry on coming now. “It has been a long time since I felt like I was producing some result for the team so I was very happy. The main thing was getting the three points though, so it was huge.”
LOUIS SAHA insists he is ready to become the King of Goodison again – after finally putting the pain of 11 goal-less months behind him. The Everton striker is hoping the ‘worst year’ of his career is now over. Saha is quick to acknowledge the role played by his manager and team-mates in keeping his head up since that last brace of goals against Chelsea in February 2010. “The manager has been great with me. He has been passionate and pushed me along, and my team mates have been great too. “I need to be more consistent now. I know I can do better. It was too long since my last goal, and I want it to be shorter now. “The result against Spurs was more important than the win against Chelsea (when he last scored in the league) because then we were already on a good run of sorts. This moment in time we have a championship where the gap is narrow, so results wise it was important and I’m glad I played my part.” Everton’s misfiring strikers have hogged the headlines for much of this inconsistent season so far, and Saha believes the experience has only strengthened the bond between him and fellow front-men Yakubu and Jermaine Beckford. “We have become closer as a group of strikers,” he says. “We always want competition, and no matter what if it’s Becks scoring or Yak I’m happy because it’s about getting results as a job. Striker is a hard job, in fact I will say it’s maybe the hardest position to play in. When the team is not playing well it can be very hard for the striker to get confidence. “It’s easy to get frustrated. When you play against so called lesser teams you think you’ll get more chances. But we have been missing them. “What we saw against Spurs should be what we see every week, so that’s frustrating that it hasn’t been the case. “There’s always a lot of pressure throughout the season. It’s about getting our confidence back. As confidence players we are feeling better about the team now, but we need to perform against the other clubs as well, the lesser teams.” Saha insists he has had enough adversity in his long career to weather the storms when they come, and as a Parisian he retains a Gallic philosopher’s sensibility. “I’ve had a few set-backs in my career so I could say I was just happy to be playing and giving my best. There have been injuries,” he says. Sometimes your best is enough, others not. if you look around in our world there are many things than make you realise I’m not an unlucky guy.” Now, Saha is focussing on an FA Cup third round tie against Scunthorpe tomorrow which he hopes could end in glory after coming close in 2009 when he scored the quickest goal in final history against Chelsea after 25 seconds. “The FA Cup is really important to me,” he says. “It’s huge because we went out of the league cup so early which was disappointing for us all. It’s a great competition to be involved in. I’ve got some fantastic memories of it with Everton but it’s a long competition and we must start well.” “The Wembley goal is one of my best memories. It’s all about getting results and lifting trophies though, and it was frustrating that day because the goal didn’t do anything in the end. Hopefully at the end of this season we can be celebrating it.” That royal nick-name may suggest a superior demeanour, but Saha’s sense of humour and easy-going manner shine forth; qualities succinctly highlighted by his orange-dyed hair, a decision, he insists, made simply to raise a smile. “There’s no logic with my hair,” he says. “I just felt like being crazy. I like to have fun, and I always imagine little children may laugh about it, so that’s my aim.” Fortunately for Everton, Saha seems equally determined to being some much-needed cheer by embarking on a goal-scoring run. After all, the King has got his self-belief back at last.
Scunthorpe v Everton match preview, FA Cup third round
Jan 7 2011 By Sean Bradbury
To be played at Glanford Park, Saturday 8 January - kick off 3pm
Scunthorpe's last five games
Jan 3: Championship - Scunthorpe 1 Watford 2
Jan 1: Championship - Doncaster 3 Scunthorpe 0
Dec 28: Championship - Burnley 0 Scunthorpe 2
Dec 4: Championship - Millwall 3 Scunthorpe 0
Nov 27: Championship - Scunthorpe 0 Coventry 2
Everton's last five games
Jan 5: Premier League - Everton 2 Spurs 1
Jan 1: Premier League - Stoke 2 Everton 0
Dec 28: Premier League - West Ham 1 Everton 1
Dec 20: Premier League - Man City 1 Everton 2
Dec 11: Premier League - Everton 0 Wigan 0
Past meetings
The Blues have only met Scunthorpe twice in their history, winning on both occasions. The ties came in a Leagu Cup clash over two legs in the 1997/98 season under Howard Kendall. EFC won the first match at Scunthorpe 1-0 thanks to a goal from midfielder Gareth Farrelly. In the second leg at home, Everton were comfortable victors as Graham Stuart, John Oster and Danny Cadamarteri backed up a Nick Barmby double for a 5-0 win on the night and a 6-0 aggregate triumph.
Quick Quiz (answers on next page)
1) Where did the Blues finish in the Premier League table in the season they played Scunthorpe in the League Cup, 1997/98?
2) Howard Kendall was an FA Cup runner-up one as a Blues player and twice as a manager - name the three seasons in which these matches took place.
3) Which former Blue played more than 150 games for Scunthorpe between 2001-06?
4) Which Everton full-back of the late 1980s came to Goodison Park from Scunthorpe United?
5) Which international cricketer played a handful of games for Scunthorpe in the 1980s?
Ones to watch
Scunthorpe
It hasn't be a great campaign so far for the Iron. Not only do they sit second from bottom in the Championship table, but their home form has been a great cause for concern. Ian Baraclough's men have managed just one win from 11 league games at Glanford Park. Key players for the hosts will be keeper Joe Murphy - who began his career at Tranmere - and this season's top scorer Martyn Woolford who has been dangerous from the wing despite his side's struggles.
Everton
Revitalised by victory over Spurs, the Blues will be looking to emulate their cup run of 2009 and perhaps go one better. Everton have been draw specialists away from home in the league so far this season with six in 11 games, so David Moyes will be hoping his charges can get the job done on the night and avoid a replay. Jermaine Beckford could be called upon against his former club and will be eager to earn more Premier League starting spots by getting in the goals.
Quiz answers
1) 17th
2) As a player - 1967/68, as a manager - 1984/85 and 1985/86
3) Peter Beagrie
4) Neil Pointon
5) Ian Botham
Latest odds from Betfred
Scunthorpe - 5/1
Draw - 13/5
Everton - 8/13
Rumour Mill: Blues in for Charlie Adam; Monaco eyeing Saha
Jan 7 2011 By Sam Bisby
Charlie Adam a Blues target
The chase for Blackpool midfielder Charlie Adam is hotting up. With many clubs interested, one of whom being Everton, Blackburn have made the first move with a £2 million bid. The Blues are in need of a new midfielder due to the interest of many of their own and risk losing the likes of Stephen Pienaar before the end of the season. However, if they wish to plan a raid for one of Blackpool's finest performers this season, they're going to have to go against Blackburn for his signature. Likelyhood Rating (Out of 5): **
Saha to Monaco
Monaco are said to be sniffing around Blues striker Louis Saha. The Frenchman, who scored his first league goal since last February against Spurs earlier this week, previously played in his homeland for Metz between 1998-2000.
Tim Cahill plans Premier League goalscoring catch-up for Everton FC
Jan 7 2011 Liverpool Daily Post
TIM CAHILL is already planning on playing Premier League catch up –before his first Asian Cup adventure has even started. The influential Evertonian headed for Qatar on Saturday night with just three players ahead of him in the Premier League’s scoring charts. When he returns in possibly up to a month’s time, he could find his name overtaken by a host of hungry marksmen. And Everton’s Australian international admits that the opportunity to make a surprise claim for the Premier League’s golden boot was just one of the reasons why he left for the Asia Cup experiencing mixed emotions. “Part of me, obviously being in the goal-scoring charts where I am, is disappointed I'm missing games and important games too,” he said. “There's always a thought in the back of your mind about Premier League goals and how many could I have if I had stayed but there's also the fact that this is a chance to perhaps do something really special for Australia. “As of late it's been difficult so to leave, yeah, it's hard, because I feel that I love playing for my country and I love playing for my club. “But it was inevitable this day was coming and everyone was prepared for it and it just means now that the lads have to work harder and obviously I need to do well here and get back there fit.” Cahill’s nine goals from 19 games have put him well on course to better his best ever return for a single top-flight season. The 31-year-old found the target 12 times in his debut campaign for the Blues back in 2004/05 as the club claimed a fourth-place finish. At present, only Dimitar Berbatov, Carlos Tevez and Andy Carroll have been more prolific than Cahill this season. But with him potentially missing a full month of the season – the final is on January 29 should the Aussies get that far – Cahill says part of him will wonder what might have happened with regard to the kind of tally he could have ended up with. Blues skipper Phil Neville, however, believes Cahill’s absence could be of benefit to both club and player. He feels Everton will get a fitter and fresher player back after the tournament. Neville said: “Every time you lose a top player – and Tim is a top player – then it is an opportunity for someone else and sometimes you stumble across a different formation or a different way of playing that works for you. “We wish Tim well in the Asian Cup. Selfishly we hope they get knocked out early and he is back with us quickly but that is not going to happen, Australia are a good team. “But Everton will reap the rewards when he gets back. He is going to a country with a warm climate and it will be good for his body. He is not playing too many games so he should be fresh when he comes back. “Tim has carried the can for the first half of the season so this may have come at a good time for him to get away and it will give someone else a chance to come into the team and stake their claim.” Yakubu could be one of those players to benefit from Cahill’s absence – the Nigerian striker hasn’t started a match since November 27 – although Championship side Leicester City have made an enquiry for the forward. Young Everton striker Kieran Agard, meanwhile, has joined League One Peterborough on loan until the end of the season. The 21-year-old has made six senior appearances, but only one start in the Europa League dead rubber against BATE Borisov last season, and returned from serious knee problems earlier this season. He joins a Posh side who are on the fringe of the League One play-off places and have an FA Cup tie at Fulham this weekend. Agard would not be eligible to face Everton should both sides progress in the competition. London Road chief Gary Johnson said he was delighted with the acquisition. “We are excited by the signing,” he said. “He is only a young lad but he is talented, scores goals and we like his energy and workrate. We think he is mature enough to play at this level and he comes highly recommended by David Moyes. “He is ready athletically and technically and he will do fine for us. He is hard working, has a good touch and can finish.”
Reds fan Chris Dagnall's chance to put one over on his Goodison Park mates
Scunthorpe Telegrapher
January 7 2011
WHEN he was a young boy watching Liverpool from the terraces, for Chris Dagnall beating Everton came second only to seeing the Reds do well. He might not be able to help out with the latter, but toppling his club's arch-rivals tomorrow will mean just as much. And should he score the winner for Scunthorpe United in the FA Cup, his Toffee-supporting friends will never hear the end of it.
It is a competition the lifelong Liverpool fan has had little joy in so far in his short career. This is already the furthest Dagnall has got, having never made it past the second round with previous clubs Rochdale and Tranmere Rovers. And with just six appearances, plus one goal, to his name, the striker can be forgiven for being more excited than most when it comes to the third round tie. "I love it, I think it's a brilliant competition," said Dagnall. "When you get draws like this, there's nothing better in the world. "It's always nice to get one over Everton. "I always want Liverpool to beat them every time we play them, so it will be nice to do Liverpool a favour and beat them. "My whole family support Liverpool. Growing up, my dad took me to Liverpool games. "The majority of my mates actually support Everton, but they're all coming tomorrow. "I think they want Everton to win – but me to score! "They have all been texting me saying they want Mikel Arteta's shirt or Louis Saha's shirt! "I always remember the FA Cup finals Liverpool have been in, like the one against Arsenal when Michael Owen scored and we robbed them of the cup (a 2-1 victory in 2001). "You always remember moments like that. "To get a chance to play in the competition is brilliant.
"I've not had much success in it. I don't think I've been past the second round, so hopefully this is one of my first memories. "I will be over the moon if I score against Everton, you'll never hear the end of it! "If it's the winner I will really enjoy it!"
To read Chris Dagnall's views on the current Everton squad and what effect the match might have on the Iron's league form, see a four-page match preview in Friday's Scunthorpe Telegraph.
O'Connor hopes to prove his talents against top-tier opposition
Scunthprpe Telegraph January 7 2011
MICHAEL O'Connor has been linked in the past with a move to Premier League sides.
So when Everton roll into town for their FA Cup third round clash with Scunthorpe United, it is not only a chance for the team to impress, but also for the Northern Irishman to showcase his expansive talents to any top tier scouts who may be watching the game. "You always aim to play at the highest level you can," O'Connor told the Telegraph. "But playing against a Premier League team, you want to do your best and prove you can play at that level. "Even in the Championship you want to play well every game. "But against a Premier League team you get a few scouts here watching. "I am just focusing on doing well for Scunthorpe – I have still got a year and half here and enjoying my time." The creative midfielder is under no illusion as to the benefits of a cup shock tomorrow, in a game he classed as a mere 'bonus' in the grand scheme of United's season. "I think we would have a better chance away at the minute based on our home form," he joked. "It is something different, it is the FA Cup and a Premier League side is coming to Glanford Park so it will be a good game. "We got Manchester United in the Carling Cup so it is just a bonus to play someone in the Premier League. "Some of the young lads coming through can get a bit of experience playing against them. "If we get the win against Everton it gives the lads confidence." O'Connor also confirmed that, if a penalty were to be awarded to the Iron tomorrow, he would happily stride confidently toward the spot once again. That is despite a horror miss during the clash with Watford, when he skied his effort well over the top. "One or two of the lads have said I am not on them anymore," continued O'Connor. "But I would put myself forward – I have scored three out of four this year. "If you miss a penalty it depends what you do after that. "It shows what sort of player you are if you can get over that."
Everton legend Sharp: Cup run can be catalyst for golden era at Goodison
Scunthorpe Telegrapher January 7 2011
AT FIRST glance, tomorrow's trip to Glanford Park is little more than just another third round FA Cup clash, one which is expected to provide Everton a route into the last 32 of the competition. For Toffees legend Graeme Sharp though, it can be the first step on the ladder to a potentially much bigger picture. Without a major trophy since Paul Rideout's Wembley thunderbolt saw the Blues edge out Manchester United at Wembley in the same competition 15 years ago, Everton have become part of an ever-increasing list of clubs whose glorious histories look unlikely to be repeated following the emergence of the Premier League's so-called big four. But for the Toffees at least, there is the chance to put up a fight. Part of an Everton team that had also been through some barren years, Sharp scored the first goal of the Merseyside club's 2-0 FA Cup final success over Watford in 1984 – a result that was to prove the catalyst for arguably the most successful period in the club's history.
In the following three years the Blues were twice crowned league champions and also lifted the European Cup Winners' Cup, in addition to two further trips to Wembley, albeit losing ones. Given the impact of that famous cup-winning campaign, Sharp is desperate to see the current crop of Evertonians give themselves a chance to carve out a repeat. And that means there is no room for complacency in a trip to Glanford Park. "It's fantastic," Sharp told the Telegraph of climbing the steps at Wembley as a winner. “We talk about the money in the Premier League now, but I don’t think you can take away the honour of going up the stairs and getting your hands on the FA Cup. “Everton’s last success was 1995. People still talk about that now, so it’s important for the team to get their hands on their first trophy and go on from there. “We did that in 1984 and went on to win the championship twice after that. “It’s important this group of players get a trophy under their belt. “Winning the FA Cup is a great achievement. Phil Neville has done it in the past, as has Tim Howard, and both will want to get to Wembley again. They’ve got the experience, so the young players will be looking to them for the knowledge. "They’ll say the same as I do, it’s a fantastic occasion and brings about a prestige no-one can ever take away." Beaten at Brentford in the League Cup already this season, Everton boss David Moyes is unlikely to rest few, if any, of his first choice starting line-up. He cannot afford to take that risk. “I would expect Everton to be at full strength and he’ll play his strongest side. He’ll want to win the game to build the confidence in the players," said Sharp, who scored 159 goals in 426 games for the Blues. “It’s a big game for two teams. Not only for Scunthorpe, with it being a good draw for them, but David Moyes will be looking at it to maybe kickstart the season."
Barry Horne: ‘Same again’ can be David Moyes’ route to FA Cup success
Jan 8 2011 by Barry Horne, Liverpool Echo
IT’S FA Cup weekend, and bearing in mind where our league season is going, a cup run would be more than welcome. Most Premier League clubs are expected to make wholesale changes to their starting line ups. But I hope that having performed so brilliantly on Wednesday, David Moyes keeps his changes to a minimum. Over the years we have grown accustomed to ‘rotation’ so that it’s not such a big deal any more. But I still remain totally unconvinced about the benefits of ‘resting’ players who are in form. I could give many examples of where the policy has backfired, both in terms of individual games – Everton v Oldham anyone? – and in the longer term success of clubs; look at Arsenal this season and not so long ago, Rafa Benitez. The Reds boss preferred to keep his players fresh for the latter part of the season, but despite a phenomenal run of results, when he picked more or less the same team, it was too late because of his policy earlier in the season. I’m not so sure about some of the more mercenary types who have become prominent in the game of late, but I am convinced that most ‘British’ type players would prefer to play as often as they can. When you are playing well as an individual and a team, the next game can’t come soon enough. For me, you can only build up a real head of steam, as an individual and a team, when you are playing regularly. A settled team may also help Everton solve a problem which seems to have beset everyone except for Manchester United this season, to find any sort of consistency. I was at St James’ Park on Wednesday where Newcastle, a paragon of inconsistency themselves, met West Ham, a team who were threatening to put a run together. On the night The Hammers were abject. That highlights the need for Everton to show consistency and suddenly drive up the table. You don’t have to be magnificent. Just find some level of consistency.
Barry Horne: When the going gets tough, Phil Neville gets going
Jan 8 2011 by Barry Horne, Liverpool Echo
WATCHING Wednesday’s match on TV it was obviously a pulsating encounter. Fans I have spoken to said how much they enjoyed it and even David Moyes admitted, perhaps for the first time ever, he enjoyed it! Quite rightly so. You always have a chance of winning when more than half the team plays really well.Heitinga was solid, Distin, for me, is on his way to a player of the year award, Fellaini had one of his better games, Tim Howard played his part and the headline grabbers in most papers were Seamus Coleman and Louis Saha. But one player who hardly got a mention, but was as influential as anyone and played as big a part in the victory as any other player, was the skipper, Phil Neville. It is a real test of character for players coming into a difficult home game on the back of a couple of weeks like Everton have had. Ultimately, of course, none of the players were found wanting, but in my opinion they took a lead from their captain. Not only did he use his experience to keep Gareth Bale quiet for the second time in a couple of months, he marshalled his defence and was always willing to have possession, which he then used well. He even found time to join in with a number of attacks. When the going gets tough, the tough get going and it’s performances like that which are a visible part of Phil Neville’s value to the club.
Leighton Baines new blog is music to fans’ ears
Jan 8 2011 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
WHO needs NME when you’ve got Everton’s official website? The team at Finch Farm came up with the intriguing idea of asking defender and resident muso Leighton Baines to start his own blog, and two posts in, it’s already a roaring success. Bainsey’s own tastes are varied, and he’s put Royal Blue onto a few new artists, while the readers’ comments have turned it into a thriving little music community similar to the Post and Echo’s own excellent music blog Get Into This. This week’s most salient tit-bit from Leighton’s column – Steve Round is into The Wedding Present! Who’d have thought?
Everton FC: Goodison park was back to its best against Spurs
Jan 8 2011 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
GOODISON has been understandably muted at times this season, but it was back to its intimidating best on Wednesday night against Spurs. An early goal for the Toffees helped set the tone, and provided a bit of impetus for the players and the supporters. It’s interesting how many times the players have mentioned that an edgy crowd at home is unhelpful this season. The relationship between the two is far more symbiotic than some imagine. Fans pay their money and are entitled to vent their frustration, but it’s clear that when both are in harmony the Blues are better set to grab all three points.
How do you solve a problem like Mikel Arteta?
Jan 8 2011 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
SOMETHING unsettling and strange happened at the Britannia stadium on New Year’s Day. It wasn’t the sight of thousands of men with earrings and 1986 hair cuts supping Bovril in the Seddon Stand (they do make an impressive racket though!). Nor was it when David Moyes suggested afterwards that his side’s defending had been immense. No – Mikel Arteta was replaced during a game because of form, not injury. Regular matchgoers could tell you it had been waiting to happen. The Best Little Spaniard has been playing like a ghost of himself for the majority of this frustrating season. Such has been the poverty of his performances, compared to those highest of standards, even the Gwladys Street have become to ask questions. The internet forums have brimmed with criticism, and even more sensible Blues have raised reasonable doubts over his continued selection. It’s an almost unthinkable scenario. Arteta is, after all, been the most naturally gifted technician of the game a whole generation of Blues have had the pleasure of watching. To wit, the excellent Toffees analysis website The Executioner’s Bong, have dusted down their stat books and presented an intriguing insight into the 28-year-old’s career arc at Goodison, and provided reasons for the doubters to perhaps think twice. ‘Initially used by David Moyes in his natural position in the central of midfield, Arteta quickly became a key cog in arresting our decline after an amazing start to the season had hit the buffers with Thomas Gravesen’s departure to Real Madrid,’ they write. ‘With him in midfield, we were able to maintain possession better and claim key victories. Moyes had doubts about his strength to cope with the brutality of some of the hatchet men given his 11st frame, and deployed him on the wing from the 2005/6 season. ‘Arteta would occupy a wide brief for the next three seasons. It was a role Arteta was comfortable with, often playing as a ‘ghost winger’ cutting in from the right to create chances and score with great regularity. Indeed, the 2006/7 season was to be his most productive with nine goals and 13 assists. ‘Arteta was no longer a secret in the Premier League and took the dubious honour of being the most fouled player in the league, fouled every 28.8 minutes in season 2007/8. It was another productive campaign though, with an average of 11 crosses per game. ‘It was only after an injury crisis that Arteta was shifted inside at Spurs in October that he got his opportunity to prove to Moyes that he was capable of filling the midfield anchor role. In this role he dictates the way Everton play and provides great technique, controlled passing, positional strength and the ability to pass and press accompanied by decent pace. The role is more restrictive and requires greater defensive awareness which is something which comes natural to Arteta due to the tuition he received from Pepe Guardiola at Barcelona. ‘Playing in the holding midfield role does however provide a restriction to someone of Arteta’s ability going forward. ‘In season 2008/9 Arteta really flexed his muscle as Everton’s centre midfield hub, and he was instrumental in the Blues good form. In a cruel twist of fate his campaign ended prematurely in March after injury. ‘Regulars at Goodison will concur that Everton’s approach was much more route one because of his absence. ‘Since his return from injury in the 2009/10 season, Arteta has played as a more orthodox central midfielder with an anchor behind him and an attacking midfielder in front of him. The Spaniard is fundamental to the Everton strategy towards games. With him, they will dominate possession and play a controlled passing game, playing high up the pitch often drawing numerous free kicks around the opposition area. ‘This is shown in the stats from Everton’s game at West Ham this season with Arteta and the corresponding fixture last season without him. With him Everton made 429 passes while without him they registered just 246. ‘Indeed the Blues win percentage is 44% with him in the side, and just 37% with him not in the side. There has been disillusionment this campaign from the Blues faithful on Arteta’s output and a lot of his passes have lacked penetration. ‘But in the games Arteta has missed this campaign the Blues have more than held their own. This needs to be balanced by the fact that opponents will always look to press him more in possession than for example his central midfield partner whether that be Heitinga or Fellaini. ‘This season however his tackle completion, chances created per 90 minutes and shots on target ratios are all down on previous season figures.’ Clearly Arteta is the Toffees’ play maker par excellence, and perhaps patience is required from the Goodison faithful. But the timing of a lucrative new contract this summer, and the emergence of talent like Jack Rodwell banging on the door for a midfield berth mean Moyes cannot afford to wait forever for his main man to rediscover his form.
Everton FC manager David Moyes targets progress in the FA Cup
Jan 8 2011 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
DAVID MOYES is set to give Jermaine Beckford licence to cement his place in the Everton team today – as he promised the Blues will not take their FA Cup opponents Scunthorpe United lightly. The Toffees travel to the Championship strugglers’ Glanford park ground looking to keep alive their only chance of silverware this season. And Moyes admitted that he went against his normal practices by stressing the importance of this third round tie to his players in the dressing room immediately after the excellent victory over Spurs on Wednesday. “I told them at the end of the Tottenham game it is not always the thing that you want to hear, but there are no gimmes here for us, there is no slacking or resting because we have not earned it over the season so far,” he says. “We have to go there and try and do the same again. It is for the players to show the right mentality and show they can do it in games like this not just the big ones. “I felt it was important to say it then because we had such a good victory that I didn’t want them to think that it didn’t matter.” Moyes accepts that Everton have fallen into the giant killing trap too many times, something he emphasised to his dressing room. You only have to look back at our recent history to see that we have suffered in this competition,” he says. “But then on the other hand, two years ago we started a good cup run at Macclesfield and now we have to do the same again. “You don’t dread these games, but we got drawn against Brentford in the League Cup and we thought that was good – so what becomes a good draw for you? “I’m not putting these clubs down in any way, but there are just no gimmes these days. You look at football in the Premier League and all around now, and you have to earn the right to win no matter who you play.” Moyes revealed that his summer signing from Leeds United, Beckford, will keep his place in the team today, against a side he scored eight goals for while on loan from Leeds in 2007. “Jermaine is probably no different from some of the other boys we’ve brought in from the lower leagues,” he says. “It takes time to settle. It took Phil Jagielka time, and it took Leighton Baines time. “You’ve got to pick up the level of the training, the speed of the game, and improve your own personal game as you go along. “Then when you get an opportunity in the team you’ve got to show what you can do. “He was part of a winning team against Spurs and will start. I want to give him a chance. The supporters get to see him, and make their decisions too.” Moyes hopes his team can show the same vigour against The Iron, who have lost seven of their last eight games, as they did against Spurs. “I’ve been in Ian Baraclough’s position against the bigger sides when I was at Preston, and it’s a no lose situation,” he says. “I think we’ve played good, open football all season. But with Spurs we played against another team who were open. “Most of the teams we’ve played against have been compact, and we’ve been the ones asked to go and create chances and break them down. “We made better chances against Spurs, but it’s been difficult when teams have shut up shop and defended deep.” Moyes insists that getting his team into the hat for the fourth round draw is his sole focus, and is not overly concerned with the style in which it is achieved. “They have come through the leagues and have done really well. I know they are struggling a bit at the moment but I could tell you stories about Shrewsbury and other games we have lost, so I never take any game lightly and I certainly wouldn’t take Scunthorpe lightly. “If you are a club like Everton all cup competitions are a bonus, the longer you stay in it the better. I wish we had Europe, we aren’t in it this year, and I wish we’d stayed longer in the League Cup. “I would rather be a good league team than a good cup team because that shows your consistency but I really enjoyed my trips to Wembley for the semi final and the final (in 2009). We didn’t win it and it would be nice if we could go one step further.”
David Moyes targets Azerbaijani wonderkid Araz Abdullayev for Everton FC
Jan 8 2011 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
EVERTON have moved closer to a permanent deal for Azerbaijani wonderkid Araz Abdullayev – as they missed out on another of their January midfield targets. The Toffees have signed the 18-year-old midfielder subject to him being granted a work permit, although the youngest player to be capped by his country will remain at his club, Neftchi, for most of the season. Abdullayev shot to the attention of a host of European sides after scoring a spectacular goal against Scotland Under-21s in March last year, and has long been linked with a move to Merseyside. When he arrives at Goodison later this year he will train with the first team, while club officials apply for his work permit. The deal will be good news for David Moyes’ investment in youth, although another more immediate potential signing, Tottenham midfielder David Bentley, yesterday joined Birmingham City on loan instead. Moyes had hoped to persuade the right-sided midfielder to seek first team football at Everton, but the Londoner has been lured by the financial terms on offer in the Midlands. The Everton boss also said he has yet to receive any bids for striker Yakubu, despite reports that Championship club Leicester City are tracking him. The forward has been the subject of media speculation linking him with a move away from Goodison during the current transfer window. But Moyes confirmed during his Friday press conference that he had not received any bids for the Nigerian. Yakubu has appeared 15 times for the Toffees this season, scoring the winning goal in the win over Stoke City in October. Meanwhile, Louis Saha is hoping to resume his new partnership with Jermaine Beckford as the two are in line to start against Scunthorpe United in the FA Cup third round tie today. The pair linked up well during the victory against Spurs on Wednesday and Saha said: He said: “It was really enjoyable (playing with Beckford). “It makes it easier for me as he is always moving – it makes things happen and makes more space for me. “Straight away he went off and pulled defenders away and gave me space to hit the ball (for the goal). If he had not been there I would have been closed down and maybe not have scored. “I am confident that with two up it puts more pressure on the defence and gives us more chances to do damage to the defence. It makes it much harder for them.. “I felt more comfortable the way we started the game, we were really positive and any striker wants to be involved in attacking football. Everyone was in tune and it was a pleasure to be a part of the performance.” Everton can confirm that Araz Abdullayev is set to arrive at Goodison Park before the end of the current season – but only to train.
Surprise recall for Bobby Grant ahead of Everton FA Cup clash
(Scunthorpe telegraph)
Iron striker Bobby Grant. January 8, 2011
YOUNG Bobby Grant is a surprise inclusion in United's squad for this afternoon's FA Cup third round tie with Everton at Glanford Park. The versatile 20-year-old, who can play either in midfield or up front, was recalled late yesterday from his loan spell with Rochdale, with the Iron citing injury problems as the reason. Winger Garry Thompson is known to be struggling with a recurrence of groin trouble. Former Anfield schoolboy Grant has scored twice in his six appearances for Rochdale in League One. He arrived at United from Accrington Stanley last summer, but has struggled to make an impact at Championship level. He was loaned out to Rochdale in November to get some regular first team experience, and was expected to stay at Spotland for at least another month. Only on Thursday, Iron boss Ian Baraclough said he was happy to let him stay, subject to a 24-hour recall. That has now been triggered and Scouser Grant is likely to be on the substitutes' bench against Everton. Ahead of Grant in the pecking order at the moment seems to be Matt Godden, who has come on as substitute in each of Scunthorpe's last three games. "Matt has come through strongly this year," said Baraclough. "He is showing us he has a talent which is being nurtured."
Michael Raynes seeks to make his mark at Glanford Park
January 8, 2011 (Scunthorpe telegraph)
FIT defenders are a bit like buses for Scunthorpe United – you wait ages and then two come along at once. And if Michael Raynes has anything to say about it, the Iron will soon have two of the very highest calibre. The centre-back, who is close to recovering from a thigh injury, admits he hasn't yet made the impact he would have liked at Glanford Park. But he knows just what he needs to do to get there – and in whose footsteps he needs to follow. "I 100 per cent feel like I've not put my mark down at all yet," Raynes told the Telegraph. "It's very frustrating. "At Stockport everyone knew what I was about, but at Scunthorpe I've not really had a run in the team. "Even from the manager's side of things, he's not really seen what I can offer yet because I've not had the run of games. "When I do get the chance, I'm hoping to put my mark on things. "I've learnt so much from Rob Jones, David Mirfin and Cliff Byrne – they're all experienced players. "Dave's the right-footed centre-half. "He's where I want to be in two years time. "I'm two years younger than Dave and in my opinion he's one of the better defenders in the Championship. "I'm trying to watch what he does day in, day out and try to get to the level he's at. "I think it just takes time. "He said himself, he was a bit like me when he first started and over the last couple of years he's really found his feet. "I've got to get a bit more experience and play a lot more games." Raynes accepts he will have a fight on his hands to do that with United in the near future. The 23-year-old's injury came at a time when he had started to feature more frequently for Ian Baraclough's side. But with Niall Canavan now the only centre-back still on the treatment table, there is much competition for places. "We'll have a problem soon where we've got too many defenders fit and everyone wants to start," said Raynes, who made his comeback for the reserves in midweek. "That's just the way football is. "You can't be too harsh on yourself, you've just got to get on with it. "I want to play. I didn't come here to sit on the bench. "Whoever's starting, I'll be biting at their heels to make sure I am playing. "It's the gaffer's choice. I guess it's a better scenario having too many players than not having enough players. "The injury was bad timing really. "But the postponement of games went in my favour, so I've not missed too many. "I'm hoping I'm close to starting. I'm biting at straws ready to play again."
FULL-TIME: Scunthorpe United 1 Everton 5
January 8, 2011 (Scunthorpe telegraph)
SCUNTHORPE United were dealt a masterclass in attacking football as their hopes of an FA Cup upset again failed to materialise. Everton shrugged aside their Premier League goalscoring problems to put five past an Iron side struggling for both form and confidence on the back of their wretched home form. The visitors were on course for round four from as early as the fourth minute, when Louis Saha put them 1-0 in front. By half-time Jermaine Beckford had doubled the lead and though Michael Collins' well-struck shot immediately after the beak offered hope to Ian Baraclough's side, defensive generosity was again to prove their downfall.The recurrence of a troublesome groin problem robbed Scunthorpe of winger Garry Thompson as Everton made only their second ever visit to Glanford Park. The former Morecambe man was forced off during Monday's defeat against Watford, a match that was only his second start since August. His absence meant a recall for Michael Collins, while Rob Jones also returned to the starting XI, with skipper Cliff Byrne forced to sit out with a back problem. Despite suggesting he was likely to name his strongest lline-up, Everton boss David Moyes made changes to his midfield, handing Leon Osman and Diniyar Bilyaletdinov starts. Jermaine Beckford led the front line, returning to the club where he enjoyed a successful loan spell in 2007. Given that they had not beaten a top-flight side in cup combat for more than 40 years, Scunthorpe needed a good start if they were to pull off a shock. What they got was exactly the opposite. There were just four minutes on the clock when the visitors went ahead, Louis Saha smacking home a left-foot shot from 20 yards with no Iron player in sight to close him down. As many minutes later it could have been 2-0, but Rob Jones recovered well to recover and block a low effort from Beckford after initially being left for dead by the Evertonian front man. Michael O'Connor tested the palms of Tim Howard with a long-range effort as Scunthorpe went in search of an equaliser, but really it was the visitors who looked the likeliest to add to the scoring. Marouane Fellaini blazed over on the back of a mazy run by Diniyar Bilyaletdinov and then Beckford should have done better when denied by keeper Joe Murphy after latching on to Seamus Coleman's sublime through ball. Sloppy at the back at the best of times, United struggled all afternoon to cope with Everton's speed on the break and when Osman whipped in a teasing left-wing cross, Beckford made no mistake from five yards to make it 2-0. Having looked so far behind their visitors during the opening 45 minutes, Scunthorpe's start to the second half came as something of a shock. Within 30 seconds of kicking off, Josh Wright dinked a ball through the middle and the previously anonymous Collins got behind the Blues defence to smash a stunning finish low past Howard and give his side a lifeline. Yet just when they looked to be building up a head of steam, more careless defending saw them concede a third goal - and hand victory to Everton on a plate. Beckford this time was the provider, curling in a cross from the left flank which in-form winger Coleman met with a stooping header that bounced inside a static Murphy's left-hand post. Comfortably in control, the Blues then took their foot off the pedal, concentrating on possession football as Scunthorpe tried in vain to look threatening as an attacking unit. A fourth Everton goal on 73 minutes added gloss to the scoreline, Fellaini this time being afforded a generous amount of time to roll the ball into the far corner of the net after picking up possession on the edge of the box. And the impressive Baines made it five with the best strike of the match, swinging his foot through a curling 83rd minute effort that nestled into the top corner of a beleagured Murphy's net. It compounded another disappointing afternoon at Glanford Park.
TEAMS
SCUNTHORPE: Murphy; A Wright, Mirfin, Jones (Raynes 46), Nolan; O'Connor, Collins, J Wright (Togwell 79), Woolford; Dagnall (Godden 66), Forte. Subs not used: Slocombe, Grant, McClenahan, Cowan-Hall.
EVERTON: Howard; Hibbert, Distin, Heitinga, Baines; Coleman (Gueye 78), Bilyaletdinov, Osman, Fellaini (Rodwell 74); Beckford, Saha (Anichebe 64). Subs not used: Mucha, Arteta, Neville, Yakubu.
ATTENDANCE: 7,028 (2,116 away).
Everton cruise into next round of the FA Cup after a 5-1 victory over Scunthorpe
Jan 8 2011 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
EVERTON strolled into the draw for the fourth round of the FA cup after cruising to a 5-1 victory over Championship side Scunthorpe United. David Moyes fielded a strong line-up featuring six current international players, that was rarely troubled after surviving a brief rally by The Iron after half time. It keeps the Blues’ last hopes of silverware this season alive, and maintains the Goodison feel-good factor after the mid-week win over Spurs. David Moyes had made just three changes from the side which beat Tottenham on Wednesday; Leon Osman started while Mikel Arteta was rested, Tony Hibbert replaced skipper Phil Neville and Diniyar Bilyaletdinov enjoyed a rare start in place of Steven Pienaar. Just as against Harry Redknapp's side, Everton had the perfect start thanks to an early goal by Louis Saha. The similarities didn’t stop there either; as Seamus Coleman was the provider again, playing in the Frenchman who cut inside and beat former Tranmere keeper Joe Murphy, this time with a low left footed strike. Only four minutes were passed but it set the tone for a relatively comfortable afternoon. Things settled into a pedestrian pace after the opener, as Everton kept things tight on a patchy surface. But shortly after the half hour mark, stand-in captain Osman was given too much space on the right, and ghosted inside to deliver a pin-point cross into the area that ex-Scunthorpe man Jermaine Beckford finished with a cool header after nipping in front of home skipper David Mirfin. The Blues had enjoyed the vast majority of possession, crafting more than enough chances to have crushed the Championship struggler’s spirit comprehensively. And even though Beckford missed enough clear opportunities to have a guaranteed match ball at the break, the Toffee’s dominance never looked like being challenged. They underlined their constant threat just before the break when Saha connected sweetly with a header from Leighton Baines’ free kick, drawing another smart save from Murphy. The Iron emerged after the interval to a burst of punk rock, and instantly showed they were in defiant mood. A long ball over the top from Josh Wright caught Everton’s back four snoozing too high up the pitch, and midfielder Michael Collins out-stripped Sylvain Distin for pace to rifle an impressive first-time shot past a despairing Tim Howard. The goal woke up the home crowd, and evened the contest for a spell. Suddenly Ian Baraclough’s side were playing with confidence, and Michael O’Connor went close from long range. But Everton weathered the storm and produced a simple goal to effectively kill the tie soon after. Beckford did well after popping up on the left flank to find space and curl a cross into the area, and Seamus oleman made no mistake to score his second header in two games and his fifth goal of the campaign. With the result in the bag, Marouane Fellaini got the travelling Evertonians singing in the cold again with a neat finish after he was given plenty of time on the edge of the area, and was promptly replaced by Jack Rodwell. Then Leighton Baines claimed the goal of the day with six minutes left, curling a delightful effort into the top right hand corner to leave the demoralised home keeper grasping at thin air. It was a welcome display of clinical finishing by Moyes' side to ensure smooth progress in a competition the Scot is determined to one day win. Could this be his year to go one better than 2009 when he reached the final? Don't bet against it. EVERTON: (4-4-2) Howard, Hibbert, Distin, Heitinga, Baines, Bilyaletdinov, Osman (capt), Fellaini (Rodwell, 75), Coleman (Gueye, 79), Saha (Anichebe, 64), Beckford. Subs not used: Mucha, Arteta, Neville, Yakubu. Bookings: Heitinga. Goals: Saha (4), Beckford (33), Coleman (58), Fellaini (74), Baines (83) SCUNTHORPE UNITED: (4-4-2) Murphy, Wright (Togwell, 79), Jones (Raynes, 46), Woolford, O’Connor, Dagnall (Godden, 67) Forte, Mirfin (capt), Wright, Collins, Nolan. Subs not used: Slocombe, Grant, McClenahan, Cowan-Hall Bookings: Goals: Collins (46) Attendance: 7,028 Referee: Kevin Friend
Scunthorpe 1-5 Everton: Sunday Mirror match report
By Michael Morgan Jan 9 2011
This time 12 months ago, Jermaine Beckford caused a massive FA Cup shock by notching a glory winner for Leeds against mighty Manchester United at Old Trafford. A year on, and the hitman who joined Everton on a free from Elland Road last ¬summer, made sure the ¬Toffees’ path through to the Fourth Round would be as straightforward and pain-free as possible. Beckford grabbed his side’s second goal, then teed up Seamus Coleman for the ¬crucial third which knocked the stuffing out of Scunthorpe’s challenge. Goodison assistant boss Steve Round said: “It was good for Jermaine to get among the goals again. “He has been finding his feet in the Premier League and is starting to come through the way we knew he would. “He had to step up a couple of divisions after joining us, and it’s always going to take time for a player to adjust to the demands of a higher league. But we know he is a good finisher, we know he can score goals, and we are ¬delighted with his progress.” Round added: “This was a very pleasing win and ¬performance – we’re delighted to have come through this tie.” Scunthorpe manager Ian Baraclough declared: “I thought Jermaine looked bright all through the game, and certainly not out of place in their team. “But I can’t understand why we didn’t start the game with the desire and passion we showed at the beginning of the second-half. “I think we paid Everton too much respect to start with, but then we showed what we are capable of with that little 20- minute spell just after the break. “I’m disappointed we didn’t cause them more problems, but there are still positives we can take from this ¬performance which will stand us in good stead in our battle to stay up in the ¬Championship.” It took only four minutes for Everton to surge ahead as Coleman and Leon Osman linked well to set up Louis Saha who drilled home from 23 yards. But in the 18th minute, the Iron went close as Michael O’Connor’s volley was well held by Tim Howard. On 33 minutes, Beckford burst into life by shifting himself quickly to get in front of David Mirfin and glance home a header from Osman’s cross. United hauled themselves back into the contest with a stunning strike just after the break as Michael Collins smacked a 20-yard drive into the bottom corner of Howard’s net. But the lively Beckford killed off United’s challenge 12 minutes later as his cross was headed home by ¬Coleman. Scunthorpe battled on but Marouane ¬Fellaini and Leighton Baines added the fourth and fifth goals to give the scoreline a slightly ¬flattering look.
Everton leading the chase for former Liverpool reject
By Michael Morgan Jan 9, 2011
Sunday Mirror
Everton are leading the chase for the former ¬Liverpool winger, who has a £500,000 buy-out clause in the three-year deal he signed when joining the Tykes from Anfield 17 months ago. But Wolves – whose boss Mick McCarthy watched Hammill in Barnsley’s 2-1 win over Coventry last ¬Monday – Blackpool, West Ham and -Bolton are also in the chase for his signature. Hammill, 22, has notched eight goals this season and Oakwell chief Robins ¬believes he has already made up his mind to make a switch to the top flight Robins said: “I don’t think there is any chance of keeping Adam. “I don’t want to lose him, but it is out of my hands now. And, if he does move, then we’ll just have to carry on without him and look to do something different. “There’s been interest from a few clubs, so what happens from here is out of my ¬control. “If someone comes up with the right money, I guess he’ll speak to them and then ¬decide ¬whether or not to leave.”
Scunthorpe 1 Everton 5: Moyes' men annihilate United as Jermaine Beckford haunts former club
9th January 2011 Sunday Mail
Jermaine Beckford marked his return to Scunthorpe with his most convincing performance as an Everton player and guided them through a potentially-tricky FA Cup third-round tie. The former Leeds striker, who made his name with the winner at Old Trafford at this stage last year to knock Manchester United out of the competition, has struggled to establish himself in the Premier League since his free transfer from Elland Road during the summer. Given the familiar surroundings of Glanford Park, where he scored eight goals in 13 matches on loan in 2007, against a Scunthorpe side who had won only three home matches all season, Beckford impressed enough to suggest he can prove himself at the top level of English football. Louis Saha claimed his second goal of the week to fire Everton into a third-minute lead and Beckford doubled their advantage midway through a one-sided first half. Scunthorpe briefly threatened to cause an upset when Mmichael Ccollins scored virtually from the kick-off in the second half, but Seamus Coleman, Marouane Fellaini and Leighton Baines added further goals. It was Beckford, who had scored just two goals in his previous 18 appearances, who caught the eye, though. Everton assistant manager Steve Round said: 'Jermaine is really finding his feet in the Premier League without scoring, so for him to score and look threatening all game was very pleasing. He's really starting to come through now. Iit's taken a while but we knew that would happen.' Everton rested only three players and were rewarded with a comprehensive victory, which Scunthorpe manager Iian Baraclough likened to a training game during the first half. 'I asked the players whether they felt they weren't good enough to be on the same pitch, it was almost a training game for them and we were just making up the numbers,' said Baraclough, a former team-mate of Beckford's during his time at Scunthorpe. 'If we'd set about them from the start, we might have been able to cause them a few more problems.'
SCUNTHORPE 1 EVERTON 5: NAP HAPPY BUT OTHER BUNCH KOP HEADLINES
Sunday January 9,2011 Sunday Express
SCUNTHORPE 1 -- EVERTON 5
IT must be frustrating being Everton. They overcome a potential banana skin with aplomb yet that lot fromacross Stanley Park still grab the headlines.
Jermaine Beckford scored Leeds’ winner at Manchester United at this stage last year, and found the mark again here after Louis Saha had opened the scoring. Michael Collins gave Scunthorpe hope 21 seconds into the second half, but Seamus Coleman and Marouane Fellaini gave the scoreboard a realistic look.
And Leighton Baines’ majestic fifth – a left-foot effort that had even the Scunthorpe fans applauding – stole the show. David Moyes’ side deserve plaudits and the scoreline could easily have been double figures. But they will be in Liverpool’s shadows because of the second coming of a certain chap called Dalglish. After sealing their place in the fourth-round, Everton fans could be forgiven for predicting a Dalglish-inspired stunner at Old Trafford today that would overshadow their win. Everton assistant manager Steve Round said: “We’ve been threatening this kind of result for a while. “It’s two in two for Louis Saha and Jermaine is really finding his feet as well. He’s taken a while to come through but we knew that would happen. When you come up from a league or two below it takes time to establish yourself. “But we know he can score goals, he’s a really good finisher.” United have been beyond awful at Glanford Park, where their last win came in August! Little wonder there were 2,000 empty spaces. Saha’s early opener, which was as easy as you like, knocked out whatever stuffi ng there was in the Iron – and there didn’t appear to be much. Beckford then expertly guided home Leighton Baines’ cross for his fourth of the season to leave Everton cruising. It could have been 8-0 to Everton at the break! Manager Ian Baraclough almost came a cropper when he tripped down the stairs in the stand before kick-off and if he called for a rousing start, he would have been seething. It took just 40 seconds for Scunthorpe keeper Joe Murphy to be called into action when Coleman’s deflected cross was palmed away. Then their defence stood off as Saha lined up a shot from 22 yards and Murphy reacted slowly, letting the ball into his bottom corner. Chris Dagnall could have injected some life into the tie with a free header at the far post but missed badly. He then felt the force of a high Johnny Heitinga challenge that resembled fellow Dutchman Nigel de Jong’s in the World Cup Final. But the gulf in class was apparent. If it was not for overworked keeper Murphy, Beckford would have had a hat-trick in the first half-hour. It was all far too easy. Leon Osman was next to go close after Diniyar Bilyaletdinov and Baines carved the Iron open. Once the inevitable happened and Beckford guided Baines’ cross past Murphy, it was not a matter of if – but by how many. Somehow Scunthorpe were back in the game when Collins stroked the ball past Tim Howard and they pressed for a spell. But once Coleman converted a cross from Beckford it was game over. Fellaini then put the icing on the cake before Baines’ brilliance, which was fi t to grace a Merseyside derby. Next Sunday’s Anfield clash is one of the most eagerly-awaited in years and Everton have fired out a warning. They are finally finding form and are hell-bent on being Merseyside’s headline act for once. A disappointed Baraclough said: “The start of the second half showed what we could do, why wasn’t that there at the beginning of the game? “Everton aren’t going to feel sorry for you. You need to get around them and we showed that when we did, we could create something.”
Everton FC strikers are hailed by Steve Round after Scunthorpe United win
Jan 10 2011 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
STEVE Round admitted he was delighted to see Everton discover their clinical edge during their 5-1 FA Cup romp against Scunthorpe United. The Everton assistant manager believes the Toffees had been on the verge of clicking in front of goal for some time, and hopes it represents a corner turned after their morale-boosting league win over Tottenham Hotspur last week. He said: “We were very pleased. We’ve been threatening that sort of score for a while but we were just pleased to get the goals that we’ve maybe missed in other games, and go into the next round. “It was important to get the early goal and it kills the game a bit, and makes the ground a bit flat. But credit to them they came back at us in the second half and had a good half time. “It does cross your mind when they came at us that we’d be made to pay for missing a few in the first half. We’ve had that happen to us in the past but credit to the players they were mentally strong, got the third goal, and then totally dominated.” Round took satisfaction in seeing both of Everton’sstrikers score during the tie at Glanford Park. He said: “It was important that both strikers scored. Louis had two in two and is the sort of striker that when he goes on a run it’s very hard to stop him, and Jermaine is finding his feet in the Premier League with our squad. “He is really starting to come through. It takes time when you come up from two leagues below and we knew that would happen.”
We have nothing to fear from Liverpool FC, says Everton FC midfielder Leon Osman
Jan 10 2011 Liverpool Echo
LEON OSMAN reckons Everton will look forward to next week’s Merseyside derby with confidence after rejuvenating their league campaign and sending out an emphatic FA Cup message. The Toffees were more like their old selves as they overcame title-chasing Tottenham 2-1 with a performance full of attacking intent in the Premier League last week. They followed that up by delivering on their promise to take the FA Cup seriously by crushing Scunthorpe 5-1 in their third-round tie at Glanford Park yesterday. Their next game is away at fierce rivals Liverpool next Sunday, a match which will now mark the official homecoming of Anfield legend Kenny Dalglish as new Reds boss. It is sure to be an emotional occasion but Everton are keen not to let their newfound momentum slip. Midfielder Leon Osman said: “We are really looking forward to it, it is our next game. “Hopefully with a little bit of confidence we’ve got now going into it we can get the right result. “I am sure the change of manager will affect them in a way but there is nothing we can do about that. “We have got to concentrate on ourselves, take no notice of what is happening off the field there and go there and put on a show that we know we are capable of.” Everton beat Liverpool at Goodison Park on a tense afternoon in October. Both clubs had been struggling for form and were in the bottom four before the game. The situation is slightly better now with Everton 11th and Liverpool 12th but expectations on both sides of the city are much higher than that. Everton boss David Moyes has made clear he feels it is time his club won some silverware after 16 trophyless years. The FA Cup now seems like a viable option for the Blues, who reached the final two years ago, and Moyes has pledged to field strong sides throughout the competition. Certainly any prospects of an upset at Championship strugglers Scunthorpe were quickly dispelled as they powered into a fourth-minute lead through Louis Saha. Jermaine Beckford added a second before the break on his return to a club where he enjoyed a successful loan spell from Leeds four years ago. Michael Collins spectacularly pulled one back as the Iron briefly rallied after the break but Seamus Coleman, Marouane Fellaini and Leighton Baines made sure of victory. Veteran Phil Neville, Mikel Arteta and Steven Pienaar were the only players rested by Moyes while Phil Jagielka missed out through injury. Osman, who stood in as captain for Neville, said: “It is not just the manager who is desperate – throughout the club we want to step and try to get some silverware now. “This is a really good opportunity. Everybody needs some luck with the draws but we need to put on performances like this. Fingers crossed, we can go far. “It was a good win, five different goalscorers, and hopefully it breeds confidence going into the derby next week. “It was always going to be difficult and it was important we got a good start. “We got out of the blocks fast and got 2-0 up at half-time. “But we still knew the tie wasn’t over and they proved that straight after half-time with a good goal.” The afternoon was a chastening experience for Scunthorpe, who must now turn their attention back to the npower Championship relegation battle. Ian Baraclough’s side have lost seven of their last eight league games and are second bottom of the table. Baraclough hopes lessons can be learnt from playing such quality opposition. He said: “We have seen what it takes to compete with the best, seen the amount of work that needs to be put in. “That is the kind of level we have got to attain.”
Everton FC sail past Scunthorpe United in the FA Cup third round with a 1-5 win
Jan 10 2011 Liverpool Echo
“"Jermaine is really finding his feet in the Premier League. He scored again and that was very pleasing. He has now got the goal, he was threatening the other night.” STEVE ROUND admits his pleasure at Beckford's continuing progress. “The first twenty minutes of the second half was what I asked for, but otherwise we looked awestruck and stood off them. You can't do that against a Premier League team.” IAN BARACLOUGH rues his team's inability to rise to the occasion.
IAN Botham once played for Scunthorpe United, but even the legendary lion heart at his best would have struggled to prevent their slick dismissal by Everton. The Toffees almost, but not quite, smashed their Championship opponents for six to ensure progress into the fourth round of the FA Cup. In the end there were just the five goals from the team in the kit resembling cricketing whites, but they could have had many more. Satisfyingly though, nobody was talking about Everton’s profligacy in front of goal after the visit to Glanford Park. For the first time this season, David Moyes’ team showed a clinical edge, to keep their manager’s dream of silverware alive. Everton might have sponsored the match ball, but any generosity ended there. They took three minutes to open the scoring against Spurs on Wednesday, and only had to wait one more against Ian Baraclough’s side. Louis Saha has insisted that his returning confidence will yield goals, and he was good to his word when, just like against Tottenham, Seamus Coleman was the provider, playing in the Frenchman who cut inside and beat former Tranmere keeper Joe Murphy, this time with a low left footed strike. Things settled into a pedestrian pace after the opener, as Everton kept things tight on a patchy surface. But shortly after the half hour mark, stand-in captain Osman was given too much space on the right, and ghosted inside to deliver a pin-point cross into the area that ex-Scunthorpe man Jermaine Beckford finished with a cool header. The Blues had enjoyed the vast majority of possession, crafting more than enough chances to have crushed the Irons’ spirit comprehensively. And even though Beckford missed enough clear opportunities to have a guaranteed match ball at the break, the Toffees’ dominance never looked like being challenged. They underlined their constant threat just before the break when Saha connected sweetly with a header from Leighton Baines’ free kick, drawing another smart save from Murphy. The hosts emerged after the interval to a burst of punk rock, and instantly displayed a new fighting spirit to at least try to unsettle their Premier League opponents. Cue a long ball over the top from Josh Wright that caught Everton’s back four snoozing too high up the pitch, and midfielder Michael Collins out-stripped Sylvain Distin for pace to rifle an impressive first-time shot past a despairing Tim Howard. The goal woke up the home crowd, and evened the contest for a spell. Suddenly Scunthorpe started to play with confidence, and Michael O’Connor went close from long range. Chastised by allowing the home side an easy glimmer of hope, Everton weathered the brief ensuing storm and produced a simple goal to effectively kill the tie shortly after. Beckford did well after popping up on the left flank to find space and curl a cross into the area, and Seamus Coleman made no mistake to score his second header in two games and his fifth goal of the campaign. Hearts were in mouths when Kevin Friend harshly booked the 22-year-old for celebrating his goal, with some believing the booking would mean he misses a certain game looming on the horizon, but a New Year yellow card amnesty makes him safe. With the result in the bag, Marouane Fellaini got the travelling Evertonians singing in the cold again with a neat finish. Then Leighton Baines claimed the goal of the day, curling a delightful effort into the top right hand corner. There could have been more for Everton, but progression was already guaranteed. In the end the Blues, who had rested Mikel Arteta, Phil Neville, and Steven Pienaar, were playing keep ball ahead of next weekend’s Merseyside derby. A flurry of changes allowed Victor Anichebe, Jack Rodwell and Magaye Gueye to stretch their legs and the substitutions did nothing to alter Everton’s dominance. Will Chelsea relish a visit to Goodison in the fourth round? Don’t bet on it.
SCUNTHORPE: Murphy, Wright (Togwell, 79), Jones (Raynes, 46), Woolford, O’Connor, Dagnall (Godden, 67) Forte, Mirfin (capt), Wright, Collins, Nolan. Not used: Slocombe, Grant, McClenahan, Cowan-Hall
EVERTON: Howard, Hibbert, Distin, Heitinga, Baines, Bilyaletdinov, Osman (capt), Fellaini (Rodwell, 75), Coleman (Gueye, 79), Saha (Anichebe, 64), Beckford.. Not used: Mucha, Arteta, Neville, Yakubu.
GOALS: Saha (4), Beckford (33), Coleman (58), Fellaini (74), Baines (83); Collins (46)
CARDS: Heitinga.
REFEREE: Kevin Friend (Leicestershire)
ATTENDANCE: 7,028
Leon Osman admits Everton FC are desperate to go all the way in the FA Cup final
Jan 10 2011 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
LEON OSMAN admits Everton are desperate to go one further than 2009 when they reached the FA Cup final – after he captained the Blues smoothly through their third round tie against Scunthorpe United. The Toffees’ reward for their dominant 5-1 demolition of the Championship strugglers is a fourth round Goodison match with their opponents from the final two years ago, Chelsea. But Osman believes their latest successful navigation of a potentially tricky opening round, like at Macclesfield, was a good omen. The midfielder scored the only goal against Macclesfield in January 2009, and was restored to central midfield in place of Mikel Arteta at Glanford Park on Saturday. And he admitted that David Moyes’s repeat motivational techniques before the game worked perfectly once again. He said: “I’ve got fond memories of that tie (at Macclesfield). Another away game at a lower league club and we’ve came away with another good result. “Again we came up the day before the game as we always do, but gave ourselves an extra hour to look around the ground and make sure there were no surprises when we turned up. We knew what to expect off and on the pitch. “It’s important for us all to do that – not just the young lads. It’s for all of us, so that the minds are completely focused on the game and what we need to do. “We want to crack on now. It’s a good time for us to do well in the cup. The final in 2009 was disappointing but we got a taste for it and we want to repeat it if possible.” Osman would like nothing better than to see the club win a trophy during his playing career, and hopes the FA Cup can help provide this season with a much needed boost. “Everyone at the club from the kit staff right through to the manager wants some silverware,” he said. “We’ve been within sight of it and it wet the lips. We’ve had a somewhat disappointing season in the league so maybe a cup is a chance to step it up. “We scored five away from home and could have had more in the end. We played well. “We knew it could be difficult and it was important to come here with the right mental attitude and get the right result.”
Ask actor and Everton FC fan Simon O'Brien your question
Jan 10 2011 By Jo Kelly
ACTOR and well-known Everton FC fan Simon O'Brien will be coming into the Echo and Daily Post newsroom later today to answer your questions on the Blues. Got something you'd like to ask the famous Evertonian? Something about the Derby? Send your question along with your name to jo.kelly@liverpool.com or post it below this article before 2pm.
Everton set for 2009 FA Cup final repeat with Chelsea in fourth round at Goodison
Jan 10 2011 Liverpool Daily Post
EVERTON face a repeat of the 2009 FA Cup final as they were drawn to face Chelsea in this year’s fourth round. David Moyes’s side cruised into the fourth round with a 5-1 victory at Scunthorpe on Saturday. Chelsea were equally emphatic winners yesterday as they crushed managerless Ipswich Town 7-0 at Stamford Bridge. Goals from Frank Lampard (2), Daniel Sturridge (2), Salomon Kalou, Nicolas Anelka and an own goal from Carlos Edwards set up the fourth-round clash at Goodison which is due to take place on the weekend of January 29-30. It is a repeat of two years ago when Chelsea beat Everton in the final at Wembley with goals from Frank Lampard and Didier Drogba cancelling out Louis Saha’s first-minute goal.
Steve Round insists Everton FC have found their teeth
Jan 10 2011 by Philip Kirkbride, Liverpool Daily Post
ASSISTANT manager Steve Round believes the FA Cup drubbing of Scunthorpe was a scoreline Everton have been promising for some time. The Goodison Park side breezed into a fourth round home tie with Chelsea after a comfortable afternoon at Glanford Park on Saturday. Round was delighted with the way his side responded to the Iron firing back just after half-time by adding three goals after the break. “Yes we were very pleased,” said David Moyes' number two. “We've been threatening that sort of score for a while, but we were just pleased to get the goals that we’ve maybe missed in other games, and go into the next round.“It was important to get the early goal and it kills the game a bit, and makes the ground a bit flat. “But credit to them they came back at us in the second half and had a good half-time. “It does cross your mind when they came at us, that we’d be made to pay for missing a few in the first half. We’ve had that happen to us in the past, but credit to the players they were mentally strong, got the third goal, and then totally dominated. “It was important that both strikers scored. Louis had two in two and is the sort of striker that when he goes on a run it’s very hard to stop him. “I didn't ever see the team losing confidence because they are strong mentally and we knew they were playing well enough but just not taking the chances that were coming to them. “We knew if we started to score then we could go on a run, push up the league and go through in the cups.” Meanwhile Round believes Everton supporters are starting to see the qualities of summer signing Jermaine Beckford. The ex-Leeds United man scored on his return to former loan club Scunthorpe at the weekend and Round has backed Beckford continue his improvement. “He's starting to come through now but we knew it was going to take time for him to establish himself coming from a league or two below,” added Round. “It takes time, getting to know the difference in levels and time in training “But we know he is a good player, a really good finisher and he loves to play on the shoulder and is on the spot when the ball drops. “He got another goal at Scunthorpe and was threatening the other night against Spurs. “We are pleased with his progress.”
Scunthorpe 1 Everton FC 5 - EFC show gulf in class
Jan 10 2011 Liverpool Daily Post
THE only surprise was that Everton did not score more. There would be no upset on FA Cup third round Saturday as the Goodison Park side snuffed out the scent of a shock with a highly competent performance at Scunthorpe. Rarely in manager David Moyes' tenure has he overseen such a routine third round passage. Selecting a side not at full strength but nevertheless ably equipped to deal with what may emerge from the trip to Glanford Park, Everton were willing to pay Scunthorpe a level of respect which ultimately was not required. The Iron melted in the face of the Premier League club as Everton turned in an ideal performance for such an afternoon, one where they have fallen before. Having seen their path to Wembley meet a roadblock at Shrewsbury Town and veer off course at home to Oldham Athletic in previous years, Moyes' men are far more street wise to wherever the FA Cup journey will take them now. Plundering five goals was a fair reflection of their dominance on proceedings but it was a victory borne more out of professionalism than anything particularly pulsating – not that some of the away team's play was not easy on the eye. A startled Scunthorpe were no match for the steady hand at the back, sufficient bite in midfield and sprinkling of skill going forward which Everton offered on Saturday. And with the midfield bombarding forward with increasing regularity as the tie wore on – supplying the forward line as well as themselves with chances – Everton could well have made the scoreline all the more hard for the Championship side to stomach. Had Jermaine Beckford shown a touch more of the predatory instincts which made him a cult hero at Glanford Park in 2007 then his return could easily have been marked with a hat-trick instead of just his neat header in the first-half. The recalled Leon Osman – who wore the captain's armband in the absence of the rested Phil Neville – and midfield partner Marouane Fellaini could have also embellished the scoreline, and justifiably so as Moyes' men fully exposed the 32-place gap which separates the sides in league competition.
Scunthorpe 1 Everton FC 5 - EFC show gulf in class
Jan 10 2011 Liverpool Daily Post
The tie teased the neutral with the possibility of a second half Scunthorpe fightback as Michael Collins raced clear to hammer past Tim Howard, making 2-1 within seconds of the re-start. But the goal and momentary spell of pressure the Iron exerted was merely a brief break in the one-way traffic which headed relentlessly towards Joe Murphy's goal. A straightforward route through to the fourth round of a competition Everton so thrillingly reached the final showpiece in 2009 will give them particular satisfaction this morning but the trouble free nature as they head into Sunday's 215th Merseyside derby has to be the most pleasing aspect for the manager. Everton also cross Stanley Park with Leighton Baines and Seamus Coleman flush with a fearless attitude as well as Louis Saha having put the previous 11 months behind him. Wednesday night's strike against Tottenham Hotspur was his first since the 2-1 defeat of Chelsea in February last year and the Frenchman doubled his tally with a very similar goal. Picking up the ball after a close range exchange with Coleman, Saha struck a sweet right foot shot from just outside the area past a sprawling Murphy. For Coleman, his surges down the wing come without the excessive baggage of other wide men in the Premier League but the Everton man is consistently effective. The first of Beckford's opportunities came within the opening 10 minutes when he pounced on a slip by captain David Mirfin but as he raced towards goal the centre half atoned for his error and forced the ball out for a corner with the Everton man hesitating. No sooner had the Championship side found something to cling onto – with O'Connor's neatly struck volley forcing Howard to save – their hopes of an FA Cup success were trampled upon, though Everton toyed with them before finding the sucker punch. Following some patient build up from Everton, Fellaini played a one-two with Beckford to open space in the area but blazed his shot over the bar when hitting the target should have been the minimum outcome. Beckford was threaded through on goal by Coleman but his effort was well saved by Murphy, though in truth the home keeper should have been by-passed. The pressure was slowly building for the Premier League visitors and from Baines' cross Osman's close range volley was knocked wide by the increasingly desperate lunge of Scunthorpe's defence. It was a period in which Everton dominated with life far more comfortable than most would have expected such an occasion to offer. And proceedings got a whole lot easier when Beckford rediscovered his scoring touch as Osman's delightful cross was glanced home with the head of the former Leeds United man. A second goal half an hour effectively sealed Everton's passage into the fourth round and the murmur of boos at half-time from the home fans told you much of how easy Scunthorpe were making the afternoon. Manager Ian Baraclough's half-time talk however reaped almost immediate success as within 30 seconds of the re-start Collins hammered home a lifeline. A long ball from Josh Wright over the top of the Everton defence beat the otherwise flawless Sylvain Distin and Collins volleyed with accuracy and power past Howard from just inside the area. Scunthorpe had little other option than to show the desire which was lacking in the opening 45 minutes and as they began to find a foothold, they earned the home fans' backing. But the brief revival was extinguished as the hour approached when Coleman leapt highest to meet Beckford's inviting cross, glancing the ball beyond the reach of Murphy making it 3-1. A fourth goal was not long in coming as Fellaini worked space just inside the area before firing low into the far corner before Baines found himself in a similar position and floated a finely struck effort away from the dive of Murphy. Scunthorpe to their credit, tried to summon one final flurry on the Everton goal and Woolford's well struck effort forced Howard to tip over for a corner in a rare moment of action for the visiting American goalkeeper. And having avoided a shock, Everton will garner hope they can spring a surprise for the rest of the season themselves as their momentum slowly builds.
Everton FC confidence sky high ahead of derby, says Everton’s Seamus Coleman
Jan 10 2011 by Philip Kirkbride, Liverpool Daily Post
SEAMUS COLEMAN says Everton's confidence is sky-high ahead of the Merseyside derby – and insists the return of Kenny Dalglish to Liverpool will not affect their preparations.The Irish winger was amongst the scorers as the Goodison Park side cruised past Scunthorpe United in Saturday's FA Cup third round tie, winning 5-1. Coleman produced yet another tormenting display on the right flank at Glanford Park and after heading home his third goal in four matches, the 22-year-old cannot wait for Sunday's 215th all-Merseyside clash at Anfield. xpecting a frenzied atmosphere to await Everton this weekend, Coleman – the man picked up from Sligo Rovers for a bargain £60,000 – believes his side have what it takes to make it a derby double following October's convincing 2-0 win. Coleman starred that afternoon, supplying the cross for Tim Cahill's opening goal and though the Australian will be missing from Sunday's 2.05pm kick-off because he’s on international duty, the Irishman believes the return to form of Louis Saha will give Liverpool more than enough to think about. “Saturday's win was exactly what we wanted going into the derby,” said Coleman. “We've beaten Spurs and now Scunthorpe and that's what we wanted going into what promises to be a tough game. “Maybe Liverpool and their fans will be more up for the game now they have a new manager but it will not change anything towards how we approach the game, we can only worry about ourselves. We just need to prepare well this week. “Like we did against Spurs, we need to push and press Liverpool early on and don't let them get their heads up. “The derby is always a massive game and we've won one already and it would be great to get a second. “October's derby was the first derby I've ever played in and to set up a goal was fantastic and hopefully we can do something similar on Sunday. “Tim won't be with us this time but Louis has scored two in the last two games and hopefully he can keep that run going against Liverpool.” Coleman believes Everton handled a potentially troublesome afternoon at Scunthorpe with a minimum of fuss. The winger's goal in the 58th minute – a glancing header from Jermaine Beckford's left wing cross – restored the visitors' two-goal advantage after Michael Collins' strike just after half-time threatened to spark a home side revival. “These sort of games are always going to be tricky ties,” said Coleman. “But the early goal settled us down a bit and we're delighted to get a couple of goals and build the confidence. “Everyone knows there are always cup upsets and coming here we knew it would not be an easy game with them chasing everything down. So getting something early on was always important. “As professionals you need to aim for the highest you can so we're in it to win. “When they got the early goal they were on top for maybe five or 10 minutes and you are always nervous they are going to get another one with the crowd getting behind them. Lucky enough we went back up the other end and got a third goal which settled us back down. “Beckford on the far side whipped it in and I just made a move in the box, got my head to it and thank God it went in. “I'm on a nice little run now with goals and up until this season I wasn't really a goal scorer. “I'm starting to enjoy playing on the wing more and more. I'm learning every week because I'm nowhere near being the finished article but I'm learning the role more and getting a few goals is always good.”
Everton assistant Round: Beckford continuing to make progress
January 10, 2011 (Scunthorpe telegraph)
ASSISTANT manager Steve Round has backed Jermaine Beckford to take his impressive FA Cup performance into the Premier League after watching him down one of his former clubs. The 27-year-old striker scored once and set up the match-clinching third goal as Everton eased into round four at the expense of the club where he spent a successful loan spell in 2007. Round admits Beckford, a summer signing at Goodison Park, has taken time to make the grade in the top flight but is convinced he is coming into form ahead of the second half of the campaign. "He's really starting to come through now," said Round, who conducted the Blues' post-match media conference. "It was great for him to score again and the fact he looked a threat for the whole game was very pleasing. "It's taken a while, but we knew that would happen when he'd come up from a league or two below. It's very difficult to establish yourself, it takes time. "We know he can score goals because he's a really good finisher. We know he's a threat on the shoulder and he loves to run in behind. "We're pleased with his progress." Last week's 2-1 home win over Spurs was only the sixth time in 21 matches Everton have netted twice in a match – with a lack of goals one of the biggest criticisms levelled at David Moyes' side this term. With that in mind, Round was delighted to see the Blues bag five at Glanford Park. "We've been threatening that sort of result for a while," he said. "We got the goals that we've missed in previous games and that's seen us through to the next round. "The early goal killed the game and made Scunthorpe go a little bit flat. "Credit to them, they came back at us after half-time. They got a goal back but I think our quality told in the end."
United must aspire to be more like Everton says goalscorer Collins
January 10, 2011 (Scunthorpe telegraph)
GOALSCORER Michael Collins believes Scunthorpe United have learned an important lesson the hard way. The Iron suffered a 5-1 thumping at the hands of Everton in the third round of the FA Cup on Saturday, with the midfielder's second half effort turning out to be no more than a consolation. But with Championship survival now their only focus, Collins wants to see his team take a leaf out of their Premier League visitors' book. Dismissing any suggestions of a possible cup hangover when it comes to Leeds this weekend, the former Huddersfield man is keen for United to replicate the Toffees' efforts. "If we can learn from Everton and aspire to be like that, then that's a positive we can take out of the game," he said. "We've got to look at them and take what they did to us into the league. "They could have come here and not fancied it. But every single player, including the subs, has given 100 per cent. "You can see why they play in the Premier League and earn the money they do. "We've got to take that into our games now and make sure everyone is fighting 100 per cent. "If we have anybody who isn't giving 100 per cent for the cause then we'll get found out. "If you're not good enough when you've done that, then you hold your hands up and say 'fair enough'. "But if you're not giving 100 per cent, that's not acceptable. "There's a way to lose, and that's making sure you give everything on the pitch and come off knowing you couldn't have given any more. "If you come off the pitch feeling you could have given more, then us as individuals will say that's not good enough. "But to a man, I can say nobody's been in that mind frame. Everyone has given as much as they possibly can." For Collins, his goal comes as a timely confidence boost. The 24-year-old hasn't yet been able to establish himself at Glanford Park having this season suffered from a shoulder problem. "I've always felt I'll be able to contribute goals," he said. "Sometimes it's a little bit more difficult when you're playing out on the wing. I've said before, that's not my natural position but wherever the gaffer wants me to play, I'll put a shift in. "It's been a bit of a stop-start season. I picked up the injury and missed an eight-week spell with the cancellations as well. "It's hard sometimes when you play one game here and one game there because you don't get into a rhythm. "If I can get as many games as I possibly can now, I think I'll feel better."
Iron's cup exit was like a 'training game' for Everton says Baraclough
January 10, 2011 (Scunthorpe telegraph)
BOSS Ian Baraclough accused his side of being 'awe-struck' and lacking passion as their hopes of beating top-flight opposition for the first time in more than 40 years evaporated at Glanford Park. It was hoped an FA Cup test against Everton would provide the Iron with a welcome respite from Championship combat, where they find themselves currently treading water in a relegation battle. But aside from a 10 minute spell after half-time, when Michael Collins scored to cut the Blues' lead down to 2-1, the problems that have become a staple reason behind the club's slide down the table were there for all to see. "At the beginning of the second half we showed the sort of passion we'd talked about before the game," said a downbeat Baraclough."That showed what we can do, but it needed to be there from the beginning. "I saw Everton in midweek against Tottenham. They are high tempo and won't feel sorry for you. "You've got to get about them and when we did, we showed we can create something. "Yes we scored a great goal, but it's not good enough to only have a 20 minute spell like that. "I said to the players after the game, 'did you feel you weren't good enough to be on the same pitch?' It was almost a training game for them, we were just making up the opposition. "I think the lads were awe-struck a little bit or showed them too much respect and allowed them too much space to play. "When Everton smell blood, they go for it." Baraclough must now lift his side from another poor performance in front of their own fans as they prepare to travel to high-flying Leeds United on Saturday. Nobody likes getting beat, but it's easier to stomach when you put up a fight – something which was sadly lacking against the Blues. Understandably upbeat about his side's survival chances, the Iron manager says his side must use the quality of Everton's play as a moniker for what can be achieved with a strong work ethic as they prepare for their visit to Elland Road. "We can draw a line under it," he said of the 5-1 loss. "We've got half the season to go. "We're three points off the total we had last season at this stage when we amassed an amount of points that was enough to keep us up. There's no reason why we can't do that again. "We'll get a couple of bodies in to help us out to make a push and get ourselves out of the bottom three. "We've seen what it takes to compete with the best and the amount of work that has to be put in to do that. That's a level we've got to attain."
SCUNTHORPE 1 - EVERTON 5 - DAVID MOYES HAS A RETAIL SPARK
10th January 2011 By Ian Murtagh The Daily Star
Scunthorpe 1 - Everton 5
A FRIDAY afternoon detour held the key to Everton’s stroll into the fourth round. Some players on the bus heading for their hotel must have thought the driver had taken a wrong turn as they hit a retail park on the outskirts of Scunthorpe. Little did they know Everton boss David Moyes, just as he had at Macclesfield two years ago, had given instructions for the bus to stop off at Glanford Park.
That was so everyone was aware of the surroundings they’d experience 24 hours later. His plan worked well as Everton cruised past a hopeless Iron outfit lacking passion and a gameplan. “It’s not the worst place to come and play football although it is a bit different to what we are used to week in, week out,” said the outstanding Leighton Baines. And his 83rd-minute curler from the edge of the box was the pick of the goals. “We were passing close to the ground on Friday so it was probably a good idea to show some of the lads where we were playing the following day. “We came in for five minutes and had a quick look around so everyone knew what to expect. “Some of them have only played top-flight football so just to let them see the place meant there were no nasty surprises.”
If any of Everton’s players were taken aback by the conditions they didn’t show it with Louis Saha’s second goal of the week just four minutes into the game. It was the work-rate, commitment and attitude of Moyes’ men as much as their quality which made this such a walk in the park. Some top-flight teams talk up their Cup chances but rarely match words with action. But Everton really do walk the walk. “You can tell by the line-ups the gaffer sends out,” added Baines. “We don’t make many changes. “We’ve come unstuck against teams like Scunthorpe so know more than anyone what’s needed. We had to give a professional performance and play like we did against Spurs in midweek.
“Right now the Cup is almost what our season is all about. Obviously we want to improve our league position but we’ve underachieved in that respect and need a good Cup run. “We had a taste of it two years ago and would love a repeat.” Everton were cruising at half-time with Jermaine Beckford marking his return to Scunthorpe, where he enjoyed a goal-laden loan spell, heading in a second.
Michael Collins’ goal 17 seconds after the break briefly threatened a shift in balance. But Seamus Coleman, Marouane Fellaini and Baines crushed the Iron’s dreams. Scunthorpe boss Ian Baraclough said: “At the beginning of the second half we showed the sort of passion we’d talked about but it needed to be there from the outset. “I had to ask my players ‘did you think you weren’t good enough to be out on the same pitch?’ “It was almost a training game for them.
Scunthorpe 1 Everton 5
MICHAEL MORGAN
Published: 10 Jan 2011 The Sun
Everton's England left-back heard the news on the team bus taking the Toffees to what turned out to be a stroll in the Glanford Park. Baines revealed: "When I was told about Kenny, I thought someone was taking the mick." Well, now Baines and his team-mates know it is no wind-up and that Kop King Kenny will be back in charge of the ailing Reds when Everton travel across Stanley Park to face their bitterest rivals next Sunday. And the latest showdown between the - so far this season - Mersey dead-beats will be a lot less of a laughing matter for Baines and Co than this embarrassingly one-sided tie. Baines, whose superb angled drive for his side's fifth on 83 minutes was the best goal of the game, said: "We shall be thinking about the derby all right when we get back into training. "And I am expecting an even more intense atmosphere than usual. We'll both be desperate to get the three points - not least because Liverpool and us have both under-achieved this season." No hint of under-achievement against minnows Scunny, though. Everton were ruthlessly efficient all-round and their finishing brutally clinical. Championship strugglers Scunny only really showed any heart in a 10-minute spell just after the break, as Michael Collins notched a consolation. But Louis Saha, after four minutes and Jermaine Beckford, with a 33rd-minute header already had the Toffees 2-0 up. Seamus Coleman, and Marouane Fellaini replied to Collins' goal before Baines' breathtaking strike. Now he is eyeing up a Wembley return and the chance to make amends for Everton's heartbreaking defeat by Chelsea in the final two years ago. He declared: "It would be nice to go all the way and win it this time. It was so disappointing to lose to Chelsea after we had worked so hard to get there." Iron boss Ian Baraclough was gracious in defeat.He said: "Everton went about their task in exactly the right way. "They are a fine side and showed how good they are by the manner they went for it." Collins was equally impressed as he added: "Everton have a lot of top, top players earning vast amounts of money. "They could have come here and thought 'Scunthorpe on a cold January afternoon, we don't fancy this'. But they grafted all over the pitch."
DREAM TEAM
STAR MAN - SEAMUS COLEMAN (Everton)
SCUNTHORPE: Murphy 7, A Wright 6, Mirfin 6, Jones 5 (Raynes 6), Nolan 6, Collins 6, J Wright 6 (Togwell 5), O'Connor 6, Woolford 7, Dagnall 5 (Godden 5), Forte 5. Subs not used: Slocombe, Grant, McClenahan, Cowan-Hall.
EVERTON: Howard 6, Hibbert 6, Heitinga 6, Distin 6, Baines 7, Coleman 8 (Gueye 6), Osman 6, Fellaini 7 (Rodwell 6), Bilyaletdinov 6, Saha 7 (Anichebe 6), Beckford 7. Subs not used: Mucha, Arteta, Neville, Yakubu. Booked: Heitinga, Coleman.
Australia coasts to victory
Michael Lynch in Doha
January 11, 2011 Daily Sydney Morning Herald
Asian heavyweights Japan and Saudi Arabia may have stumbled in their Asian Cup openers against Jordan and Syria but that fate was never likely to befall Australia in their first group match against India at the Al Sadd stadium in the early hours this morning (Melbourne time). Predictions of a double digit haul against the soccer tyros from the subcontinent might have been a little optimistic, but the 4-0 scoreline did scant justice to the Socceroos' dominance. Tim Cahill with two, Brett Holman and Harry Kewell got on the scoresheet, and while fans would like to have seen more - goal difference might come into play in this group - credit has to be given to India's workrate and commitment and the efforts of goalkeeper Subrata Paul, who made a number of fine saves. Holger Osieck's men went to the interval three goals to the good, and, but for the heroics of Paul and an errant decision by an assistant referee who flagged, wrongly, for offside to deny Tim Cahill a second first-half goal, the half-time scoreline could have been worse for India. Osieck had made it clear in the pre-match press conference that he would play his strongest side right from the outset of this tournament and he was as good as his word. The only slight surprise was, perhaps, that he chose to leave Scott McDonald on the bench and play Mile Jedinak in midfield, deploying the Turkish-based Harry Kewell up front rather than on the wing. ustralia forced its first corner within 25 seconds and it was one-way traffic for much of the game thereafter although Indian supporters' hopes were raised sporadically as their team mounted occasional attacks which were greeted by loud roars of encouragement from the voluble, mainly Indian, crowd. Cahill put the Socceroos in front with a thundering drive as he connected with a cross from the right by Brett Emerton in the 11th minute, and the bulk of supporters in this intimate stadium must have feared that the floodgates would open thereafter. That they didn't spoke a lot for India's workrate and character, the sideline coaching of veteran Englishman Bobby Houghton, who could be heard screaming at his side to defend on the edge of the penalty area and maintain their shape, and the acrobatics of Paul. But they left Kewell with far too much time and space in the 25th minute when Jedinak played the ball wide to Luke Wilkshire, whose pass found the former Leeds and Liverpool star. Kewell had time to pick his spot and lined up a well-struck shot from outside the area to double Australia's advantage. India's Syed Rahim Nabi looked lively, while their only overseas player - Sunil Chhetri, who is a squad member at the MLS club Sporting Kansas City - also tried his luck without success. The underdogs' main hope for a goal came from long-range shots - one from the intriguingly named Climax Lawrence, India's captain - or free kicks from distance which proved straightforward for Mark Schwarzer in the Australian goal. Holman made it three just seconds before the end of stoppage time with a brave header from an Emerton cross which gave Paul no chance. His header was reminiscent of something Cahill usually produces, and the Everton man - surely one of the best headers of a ball in the world - delivered one of his own trademark goals 20 minutes later when he rose in a crowed penalty area to thump Wilkshire's cross past Paul with a powerful header. Osieck freshened things up by bringing on Matt McKay, Nathan Burns and Scott McDonald but the new faces could not engineer any further chances. The four-goal triumph was less than many expected but Australia has at least got itself into winning form before it faces South Korea later in the week. It will need sharper finishing and improvement all round if it is to beat the Taeguk Warriors, but Osieck and his players will be content to take the three points and build from there.
Cahill on song as Australia crush India
The Himalayan Times, January 11 2010
DOHA: Australia crushed India 4-0 to get their Asian Cup campaign off to a decisive start on Monday with red-hot Everton star Tim Cahill collecting two goals. Played at an Al-Sadd Stadium packed with noisy expatriate Indians, a convincing win was needed by the Socceroos to demonstrate their tournament credentials against a team ranked 142 in the world. They comfortably delivered with the dangerous Cahill, playing up front as the lone striker, a constant threat. He got the opener in the 11th minute before former Liverpool man Harry Kewell made it 2-0 in the 25th minute. Brett Holman added a third on the stroke of half-time before Cahill completed the demolition in the second period. Their start was in stark contrast to four years ago at their maiden Asian Cup, where they stumbled to a draw with Oman before losing to eventual winners Iraq. The Australians squeezed through to the knock-out stages back then by thrashing Thailand 4-0, but went out on penalties to Japan in the quarters. In breezy conditions, both sides began slowly with Australia getting the first sniff of goal on nine minutes when Holman looped the ball in to Blackburn's Brett Emerton, who fired straight at the goalkeeper. But with a side packed by experienced Europe-based players, it was only a matter of time before the Socceroos got the breakthrough. Emerton looked suspiciously offside when he was put through on the right but the flag stayed down and he sent a low cross into the six-yard box, where Cahill was lurking to bury the ball in the back of the net. Rank outsiders India, in the tournament for the first time in 27 years, were out of their depth but got a look at goal when captain Climax Lawrence's shot from 25 yards drifted well wide of the post soon after. Australia should have been 2-0 up on 20 minutes when Cahill headed home but he was adjudged offside by UAE referee Ali Al Badwawi. Replays suggested the goal should have stood.They made amends just minutes later when Luke Wilkshire found Kewell in space just outside the penalty area and the Galatasaray midfielder clinically drilled the ball into the bottom left corner. With Fulham's Mark Schwarzer having nothing to do in the Australian goal, a third goal almost came on the half-hour with Cahill in the thick of the action again. India were struggling to contain him and he went close again when he chested down a long ball and half-volleyed it over the bar. The third goal was inevitable and it came just before half-time when Holman got his head on the end of an Emerton cross after some good build-up work. Australia began the second-half in total control and Cahill got his second in the 65th minute when he outjumped four defenders to meet a Wilkshire cross and angle his header past the goalkeeper.
Australia confirm superiority
Tue Jan 11 2011, Indian Express
Tim Cahill scored twice as Australia began their assault on the Asian Cup title by outclassing India 4-0 in a one-sided Group C opening match at the Al Sadd Stadium Monday. The top-ranked team in the competition were barely troubled by the bottom-ranked side with Harry Kewell and Brett Holman also scoring as Australia dominated from start to finish. Cahill fired Australia into the lead after 11 minutes, Kewell doubled the lead with a left-foot drive after 25, and Holman headed the third at the end of the first half. Cahill scored his second and Australia’s fourth after 64 minutes with a typically excellent header from a Luke Wilkshire cross on an afternoon when Australian goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer only had to make one serious save, thwarting striker Sunil Chhetri six minutes from time. The game was the first official soccer meeting between the two countries since India beat Australia 7-1 in a friendly in Melbourne 55 years ago, although the two old British colonies have shared a healthy rivalry in cricket, hockey and tennis down the years.
ACADEMY FOOTBALL: Jordan Barrow’s hat-trick gives Everton under-18s victory over Crewe
Jan 11 2011 by Chris Wright, Liverpool Daily Post
JORDAN BARROW’S hat-trick meant the Everton under-18s begin 2011 with a 3-2 victory over Crewe Alexandra on Saturday. Neil Dewsnip’s side had to come from a goal down to seal the three points to keep the top of the FA Premier Academy League Group C table. It was the ideal preparation for tomorrow’s FA Youth Cup clash with Wolverhampton Wanderers at the Stobart Stadium (kick-off 7pm). A number of the Everton boys from the Brazil tournament, where they finished fourth in the prestigious Future Champions event in Belo Horizonte before Christmas, did their bit in the victory. It was, though, their first Academy League action for more than a month and after a sluggish start, Everton went behind on 20 minutes. But they drew level just before the break when Barrow scrambled home from close rangeThen on the hour the Barrow scored his second goal in similar circumstances on the hour to put Everton ahead. Barrow completed his excellent hat-trick with fifteen minutes to go when he fired in from inside the area. Hallam Hope, Tom Donegan and Anton Forrester all went close, but Crewe set up a tense finale when they pulled a goal back with two minutes left. But Everton held on and Dewsnip said: “It was a really good game. Crewe started better than us and we were 1-0 down. But after that we played really well. We created lots of chances and Jordan Barrow scored three which were all similar. It could have ended 3-3, but that would have been unfair.” After tomorrow’s Youth Cup clash Everton travel to West Bromwich Albion on Saturday (KO 11am). EVERTON UNDER-18s: Roberts, Browning, Garbutt, Bidwell, Murphy, Donegan, Lundstram, Barrow, Thomas, Forrester (Orenuga 80), Hope (Dobie 80). Subs: Davies, Cummins, Hammar.
Everton FC latest: Tim Cahill vows to hit the ground running on his return
Jan 11 2011 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
TIM CAHILL has vowed to pick up where he left off with Everton after continuing his fine goalscoring form yesterday. Cahill netted twice for Australia as they opened their Asian Cup campaign with a 4-0 group win over India in Qatar. Having been pressed into a more advanced role by Goodison manager David Moyes, the 31-year-old has enjoyed a profitable season in front of goal and is Everton’s leading marksman for the campaign with nine. Socceroos commitments have already seen Cahill miss out on the recent wins over Tottenham and Scunthorpe United, with the Australian likely to be absent for another three weeks should his country progress to the final in Doha. And Cahill is determined to make up for lost time on his return and help propel Everton up the Premier League table. “I want to leave this tournament the same way I came in to make sure I have every chance of finishing the season strongly,” he said. “The biggest thing for me is that I have done well for Everton at the start of this season and I have come here to make sure I keep myself fit and raring to go and play great football. “I am not one that likes to sit on the bench or laze about, I want to work hard while I am here and try and do something special for my country and go back to Everton and continue to play well.” Everton have netted seven goals in two games since Cahill’s departure, with Leighton Baines among five different scorers in Saturday’s 5-1 FA Cup third round win at Scunthorpe United. And the left-back acknowledges Moyes’s side cannot become over-reliant on the Australian international to shoulder the goalscoring burden. “It’s important for the team that various people chip in with goals,” said Baines. “The emphasis isn’t always on the defenders but it takes pressure off other people if we can chip in as well. “Not so long ago we were relying on Tim, but Louis (Saha) is scoring now, Seamus (Coleman) has chipped in and I’ve got a couple. “The more we can do that the better.”
Everton FC star Tim Cahill in tribute to Australian flood victims
Jan 11 2011 by David Prentice, Liverpool Echo
TIM CAHILL scored twice to get Australia’s Asian Cup campaign off to a flying start yesterday – then unveiled a new goal celebration. The Everton striker saluted his brace against India in a 4-0 triumph with his trademark corner-flag celebration, but then added a new telephone gesture. He explained afterwards: “It’s about the devastation in Australia with the floods in Queensland. “I donated a prize to the telephone-in, the link is on eBay, where two people get a chance to come and sit in a box from anywhere in the world and watch an Everton game, have some dinner and watch a training session, and have a signed pair of boots and jersey. “I wanted to do something special and I got the phone-up to show the gesture because I want people to phone in on the telephone-in and donate money. “I also want them to bid on my auction. “This is football, but there is a lot more that goes on in the world than just football and if you can help families that are struggling. It is my way of showing that I care.” This isn’t the first time that Cahill has shown his support for world tragedies. After scoring Everton’s winner at BATE Borisov in 2009 he paid his respects to those who died in the tsunami tragedy in the South Pacific by making a paddle gesture. The village from which Cahill's maternal family hail suffered tragically from the tsunami that lashed Samoa. Cahill was at the heart of an impressive Australian performance which crushed India 4-0 in Qatar. Played at an Al-Sadd Stadium in Doha packed with noisy expatriate Indians, Cahill, played up front as a lone striker and opened the scoring in the 11th minute with a close range shot. Former Liverpool winger Harry Kewell made it 2-0 14 minutes later with a 20-yard drive, Brett Holman added a third on the stroke of half-time before Cahill completed the demolition in the second period with a typical header. Australia coach Holger Osieck said: “It is very important to get a good start in a tournament, that you find your rhythm, get your performance together. “From my point of view it was a good start. In the first half, technically we played very well and it’s always difficult to break down an opponent's defence when they sit but we showed a lot of discipline on the technical side when attacking. “We scored three goals which was encouraging and to start with a 4-0 all in all is good and should give us confidence for the games to come.” Australia spurned chances to increase the margin of victory, but Osieck was unconcerned at his side’s wastefulness. “There were a number of opportunities that we could’ve scored from but sometimes it’s not always easy to finish them all off,” he added. Australia face the Koreans on Friday in a match that could determine who finishes top of the group.
Ian Snodin: Kenny Dalglish's return not ideal timing
Jan 11 2011 Liverpool Echo
I’M made up to see Kenny Dalglish back in football ... I only wish he’d left it until after Sunday’s derby before returning! Kenny’s not just a Liverpool legend, he’s a football legend and the world of football is a better place for having him back in a hot-seat again. Obviously I go back a long way with Kenny. He was the Liverpool manager I turned down when I left Leeds to join Everton and I have to admit I was dreading meeting him when we met the Reds a few weeks later. But he was absolutely fantastic with me. As luck would have it he was the first person I bumped into on that matchday, but we shook hands, wished me all the best and told me that I’d made the wrong decision! I disagreed – and still do to this day – but the banter whenever we meet is great. The Reds will have had two away games since Kenny’s comeback which means that the atmosphere on Sunday at Anfield will be absolutely electric. That’s why I wish Kenny had left it until after the derby before returning. The derby match is always a special occasion, but having Kenny back in the Anfield dug-out will give Sunday’s clash an extra edge. I’m looking forward to it already – and hopefully the Blues will leave King Kenny disappointed again!
Everton FC defenders will chip in with goals says Leighton Baines
Jan 11 2011 by David Prentice, Liverpool Echo
LEIGHTON BAINES issued Everton’s case for the defence after the Blues finally started to ease the goals burden on their strikers heading into Sunday’s derby match. After relying heavily on Tim Cahill all season, the Blues recorded five different goalscorers at Scunthorpe on Saturday. And with Seamus Coleman on target at West Ham and against Spurs, and Baines himself a goalscorer at Manchester City and Scunthorpe, Baines feels that the Blues defenders are doing their bit to support Louis Saha, Jermaine Beckford and co. “It’s important for the team that various people chip in with goals,” said Baines. “The emphasis isn’t always on the defenders but it takes pressure off other people if we can chip in as well. “Not so long ago we were relying on Tim, but Louis is scoring now, Seamus has chipped in and I’ve got a couple. “The more we can do that the better.” With Saha’s confidence reborn after goals in successive matches and Beckford not just scoring but creating goals at Glanford Park as well, Baines believes the Blues are in good shape for their trip to Anfield. “For strikers, goals give them their confidence. If they don’t play so well but they get a goal for the team that’s essentially what your job is,” said Baines. “It’s important for us to get them scoring as well, because that is a small part of why we’ve struggled this season. “If the rest of us can get goals as well then we should see an improvement.”
Ian Snodin: No need to worry over FA Cup draw
Jan 11 2011 Liverpool Echo
THERE’S absolutely no need to be deflated by Sunday’s FA Cup draw. Sure, Chelsea is one of the toughest ties we could have been handed. But it’s at home, they’re not playing well – and if anybody needs any further encouragement just look at the fourth round draw we got when we made it all the way to Wembley in 2009. That year we were drawn against Liverpool – at Anfield – and had Marouane Fellaini suspended and lost Mikel Arteta to injury just hours before kick-off. The rest, of course, is history. The way to look at it is that if we can beat Chelsea that’s one serious rival out of the way and our chances of winning the trophy will be considerably improved. The atmosphere for the game will be great – it will be a proper FA Cup tie – and one that we can already start looking forward to. You can bet your bottom dollar that Chelsea’s players will have groaned when they realised they were going to Goodison Park. As I said earlier, there’s absolutely no need to be disappointed by the draw.
Ian Snodin: Romance of FA Cup is alive and well, with one Everton FC fan in particular
Jan 11 2011 Liverpool Echo
I’VE always had a great rapport with the Everton fans – and I always thought they appreciated my efforts. But I never realised quite how much until Saturday at Scunthorpe United’s Glanford Park! Scunny is only 20 minutes drive from where I live, so I took my sons to the game and sat behind the goal. We had a few drinks in a lovely pub in Thorne before the match, the banter was great during the game – but there was one fan sat next to me who I think had probably had just one too many. All through the game he kept telling me “I love you!” and insisted on following up his little terms of endearment by kissing me! I must have got 45 kisses in the space of 75 minutes, before he finally left early when a fan who was sat behind me leaned over and said: “You know what Snods? I think he loves you!” It all added to a very entertaining afternoon, made all the better by the fact that David Moyes selected a strong starting line-up and made it clear he was going to treat the FA Cup with the respect it deserves. I popped into the team hotel before the match and you could tell by the mood amongst the players that selecting a strong team had focused everybody’s minds. I’m not going to say I told you so ... but after suggesting that playing two strikers up top had to be worth looking at while Tim Cahill was on Asian Cup duty, we scored five at Scunny playing that system just a few days after beating Spurs with two up top. As a result Sunday is not the time to start getting cold feet and bolstering the midfield with an extra body, or using a midfield player in the hole behind a lone striker. Louis Saha’s confidence is sky-high at the moment so he has to start (it was also interesting to see that Jamie Carragher picked him out as one of his most difficult opponents in Sunday’s programme at Old Trafford) while Jermaine Beckford’s pace and enthusiasm can cause all kinds of problems for Marin Skrtel and co. We’ve suffered in the past from being a little too cautious at Anfield so I’d love to see us go there with a really positive outlook and try and take the game to Liverpool. The crowd will be inspired enough as it is by Kenny Dalglish’s return so we need to spike the atmosphere as quickly as possible. Playing two up top and being positive can do just that.
Ian Snodin: Everton FC success brings David Moyes a selection headache
Jan 11 2011 Liverpool Echo
IT’S an old football saying that you don’t change a winning team – and after two impressive victories in the past few days David Moyes now has a serious selection headache before the derby match. Does he stick with John Heitinga at centre-back after solid performances against Spurs and Scunthorpe? Or does he bring back Phil Jagielka if Jags has recovered from his thigh strain in time? Jags is a terrific player and it’s a seriously tough decision to make. But maybe one more week would allow him to get over his injury totally.
Seamus Coleman says Kenny Dalglish's comeback won’t affect Everton’s derby preparations
Jan 11 2011 by David Prentice, Liverpool Echo
SEAMUS COLEMAN insists Everton will go into Sunday’s derby match asking: “Kenny who?” The return of the Liverpool legend to the manager’s chair has transformed the atmosphere at Anfield and ensured Everton will receive a red-hot reception for their visit. But Coleman, who enjoyed an outstanding derby debut in October when his penetrating run set up Tim Cahill for the opening goal, says the Blues won’t change their approach. “Maybe Liverpool and their fans will be more up for the game now they have a new manager but it will not change how we approach the game,” said Coleman. “We can only worry about ourselves, we just need to prepare well this week. “October's derby was the first derby I've ever played in and to set up a goal was fantastic and hopefully we can do something similar on Sunday.” Everton haven’t enjoyed a league double over their neighbours since Paul Wilkinson’s late strike completed a seasonal treble against the Reds in 1985 (the Blues started the season with a Charity Shield victory over their rivals). And a win on Sunday would not only secure that rare double, it would give Everton their first back to back league victories since their Goodison derby success which followed a win at Birmingham. “Like we did against Spurs, we need to push and press Liverpool early on and don't let them get their heads up,” added Coleman. “The derby is always a massive game and we've won one already and it would be great to get a second.” Coleman went into his first derby experience with just one senior goal to his name – the fifth minute strike at Brentford in the Carling Cup earlier this season. But in recent weeks the young Irishman has proved a regular goal threat and his header at Scunthorpe on Saturday was his third in the last four games. “I'm on a nice little run now with goals and up until this season I wasn't really a goalscorer,” he added. “I'm starting to enjoy playing on the wing more and more. I'm learning every week because I'm nowhere near the finished article but I'm learning the role more and getting a few goals is always good.”
Leighton Baines says Everton FC defenders can provide goals too
Jan 11 2011 by David Prentice, Liverpool Echo
LEIGHTON BAINES issued Everton’s case for the defence after the Blues finally started to ease the goals burden on their strikers heading into Sunday’s derby match. After relying heavily on Tim Cahill all season, the Blues recorded five different goalscorers at Scunthorpe on Saturday. And with Seamus Coleman on target at West Ham and against Spurs, and Baines himself a goalscorer at Manchester City and Scunthorpe, Baines feels that the Blues defenders are doing their bit to support Louis Saha, Jermaine Beckford and co. “It's important for the team that various people chip in with goals,” said Baines. “The emphasis isn't always on the defenders but it takes pressure off other people if we can chip in as well. “Not so long ago we were relying on Tim, but Louis is scoring now, Seamus has chipped in and I’ve got a couple. “The more we can do that the better.” With Saha’s confidence reborn after goals in successive matches and Beckford not just scoring but creating goals at Glanford Park as well, Baines believes the Blues are in good shape for their trip to Anfield. “For strikers, goals give them their confidence. If they don't play so well but they get a goal for the team that's essentially what your job is,” said Baines. “It's important for us to get them scoring as well, because that is a small part of why we've struggled this season. “If the rest of us can get goals as well then we should see an improvement.”
David Moyes fights to keep Phil Neville after Tottenham interest
Jan 11 2011 By David Prentice
DAVID Moyes was today fighting to keep hold of skipper Phil Neville in the wake of shock interest from Tottenham Hotspur. Spurs boss Harry Redknapp is desperate to add experience to his squad, and believes Neville, 33, is the ideal man to add some leadership to his title challengers. The Everton captain is reported to be considering a switch that would offer him a final chance of Champions League football, and the opportunity to be part of a squad challenging for the Premier League. Losing Neville would represent a massive blow for Moyes, who holds the former England international in the highest esteem, and has repeatedly emphasised his importance to the club. Redknapp admitted he is trying to seal the capture of the former Manchester United star earlier today. He said: "Phil Neville is a fanastic professional. He is a great player, a great leader but I’m sure David Moyes knows all that. "We played them twice recently and he is a real leader for them but I’m sure David Moyes wouldn’t want to lose him, so it will be a difficult one." Speculation has gathered pace that any potential deal could include a Spurs star trading places with Neville alongside the fee, with David Bentley, who is on the brink of a move to Birmingham, Robbie Keane and Roman Pavlyuchenko all in the frame. The Everton manager and chairman will privately be striving to persuade Neville to remain in Merseyside, and the defender would have to uproot his young family from their North-West home to make a move, as well as leave a club he loves. But with reported terms of £50,000-a-week on the table, Neville could yet decide to end his playing days in North London. David Beckham, a close friend of the Neville brothers, is currently training with the White Hart Lane outfit until February. Neither Neville or Steven Pienaar, another reported target of Spurs and Chelsea, are cup-tied after the pair were rested for Saturday’s FA Cup third round victory against Scunthorpe United.
Everton Under 18s launch their FA Youth Cup glory trail
Jan 12 2011 by Chris Wright, Liverpool Echo
IT has already been a memorable campaign for Everton under-18s but now they begin on another road to glory in the FA Youth Cup. Neil Dewsnip’s side sit top of the FA Premier Academy League Group C table and excelled themselves to finish fourth in the prestigious Future Champions tournament in Brazil before Christmas. Tonight they finally start on the Youth Cup trail when they face Wolverhampton Wanderers in the rearranged third round tie at the Stobart Stadium in Widnes (kick-off 7pm). They go into the match in fine form, having returned from the Christmas break at the weekend to score an excellent 3-2 win over Crewe. Jordan Barrow hit a hat-trick and all of those on duty in the league will be involved tonight. And Dewsnip is hoping his side can continue their fine form. He said: “We are really looking forward to it. It was good to get back to action on Saturday and we played well. We are now ready for Wolves. “We played them earlier in the season. It was a really good game, we won 2-0, but the Youth Cup has a whole different psychology to it and I wouldn’t read too much into that game we won. It will be a tough game and they have been on a great run. “But we are playing really well and the Brazil tournament was excellent. “It was the most fascinating experience in my coaching career. The lads did very well. We finished fourth and were within a whisker of winning it. It was a great experience. “And the Youth Cup is another good experience for them and we will be doing our best to do well and try and get through.” If Everton do get past Wolves they will be away in the fourth round against either Doncaster Rovers or Middlesbrough, who play tonight at the Keepmoat. EVERTON YOUTH (from): Roberts, Browning, Garbutt, Bidwell, Murphy, Donegan, Lundstram, Barrow, Thomas, Forrester, Orenuga, Hope, Dobie, Davies, Cummins, Hammar.
Everton FC star Leon Osman says the Blues can still win the derby without Tim Cahill
Jan 12 2011 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
LEON OSMAN insists Everton can still taste derby success without their chief Red tormentor Tim Cahill. The Blues head into the weekend’s 215th Merseyside derby at Anfield without their Aussie talisman, who has scored a number of key goals against their local rivals since he moved to Goodison Park in 2004. Cahill is busy helping his national side progress in the Asia Cup, and scored twice in the Socceroos’ 4-0 win over India on Monday. But Osman, who captained Everton during their successful third round win over Scunthorpe United, is confident the Toffees can achieve back to back derby successes this season - regardless of Liverpool’s appointment of Kenny Dalglish as manager. The 29-year-old said: “We’re aiming to do the double in the derby matches this season. What’s happening with them off the field, and the management issues don’t concern us at all. “We’ve got to concentrate on ourselves and make sure our form is right, and we turn up on the day ready to take three points. “Possibly we’ll miss Tim Cahill. But he has been away for two games now and We've won them both. Were not in any way sitting and being upset about him not being here.”
Why Everton FC skipper Phil Neville is priceless at Goodison Park
Jan 12 2011 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
LET’S be clear – losing Phil Neville could have huge significance for Everton. Reports yesterday that talks were advanced between Everton and Tottenham Hotspur concerning a £1.5m transfer to North London, unsettled everyone from the fans to the manager’s office, and dressing room at Finch Farm. David Moyes eventually went on the record to say his skipper is not for sale, but it may not be the last word on the affair. It’s hard to over-estimate how crucial Neville is to Moyes’ squad – but let’s have a go anyway, while struggling to avoid the alarmist trap. Initially he is, despite suggestions to the contrary, crucial to how Everton play and win. The statistics are clear – the Blues win more games with Neville in the team. Take this season, Everton have played 24 games in total. They have lost six, drawn 11 and won seven. Neville was missing for half of those defeats, but captained the side in five of the victories. Yes, he can’t quite match the creative input of Leighton Baines down the left flank, but defensively, and in terms of retaining possession and leading on the pitch his contribution is second to none. Ironically his two best performances have both come against Harry Redknapp’s side when he helped the Blues deal comfortably with the threat of Gareth Bale. After the draw at White Hart Lane, Neville gave me an insight into his ultra professional approach and assiduous preparation he did to face Bale. It was not a one off, in fact he takes that level of intensity in his preparation for every opponent, and as a qualified UEFA coach he is ideally placed to make informed and helpful plans for the entire team. Moyes has called Neville the leader of his ‘mini-managers’ on the field, along with Leon Osman and Tim Cahill, both perhaps potential captaincy candidates should the 33-year-old depart. He leads by example in every aspect – the epitome of a club captain from someone imbued with a sense of the role that perhaps lays in his cricketing roots. Neville is a spokesman, an ambassador, a leader. He is the first to admit when standards have slipped, the first to lead the fight when spirits are low, and the first to thank the fans after every game, win or lose. Remember that tackle on Cristiano Ronaldo two seasons ago at Goodison? Or the performance in this season’s Goodison derby? There are countless examples. On tour he promotes Everton incessantly, shaking hands and making positive impressions like an MP on the campaign trail. David Moyes could be forgiven for feeling a twinge of doubt, if his skipper now asks him for a transfer and the chance to play Champions League football and boost his earning. Neville is a player he respects and admires, so he may find it difficult to say no. But refuse he must, because unless the former England defender makes it absolutely clear his heart is set on a deal and pushes for one, which is not his style, Everton cannot afford to lose him. For £1.5m? No way. For £11.5m? You’d still have to mull it over. It’s tough to replace the qualities Neville brings. Moyes has a selection of other players he could actively try to sell in order to raise funds. He knows he must do everything in his power to prevent Neville leaving – and will do just that if Spurs press their intentions. Let’s hope it is enough.
Everton FC striker Yakubu to leave Goodison for Leicester City loan move
Jan 12 2011 by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
YAKUBU was today on the brink of completing a season long loan move to Leicester – as David Moyes attempts to bolster his arm in the transfer market by trimming the Goodison wage bill. The Nigerian striker was believed to have undergone a medical at the Walkers stadium this morning, with the Foxes keen to make the deal permanent this summer. Foxes boss Sven Goran Eriksson has been tracking the 28-year-old for several weeks, and the Midlands club’s wealthy Thai owners have agreed to cover his wages, enabling the deal to go ahead. Moyes, who must generate his own funds to cover the wages of any potential loan signings, is still trawling the market for a striker, right sided midfielder and cover a centre half. He has decided to allow Yakubu to move on after the former Portsmouth player slipped behind Louis Saha and Jermaine Beckford in the line-up for a starting berth in his attack. The Yak has found the net just once for in 15 appearances this season. Meanwhile, the Everton boss is hoping his firm rebuttal of Tottenham’s interest in skipper Phil Neville will prevent the Londoners continuing their pursuit. Spurs boss Harry Redknapp wants to sign Everton’s club captain, and his chairman Daniel Levy has spoken to Bill Kenwright about the possibility but was told it was a non-starter. Moyes said: “I spoke with Harry Redknapp briefly before the transfer window opened. Daniel Levy and Bill had an even briefer conversation at our recent game against Spurs and mutually agreed that this would go no further. At no time was any offer made – nor would one have been welcomed. Phil Neville is our captain and is an important part of the Everton set-up.” Neville, who is under contract at Goodison for a further 18 months, is yet to respond to reports he wants to take up the offer of Champions League football in the capital, but either way Moyes is determined to hang onto the 33-year-old. The Everton boss is already facing the likelihood of losing Steven Pienaar to Tottenham, with the White Hart Lane outfit reported to have agreed a deal in principle with the midfielder. It remains unclear, though, whether Spurs will offer around £2m to try and tempt Everton to push the transfer through this month, or wait until the summer when the South African schemer would be available as a Bosman free agent.
Everton FC eye Dieumerci Mbokani as Yakubu edges towards shock Leicester City move
Jan 12 2011 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
DAVID MOYES will step up his efforts to sign Monaco striker Dieumerci Mbokani after Yakubu agreed to join Leicester City on loan. Yakubu last night made the surprise decision to link up with Sven-Goran Eriksson’s npower Championship side until the end of the season, with a view to a permanent transfer. The move will ease the burden on Everton’s wage bill and free up funds for an attempt to bolster the strikeforce with a similar deal for Congolese international Mbokani. The 25-year-old alerted a host of potential suitors by earlier this week revealing his frustration at being frozen out at Monaco in recent weeks. “Before the winter break I had decided to stay and prove my worth,” said Mbokani. “But then the coach didn’t call me for the resumption of training and asked me to train with the reserves. “For me, everything has changed. Monaco are pushing me away. I am not the only one to have been below their best, the whole club have disappointed.” Everton would be rivalled by West Ham United and Aston Villa for Mbokani’s signature, with Monaco also asking for a £1million loan fee. While Yakubu may have played his last game for Everton, Victor Anichebe is poised to confirm a change of heart by signing a new deal. Anichebe appeared set to leave Goodison when his current contract expires at the end of the season after it emerged last month he had failed to reach a new agreement with club officials. While red-carded in his only subsequent start at Manchester City, Anichebe has remained involved with the first-team squad and came off the bench in Saturday’s 5-1 FA Cup third round win at Scunthorpe United. And Moyes will be pleased the striker is set to stay after urging the player to return to the negotiating table. On a busy day of transfer news, Moyes has insisted Phil Neville will remain at Goodison despite interest from Spurs. Harry Redknapp is keen to sign the 33-year-old to add experience to his squad, and could tempt Neville with the promise of a title challenge and Champions League football. But Moyes moved quickly yesterday to dismiss the notion the skipper could leave, and said: “I spoke with Harry Redknapp briefly before the transfer window opened. Daniel Levy and Bill had an even briefer conversation at our recent game against Spurs and mutually agreed that this would go no further. “At no time was any offer made – nor would one have been welcomed. Phil Neville is our captain and is an important part of the Everton set-up.” Meanwhile, reports last night that Tottenham have already agreed a deal in principle with Steven Pienaar will cause concern at Everton given only foreign clubs are allowed to approach the South African in the final six months of his contract. However, the Londoners’ interest in the player is well documented, and Moyes, eager to generate funds for loan signings during this month’s January transfer window, could yet decide to accept an offer Tottenham given Pienaar could walk away for nothing in the summer.
Everton under-18s are in the hunt for Youth Cup glory
Jan 12 2011 by Chris Wright, Liverpool Daily Post
IT has already been an excellent campaign for Everton under-18s but now they begin on another road to glory in the FA Youth Cup. Neil Dewsnip’s side sit top of the FA Premier Academy League Group C table and excelled themselves to finish fourth in the prestigious Future Champions tournament in Brazil before Christmas. Tonight they finally start on the Youth Cup trail when they face Wolverhampton Wanderers in the rearranged third round tie at the Stobart Stadium in Widnes (kick-off 7pm). They go into the match in fine form, having returned from the Christmas break at the weekend to score an excellent 3-2 win over Crewe. Jordan Barrow hit a hat-trick and all of those on duty in the league could be involved tonight. And Dewsnip is hoping his side can continue their fine form. He said: “We are really looking forward to it. It was good to get back to action on Saturday and we played well. We are now ready for Wolves. “We played them earlier in the season. It was a really good game, we won 2-0, but the Youth Cup has a whole different psychology to it and I wouldn’t read too much into that game we won. It will be a tough game and they have been on a great run before Christmas. “But we are playing really well and the Brazil tournament was excellent. “It was the most fascinating experience in my coaching career. The lads did very well. We finished fourth and were within a whisker of winning it.” If Everton get past Wolves they will be away in the fourth round against Doncaster Rovers or Middlesbrough, who also face each other tonight at the Keepmoat Stadium. EVERTON YOUTH (from): Roberts, Browning, Garbutt, Bidwell, Murphy, Donegan, Lundstram, Barrow, Thomas, Forrester, Orenuga, Hope, Dobie, Davies, Cummins, Hammar.
David Moyes: Everton FC will not sell Phil Neville to Spurs
Jan 11 2011
DAVID Moyes this afternoon insisted club captain Phil Neville will not be sold to Tottenham Hotspur. Reports today suggested Spurs boss Harry Redknapp was preparing a £1.5m bid for the Blues skipper during the current transfer window. But eight hours after they surfaced the Goodison boss dismissed the story, clarifying the situation regarding the 33-year-old former England defender. He said: “I spoke with Harry Redknapp briefly before the transfer window opened. Daniel Levy and Bill had an even briefer conversation at our recent game against Spurs and mutually agreed that this would go no further. "At no time was any offer made - nor would one have been welcomed. Phil Neville is our captain and is an important part of the Everton set-up."
Neville has been a hugely influential figure for Everton since his move from Manchester United in August 2005. He became Club captain in January 2007 when David Weir moved to Rangers and has blossomed in the role. He has now made 224 appearances for Everton and has been capped 59 times for his country during an illustrious career. Moyes remarks contradicted a national newspaper report claiming Neville was set to be lured by the promise of Champions League football and a league title bid in London.
Everton FC Fans’ letters
by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Echo
Jan 13 2011
REGARDING Harry Redknapp’s purported interest in signing our skipper Phil Neville and add him to his squad at White Hart Lane. Will somebody please tell Harry to find his own players and leave ours alone. He only wants them because he sees Everton as a threat to Tottenham. What happened to Kyle Naughton last season? I’m convinced Harry only bought him to stop us from getting him. Naughton has never had a game for Spurs yet let alone appear on the substitutes’ bench. Phil is a genuine person and I believe he will stay on. R Tandy,Netherley PHIL NEVILLE is a true leader on and off the pitch. He inspires the youngsters and without him we would be worse off. blue2009 IF Phil Neville leaves Everton for Spurs it will be a huge loss to us. We are nowhere near the same side when Phil isn’t there. I wouldn’t want to see him go for any money they throw at us; he would be impossible to replace. Dan1989 IT makes me laugh Redknapp is always trying to buy our best players and any others David Moyes goes in for! Bluewinner THANK-YOU to the ECHO’s Everton FC reporter Greg O'Keeffe for giving credit where it’s due and the starman award to Tony Hibbert after Saturday’s game against Scunthorpe. I get tired of fans who jump onto negatives and constantly get on Tony's back by complaining about his lack of finesse. David Moyes doesn’t put him in the back-line to perform fancy footwork – just to do his job – i.e. to put in solid, fearless and determined defending. And to show repeatedly that he is Everton through and through. Great job, Tony. J Grimes, Whiston I HAVE had a gut feeling for some time that the 4-4-1-1 formation using Tim Cahill just behind the main striker was not us any favours. The opposition know how we are going to play and can set up for it. Playing with two out-and-out strikers is a much more offensive way of playing than the pre-Cahill departure formation. Forwards find life easier if they have another guy of a similar ilk alongside. Seven goals in two games without Tim seems to suggest the new formation is more effective. Would I have Cahill in the team? Yes, every time, but I think in midfield which in itself creates problems because of our options there. Phil Harris,Northwich SHOULD we stick with 4-4-2 if it proves a success or return to 4-5-1 upon Tim Cahill's return? Cahill, this season has excelled in a 4-5-1 formation but his style of play is not consummate with 4-4-2. However there is a system which can cater for Cahill to play behind two strikers, but this depends on how intrepid Everton wish to be. A 3-5-2 with Baines and Coleman as wing backs and Heitinga as sweeper. We need to stay focused as there are some tough encounters still to negotiate. Reinforcements are still needed before the January transfer window shuts. David Kearns,Aintree
Everton FC fans jury - looking ahead to the Merseyside derby
Liverpool Echo January 13 2011
Lee Molton
THE derby is on the horizon again and the Blues go into it with confidence high on the back of two good wins. It has been great to see Beckford getting a run of games and it is also improving Saha’s play too. We need to keep this team for Sunday. We can go there feeling very confident of getting the three points just like Blackpool and Wolves have done. It looks likely that Pienaar is going to be sold to Tottenham. This is a major disappointment as he has been excellent for us on the left and he will be very hard to replace. We look also likely to lose the Yak to Leicester on loan. This leaves us short of options up front without even getting a transfer fee. It could be our time to do the double over them on Sunday even with the King back – wouldn’t that be great for a “small club” like ours and add to their misery?
Richard Knights
A TALE of Two Cities – this derby shows graphically how the power has shifted. Go back 25 years and Everton and Liverpool were both scrapping for the top spot, the league title was just a twinkle in Alex Ferguson’s eye and Manchester City were starting their long decline. How times have changed. In a money-dominated Premier League, both Liverpool clubs are now decidedly second tier – that’s the brutal truth. In the January transfer window the two clubs are gazing through it, like paupers observing a rich man’s banquet. The return of Mr Dalglish will give Sunday afternoon’s game an extra edge, with Everton chasing their first derby double since 1984-85. We’ve have had so many “kick starts to the season” (Liverpool, Chelsea, Man City, Spurs) that the heel’s getting sore.
Mike Williamson
A NEW Year and a new Everton! Getting through to the next round of the FA Cup was critical, but the quality of the performance against Spurs cannot be overstated. The quality of the football was top class and the Blues played with the sort of fluency and movement that we have all been waiting to see. The fact that Moyes was forced by circumstances to change his usual negative approach should be telling him what is blindingly obvious to every Evertonian and he needs to justify his salary now and stick with this formation, especially at Goodison. Playing people in their best positions is also an obvious and long overdue step, but the form of Arteta is still worrying and perhaps a brief rest would do him the world of good and provide Rodwell with an extended run of games. Let’s keep this improvement going, starting with a double over that troubled side on the other side of STony Scott
SO ACROSS to Anfield we go on Sunday afternoon, our first-ever home where we were winning leagues titles before Liverpool Football Club was even thought of. David Moyes will be in the dugout on Sunday trying to see off his fourth Liverpool manager since he took charge at Goodison back in 2002. I believe its going to be a ‘King Kenny’ flag and banner day in the Kop on Sunday and it still amazes me how two sets of supporters from the same city yet can be so different in their approach to a game. Back on the pitch, I can see Marouane Fellaini and Seamus Coleman having massive roles to play in the match on Sunday. Coleman has got the skill and pace to tear Fabio Aurelio inside-out and Fellaini should be able out out-muscle Lucas. With no Hodgson or Yanks to complain about now, I wonder who will get the blame if Everton triumph?
Everton go through to fourth round of the FA Youth Cup as own goal seals victory over Wolves
by Chris Wright, Liverpool Echo
Jan 13 2011
AN own goal from Michael Ihiekwe proved enough for Everton to move into the fourth round of the FA Youth Cup as they beat Wolverhampton Wanderers 2-1 at the Stobart Stadium. It wasn’t Neil Dewsnip’s side’s most polished performance of the season but it was good enough to book a fourth round tie at Middlesbrough, who won 4-2 against Doncaster Rovers after extra-time at the Keepmoat Stadium last night. The first-half was goalless but Hallam Hope gave Everton the lead before Wolves equalised through Jake Cassidy but Ihiekwe’s strike secured the victory. Jordan Barrow, fresh from his weekend hat-trick in the Academy League against Crewe, was involved in a lot of Everton’s best work on the right of midfield during the first half. He and full-back Tyius Browning combined well but couldn’t fashion out too many clear-cut chances. Everton had a big let off when Andre Landell’s shot hit the woodwork with keeper Connor Roberts beaten. Ten minutes before half-time Anton Forrester headed just wide from Luke Garbutt’s excellent free-kick. Dewsnip’s side sent in several dangerous set-pieces. And just after the break Johan Hammar saw his header well saved by Wolves keeper Dan East from Tom Donegan’s delivery. Soon after Everton finally made the breakthrough. Captain Jake Bidwell kept the ball alive on the left and from his cross Hope turned and shot low past East. But seven minutes later the visitors were level. Zeli Ismail’s pass into the area finally landed at Cassidy’s feet and he coolly finished past Roberts. Everton kept pressing for a winner and it came 15 minutes before the end. Hope’s initial cross was cleared but Barrow fired the ball back in and the unfortunate Ihiekwe headed into his own net.
Former Liverpool FC, Everton FC and Tranmere Rovers player Dave Hickson honoured
By Kadie DobsonJan 13 2011
MERSEYSIDE football legend Dave Hickson will be honoured with a prestigious civic title. "The Cannonball Kid", who played for Everton, Liverpool and Tranmere Rovers between the late 1940s and 1960s, will be made a Citizen of Honour next week. Liverpool council will bestow the award for Hickson’s contribution to the city’s sporting scene and his charity work, which saw him raise thousands of pounds for breast cancer support group The Lily Centre. Six other individuals and organisations which have improved people’s lives in the city will be honoured at Liverpool town hall next Wednesday. Dr David France, who amassed one of the largest collections of Everton memorabilia in the world, will also be made a Citizen of Honour. He established the club’s Former Players Foundation, which has raised more than £100,000 for the care of former Blues players, and his Everton archive will soon take pride of place in the city’s revamped Central Library. Dr France has also written 15 books about Everton and donated all proceeds to city charities. Council leader Joe Anderson said: "Dave and David have contributed a huge amount to this city and their charity work has made a real difference to the lives of many people across the region. "They are unsung heroes who deserve to be recognised for the wonderful work they do." Liverpool Cancer Research UK Centre, Nugent Care, Edge Hill University and the 4th Battalion the Parachute Regiment (Merseyside) will all be added to the council’s Freedom Roll of Association. A former Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Roger Johnston, will also receive an award for his 28 years of service to the council. Cllr Warren Bradley, leader of the opposition, said: "I am sure there will be widespread agreement at the council meeting that these are very worthy recipients who have made very important contributions to Liverpool life." The Citizen of Honour awards were introduced in 2009 to allow the council to recognise individuals who have made a significant contribution to enriching people’s lives or the image of the city. They are presented with a scroll of honour by the Lord Mayor at a civic reception.
Louis Saha says Everton FC must perform against all teams, not just top sides
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
Jan 13 2011
DAVID MOYES is a manager with little time for excuses – but he may take some consolation in a disjointed season from his team’s performances against the Premier League’s top clubs. Many would argue that Everton’s disappointing tally of 25 points so far, doesn’t necessarily reflect the quality of their performances. So while nobody at Goodison Park wants to paper over the cracks, the Toffees’ record against the top sides in the division gives an indication of the quality Moyes has assembled. In games against the top six sides Everton have in fact out-scored the Premier League’s leading lights – a notable stat given their lightweight return of 23 goals from 21 matches. The Blues have managed 12 goals in seven games against the top six – more than half their total and one more than free-scoring Arsenal have managed even with an extra game. As you would expect league leaders Manchester United come out on top having remained unbeaten against their rivals with three wins and three draws.
Arsenal – despite three defeats against top sides – are second with three wins and two draws. After that come Everton and Sunderland tied for third. The Blues hold a win and a draw against Spurs, a victory over Man City and further draws against Man United, Sunderland and Chelsea. Their only defeat against a leading side was the 2-1 home reverse against the Gunners at Goodison. Behind the Blues come Harry Redknapp’s Tottenham, while the teams to have fared worst against their direct rivals for honours are Manchester City and Chelsea. Everton’s tendency perform better when faced with tough opposition hasn’t escaped the players, and striker Louis Saha – a player showing hints of his best form – knows the situation must change. “We have been really strong against the big teams and that shows that we have quality,” says the 32-year-old. “Now the aim has to be more consistent and get better results against the rest of the teams. It is really important to get on a run and that means getting results against all the teams. “It is about being professional and bringing a better level, finding a way of beating all teams. We need to turn draws into wins. “It is fine playing some great football against Chelsea or Tottenham – it seems easier for us against them – but we need to find a solution and beat the other teams, it can be frustrating. “We have the manager, we have the players so I am not sure what it is – but we will work hard to find a way.”
Monaco striker Dieumerci Mbokani is keen on Everton move as Yakubu seals his exit
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool EchoJan 13 2011
MONACO striker Dieumerci Mbokani has issued a thinly veiled come and get me plea to Everton as David Moyes eyes a move for the Congo international. The 25-year-old striker expects to leave the French club on loan in January, and admitted Goodison is a prospect he would relish. But Moyes must first find £1m as a loan fee, and then enough to cover the former Standard Liege forward’s wages. The Everton manager’s finances may be slightly buoyed by the impending departure of Yakubu from the Goodison wage bill, after the Nigerian passes a medical at Leicester City. That should happen today, with Foxes boss Sven Goran Erikson keen to include the 28-year-old in his squad for their npower Championship clash with Preston North End on Saturday. One problem for Moyes could be the queue of other clubs hoping to persuade Mbokani to leave France this month, with Bundesliga outfit Hoffenheim and Aston Villa also keen. Although Mbokani’s agent Fabio Baglio recently intimated that his client will not be moving to the Premier League, the striker said otherwise. Mbokani, who has only scored once in Ligue 1 this season, said: “Everton are an attractive team and the Premier League is a very good league, if not, the best league in the world, but let's wait and see what happens. “I am relaxed about everything and waiting to see what will happen. I want to play in a team who want me and there are clubs out there who are interested in me.”
Meanwhile, Sylvain Distin believes Everton’s Goodison derby win this season proved to him the importance of beating Liverpool to the club’s supporters. The in-form Frenchman produced a sturdy defensive display, as the Blues were deserved winners against their arch-rivals last October. And Distin, who had been on the losing side in his two previous Merseyside derbies, is determined to do all he can to ensure it is the visiting fans who leave Anfield with bragging rights on Sunday. “It represents a lot for the fans,” he said. “I've seen that after the result at home – people still talk about it so it would be great to win away. I think it's a special place to win so to get the three points (at Anfield) would be great. “For me it is one of the biggest games in the Premier League. I know how important it is for the fans, but I didn't grow up with that so maybe it doesn't mean as much to me as it does for the fans. “But I know how much it means to them so we definitely want to do well. For mistakes that have gone before, if you have a great game against Liverpool people will forgive you so you definitely want to do well.” Distin has played in both Manchester and North East derbies, while also having faced Marseille while at Paris St Germain. He added: “They are all different, different atmospheres and tension. Sometimes it's more tension between the fans and sometimes more between the players. “This one is as intense as any and there’s a different flavour at the moment because both clubs are not where they are supposed to be – so it's maybe even more important.”
Yakubu's delight at completing loan move from Everton to Leicester
by James Pearce, Liverpool Echo
Jan 13 2011
EVERTON striker Yakubu has completed his loan move to Leicester City until the end of the season.
The 28-year-old is set to make his debut for the Foxes in Saturday's Championship clash at Preston. The Nigerian admits he jumped at the chance to kick-start his career under former England manager Sven Goran Eriksson. "It means a lot to me to be joining Leicester and to be given this chance," he said. "When I had the option to come here, I didn't think twice. The manager is one of the greats in football history and to work with him presents a special opportunity for me."
EFC Rumour Mill: Race to sign Taiwo, Hammill to arrive and a Pienaar/Babel swap deal?
By Jonathan Birchall
Jan 13 2011
Reports in France are suggesting that Everton are preparing a bid to bring Marseille defender Taye Taiwo to Goodison Park. The Nigerian international would be seen as an ideal long term replacement for Sylvain Distin but is also being courted by a number of other clubs including Spartak Moscow and Benfica. David Moyes knows that funds are limited this January but with his contract nearing an end, the 25-year old centre back would be a cheap solution for the Blues, who are looking to increase their strength in depth for the second half of the season.
Adam Hammill
Barnsley have admitted defeat in the battle to keep hold of ex-Liverpool winger Adam Hammill and David Moyes reportedly wants to bring the youngster to Goodison Park. Hammill has a £500,000 buy-out clause in his contract and would therefore be a cheap solution to filling the gap left by wantaway South African Steven Pienaar. The Toffees face a battle from a number of Premier League clubs for the 22-year-old's signature, with West Ham, Bolton, Wolves and Blackpool all rumoured to be interested in taking the the Tykes prize asset away from Oakwell.
Steven Pienaar
The ongoing saga surrounding Steven Pienaar's departure from Everton has taken it's most unexpected twist yet, with rumours circulating that the South African international is a transfer target for Liverpool. The Reds, who are in desperate need of some creative flair, reportedly see the 28-year-old as an ideal solution to their poor form, though whether the Blues would send one of their most effective players across Stanley Park remains to be seen. This move would reportedly pave the way for Ryan Babel to sensationally move to Goodison as part of a swap deal, though the Dutch international would possibly have to lower his wage demands if a deal were to be sanctioned
Everton FC defender Tony Hibbert eager for another Merseyside derby win
by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
Jan 13 2011
TONY HIBBERT is relishing the opportunity to claim local bragging rights this weekend and continue Everton’s charge up the Premier League table. The Goodison outfit will aim to complete a first league double over Liverpool since 1985 when they visit Anfield on Sunday in the 215th Merseyside derby. Hibbert is a veteran of 17 such occasions and will be hopeful of retaining his place after starting the 5-1 FA Cup third round win at Scunthorpe United on Saturday. That followed last week’s impressive 2-1 home victory over Tottenham Hotspur that moved David Moyes’s side up to 11th place and four points clear of the relegation zone. And Hibbert believes the need to continue that momentum will add an extra edge to Everton’s performance. “To be honest, I love derbies,” said the right-back. “I think they are absolutely brilliant. “I love playing in them, they are something different. I hope others love playing in it as well. “But at the end of the day, it’s the three points we want. With it being the derby, and local lads involved as it is with me, Bainesy and Ossie, it is a good match for us to get one over them. “We definitely need to get the momentum going. We need that. We haven’t done that on a big scale this season, and we need to start now. “With the games behind us and the points we’ve recently picked up, now would be a good time to start.” Everton, meanwhile, will be encouraged by comments from Monaco striker Dieumerci Mbokani praising the Goodison outfit. Moyes has targeted Mbokani on a short-term deal to help take the goalscoring burden off the shoulders of Tim Cahill and fill the hole left by Yakubu, who is joining npower Championship side Leicester City on loan for the remainder of the season. Mbokani’s agent was recently quoted as saying his client would not move to the Premier League, and reports in Germany suggest the 25-year-old could make a January switch to Bundesliga outfit Hoffenheim. But the forward believes Everton are “an attractive team” and insists he has yet to make a decision on his future. “I am relaxed about everything and waiting to see what will happen,” said Mbokani, for whom Monaco would command a loan fee of around £1million. “I want to play in a team who want me and there are clubs out there who are interested in me. “Everton are an attractive team and the Premier League is a very good league, if not, the best league in the world, but let’s wait and see what happens.”
Own goal puts Everton Youth through to the fourth round of the FA Youth Cup as they beat Wolves
by Chris Wright, Liverpool Daily Post
Jan 13 2011
AN own goal from Michael Ihiekwe proved enough for Everton to move into the fourth round of the FA Youth Cup as they beat Wolverhampton Wanderers 2-1 at the Stobart Stadium. It wasn’t Neil Dewsnip’s side’s most polished performance of the season but it was good enough to book a fourth round tie at Middlesbrough, who won 4-2 against Doncaster Rovers after extra-time at the Keepmoat Stadium last night. The first-half was goalless but Hallam Hope gave Everton the lead before Wolves equalised through Jake Cassidy but Ihiekwe’s strike secured the victory. Jordan Barrow, fresh from his weekend hat-trick in the Academy League against Crewe, was involved in a lot of Everton’s best work on the right of midfield during the first half. He and full-back Tyius Browning combined well but couldn’t fashion out too many clear-cut chances. Everton had a big let off when Andre Landell’s shot hit the woodwork with keeper Connor Roberts beaten. Ten minutes before half-time Anton Forrester headed just wide from Luke Garbutt’s excellent free-kick. Dewsnip’s side sent in several dangerous set-pieces. And just after the break Johan Hammar saw his header well saved by Wolves keeper Dan East from Tom Donegan’s delivery. Soon after Everton finally made the breakthrough. Captain Jake Bidwell kept the ball alive on the left and from his cross Hope turned and shot low past East. But seven minutes later the visitors were level. Zeli Ismail’s pass into the area finally landed at Cassidy’s feet and he coolly finished past Roberts. Everton didn’t let their heads drop and kept pressing for a winner and it came 15 minutes before the end. Hope’s initial cross was cleared but Barrow fired the ball back in and the unfortunate Ihiekwe headed into his own net to put Everton into the fourth round. EVERTON YOUTH: Roberts, Garbutt, Hammar, Browning, Bidwell, Murphy, Lundstram, Barrow, Donegan, Hope, Forrester.
BLUEWATCH: Cashing in on Phil Neville would send out the wrong signals
by Mark O'Brien, Liverpool Daily Post
Jan 13 2011
THESE are strange days indeed for Merseyside football. After the Goodison derby in October, no-one could have predicted that by the time the teams meet again at Anfield, as they do this Sunday, the Reds would have made a massive pay-off to yet another manager and been reduced to giving the job to Kenny Dalglish. It’s doubly surprising given that when the latest American owners took over they made a big deal about how they were going to bring the analytical approach that’s served them so well in baseball over to English football and show everyone how really shrewd operators run a ‘sports franchise’. Thus far though, their ‘play book’, to borrow a sporting term from across the pond, seems less Moneyball and more Mike Ashley. Still, in the short term Dalglish’s appointment should at least ensure that Anfield is full at the weekend. Change is not confined to the red half of the city though, with Ayegbeni Yakubu on his way to Leicester City, of all places and, straight out of left field – more baseball there – Phil Neville receiving the full treatment from Harry Redknapp. No-one seems to think that Neville’s silky skills are irreplaceable, should he choose to make what would be a shock move to Tottenham, but most Blues seem to agree that it would send out all the wrong signals about Everton. He’s the club captain after all, and apparently a pivotal figure, genuinely admired and respected by his teammates. Attitude and determination are the cornerstones of everything Moyes has built at Goodison, so such a big personality would be more keenly missed by the Blues than perhaps he would be from other clubs whose values are slightly different. Redknapp himself, despite never liking to talk about other clubs’ players, outlined all Neville’s leadership qualities, and the fact that Moyes and Sir Alex Ferguson always talk about him in such glowing terms speaks for itself – after all, the two Scots are hardly renowned for lavishing praise on the undeserving. Hopefully then, Neville isn’t tempted by the prospect of Champions League football and the fruit from the money tree that Spurs must have growing in North London. He still has unfinished business at Everton after all. There’s still the matter of silverware and he has yet to captain the Blues to victory at Anfield. Clearly he will never get a better chance than this weekend.
David Prentice: Everton FC must be bold if they are to spoil Liverpool FC's Kenny Dalglish return
by David Prentice, Liverpool Echo
Jan 14 2011
EVERTON victories at Anfield are rare – just two in more than 20 years. But without exception they are characterised by one quality. Courage. Sometimes it comes from players.In February 1998 a truly wretched Everton team claimed an unexpected draw at Anfield, with Slaven Bilic memorably declaring: “We knew we wouldn’t lose, because we have more men than them.” In 1995 it came from the manager. With most pundits expecting Joe Royle to redeploy his hitherto effective Dogs of War tactics, the Blues boss sprang a surprise. He went to Anfield with two wingers – and one, Anders Limpar, created a goal for the other, Andrei Kanchelskis, to fire Everton to a 2-1 triumph. On Sunday both Everton’s manager and their players must be brave if they are to overturn that dismal Anfield run. David Moyes must reprise Royle’s role, while the players will have to show the spirit of ‘98 when Everton escaped relegation by a whisker, but still took four points from their neighbours. Moyes’ instinct might be to go to Anfield and suffocate – perhaps play Leon Osman or Steven Pienaar in the vacated Tim Cahill role and flood the midfield. After all, a wide open derby might be good for Sky’s impartial observers, but it’s bad for the blood pressure of local observers. But a wide open derby can work in Everton’s favour, just as it did last Wednesday when Harry Redknapp’s Premier League pretenders were deservedly walloped. Liverpool are currently a team wracked by uncertainty, their confidence lower than a banker’s morals. Everton can take advantage of that damaged mindset by playing two up-top. Jamie Carragher picked out Louis Saha as one of his most dangerous opponents in last Sunday’s Old Trafford programme. If Saha and Jermaine Beckford are allowed to inflict even more damage to Agger and Skrtel’s damaged psyches Everton can profit. But if the manager must be bold, so too must his players. The usual electric derby match atmosphere will be absent on Sunday. Instead it will be incendiary – because of the return of one Kenneth Mathieson Dalglish. Everton’s players have to step into that Anfield cauldron and flourish. They have to take possession, demand responsibility and play the football they have been playing for most of this season – and taking one or two of the chances they will undoubtedly create would help as well. But most of all, they must be brave.
Everton FC’s Yakubu seals loan move to Leicester City
by James Pearce, Liverpool Echo
Jan 14 2011
LEICESTER CITY have signed Everton striker Ayegbeni Yakubu on loan until the end of the season.
The Championship club confirmed yesterday they had reached an agreement with Everton which could lead to a permanent deal in the summer. The 28-year-old Nigeria international passed a medical and will be eligible to play for the Foxes as soon as he receives Football League clearance. Leicester manager Sven-Goran Eriksson said: “Yakubu is a tremendous signing for Leicester City. He will bring pace, power and experience to the club. “He has captained his country, played in major competitions and is a first-class footballer, who I am certain will help us to achieve our aims of moving up the Championship. “We are delighted that he is joining us until the end of the season and I’m sure that the supporters will enjoy watching him in action.” Yakubu, who will hope to play at Preston tomorrow, is Leicester’s third signing of the transfer window after Ben Mee and Sol Bamba. The former Portsmouth and Middlesbrough forward will hope the move can rejuvenate a career which has stagnated since he suffered a serious Achilles tendon injury in November 2008. Yakubu scored 21 goals in his first season at Goodison Park after an £11.25m move from Boro four years ago but has found the net just once this term. Everton manager David Moyes left him out at the start of the season as he felt he lacked match fitness after a late return from the World Cup and the distraction of an approach from West Ham. Yakubu said: “It means a lot to me to be joining Leicester City and to be given this chance. When I had the option to come here, I didn’t think twice. The manager is one of the greats in football history and to work with him presents a special opportunity for me.” Yakubu’s departure could provide Everton with the flexibility to bring in a replacement on loan. Moyes has bemoaned his side’s lack of goals from strikers all season but has no funds available to buy this month.
Howard Kendall: Everton FC's David Moyes should cash in on Pienaar this month if his heart is set on Spurs
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
Jan 14 2011
IT SEEMS Steven Pienaar’s drawn-out will he/won't he transfer is on the verge of being concluded.
Reports suggest the South African schemer may be set on Tottenham Hotspur after supposedly agreeing a contract – and it puts David Moyes in a difficult situation if true. Does he go against his stated intent to refuse all offers and keep hold of him until the summer when he will lose him for nothing, or does he accept a nevertheless far under-value fee for him this month? So far, the Everton boss has been able to count on Pienaar’s exceptional attitude and professional approach – with his performances being beyond reproach. Yet, if there is a deal cut and dried, then it could alter how Pienaar plays – especially if he is thinking at the back of his mind about passing an imminent medical to go and earn a lot of money at another club. I would be tempted to suggest that Moyes should cash-in now against his better judgement, and just try and use the small-ish fee he will receive to replace him. He will be losing a skilful and determined player but not one who has been particularly productive this season. He hasn’t registered any assists and has only scored once, but will be remembered well.
Howard Kendall: Blues were set for success from offset in Scunthorpe
by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Echo
Jan 14 2011
I KNEW Everton were approach- ing the start of their FA Cup campaign in the right frame of mind as soon as I saw the teamsheet. Tim Howard’s name on the sheet proved that Everton were taking the third round tie seriously, and not resting key players which can be a recipe for disaster. In the end it was a totally professional, smooth game which saw the Blues run out easy winners and progressed into the next round only for their reward to be current holders Chelsea. Yes, it’s not ideal, especially with the renewed focus clubs like Chelsea who are struggling in the title race have for the FA Cup these days. But it’s a home draw, and I think that could make the difference.
Howard Kendall: Both teams sure to be fired-up for the Anfield derby on Sunday
by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Echo
Jan 14 2011
ANOTHER derby day is looming and it’s my old sparring partner Kenny Dalglish in the home dugout as the Blues go to Anfield at lunchtime on Sunday. Results haven’t got off to the most inspiring of starts for Kenny, but I fear that makes the Reds a far more dangerous prospect ahead of the 215th Merseyside derby. You almost have to fight a heavy heart when you consider the inevitability that it can only be a matter of time before he gets his first win as temporary manager, and what better occasion to do it then his first home game against Everton? So, if you’re being pessimistic, it’s a bad time to take on Liverpool at home. But derby games are so npredictable, and one thing is guaranteed on Sunday – both sides will be at 100%. Maybe some doubted the Liverpool team’s application under Roy Hodgson, but under Kenny they will be totally fired-up and so will Everton, as ever, because they are chasing a rare back-to-back derby success. Everton showed against Spurs at Goodison that they are ready to atone for their patchy start, and when they come out of the traps flying they are a match for anyone. Of course, one plus for David Moyes, aside from the form of his team, is the absence of Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher in the opposition line-up for the first time in nine years. I’m not sure wether red cards in the FA Cup should strictly transfer to the League, but in this situation I’m happy for that to be the case. Even without their two leaders, Anfield will be very noisy and full of support for Kenny, although there is very little managers can do from the dugout in a derby – the players can’t hear you anyway!
Everton FC defender Tony Hibbert is hoping to feature in the first taste of Anfield derby success in 12 years
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
Jan 14 2011
IN THE corridors of Everton’s Finch Farm training ground hangs a photograph of several Everton players piling on top of Lee Carsley after his winning derby goal in 2004. With one arm aloft, Tim Cahill stands atop the bunch, and somewhere in the mess of jubilant torsos is Everton’s right back Tony Hibbert. The 29-year-old derby veteran is hoping to make his latest in a long line of all Merseyside clashes at Anfield on Sunday, and cites that 1-0 victory seven years ago as a highlight. Hibbert, who returned to the Toffees line-up for their successful FA Cup third round tie at Scunthorpe last weekend, must wait to see whether he will be given the go-ahead to carry on, but admits the excitement is growing nonetheless less. David Moyes will first assess the fitness of Phil Jagielka before deciding how his defence will line-up ahead for the 215th derby. “It’s more than just excitement,” he says. “It’s the whole build up with your family and friends - it’s such a big occasion. “It’s different to any other game you play in the league. My best derby memory is when we won at Goodison and Lee Carsley scored. Tim was on top of the piley-on after Lee’s goal and we’ve got the photograph up at Finch Farm because it was a nice memory. That sticks out – but even in the cup when Dan Gosling got his winner makes me smile. “There’s good and bad memories for me but I want to play in more.” An over-riding ambition for Hibbert is to taste success for the first time in the home of the old enemy - something nobody in royal blue has achieved since 1999. I’ve had a couple of draws there but never a win, and I’d really like to beat them at Anfield in my career,” says the defender. “The majority of lads will feel we have a good chance this Sunday though.” Hibbert acknowledges that the global media interest in these games means Everton’s foreign contingent need little advice in derby psychology, but he does concede the recent appointment of a certain manager across the park could have an impact on Sunday. “The players now are so professional that they don’t need any advice from me on how to approach a derby. We’ve got a few foreign lads but this derby is so universal, they know all about it and know what it means to the fans to get a win. “Kenny Dalglish’s presence can’t fail to spur Liverpool on. Especially when I was growing up he was regarded as a legend, and he still is one there. “The fans love him, and it’s got to bring something extra to them. My dad is a Liverpudlian and he’s always said he was a great player, and I’ve seen old videos of him and he was a class act. We’ve got to do our own job though.” Hibbert insists that while the Dalglish Factor could boost the home side, they could also feel the absence of skipper Steven Gerrard, and leader Jamie Carragher acutely. “It’s a massive boost that Steven Gerrard is out because he’s a world class player,” he says. “He’s got that three match ban, but they’ve just got to get on with it, although it’s a huge loss for them. “They’ve still got a great squad and a great team, and we both want the points. I don’t think anyone can call it.” Hibbert was pleased with his performance in the 5-1 win over Scunthorpe, and was encouraged to see striker Louis Saha’s confidence flourishing after another goal. “I was pleased to get the Scunthorpe game under my belt. The manager had made a few changes and it was good for us. We’d been due a big win and it was only a matter of time. As a team the lads were brilliant,” he says. “Louis’s confidence is back. We can see that in training and he’s scored two in two now. “He is going to get better and better now as the games go on, and it’s a big boost for us. “It’s always down to confidence and a bit of luck for the strikers. There was no question marks over their effort. Louis has turned his corner now and I hope he goes from there.” While some of his team-mates may indulge in some pre-derby superstition, alongside thousands of fans, the Huyton-born right-back says his only problem is dealing with an influx of requests for tickets in the build up to the big day. “I don’t have any major superstitions, just little stuff,” he says. “I’ll always wear a wet top in the warm-up, and I always wear long sleeves but that’s about it,” he says. “With derbies there’s everyone wanting tickets and then my family is split so there’s the banter. “As soon as the fixture list comes out, you know you’re going to get hassled for tickets and there’ll always be the last minute requests too. “You’ve just got to try and get as many as you can and there’s never a problem getting rid of them. “I think a good run is what we need. We haven't done it this season on a big scale – going on a run of form – but we need to start now and with the games behind us where we have picked up the points it's a good time to start.”
Everton FC’s Mikel Arteta backs the Blues’ striker search
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
Jan 14 2011
MIKEL ARTETA believes David Moyes’ search for a prolific striker could be crucial to Everton’s season. The Spanish midfielder accepts that a lack of “end product” has cost the Blues dearly so far, and they need a 20-goal plus forward if they are to break into the Premier League top four. Moyes’ men have won just five of their 21 league matches, scoring 23 goals in the process, and Arteta admits that although they regularly hog possession, finishing remains a major stumbling block. The departure of Ayegbeni Yakubu to Leicester on loan, ironically the last forward to score 20 goals in a season for Everton, and the apparent desire of Dieumerci Mbokani to swap Monaco for Merseyside, could yet lead to at least one fresh face at Goodison this month. And although Moyes cannot afford the type of striker which could catapult them from mid-table to Champions League qualification contenders, Arteta said the players will not complain about the lack of resources. He said: “I think we had some really good games without any end product - that is the biggest criticism we could have. “Not getting the points and not closing the games when we have had the chance makes it a harder season because it means you’ve not won enough games, we have drawn too many. “But David Moyes he doesn’t want anyone complaining about how sorry we feel because we haven’t had the money to spend or we have players injured. “He says ’Take it as it comes’ and we have to go out there and do what we are paid to do. We need goals, goals and more goals. “The difference in football is to have someone scoring 20 to 25 goals a season. Probably that will be enough. “Physically it is a really tough league. The difference between the teams is so small, everyone is beating everyone. “The title is open, relegation is open, European qualification is open.” Everton have had to rely on their character and team spirit to get them through some testing periods during this campaign, with Moyes unable to spend big to surge up the table. But Arteta said that togetherness was what made it such a special club. “You can always see a reaction from Everton teams when they have had a bad result or five injuries in a week,” he said. “That means the spirit in the dressing room and the club is right. I haven’t seen any club like Everton, it is special. Everyone involved at the club is really close to each other and no one thinks they are more important than the club.” Meanwhile, Mbokani insists that Monaco’s change of coach has made no difference to his desire to leave, opening the door to a move to Everton. Moyes has kept close tabs on the 25-year-old in recent weeks, but must raise a potential £1m loan fee, and navigate work permit issues to seal the Congo star’s capture. Mbokani has failed to settle at the Stade Louis II since his summer move from Standard Liege, making just 10 first-team appearances as the French side have slipped to 17th in Ligue 1.
Everton FC defender Sylvain Distin relishing derby battle with Fernando Torres
by James Pearce, Liverpool Daily Post
Jan 14 2011
SYLVAIN DISTIN believes he won’t be able to put a foot wrong if Everton are going to end their long wait for a victory on the other side of Stanley Park this Sunday. Not since Kevin Campbell grabbed the only goal of the game in September 1999 have Evertonians tasted success at Anfield. French defender Distin is desperate to put that right and insists David Moyes’ side have got what it takes to complete a Premier League double over their rivals. Distin will be tasked with shackling Liverpool striker Fernando Torres. The Spaniard has struggled for form and fitness this season but has netted in two of the last three league games. His stunning finish at Blackpool on Wednesday night provided a timely reminder of his threat but it’s a challenge Distin is relishing. “I came to England to play against big strikers,” Distin said. “He (Torres) is a good striker and you have to focus. He has a bit of everything. “He is very technical, very sharp, he can turn quickly and he does not need 20 chances to score. “You can mark him well for 90 minutes but give him five seconds and he can score – you can’t switch off for a moment.” If Distin can keep Torres under wraps, the 33-year-old is confident Everton have a player in Louis Saha who can exploit Liverpool’s glaring defensive frailties. Saha ended his 11-month wait for a Premier League goal in the recent home victory over Tottenham and then hammered home the opener from 20 yards in last weekend’s 5-1 win at Scunthorpe in the FA Cup. Distin believes his fellow Frenchman has hit form at the perfect time. “Louis has always been there,” he said. “Strikers are like that, you miss one or two and doubts creep in. “Then you score one or two and it all comes back and you can go on and get maybe another 10 goals before the end of the season.” The jubilant scenes after Everton’s 2-0 win over Liverpool at Goodison Park back in October showed Distin just how much victory in the derby means to the club’s supporters. Distin, who had been on the losing side in his two previous Merseyside derbies, savoured the moment. “It represents a lot for the fans,” Distin said. “I’ve seen that after the result at home – people still talk about it so it would be great to win away. “I think it’s a special place to win so to get the three points (at Anfield) would be great. “For me it is one of the biggest games in the Premier League. “I know how important it is for the fans, but I didn’t grow up with that so maybe it doesn’t mean as much to me as it does for the fans. “But I know how much it means to them so we definitely want to do well. “For mistakes that have gone before, if you have a great game against Liverpool people will forgive you so you definitely want to do well.” Distin is no stranger to derbies having played in both the Manchester and Tyne & Wear battles in this country, while he also faced Marseille during his spell at Paris St Germain. The centre-back says both clubs’ struggles so far this season – they are just four points above the drop zone – means there is even more importance attached to Sunday’s 215th meeting between the rivals. He added: “They are all different, different atmospheres and tension. “Sometimes it’s more tension between the fans and sometimes more between the players. “This one is as intense as any and there’s a different flavour at the moment because both clubs are not where they are supposed to be – so it’s maybe even more important.” All the focus in the build up to the game has been on the return of Kenny Dalglish to the Anfield hot-seat following the departure of Roy Hodgson. However, Distin has urged his team-mates to ignore all the hype and concentrate on delivering the goods. He believes a Liverpool side without either Steven Gerrard or Jamie Carragher is vulnerable and says a fast start is vital to quietening the home supporters. “When a new manager comes in it can go one of two ways,” he said. “It can carry on without a change in mentality or everybody feels like they start from scratch and gets a lift. “But we need to concentrate on ourselves, work hard like we always do and make sure we are not distracted. “If we start strongly then maybe the crowd will become impatient with them and if we can calm down the fans then that is good and I am sure our fans will be right with us. “They (Gerrard and Carragher) are two local guys who are missing and for all the new players and the guys who have not been in England that long it is those guys who explain what the derby is all about. “It is a plus for us they are not playing but having said that they still have quality so it doesn’t mean it is going to be an easier game.”
Mikel Arteta calls for Everton FC to be ruthless ahead of Liverpool FC clash
by James Pearce, Liverpool Daily Post
Jan 14 2011
MIKEL ARTETA is demanding a ruthless streak from Everton ahead of Sunday’s derby with Liverpool at Anfield. David Moyes’ side make the trip across Stanley Park on a high after following up an impressive league victory over Tottenham with last weekend’s emphatic 5-1 demolition of Scunthorpe in the FA Cup. But the Spanish midfielder knows a finishing touch has deserted Everton on too many occasions in the top flight this season. A lack of firepower has cost them dearly and explains why they remain just four points above the Premier League drop zone. With striker Ayegbeni Yakubu having joined Leicester on loan, Moyes is set to unleash strike duo Louis Saha and Jermaine Beckford on Liverpool and Arteta wants Everton to be clinical as they chase a first win at Anfield for 12 years. “I think we had some really good games without any end product - that is the biggest criticism we could have,” he said. “Not getting the points and not closing the games when we have had the chance makes it a harder season because it means you’ve not won enough games, we have drawn too many. But David Moyes he doesn’t want anyone complaining about how sorry we feel because we haven’t had the money to spend or we have players injured. “He says ‘take it as it comes’ and we have to go out there and do what we are paid to do.” Arteta believes if Everton start taking their chances on a regular basis they can still force their way into the battle for European qualification. The difference in football is to have someone scoring 20 to 25 goals a season,” he added. “Physically it is a really tough league. The difference between the teams is so small, everyone is beating everyone. “The title is open, relegation is open, European qualification is open.” Everton may not have the cash to compete with the title contenders but Arteta says the team spirit and character in Moyes’ squad is priceless. “You can always see a reaction from Everton teams when they have had a bad result or five injuries in a week,” he said. “I haven’t seen any club like Everton, it is special. Everyone involved at the club is really close to each other and no-one thinks they are more important than the club. “Everyone has their own part and that part is as important as any other to make the club successful. “It makes the club really rich in terms of the people it has inside it. For me the toughest period is when the team is not doing well and you get criticised and that spirit comes through. “You look around and you see people you can trust and that is important.” Moyes is waiting on the fitness of Phil Jagielka ahead of the trip to Anfield. The defender has missed Everton’s last two games with a thigh injury.
David Moyes: Yakubu exit suits Everton FC and the player
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo January 15th
DAVID Moyes admits his decision to sanction Yakubu’s exit was fuelled by a desire to bring in a fresh face in the Goodison striking line-up. The Blues lost a centre forward this week when the Nigerian international joined npower Championship side Leicester City on loan until the end of the season. And Moyes revealed Yakubu, who has scored once in 15 appearances this season, was keen on the move to the Walkers Stadium. He said: “Yak was keen to go and get some games. We got a bit of a fee for him to go which might allow us to look into the market a little bit. “I felt at the time we had to try and find a way of moving forward. We have not scored enough goals and we need to look for other solutions. “We’re in the market maybe for a loan replacement at the moment – that’s all we’ll be looking for.” City unveiled the 28-year-old, who is on loan from with a view to a permanent transfer in the summer, on Thursday. Foxes boss Sven-Goran Erikkson was turned down by several Premier League targets, but said: "I am sure this signing will help. "The more great players you take the easier it is to take in others after that. "Yakubu is a proven Premier League player. He has played in the World Cup so it is a good one for us." Eriksson said the Yakubu signing is a clear indication of the ambition of the club's Thai owners to get City into the Premier League. City are reportedly paying all of Yakubu's £50,000 a week wages, but Eriksson said he was confident it will prove to be money well spent. He said: "I am very happy. He is a big name and a big player. He should do very well for us. "He did very well in training and you can see his experience and his touch. He is already scoring goals in training. "Hopefully, he will be as good as we hope and he will score many goals for us. It is good for everyone but it is a sign we want the Premier League and the owners are prepared to invest money to reach it, which is very good.” Meanwhile, Everton Youth will be away for the fifth round of the FA Youth Cup at Nottingham Forest - if they can beat Middlesbrough first. Neil Dewsnip's set up a fourth round tie at Middlesbrough with a 2-1 win over Wolves at the Stobart Stadium in midweek. They first face Middlesbrough a week on Monday and will take on Forest at the City Ground if they get through.
Everton FC star Tim Cahill in pledge to aid Australia’s flood victims
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo Jan 15 2011
TIM Cahill is desperate to help the victims of his flood-hit homeland by raising funds and boosting morale via Asia Cup success. The patriotic Everton midfielder has launched an initiative to raise cash for victims of the Queensland floods, offering a special VIP visit to Goodison Park as the main prize. Having set Australia on the path to glory in the Qatar-based tournament with two goals and a man-of-the-match performance in the Socceroos' 4-0 win over India in Doha last week, Cahill led the charge to help the suffering East coast citizens. Moments after the match he dedicated his brace to flood victims by urging people to phone in with appeal donations. And fans can also bid on internet auction site ebay to win the top ‘Tim Cahill Everton Experience’ prize. The 31-year-old said: “I urge everyone to support this cause as much as possible – so please start bidding. “It is hard to put into words the devastation the floods have caused. It is hard to watch it on the news and internet and see how much it is harming the country and the victims. I want to help to make a difference.” Emirates have donated two business class return flights for the winner and a guest, who will enjoy a two-night stay at Liverpool's Hilton Hotel and a chauffeur-driven Audi for the weekend. The prize also includes two seats, dinner and drinks in Cahill’s private box to watch any Everton home match this season, the chance to watch an Everton training session and meet the players, a Cahill shirt signed by the whole team and a pair of signed Cahill boots from the game the winning bidder watches. Meanehile,Cahill admits he will be watching events at Anfield unfold on Sunday with a certain degree of envy. He may have other priorities at present, but the Blues top goal scorer says he will miss not being involved against Everton's fiercest rivals. Cahill netted in the 2-0 win over the Reds at Goodison earlier in the season, continuing a terrific derby scoring record. Despite his absence, he is backing his teammates to produce the goods against Liverpool. "This is a big chance to get a big result. We know it's a game that could turn their season around again but it's one which could kick ours on too," said Cahill. "I always feel amazing playing at Anfield, it's a beautiful stadium - the atmosphere. You know you can make a difference for our fans. "I'll be sad not to be there." Liverpool have won just one of their last seven games, while Everton have lost just once in the same number.
ROYAL BLUE: Sad Goodison farewell to departing Everton FC natural goalscorer Yakubu
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo Jan 15 2011
SO IT seems that an autumn afternoon in October was the last time Ayegbeni Yakubu will flash that big ice-white smile and perform his Super-Eagles celebrations in an Everton shirt. The Nigerian’s solitary goal in an otherwise unremarkable 1-0 victory against Stoke City at Goodison Park, hinted at a change in fortunes for the powerful forward. The Yak, it seemed, was back. Except he wasn’t. Sadly, that well-taken goal was to be the only time the 28-year-old found the back of the net all season, despite being given a run, of sorts, in the team by David Moyes. He wasn’t the only one of course. Louis Saha took until this month against Spurs to break his 11-month goal drought and Jermaine Beckford has equally found scoring appearances tough to come by. But with an £11m price-tag, a big reputation, and the memory of that prolific first season at Everton still in supporter’s minds, it was the slow, sad failure of the Yak which has been one of this season’s most disappointing sub-texts. Moyes turned down a £6m bid for the services of the former Middlesbrough man last summer, and when West Ham’s laughable tactic of coming back in with a LOWER bid unsurprisingly failed, it seemed like Yakubu was set for an extended chance to recapture his best in royal blue. That never happened though, and the Blues who have watched his forlorn cameos so far this campaign will have wondered what happened to the man who grabbed 21 goals in his first season. The Yak’s confidence was shot, not helped by a woeful World Cup campaign when he was ridiculed for one of the misses of the tournament against South Korea. The big striker then did himself no favours by returning to Finch Farm belatedly and out of shape, physically and mentally. But David Moyes was patient with him, and admitted that in many ways the centre forward who was so popular at Everton’s training ground, was struggling to overcome a large battle. The horrendous Achilles tendon injury he suffered at White Hart Lane in November 2008 looms large over any consideration of why the man from Benin never returned to his early promise. "Yak is fit, but not back to the level where he was before the injury,” said Moyes in 2009. “When you have had a ruptured Achilles, a serious injury, the nine months out is the healing part of it. “It might take five or six months for Yak to get back to where he wants to be. “He is a part of the squad now, though, and if we can get the ball to Yak in the box then we know his history of scoring goals. “But maybe the team at the moment is not ready for that, we need a centre-forward to contribute more in other ways. “That's why we need Yak to get more games and more playing time.But if there's somebody you want the ball to fall to in the box, it's Yak." Jibes about the hit-man’s weight have followed him for much of his career in England, something opposition supporters have often used to keep themselves amused (and maybe not helped by the Blues’ own chant of ‘Feed the Yak’). But here Yakubu has fallen foul of lazy assumptions based on his powerful, muscular physique. Upon his original return from injury, following a mammoth 11-month lay-off from football, many at Goodison were pleasantly surprised to see the fighting fit shape the Nigerian maintained. In terms of body fat – there was none. But that injury, when the entire tendon was snapped in two, had a far more alarming effect. It stripped Yakubu of the half a yard burst of pace he once utilised so efficiently to tear past defenders and hit the onion bag. Without that, and with his self-belief at rock bottom, this season’s failings have been grimly predictable. What now? His loan move to Leicester City may be temporary at first, but unless something drastic changes and Yakubu transforms himself in the Championship, the likelihood is that he will not return. It’s a shame – natural goalscorers are rare, and Moyes had one – even if only for 10 months in 2007/08.
Travelling Everton FC fans make great impression
IT SEEMS the Everton travelling support are as impressive before and after kick off as they are during games. Paul Ferguson, manager of the Blue Bell Inn Wetherspoons in Scunthorpe town centre, said the supporters who visited the pub before and after the game were ‘the best bunch of travelling fans that I have experienced in five years as a pub manager’. Mr Ferguson felt compelled to write to the club and say: They were polite, friendly and even helpful to locals and regulars who were also using the pub. “They were an absolute credit to your club and a pleasure to have around both before and after the match and they created a really positive atmosphere which also showed football fans in a whole new light to several people using the pub at the time including my mum who had popped in for lunch and was initially put off by seeing the pub packed out with the ‘footy brigade’ in her words. “She has now been inspired to come along to a match with me at some point as it has had such a positive impression on her. “Your boys were something else and outshone my own bunch of fans, who still had a good time and behaved but didn’t pack that extra punch with regard to creating a positive impression for the neutrals’. * REASONS why Tim Cahill is an Evertonian # 2,015. The Aussie who just loves to score against the Reds currently has a lot on his plate. He’s tasked with leading an expectant nation to Asia Cup success, and is also doing all he can to help the flood victims of Queensland. But Cahill has no doubt where he will be at 11pm on Sunday – glued to a TV set cheering his team-mates on at Anfield. “I’ve watched the last couple of games on the internet,” he said. “I’ll definitely be watching it in some shape or form. It’s just nerve wracking to listen to the score. It’s good to see how well the lads are doing.”
Barry Horne: Solid start key to Everton FC’s Merseyside derby hopes
by Barry Horne, Liverpool Echo Jan 15 2011
EVERY derby is special but some derbies promise to be more special than others. With Everton and Liverpool both lying in mid-table a casual observer may think Sunday’s game won’t be one of the more important or tense matches between the clubs but nothing could be further from the truth. Kenny Dalglish’s return to the Anfield hot-seat has so far failed to spark a revival but Sunday will be his real homecoming. The atmosphere will be electric and Everton players will have to contend with that. They will have to weather that early intensity. I always go back to Joe Royle’s first game in charge of Everton which provided a fantastic launchpad for him. There is the nagging fear the same thing might happen for Dalglish on Sunday. I’ve got to say Liverpool’s midfield looks lightweight. They struggled at Blackpool on Wednesday night and they will certainly miss Steven Gerrard. No matter what people say Gerrard remains a force to be reckoned with and Liverpool are a significantly better team when he’s available. But of course they still have other capable players and Fernando Torres remains a big threat, especially at Anfield. There will be some anxiety from Evertonians going into the game but there is plenty to be positive about on our side of Stanley Park. We go into the game on the back of two wins and five different scorers in a tricky FA Cup tie at Scunthorpe when we were without our talisman in Tim Cahill was very pleasing. Hopefully that’s an indication that the problems which have plagued us this season are diminishing. The form of Louis Saha has been especially encouraging. I know the fans would love to see David Moyes stick with 4-4-2 but I wouldn’t from the start. We’ve had great success playing 4-5-1. Despite Liverpool’s current woes, Anfield remains an intimidating place and their home record isn’t too shabby. Let’s have a solid start against what I expect to be a very nervous Liverpool team and that’s best achieved with a 4-5-1. If things go well then I’d like to see the introduction of Jermaine Beckford to play up alongside Saha. Beckford is the kind of player who can come on and rise to the occasion.
Tim Cahill proves he is a true hero
IN TIMES of trouble good people come to the fore and that’s certainly the case with Tim Cahill. It was no surprise to me that the Everton player has started an online auction to raise funds for the thousands of people affected in Queensland by the floods. Cahill is a proud Evertonian and he is also a proud Australian. His actions this week just underline why he is so loved and revered both in Merseyside and in his homeland. The auction for return plane tickets from Down Under and dinner in Cahill’s box at Goodison for a game has already reached £164,000. It’s great to see Cahill doing his bit to help stricken people in a time of great need.
Sepp Blatter rewrites World Cup rules
FIFA president Sepp Blatter has either got lucky or has proved once again he is the arch politician with his announcement that the 2022 World Cup in Qatar might have to be played in winter. The timing was perfect for him as it was buried under all the coverage about Liverpool FC, the third round of the FA Cup and all the managerial and transfer comings and goings. It just adds more fuel to the fire for those who have questioned the validity of the bidding process since December. Nobody mentioned playing the World Cup in January when the decisions were being made but of course Blatter hasn’t got a problem when it comes to rewriting the rules. It seems obvious to me that this was part of a hidden agenda all the way along. That was rammed home by the fact that the idea of playing the World Cup in January has been announced by FIFA without any consultation with other nations.
Everton FC manager David Moyes insists there will be no room for sentiment against his former hero Kenny Dalglish at Anfield
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo Jan 15 2011
DAVID Moyes may have once hero worshipped Kenny Dalglish – but would still like nothing better than to spoil his Anfield homecoming. The Everton boss recalls fondly cheering on Dalglish’s Seventies exploits for the Scottish national team, and insists he is glad his countryman will be in the dug-out on Sunday and not on the pitch. Moyes takes his upwardly mobile team across the park equal on points with their local rivals, but desperate to taste a first derby success under his reign. “I wouldn’t say its taken on more importance because if we were at the top fighting for position then it would be really important,” he says. “But we are both mid-table at the moment and we know that we are not too far away from the bottom. “Both clubs would expect to do better. I don’t know if it is more significant. All derbies are important and because of the position we are in we have to win more games. “I can’t speak for Liverpool because I don’t know what their thoughts and ambitions for this season were, but mine were to be in the top half of the league and I’m still aiming to do that but first I have to get enough points to move away from the bottom.” There is scant room for sentiment in the white-heat of derby day battle, but Moyes is happy to extol the virtues of his former idol. “I remember him as a young Celtic player and I watched him a lot playing for Scotland,” he says.
“The big thing is that I don’t want Kenny to play. I’d have a bigger worry if he was. “I remember he scored against Belgium when he curled it into the top corner. He was always someone you watched. He was right up there among the very best. “It was his ability to turn and score, and he had great intelligence and awareness. He knew how to play with his back to goal. He was one of a group of players Scotland had at that time. When I was a young player he was still in the Celtic folklore when I was there.” Moyes goes into the 215th Merseyside derby facing a struggling opposition, with his own supporters willing him to be tactically bold. He accepts that his team enter the fray in decent form. “We have not been able to turn draws into wins. I hope we stay positive. “We just have to go about our job as well as we can. We need to be as committed as we have been in other games. We have to try and play with an attacking fair, but when we can’t we have to be hard to beat and disciplined.” Moyes is fully aware that victory at Anfield is a gap in his CV, but is keen to add some context. “It’s not as if we have been to Anfield and done bad,” he says. “We would like to win more but you can’t talk about that without talking about the whole situation. There is more in it. “To have drawn so many games at Anfield over that period is incredible when you look at the difference in spending. “If anything gnaws away at me, then it’s not the record, but the financial gap. When you don’t win at places like Anfield then you are questioned on it, and no-one considers the financial gap, and that’s the bit that gnaws away at me. “Ultimately there’s no excuses though. The job as a manager is to go and win no matter what your budget is. It’s not all been one-way traffic though.” Moyes knows Anfield will be at it’s rousing best on Sunday, yet he insists there is still a sense that Everton have scores to settle. “We’ve had some bad things said about our club after some games at Liverpool,” he says. “But overall I think we’re having a right good go at getting results. I want to give the Everton supporters something to shout about and feel as if they’ve got closer.” Another cause for optimism, the Scot admits, is the absence in the opposition of Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher. “I’ve always thought Gerrard and Carragher are the heartbeat at Liverpool and they keep their club going,” he says. “They’re an integral part of what they do, so it’s a loss but they’ll have passed the message on, and there are enough experienced players there to understand what it means. “They’re still a strong side who get big backing from their support. That gives them a massive help. We’re much closer to Liverpool now though and maybe a lot of supporters will go there thinking we have a better chance.”
Everton FC's Steven Pienaar set for Spurs after Chelsea talks break down
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo Jan 15 2011
STEVEN Pienaar is edging closer to a January move to Tottenham after the Everton midfielder failed to agree terms with Chelsea. David Moyes has confirmed that the Toffees accepted an offer, believed to be £3m, for the South African from Carlo Ancelotti’s champions on Thursday, but talks between his agent and the West Londoners stalled over finances. The Blues have also received a bid for the 28-year-old from Spurs, which falls short of their valuation, and are waiting for an increased offer. It leaves Moyes facing a selection headache ahead of Sunday’s Anfield derby clash, as he ponders whether to play the schemer, who has made it clear he wants to leave this month. The Everton manager, who previously insisted he would not cash in on the former Ajax star, believes he must now accept any opportunity to boost his transfer coffers instead of losing him for nothing in the summer. He said: “You get the offer of that money in January and it makes you think. Until Thursday we hadn’t had any offers. We’ve got a situation now where it would probably be wrong to turn down a £3m offer at this time. “Unless I get something different he will be involved on Sunday. But I will have a decision to make whether I use him or not. “I think the player probably decided that he wanted to go when he turned down his contract six months or a year ago. But he has done very well for us on the pitch, so we have no complaints.” Everton are believed to be intent on cash only offers for Pienaar, and would not entertain a player plus money proposition from Spurs or anyone else. One player who is unlikely to be joining Spurs, however, is skipper Phil Neville. Despite Harry Redknapp admitting he was interested in capturing the 33-year-old Goodison captain last week, Everton have had no concrete offers and do not expect any. Meanwhile, defender Phil Jagielka has been ruled out of Sunday’s trip across the park, when the Blues go in search of their first victory at Anfield since 1999. The England centre-half last played for the Blues in the New Year’s Day defeat at Stoke but was expected to be in contention for a return at Anfield, but Moyes confirmed that he would again be absent from the Blues’ squad. Tim Cahill’s absence aside, Everton are otherwise expected to be at full strength.
My guide to derby day
By Martin Keown 15th January 2011 (Daily Mail)
Martin Keown is well qualified to offer advice on derbies, having played in them for Arsenal, Everton, Aston Villa and Leicester. Here, Sportsmail’s columnist gives his top tips on how to deal with derby day.
STAY CALM
With all the pre-match hype and the venom from the fans, it is easy to lose your head. Playing at White Hart Lane in 1999 I was sent off at the death for a stupid tackle. But the fans were so loud because Tottenham were winning by that point that I felt I had to match their passion and got it wrong. I always found the north London derby the fiercest while the Merseyside fans seemed friendlier.
SEIZE CONTROL
You can set the tone in a derby with the first few tackles. If you win them it is a way of laying down a marker for the rest of the game. It can be quite fierce. I remember watching my first north London derby as a teenager in the youth team and seeing Charlie Nicholas get booted into the stands by Graham Roberts with the first tackle. It was ferocious. It had me licking my lips.
DON'T PLAY ON FAST FORWARD
Watching some derbies, it seems like they are being played in fast forward. I remember playing against Liverpool when they were the best team in the country. But on derby day, they seemed to panic and started hurrying everything and giving the ball away. It was a great leveller. So you should try to play at a normal pace.
TAKE THEM SERIOUSLY
Especially when I was at Aston Villa, we considered ourselves to be the bigger team when we played Birmingham. We were the big team in the area and even though we were in the old Second Division when I was there, we still tended to win. But even as the bigger club you can succumb to an upset, as I found when Birmingham beat us 2-0 at Villa Park in 1987. Your rivals are always going to be out to spoil your day.
ENJOY IT
Derbies are fantastic occasions; the epitome for me was the 2001 FA Cup semi-final at Old Trafford. Robert Pires and Sylvain Wiltord came in from the warm-up with beaming smiles. Pires enjoyed playing against Spurs - in the Premier League era only Emmanuel Adebayor has scored as many goals in north London derbies as his eight.
AND DON'T FORGET TO WIN THE MATCH!
Derby day means everything to so many people around you: the kit man, the stewards, the other staff and, of course, the fans. So you have to make sure you win for all those people. I won most of my games when at Arsenal and Aston Villa but there was the odd defeat. It is huge: a win can kick-start your season - a defeat can ruin it.
Kenny Dalglish: We can’t live on past glories for ever... Liverpool manager will lean upon the Boot Room philosophy to build new generation of success
By Joe Bernstein
15th January 2011 (Daily Mail)
Kenny Dalglish may see himself as a custodian of the Liverpool way but his high regard for Anfield's heritage will not blind him to the need to shake off the past rather than cling to it. While the man given charge of Liverpool until the end of the season is determined to reintroduce the spirit of the Boot Room - if not the room itself - he insists that fans deserve more than reminders of the club's glorious past. Dalglish will sit in the home dugout at Anfield today for the first time in 20 years as his side attempt to provide the first victory of his second managerial reign by winning the Merseyside derby with Everton. He says today's game must signal the end of the romance which has greeted his return to the Anfield hot seat - and the start of results. Although immensely proud of the club's traditions, he is aware that today's Liverpool fans need their own magic moments. Apart from Gerard Houllier's cup treble in 2001 and the miracle of Istanbul four years later, the Kop have had little to cheer since Dalglish, now 59, stepped down as manager after the famous 4-4 FA Cup draw with Everton. 'I don't think the history and tradition should ever be forgotten and it certainly should never be seen as a problem or an excuse for how we're doing now,' said Dalglish. 'Showing that this club have enjoyed success in the past provides a target for everyone. But there is a generation of fans who are fed up with hearing about the European Cup victories from my time. 'I would really like this generation to share the times that the previous ones have done, as they did when they got a bit of glory in 2005. It is a huge ask to get back to where we were in the Seventies and Eighties, but you always have to aim as high as you can, while at the same time being totally realistic.' Dalglish is adamant that internal divisions which recently threatened to tear Liverpool apart have no place at Anfield while he is manager. 'This club used to be so unified; everybody was pushing in the same direction,' he said. 'As long as I'm sitting here, there will be no divisions. Everybody will be treated with the utmost respect in the position they hold in the football club. 'The Boot Room wasn't just somewhere to go for a drink after the game, the people in there made an unbelievable contribution, in training and everywhere else at the club. 'They were educated in football - as sharp as tacks. Ronnie Moran (former captain, coach and caretaker manager) was at the training ground on Friday, having a walk. It was fantastic to see him wandering about with his new knee. Every club should be like that. Certainly that's the way I've been brought up.' Whether the new Anfield regime of John W Henry and Tom Werner buy wholeheartedly into 'the Liverpool way' remains to be seen. The first test will be to see if they allow Dalglish his thoughts on January signings or let director of football strategy Damien Comolli have the final say. Potential targets such as Ajax striker Luis Suarez, 23, and Blackpool midfielder Charlie Adam, 25, have the right age profile for Henry's Fenway Sports Group to invest money, but will they back Dalglish if he feels 29-year-old left-back Stephen Warnock from Aston Villa is important to the club rising up the Premier League table? The result of the derby is all important, with Dalglish's emotional homecoming from a cruise ship in Bahrain last weekend not so far matched by results, with defeats at Manchester United in the FA Cup and Blackpool in the league. David Moyes is in an even tighter financial squeeze at Everton and desperately trying to offload the likes of Steven Pienaar and James Vaughan to bring in new blood. He needs to sign a top striker on loan until the end of the season for no more than £50,000 a week and is still interested in long-time target Chris Eagles of Burnley, to play on the flanks. Last season, Moyes was in despair and wondering how much further he could take Everton after nearly a decade in charge. But as the blue hordes prepare for their annual visit to Anfield, he underlined that he sees his future at the club. 'I am at a brilliant club and really fortunate to be here,' he said. 'I wouldn't change my owner (Bill Kenwright) for any other owner, that's for sure.' Having played for both Dalglish, when he was at Newcastle, and for Moyes, Steve Watson knows the last place he would want to be today is in the losers' dressing room. Moyes has a reputation for being intense but Watson, who played in an FA Cup final for Newcastle, says Dalglish is also capable of venting his fury. 'Kenny is very protective of his players publicly, which is a great trait,' said Watson. 'He is unbelievably loyal and would rather put himself than them in the firing line. 'But he would certainly berate you in the dressing room if you did something wrong or made a mistake. He'd be as hard as nails when he needed to be and let you know about it. Once he leaves those four walls, though, the siege mentality kicks in. 'David Moyes is a driven person. People have told me he is a bit more relaxed now but he won't have lost his passion.'
It's not for kids! Leighton Baines axed from World Cup squad by Fabio Capello outside toy shop
By Joe Bernstein
16th January 2011 (Daily Mail)
The trampoline salesman who encountered Leighton Baines shortly after he heard he had been left out of Fabio Capello's World Cup squad will appreciate how well Everton's left-back has bounced back from that huge disappointment. Baines was on his way to Toys 'R' Us with his family in early summer when England manager Capello called to say he had not made the plane to South Africa. After taking in the news, Baines walked into the store and bought a trampoline. He has been riding high ever since and is one of Everton's key men in today's Merseyside derby. Axed: Baines bounced back from news of World Cup agony by buying a trampoline 'I was on my way to buy a trampoline when I got the 10-second call from the manager,' said Baines. 'I had to pull up for five minutes and take stock. The World Cup was a big deal for me because I hadn't been part of that scene before.' Baines still does not know if a poor display in a pre- World Cup friendly against Mexico was to blame for his omission, or an interview which gave the impression that he felt homesick when away on international duty. 'If I played my way out because of a poor game, I've no qualms about it,' he said. 'I'd like to think it was that rather than the interview, but I'm not too sure. 'My form has been OK again this season and I've not been included in an England squad since the World Cup. All I said at the time was that the hardest part of being a player is spending time away from my family. That's natural and other players have said it, but you also accept it. 'I did take stock in the summer and felt I needed to be bolder. 'I'd go away with England and look at everyone else and think how natural it seemed to them while I was just trying to be part of it.'
Merseyside derby loser will face relegation battle - says former Reds ace
16/01/2011 By Simon Mullock (Sunday Mirror
Dietmar Hamann believes defeat in today’s Merseyside derby could plunge Liverpool or Everton into a relegation battle. The former Reds’ midfielder was back in Liverpool this week to take a session at the Anfield Sports and Community Centre as part of the Barclays Spaces for Sports Programme. And the ex-German international, now a player-coach at MK Dons, says today’s clash is the biggest meeting between the clubs in years. “It is a massive game because whoever loses will be dragged further towards the bottom of the table,” said Hamann. “It used to be unthinkable that Liverpool or Everton could be relegated, but at this stage of the season it would be easy for either club to find themselves fighting for their lives. “It is probably the biggest derby I can remember. It used to be that games between Liverpool and Everton would decide league titles and cup finals. That has changed this season. It hasn’t been a good campaign for either club. “And how many times has the phrase ‘too good to go down’ been used for a team that ends up being relegated?” Hamann added: “I think Liverpool will win because of what it will mean to Kenny Dalglish. “Kenny is a bit like Franz Beckenbauer used to be at Bayern Munich. “Whenever Bayern were in trouble, they would look towards their legend – and that’s the same with Kenny at Liverpool. The fans will get right behind him – and we all know what kind of effect playing in front of the Kop can have on Liverpool.”
Liverpool 2-2 Everton: Kuyt saves Kenny
Jan 16 2011 Sunday Mirror
Liverpool's Dirk Kuyt's fifth goal in a Merseyside derby ensured the 215th meeting of the two clubs finished 2-2. Kenny Dalglish's first game at Anfield since returning for a second spell as Liverpool manager got off to a good start when Raul Meireles scored his maiden goal since joining the club in the summer. Sylvain Distin and Jermaine Beckford turned the game on its head shortly after half-time but Kuyt salvaged a point from the penalty spot when goalkeeper Tim Howard fouled Maxi Rodriguez. Dalglish sprang a surprise for his Anfield return as Liverpool manager in the 215th Merseyside derby by naming Jay Spearing in the starting line-up. The 22-year-old midfielder had been out for more than two months with a broken ankle but after a 90-minute run-out for the reserves on Tuesday - watched by Dalglish - he earned an instant recall. Wirral-born Spearing was one of two changes from Wednesday's defeat at Blackpool with Maxi Rodriguez coming in as Christian Poulsen and Milan Jovanovic missed out altogether. The Reds went into a Merseyside derby without Scousers Steven Gerrard (suspended) and Jamie Carragher (injured) for the first time since February 2002. Everton manager David Moyes, who has not won at Anfield in eight previous attempts, left Steven Pienaar out of his squad after the club accepted a bid from an unnamed club for the midfielder. He made three changes from last weekend's FA Cup trouncing of Scunthorpe, with Mikel Arteta, Phil Neville and Victor Anichebe replacing Diniyar Bilyaletdinov, Tony Hibbert and Louis Saha - the Frenchman not making the squad at all. Watched by principal owner John Henry and chairman Tom Werner, Dalglish received the expected rousing welcome which the Kop had been waiting to give him for a week. Everton probably had the better of the early exchanges but a driving run from right-back Martin Kelly which saw him go past Leighton Baines with ease brought the ground to life again. Fernando Torres volleyed over from the corner but it was the visitors who appeared to have settled into their stride quickest. Neville escaped with a stern word from referee Phil Dowd for going through the back of Torres. The Spaniard almost exacted the perfect revenge in the 16th minute when he brilliantly turned Sylvain Distin on the bounce of the ball and then cut inside John Heitinga to unleash a left-footed shot which rebounded off the far post. Dirk Kuyt had a chance from the follow-up but saw his effort deflected over. Dalglish's decision to play Glen Johnson out of position at left-back in the last two matches had raised a few eyebrows, but the England international's preference to use his right boot was pivotal in setting up the opening goal. Having cut inside in the 29th-minute his far-post cross was headed down by Kuyt but Howard saved brilliantly low to his right and got up immediately to block the Dutchman's follow-up, but the goalkeeper was powerless to prevent Raul Meireles drilling home his first Liverpool goal from just inside the area. The Anfield atmosphere changed in an instant and the lead was almost doubled when Torres' shot from Kuyt's cut-back was half-saved by Howard and Rodriguez blazed over the loose ball. Meireles then showed his usefulness at the other end by cutting out Baines' dangerous low cross. The Portugal international was having one of his best games since arriving in the summer and when Kuyt's inch-perfect through-ball picked him out Howard was forced to tip a shot around his near post. Right at the end of the first half Rodriguez shot straight at Howard when Marouane Fellaini gave the ball away just outside Everton's penalty area. Dalglish was forced into a change at the start of the second half when Sotirios Kyrgiakos replaced the ill Daniel Agger. But it was the Greek's central defensive partner Martin Skrtel who was exposed just 42 seconds after the restart when he allowed Distin to head Arteta's corner past Jose Reina and Johnson could not prevent the ball crossing the line. Everton exposed their defensive frailties again six minutes later by taking the lead while Kelly lay injured on the pitch after landing awkwardly after an aerial collision with Anichebe. The ball found its way to Leon Osman and he jinked his way into the penalty area before slipping a pass inside for Jermaine Beckford to slot past Reina, who was booked for his protestations about Kelly not being able to receive treatment. Torres followed his compatriot into Dowd's notebook after tripping Neville. But just as Everton looked to have secured a grip on the game Howard handed their rivals a way back in the 68th minute when he tripped Rodriguez as they challenged for the breakdown of Meireles' free-kick. Dowd pointed to the spot and Kuyt dispatched the penalty for his fifth derby goal. The closing moments became increasingly frenetic as the home side pressed for the winner they desperately craved to get the second era of Dalglish up and running. Even the legendary manager's encouragement from the sidelines could not cajole the breakthrough. But with Henry and Werner in the city for the next few days he may have to save his most persuasive arguments for the owners as he seeks reinforcements for his squad.
EVERTON ACCEPT CHELSEA PIENAAR BID
Sunday January 16,2011 Sunday Express
Everton boss David Moyes has confirmed they have accepted a bid from Chelsea for Steven Pienaar.
The Merseyside club have, though, turned down Tottenham's offer for the midfielder. Moyes revealed on Friday the Toffees had accepted an offer for the South Africa international, who is out of contract at the end of the season,but did not name the club. The Scot said after the 2-2 draw with Liverpool at Anfield: "We have accepted an offer from Chelsea. Steven has not agreed terms with Chelsea. We've given his representatives a chance to talk to Chelsea but they've not got permission to talk to Tottenham because they've not offered the same money."
Liverpool FC 2 Everton FC 2: Mersey honours even after derby draw
by Merseyside Sport, Liverpool Echo
Jan 16 2011
It was not an entirely happy homecoming for Kenny Dalglish on his first match at Anfield since becoming Liverpool manager for the second time but a draw in an entertaining 215th Merseyside derby represented some progress. The club’s legendary former player went into the game on the back of successive defeats to Manchester United and Blackpool but the result against their closest rivals at least ensured his first point. However, there are still many issues to address as Liverpool’s defensive frailties let an early advantage slip in a frenetic six minutes after half-time and their pride was only salvaged by a penalty in the final quarter. Raul Meireles picked the perfect time to score his first goal to give the club he joined in the summer an interval lead but Sylvain Distin and Jermaine Beckford soon turned that around after the break. But the Reds earned a deserved draw when Dirk Kuyt stroked home his fifth derby goal from the spot. Watched by principal owner John Henry and chairman Tom Werner, Dalglish received the expected rousing welcome which the Kop had been waiting to give him for a week since taking over from Roy Hodgson. The occasion may have got to his players more than him as Everton enjoyed the better of the early exchanges. However, it was not long before Fernando Torres showed he was in the kind of mood which had brought 63 goals in his previous 99 Premier League appearances. Having volleyed over from a Meireles corner the Spaniard almost opened the scoring in the 16th minute with a typical piece of brilliance. Anticipating the bounce of the ball better than Distin the 26-year-old cleverly turned the centre-half before twisting inside his defensive partner John Heitinga and unleashing a left-footed shot which beat Tim Howard but rebounded off the far post. Kuyt charged into the area to reach the loose ball but his effort was deflected over. Dalglish’s decision to play Glen Johnson out of position at left-back in the last two matches had raised a few eyebrows but the England international’s right-footedness was pivotal in setting up the opening goal. Having cut inside in the 29th minute his far-post cross was headed down by Kuyt but Howard saved brilliantly low to his right and got up immediately to block the Dutchman’s follow-up. The Everton goalkeeper may have felt his work was done but the ball dropped to Meireles on the edge of the area and he drilled a swerving shot inside the near post with Howard unsighted. Meireles was having one of his best games since arriving in the summer and when Kuyt’s inch-perfect through-ball picked him out Howard was forced to tip a shot around his near post. Half-time brought not only a change of player - Sotirios Kyrgiakos replacing the ill Daniel Agger - but a major shift in momentum. Just 42 seconds after the restart Martin Skrtel allowed Distin to head Mikel Arteta’s corner past Jose Reina and Johnson could not keep the ball out. Everton went ahead six minutes later while Martin Kelly was laying pole-axed on the pitch after landing awkwardly after an aerial collision with Victor Anichebe. The ball found its way to Leon Osman and he jinked his way into the penalty area before slipping a pass inside for Beckford to slot past Reina, who was booked for his protestations about Kelly not being able to receive treatment. But just as Everton looked to have secured a grip on the game Howard handed their rivals a way back in the 68th minute when he tripped Maxi Rodriguez as they challenged for the breakdown of Meireles’ free-kick. Referee Phil Dowd pointed to the spot and Kuyt duly dispatched. The closing moments became increasingly frenetic as the home side pressed for the winner they desperately craved to get the second era of Dalglish up and running. Even the legendary manager’s encouragement from the sidelines could not cajole the breakthrough. But with Henry and Werner in the city for the next few days he may have to save his most persuasive arguments for the owners as he seeks reinforcements for his squad. Liverpool are only four points above the relegation zone and considerable improvement is still required to banish the lingering but almost unthinkable spectre of relegation.
Everton manager David Moyes leaves Steven Pienaar out of derby as transfer closes in
by David Prentice, Liverpool Echo
Jan 17 2011
DAVID MOYES decided to leave Steven Pienaar out of yesterday’s derby clash after the South African midfielder told him his mind wasn’t “in the right place” to face the Reds. Pienaar, who rejected a new contract offer from the Blues last summer, is wanted by Chelsea and Tottenham. Last season Moyes decided to play defender Joleon Lescott – then a target for Manchester City – against Arsenal on the opening day of the season and saw his side humbled 6-1. This time, however, he left Pienaar out of his squad. “Steven came to see me yesterday and said he wasn’t in the right place to play,” explained Moyes. “We’ve accepted an offer from Chelsea, we’ve not accepted an offer from Tottenham, but I don’t think Steven has agreed terms, so I had a decision to make and I felt it would be better not to use him if that was the case. “He’ll be in training tomorrow because we don’t have a deal. “He hasn’t got permission to speak to Tottenham because they haven’t offered the same money. If they do then that might change, or maybe he will agree terms with Chelsea, I don’t know.” Moyes also had to reshuffle with in-form striker Louis Saha ruled out after suffering a thigh strain in training, although the Blues boss was delighted with the performance of his deputy, Victor Anichebe. “I had one or two options. I could have played Leon Osman in midfield or brought Jack in. I thought about it, but decided not to,” he added. “I thought Victor made a big difference in the second half until he blew up after 70/75 minutes. “It was the same with Beckford and I was beginning to run out of options, but I thought Victor made a big difference. “I can’t say Beckford’s young, but he’s young at this level, he’s young in these games but he’ll learn from them and he’ll understand more the next time it comes around . . . like managers do. “I learn every time I’ve been here. I’ve still not won but I’ve learned from it!” Moyes admitted that some of his players were overawed early on in their first Anfield derby. “We had players who were playing their first game at Anfield and for two or three of them it was noticeable in the first half,” he went on. “They didn’t really recognise what was required, but they soon found out and they didn’t half respond in the second half. “I was disappointed because we had a couple of half-balls into people’s feet in the box where you’re looking to get a third goal and we’re disappointed we didn’t get it. “But it was a hard game and in the first half Liverpool could have had two or three. I am disappointed we didn’t take all three points after the second half but delighted to only come in 1-0 down after the first half because Liverpool were the better team. “But we’ve taken a draw from a match where everybody favoured Liverpool. “In the first half we never got to the pitch of the game and it looked as if we had some young players in the team who looked overawed by the start of the game. “Liverpool won all the second balls, the duels so it needed a word to correct it at half-time and thankfully the players got about it and in the second half we were terrific.” On Jermaine Beckford’s goal which put the Blues 2-1 ahead he said: “There was great play by Leon Osman on the edge of the box where he showed clever feet to create space. “People who are forwards will tell you they need players to create chances for them and we know that if we can get Jermaine in those positions that’s what he can do, he can stick it in the net. “I have no arguments with the penalty. “The player got between the keeper and the ball. No goalkeeper ever goes to get a player, he goes to get the ball but players now are clever enough to get penalty kicks. “I thought we had a chance when it went to 2-1 because we were on top but we were missing three or four really big players for us and it’s hard to come here when you don’t have your top boys out. “I know Liverpool were missing two (Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher) but it is different for a club like Everton, who have a much smaller squad.” Moyes also believed that Kenny Dalglish’s return didn’t have a significant influence on the occasion. “It is always a great stadium with really good support who get behind their team – they were playing Everton so it wouldn’t have mattered who the manager was it would have been the same.”
David Prentice's derby analysis: Liverpool and Everton draw after brave managerial decisions
by David Prentice, Liverpool Echo
Jan 17 2011
NINETEEN years and 11 months on, Kenny Dalglish carried on where he left off – drawing a Merseyside derby his side had led. But that’s where any similarity with 1991 ended. Because this time both managers got it absolutely right. The last time Dalglish was in the dug-out for a derby he famously froze. The soon to be retired Reds boss failed to make a single substitution in 120 minutes of nerve shredding FA Cup action. And his indecision in not pulling Jan Molby into the back four to protect Liverpool’s fourth lead of a remarkable night convinced him the time was right to go. Not yesterday. Dalglish’s decision making this time was bold. Jay Spearing’s selection at the heart of midfield – after a solitary reserve run-out – was an eyebrow raising one. But the pugnacious little Scouser set a tone which allowed his side to dominate a one-sided first 45 minutes at Anfield. So, too, was the decision to continue with Glen Johnson at left-back after the full-back was caught napping for Blackpool’s winner in midweek. Johnson’s performance was enormously influential. He delivered the cross from which Raul Meireles drove Liverpool ahead, and kept Everton’s Seamus Coleman quiet for most of the afternoon. With Meireles and the excellent Martin Kelly also impressing, the home supporters, previously dismayed by passionless route one football, warmed to the sight of their side embracing possession and passing the ball with purpose. Such was Liverpool’s first half dominance that at half-time only one result looked likely, but they say that fortune favours the brave. So perhaps it was only right that David Moyes and Kenny Dalglish shared the spoils. Because while the Reds boss was bold in his team selection, David Moyes’ strength of character was utterly unshakeable. The Blues boss has been criticised in the past for lacking adventure at Anfield, most notably when Steven Gerrard was sent-off early in the last derby officiated by Phil Dowd. On this occasion, however, his courage was clear. When Louis Saha pulled up in training with a thigh strain on Wednesday, the temptation to withdraw into the comfort zone of his familiar split striker formation must have been immense. After all, it was the system used by Liverpool in Kenny Dalglish’s two games at the helm. And he had the personnel to do it – even without the option of a South African schemer who believes the streets of London are paved with gold. But instead the Blues boss boldly paired Premier League rookie Jermaine Beckford with a man who has started just two games all season, Victor Anichebe. After seeing his side given a right royal runaround during a chastening 45 minutes the temptation to say ‘enough’ must have been overwhelming. But he didn’t. Moyes sent the same 11 players out again for the second half and received a rich reward. The impeccable Sylvain Distin equalised, then Victor Anichebe played a key role in creating a second goal which Jermaine Beckford finished. At that moment a first Anfield victory for 12 years looked likely, until Martin Kelly tumbled cleverly over Leon Osman’s trailing leg, and a cheap free-kick yielded an obvious penalty kick, dispatched clinically by Dirk Kuyt. So if the respective managers claimed most of the plaudits, what of the men in the middle? On the day Liverpool overcame the absence of their key personnel far better than the Blues, with the absence of Saha an overwhelming blow. His absence underlined the lack of Everton’s striking resources. Anichebe and James Vaughan have both been deemed surplus to requirements at times in the recent past at Goodison, yet both were forced to forge an emergency striking partnership in the closing stages yesterday. Leon Osman was also typically willing in Pienaar’s absence, but his link up with Leighton Baines down the left was nowhere near as telepathic as the South African’s interplay with the full-back. Liverpool were missing their Scouse heartbeat, and while there is clearly still plenty of room for improvement at the back that Jamie Carragher’s organisational qualities would evidently help, Jay Spearing’s enthusiastic performance helped overcome the absence of Steven Gerrard. Dalglish joked afterwards that such had been the quality of the youngster that his skipper couldn’t be guaranteed to walk straight back into the starting line-up. It was, clearly, a joke. So, too, was the reference to proof of Daniel Agger’s stomach complaint which forced his half-time substitution – “I followed him into the bathroom – he definitely had a problem!” Kenny Dalglish didn’t need to cut his way through a malodorous fug to show his bravery. Neither did the man in the opposite dug-out. The Merseyside derby can be a cruel, reputation wrecking environment – as Dalglish’s predecessor discovered when he tried to claim his side had played well in this season’s first showdown. Both present managers enhanced their reputations yesterday – and their abilities will be called upon in the weeks and months ahead. It’s a long time since Everton and Liverpool have been the sixth and seventh best teams . . . in the North-West. But that’s where yesterday’s draw left them. At least both clubs have men in charge with the courage to change that situation.
Liverpool 2 Everton 2: Greg O'Keeffe on the Merseyside derby draw
Liverpool Echo
Jan 17 2011
HIS old pal Alex Ferguson may have given the greatest half time team talk ever during the 1999 European Cup final – but David Moyes can conjure some mightily inspirational words himself, and he used them to ensure his side are unbeaten against their local rivals this season. While the prize might have been more compelling for Manchester United eleven years ago, the same length of time has passed since Everton tasted victory at Anfield, and the Toffees boss is desperate to end that inglorious record. If fortune really did favour the brave, he’d have done it at long last yesterday. With his side approaching the derby after two swash-buckling displays that saw Spurs put to the sword, and a tricky FA cup tie navigated with ease, the momentum in terms of form was all Everton’s. After years of taking flak for game-plans that seemed more intent on not losing across the park, Moyes was poised to send out a team to win in style. Inspired by the devil-may-care approach that has seen Ian Holloway’s Blackpool take six points from Liverpool this season, the Blues boss was all set to deploy an attacking 4-4-2 formation geared towards only victory. But best laid plans were emphatically wasted, when he first had to plan without one of his key men as Steven Pienaar’s inevitable departure rapidly progressed on Friday, and then a last-minute injury to in-form striker Louis Saha completed the disarray. In adversity it would have been easy for Moyes to pack his midfield, and leave Victor Anichebe up front alone, as he had in successful fashion against Manchester City before Christmas. Instead he stuck by his belief that Liverpool were vulnerable enough, even at home, to wilt in the face of a fast, attacking side and partnered the big forward with Jermaine Beckford. His reward was a Jekyll and Hyde performance; with a second half every bit as good as the first was bad. Everton may have had the first credible chance of the first half, Seamus Coleman drilling a snap-shot narrowly wide after he did well to take a ball down on his chest and surge towards the edge of the area, but it was downhill from there for those of a Blue persuasion. The home side dominated from then, with the much maligned Glenn Johnson threatening down the left, and Raul Meireles linking up smartly from midfield with the England defender. On the other flank, young right back Martin Kelly was causing Leon Osman headaches, and Everton’s central midfield was devoid of the inspiration required to do a decent Blackpool impersonation. So, while John Heitinga frequently looked for Marouane Fellaini with the type of long angled pass that the Seasiders used to good effect to sweep past Kenny Dalglish’s side at Bloomfield Road last week, Mikel Arteta was smothered by Liverpool’s congested midfield, and any similarity to the free flowing Blackpool blueprint ended there. Then they had the stuffing well and truly ripped from them, when Johnson surged down the left and whipped a dangerous cross into the area that required Tim Howard to make a stunning double save from Dirk Kuyt. Everton didn’t clear their lines, and Meireles lashed the ball past Howard at the third attempt to leave them floundering. Fernando Torres, who had earlier hit Howard’s far post, brought another smart save from the American keeper with a vicious half-volley, and Maxi Rodriguez blasted the rebound over. Just to compound the growing unease, Fellaini then passed sloppily across his own area, and was spared only when Rodriguez fired straight at Howard. Comfortably second best, Everton marched back down the tunnel with anything resembling a comeback seemingly a million miles away, but when it mattered Moyes found the right words. It took 44 seconds of the new half for them to be reborn. Arteta’s corner to the back post was met with a thumping header by Sylvain Distin, after the Frenchman completely out jumped Martin Skrtel, and parity was restored. The Blues had previously kept Liverpool waiting, arriving on the pitch just a few seconds before the re-start, with the mother of all wake-up calls from their manager ringing in their ears. Six minutes later they were ahead. A revitalised Anichebe rose above Martin Kelly to win a header, Beckford flicked the ball to Osman and the midfielder twisted and turned adroitly in the area to find Beckford who held his nerve to beat Reina emphatically. He might not quite have convinced the Everton faithful yet, but the former non-league striker clearly has a sense for the big occasion. His derby strike following goals against Spurs and Manchester United in a Leeds United shirt. Suddenly this was the Everton which had vanquished Spurs again. Passes were sharper and quicker, their heads higher. Men in royal blue were committing themselves to making runs in dangerous positions high up the field, and Fellaini was thriving, finally asserting himself in the midfield tussle. All looked suspiciously rosy, so cue the mishap. Liverpool made an attacking foray, and as Distin slipped while trying to make a block, Howard raced off his line and clumsily collided with Rodriguez, and Dirk Kuyt made no mistake from the resultant penalty. It was tough on the Blues, who deserved better for their scintillating response in the second half but ultimately they had to settle for a point. Just before the end, the PA announced that fans in one section of the ground had to find a different way home because of a road closure. David Moyes had narrowly missed out on taking the high road away from Anfield, but his side’s developing sense of adventure could see them reach a desirable destination this season after all. "I thought we had a chance when we were 2-1 up. I thought we were on top. Remember, we were missing three or four really good players and it is hard to come here and have your real top boys out. I know Liverpool were missing two but it is difficult for a club like ours." David Moyes reminds everyone how much the Blues missed Louis Saha, Tim Cahill, Phil Jagielka and Steven Pienaar.. “I think we were a wee bit unfortunate to come in at half-time only 1-0 up. Then they got two quick goals but then we showed a real desire and determination to get back into the game." Kenny Dalglish muses on what might have been. LIVERPOOL (4-5-1): Reina (capt), Kelly, Agger (Kyrgiakos, 46) Skrtel, Johnson, Lucas, Spearing, Meireles (Shelvey, 80) Kuyt, Maxi, Torres. Not used: Gulasci, Aurelio, Cole, Pacheco, Babel.. EVERTON (4-4-2): Howard, Neville (capt), Distin, Heitinga, Baines, Fellaini, Arteta, Coleman, Osman (Rodwell, 77), Anichebe (Bilyaletdinov, 81), Beckford (Vaughan, 72) Not used: Mucha, Gueye, Baxter. GOALS: Goals: Meireles (29), Kuyt (67); Distin (46), Beckford (52). CARDS: Torres, Kuyt, Reina REFEREE: Phil Dowd ATTENDANCE: 44,795
Everton FC upbeat despite transfer speculation – Sylvain Distin
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
Jan 17 2011
SYLVAIN DISTIN believes Everton’s prospects remain upbeat after their derby comeback, despite admitting they have been unsettled by transfer speculation regarding key players. The Blues were without Steven Pienaar for their 2-2 draw at Anfield yesterday, with the South African the subject of a tug-of-war between Chelsea and Spurs after Everton accepeted a £3m bid from Carlo Ancelotti’s side. Their build-up to the all Merseyside clash was further overshadowed by reports of a move by Spurs to sign skipper Phil Neville, but Distin is confident Everton have the right frame of mind to weather the storm. The French defender, who equalised for the Blues in a much improved second half display at Anfield, said: “It’s not a good feeling when you hope for reinforcements and instead it’s just talk about your best players going. But you never know if it’s just speculation or it’s the truth. All we can do is wait and see what happens in the transfer window but I would rather keep those two players that’s for sure. “It’d be disappointing to lose Steven. You don’t want to lose one of your best players but that’s football. Everywhere I’ve been it’s been the same. There’s not much we can do, just stay focused and carry on doing what we’re doing. I don’t think it’s a done deal yet, but it’s disappointing.” Distin believes Everton cannot afford to be despondent about the progress in team-building made by their Premier League rivals. He said: “It’s obvious that the league is getting tougher, and every team can get big players. Teams like Sunderland and Birmingham are buying players that three years ago they’d never have dreamed of signing. It’s not a secret that we would like to have more players, like every other club, but there’s nothing we can do about it. We have to stay focused, and we’ve got enough quality already to play good games.” The 33-year-old admitted the mood in the away dressing room after the game was frustrated, with the Blues surrendering the lead when they conceded a Dirk Kuyt penalty in the second half. But overall he is pleased with performances against Everton’s local rivals. He said: “The manager was angry at half time, and he made us realise we are better then that and had to give more. What he said worked quite well. “Four points against Liverpool, is OK but everyone is quite disappointed because we felt like we could’ve won that game. But in the cold light of day, three points at home and one away is good overall. We could have easily been two or three nil down at half time so overall it was a fair result. “First half it just wasn’t us. It happens sometimes, even when you have good intentions you can’t show it on the pitch. We didn’t play our football in the first half, and second half we were a completely different team. I’ll call it the magic of the half time.” Meanwhile, Everton are waiting to see if Spurs make an improved offer for midfielder Pienaar, as Chelsea continue to try and resurrect stalled talks with his agent, Ivan Modia. The South African was not included yesterday due to his imminent Goodison exit.
Everton FC Rumour Mill: Blues in for Jennings? Vaughan to Celtic?
By Sean Bradbury
Jan 17 2011
Dale Jennings
Everton are in the hunt to sign Dale Jennings from Tranmere, according to the Express and Star. Scouts from various Premier League clubs - including West Bromwich Albion, Sunderland and Fulham - are said to have been monitoring Jennings this season. The 18-year-old winger only made his first team debut for Tranmere back in September, but is already rated as one of the brightest young English prospects on the back of his performances this season.
Source: Express and Star
James Vaughan
Everton forward James Vaughan could leave for Celtic or Cardiff in a £1m deal, according to the Daily Mail. Vaughan's potential move is thought to be motivated by a desire for first-team football.
Source: Daily Mail
David Moyes rues Everton FC failure to hold on for Mersey derby victory
by James Pearce, Liverpool Daily Post
Jan 17 2011
DAVID MOYES was left frustrated by Everton’s failure to hold on for victory over Liverpool yesterday as his long wait for a triumph at Anfield goes on. The Goodison manager was delighted by the response he got in the second half which saw goals from Sylvain Distin and Jermaine Beckford cancel out Raul Meireles’ opener. However, Everton couldn’t hold on for a first win at Anfield for 12 years as Dirk Kuyt fired home from the penalty spot to ensure it finished 2-2. “I was disappointed we didn’t take the three points after our second half performance,” he said. “We had a great chance at 2-1 to win here and we were on top. “We were looking for the third goal and I was disappointed not to get it. “But in saying that we were missing three or four really big players and it’s hard to come here without your top boys. “It makes a big difference for a club like Everton as we have a much smaller squad.” Moyes admitted he was relieved that the visitors only trailed 1-0 at the break after being outplayed in the opening 45 minutes. “I was delighted to only come in one down,” he said. “Liverpool were the better team in the first half. They might have had two or three and I was disappointed with our performance. “We never got to the pitch of the game. It looked as if some of the younger players in our team looked overawed. “We had a few players playing at Anfield for the first time and I thought that was noticeable. Two or three in the first half didn’t really recognise what was required but they didn’t half respond in the second half. “Liverpool won all the second balls and the duels in the first half. We needed to correct that and we did – we were terrific in the second half.” Moyes was impressed with the efforts of strike duo Victor Anichebe and Beckford who were partnered up front after Louis Saha failed a fitness test on a thigh strain he suffered in training last Thursday. Moyes said: “I thought Victor made a big difference in the second half until he blew up after 70/75 minutes. “The same thing happened with Beckford and we were beginning to run out of options to keep the momentum going. “It was great play by Leon Osman for our second goal – clever feet to create the space. “If we create chances then we know Beckford will stick them in the net. Beckford is still young at this level and is still learning. “I certainly learn every time I’ve been here. “I’ve still never won here but I try to learn from it. “There was a lot of talk before the game about how we might only play one up top but nobody questions Liverpool playing that way. It seems to be different when they do it.” Moyes claimed Maxi Rodriguez had been “clever” to win Liverpool’s spot-kick and dismissed suggestions that the atmosphere generated by Kenny Dalglish’s return to Anfield had made life more difficult for his side. “No goalkeeper ever goes for the player in the box like that but players are clever to win penalty kicks,” Moyes added. “This is always a great stadium where the supporters get behind their team. “Whoever was manager today the fans would have got behind their side like they did.”
Liverpool FC 2 Everton FC 2: Honours even in rollercoaster Merseyside derby draw
by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
Jan 17 2011
AS they chewed the fat over a post-match drink deep in the bowels of Anfield, Kenny Dalglish and David Moyes could at least reach agreement on one matter. After slugging out a rollercoaster draw in the 215th Merseyside derby, both Liverpool and Everton had good reason to believe they had the greater claim for local bragging rights. So Dalglish’s second reign at Anfield begins the same way it had ended almost 20 years earlier with ultimate frustration against their nearest neighbours. But the Liverpool manager will take solace from the fact that, following defeats at Manchester United and Blackpool, a testing first week since taking the reins from Roy Hodgson has yielded at least some tangible reward. Having dominated the opening 45 minutes and taken a deserved lead, the Anfield outfit then had to call upon the kind of resilience and determination that has been sorely lacking in recent times to drag themselves back level in the face of Everton’s rousing second-half comeback. Shades of the unforgettable 4-4 that signalled the end of Dalglish’s first managerial stint? Perhaps. But while the endeavour and attitude of both teams yesterday matched that remarkable evening, the quality did not. Liverpool’s decline this season and the 2-0 Goodison derby win in October gave genuine hope this would be the afternoon Everton secured their first Anfield triumph since September 1999. Moyes will be satisfied, however. This draw continues his team’s impressive New Year form, a result made all the more creditable given the absence of the outbound Steven Pienaar and crocked Louis Saha. At half-time though, the Goodison manager’s gamble to place his trust in the untested and, if truth be told, unreliable strike partnership of Victor Anichebe and Jermaine Beckford appeared to have misfired, Everton overrun in midfield and impotent in attack. But Moyes stuck to his guns. And from the restart, the visitors, and in particular Anichebe, awoke from their first-half slumber and successfully capitalised on the disruption of Liverpool’s defensive reshuffle with Daniel Agger forced to retire ill. This was the Anichebe that Moyes wants to see more often, making the most of his sheer power and presence while proving a willing, effective target man. It was noticeable that once he faded during the closing quarter, so too did Everton’s forward threat. Liverpool supporters, meanwhile, will be encouraged the dour football played under Hodgson is fast disappearing from memory. While the results are not yet there for Dalglish, at least the players appear to be responding to their greater onus to attack. None more so than Fernando Torres, the Spaniard revitalised since the change of manager. Making his 100th league appearance for Liverpool yesterday, Torres was more like his old self, leading the line expertly with only the width of the post and some fine goalkeeping from Tim Howard denying the striker a goal. With Liverpool missing their Scouse heartbeat of Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher, Jay Spearing provided the local blood with Dalglish handing the midfielder only his second league start for the club. However, it was another of the Anfield youngsters, Martin Kelly, that shone brightest for Liverpool. Glen Johnson, solid at left-back yesterday, now has genuine competition for his right-back berth. Kelly was heavily involved during a first half that belonged to Liverpool, with only some excited finishing and inspired goalkeeping restricting Dalglish’s side to just the one goal. Torres set the tone within 11 seconds with a run and shot that was safely clutched by Howard, with an early storming run out of defence by Kelly that sent him past Leon Osman and Leighton Baines underlining Liverpool’s attacking intent. And the home side should have been ahead on 17 minutes. Torres capitalised on rare hesitation from Sylvain Distin to hare down on goal and strike an effort against the inside of Howard’s post, with Dirk Kuyt then unable to turn home the rebound. But Liverpool found a way through shortly before the half-hour as reward for their persistence. Torres fed the ball out wide to Johnson on the left, whose deep cross found Kuyt at the far post whose header was brilliantly kept out by Howard. The keeper then did well to save Kuyt’s follow-up with his legs, but could then do nothing when Meireles, 16 yards out, thrashed home the loose ballHoward then again did brilliantly to keep out a Torres shot with Everton breathing a sigh of relief when a stretching Maxi Rodriguez sent the rebound well over, and later saved from both Meireles and Rodriguez. Everton, by contrast, had not had a shot on target. But that all changed inside seven second-half minutes. The visitors were level within 40 seconds of the restart when Distin lost Martin Skrtel to head home Mikel Arteta’s deep corner at the far post, despite Johnson’s best efforts to clear off the line. Moyes’s men, with Anichebe rampaging, smelt blood and were ahead on 52 minutes. Anichebe beat Kelly to a long diagonal ball and headed into the path of Osman inside the area, whose clever footwork allowed him to feed Beckford in behind Skrtel for the striker to curl a fine finish beyond Reina. However, Liverpool picked themselves up and equalised on 68 minutes. A Meireles free-kick from the right found Skrtel, whose complete mishit dropped for Rodriguez only for the Argentine to be felled by Howard for a clear penalty that was coolly despatched by Kuyt. Refreshingly, both sides then went for the victory although scrambling defences and some poor choices with the final pass meant neither goalkeeper was seriously tested again. Dalglish may not have secured the win the occasion demanded, but Liverpool must surely benefit from the shot of confidence their first-half performance and subsequent comeback will surely provide. For Everton, meanwhile, came further evidence the gap on their neighbours continues to close.
David Moyes agreed to accept Steven Pienaar’s request not to play against Liverpool on Saturday
by James Pearce, Liverpool Daily Post
Jan 17 2011
DAVID MOYES revealed he had agreed to Steven Pienaar’s request not to play against Liverpool yesterday.
Everton have accepted an offer from Chelsea for the South African’s services but he has yet to agree personal terms and is expected to return to training at Finch Farm today. Moyes said: “Steven said he didn’t feel that he was in the right place to play so I had a decision to make and decided it was best not to use him. “We have accepted an offer from Chelsea but he hasn’t agreed personal terms. It’s not true that we have accepted an offer from Tottenham. “We gave his representatives the chance to speak to Chelsea but they don’t have permission to talk to Tottenham because they haven’t offered the same money. “If they do that then things might change. “Steven will be training with us on Monday because we don’t have a deal.”
James Pearce's derby verdict: Kenny Dalglish living the dream 20 years on - but some things never change
by James Pearce, Liverpool Daily Post
Jan 17 2011
BAGS of drama, a glut of chances and some shambolic defending – who said much has changed over the past 20 years? Kenny Dalglish’s first game back at Anfield had plenty of parallels with the derby match which convinced him to walk away from the job after that 4-4 draw at Goodison Park in February 1991. Once again he was left cursing his luck after seeing a lead slip as their rivals from across Stanley Park dashed his hopes of victory. However, the difference between the man then and the man now couldn’t be greater. Back then, Dalglish looked gaunt and exhausted. The stresses and strains of leading Liverpool in the aftermath of Heysel and Hillsborough had taken its toll. In contrast yesterday he looked relaxed and like someone living the dream. Dalglish had waited a long time for this moment and when he emerged from the tunnel shortly before kick-off yesterday he was grinning from ear to ear. The King was back on his throne and the spine-tingling reception Anfield’s favourite son received didn’t disappoint. ‘Kenny Dalglish is cooler than the Fonz’, proclaimed one of the many banners celebrating his return to the hot-seat. After the discord and disunity generated by Roy Hodgson’s six-month reign, Dalglish’s appointment offers hope to Liverpool supporters. Principal owner John W Henry, watching on from the directors’ box, must have noticed a dramatic change in the mood around the place and can have no regrets about wielding the axe. Back-to-back defeats at the hands of Manchester United and Blackpool since Dalglish’s appointment may have dampened the mood slightly, but yesterday’s performance suggested the 59-year-old’s influence is starting to rub off on his players. The passing is crisper, the ball stays on the floor a lot more than under the previous boss and, crucially, Fernando Torres looks like a striker transformed. The Spaniard terrorised Everton during a one-sided opening half which should have yielded more than Raul Meireles’s first strike for the club. Full of power and pace, Torres on his 100th league appearance for the club ran Sylvain Distin ragged. Only the woodwork and the heroics of Tim Howard denied him the goal his efforts deserved. Under Hodgson, when he was asked to chase lost causes and flick on aimless long punts, Torres looked like he wanted to be anywhere but Anfield. Now the hunger is back and he looks at home again. It’s not just the superstars who seem to have been energised by Dalglish’s arrival. The fear on the red half of the city going into the game was how would they cope without their Scouse heartbeat. After all, this was the first derby Liverpool had gone into without either Steven Gerrard or Jamie Carragher since February 2002. They didn’t need to worry as in their absence the homegrown duo of Martin Kelly and Jay Spearing rose to the challenge. Kelly’s selection was no surprise after his efforts at Old Trafford and Bloomfield Road but handing Spearing only his second league start in the cauldron of the 215th Merseyside derby was a major gamble by Dalglish. It paid off handsomely. Spearing shone in the middle of the park, his mud and sweat stained shirt at the final whistle telling the story of a gutsy performance in which he gave everything for the cause. One memorable thumping tackle on Leighton Baines was indicative of his total commitment and it was telling that when Dalglish looked to inject some fresh legs into his midfield late on it was Meireles rather than Spearing who made way. At right-back, Kelly was outstanding. Solid defensively and a major threat with his lung-bursting forward runs, he showed why he’s keeping an England international in Glen Johnson out of his normal position. Dalglish was quick to stress after the game that Spearing and Kelly hadn’t been picked because of their local roots but it was still refreshing to see youngsters given their chance ahead of more experienced players with bigger pay packets but smaller hearts. With Lucas protecting the back four expertly, Liverpool dominated for 45 minutes with Pepe Reina completely untroubled. Everton for their part were sloppy and lifeless. With Louis Saha missing out after picking up a thigh strain in training and Steven Pienaar asking to be omitted due to his impending move, David Moyes’s side looked short of attacking ideas. Playing two up front was brave. Moyes certainly couldn’t be criticised for failing to take the initiative but in the first half Jermaine Beckford and Victor Anichebe were anonymous. Out-gunned in midfield and careless in possession, the visitors were cut apart with relative ease and Howard was left hopelessly exposed. Meireles, Maxi Rodriguez and Torres all spurned opportunities to strengthen Liverpool’s hand. With the hosts seemingly in control, what transpired in the opening seven minutes of the second-half was remarkable as the contest was turned on its head. Dalglish bemoaned the award of the corner from which Distin headed in the equaliser 38 seconds into the second-half but he should have saved his complaints for the woeful marking. Martin Skrtel looked like a bag of nerves all afternoon and his positional play is woeful. The loss of Daniel Agger to illness at the break may have unsettled Liverpool but that was no excuse for the Slovak. Having scored from their first attempt on target, Everton wasted no time grabbing the lead with Leon Osman brilliantly setting up Beckford who made no mistake. Everton, who had come from behind only once to win a derby since the war, were on the cusp of their first victory at Anfield for 12 years, their first double over Liverpool since 1984-85 and their first win away to either Liverpool, Manchester United, Chelsea or Arsenal in 36 attempts. But they couldn’t hold on and Moyes’s long wait to taste success on this ground goes on. So often when they have fallen behind this season Liverpool have lacked character and spirit. They have seemingly accepted their fate and gone down with a whimper. Yesterday there was fight and their defiant response was rewarded with a deserved equaliser. Howard’s clumsy challenge on Rodriguez gave Phil Dowd no option but to point to the spot and Dirk Kuyt held his nerve to score. It was an afternoon which highlighted why both sides find themselves stuck in the bottom half of the table. After all both have glaring weaknesses which were gleefully exploited. A draw suited neither and both bosses tried to claim a moral victory in the aftermath but in truth a share of the spoils was about right. For Dalglish the hard work is only just beginning but at least there are shoots of recovery.
Liverpool 2 Everton 2
By PHIL THTOMAS
The Sun 16 Jan 2011
TWENTY years ago a nerve-shredding, frantic derby draw spelled the end of Kenny Dalglish's Anfield reign. How ironic that another should signal the beginning of a brave new world for Liverpool's favourite son. For while a point on your own patch against your bitter neighbours, who you simply NEVER lose to at home, would hardly have them shouting from the rooftops in bygone eras, these days it is most definitely a step in the right direction OK, the shoots of recovery will still take plenty of time to produce a full bloom. But when previous displays this term have had as much backbone as a jellyfish convention, the signs are the King Kenny effect is already having an impact in these parts. Certainly it is hard to imagine this group of players clawing their way back into things if they had fallen behind a couple of weeks ago. Yet that was then. This is now. And suddenly, with you-know-who back in the dugout, that sense of belief is ever so slowly starting to edge back. There are still plenty of rough edges to smooth off. One area he will surely look at is why Liverpool were not over the hill and far away way before Everton fought back. And sow's ears have not suddenly turned into silk purses simply because there is a different name picking the team. But while the pre-Christmas Liverpool would simply have rolled over and capitulated after Jermaine Beckford blasted Everton ahead, things are gradually beginning to take an upward curve at Anfield once more. And for a set of fans who have not had anything positive to shout about for quite a while, they will take anything they can. The Kop most definitely found its voice again yesterday - and for 45 minutes it seemed the Second Coming was indeed going to have the desired effect. For in the first half Liverpool totally dominated their Stanley Park neighbours and with only a touch more fortune would have had it wrapped up by the break. Fernando Torres (what a difference Dalglish's arrival has made to his attitude!) had already rattled the inside of a post with one awesome drive. So it was no more than Liverpool deserved when Raul Meireles blasted them ahead on the half hour mark, rocketing home after Tim Howard has twice denied Dirk Kuyt. Dalglish celebrated on the touchline as though he had scored it himself. Clearly, there's never any danger of the Liverpool manager being accused of lacking the passion any more. Mind you, he'd already proved that by berating referee Phil Dowd for letting Phil Neville escape for felling Torres with one robust challenge. Sixty seconds after that opener, King Kenny was stifling another roar - this time when Torres drew another save from Howard and Neville's mighty leap thwarted Meireles' hopes of a quickfire second. The American keeper denied Kuyt and Maxi Rodriguez, while opposite number Pepe Reina could have brought a book to occupy himself and it was surely a case of 'how many'. Yet Dalglish would never have had to ride to the rescue in the first place if they had not been toiling in the bottom half of the table. Within seven minutes of the restart we saw exactly why, as Everton were ahead and the Reds' chins were on the floor. Just 40 seconds into the second half Sylvain Distin shrugged off Martin Skrtel to thump in a header which Glen Johnson could only help into the roof of his own net. And then Victor Anichebe, for once showing the power his giant frame demands, outjumped the otherwise hugely impressive Martin Kelly and Beckford turned and finished clinically. It was the sweetest of moments for Goodison gaffer David Moyes, whose team had only managed three league goals here in his nine- year reign prior to this - and all of them from the absent Tim Cahill. Yet with 3,000 Evertonians ready to celebrate their first win here in 12 years, Dalglish got that that slice of luck he so desperately craved. Skrtel's airshot saw the ball bobble tamely towards Howard - but Rodriguez nipped in just ahead of him. The Argentine didn't need a second invitation to go down as Howard caught the back of his legs and Kuyt held his nerve to bury the penalty. From then on, Liverpool never seriously looked like losing it - although Dalglish won't need telling there is still much to be done. Two decades ago, he walked away from a side sitting proudly on top of the table and still the undisputed kings of English football. This time he finds himself having to turn round a club sliding dangerously towards the drop zone and with quality about as plentiful as Roy Hodgson supporters. But, whisper it quietly - there were definite signs the recovery mission is finally underway three games after Dalglish's return. And when you've had nothing but kicks in the teeth from owners, managers and under-performing players, for now that will do very nicely for Kopites.
KENNY CHEERED BY LIVERPOOL DISPLAY
Express Mail
Monday January 17,2011
Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish believes the performance in their 2-2 draw in the 215th Merseyside derby with Everton showed confidence was returning and proved the players are better than results have shown this season. Dalglish's first game at Anfield since returning as Reds boss got off to a good start when Raul Meireles scored his maiden goal since joining the club in the summer. Sylvain Distin and Jermaine Beckford turned the game on its head but Dirk Kuyt salvaged a point from the penalty spot. He said: "I was going to most games (prior to his appointment) and I couldn't believe the players did not get more wins than they did because they are much better players than where they are at the moment. But there are a lot of people who have said that and the best way for us to put our words into practice are by performances like that." He added: "I have not been surprised negatively by anyone since I came in. Positively I have been really pleased with the attitude of the players. "There is a lot we still have to analyse but really there has been a lot of positive things from the players. "We are happy with the way we are playing. There is a lot of belief coming back into the players and that is great for us." Dalglish also played down his return to the Anfield dugout, instead expressing his disappointment his side did not secure three points. "It has always been a very good relationship between the Dalglish family and Liverpool Football Club and it was emotive for me to go down there, the response from the crowd was very much appreciated," he added. "We all showed we care about the football club and maybe we will be able to turn it around sooner rather than later. "I think we were a bit unfortunate to only come in 1-0 up and then they scored two quick goals and we showed great desire and determination to get back into the game. "Overall I thought we had more shots and more clear-cut chances and possibly we could say we deserved more from the game. At the moment there is not a great deal of fortune going our way but it is great credit to the players that they continue to chip away to try to get some luck."
Liverpool 2-2 Everton: Daily Mirror match report
16/01/11 By David Maddock
But the Liverpool manager must reflect on one crucial difference from the pulsating 4-4 draw against Everton that proved to be his last game in his first spell as manager at Anfield....quality, or lack of it.
This was an exciting, open, entertaining contest that defied the usual caution of these encounters, and provided as much tension as ever. Yet it was also quite clearly a game between two teams all too nervously aware of their position precariously close to the relegation zone. And even after his side eventually wrestled what could be an important point for Dalglish and his Liverpool team, he will surely be worried this morning about the frailty they showed. With an appalling away record and tough visits to Wolves and Chelsea on the horizon, the new boss - if he didn't know it already - now has a full understanding of the soft centre at the heart of a still talented group of players.
This was a difficult game to assess, and there will no doubt be relief at Anfield that their side at least showed the spirit to come back from the debilitating shock of conceding two goals just after the interval. Yet quite how the Reds managed to throw away their dominant half time position, when they led through Raul Meireles' first goal for Liverpool, is the puzzle that highlights the enigma of the club this season. Everton, to be brutal, were woeful in the first half, as they wasted the possession their opponents' timidity presented, and then defended poorly to present the Anfield side with the chances from which Meireles eventually established a lead. As Dalglish himself admitted afterwards, his side should have led by more than that single goal at the break, but as ever in this disappointing season, their confidence in front of goal let them down. Mind you, they weren't helped by the form of Tim Howard in the visiting goal, who saved brilliantly from Fernando Torres on three separate occasions. But Dirk Kuyt, Maxi Rodriguez and Meireles should all have done better before Liverpool opened the scoring on 29 minutes. Even then, Howard made two outstanding saves from Kuyt before the Portugal international midfielder seized on the loose ball as the Everton defence day-dreamed, and smashed into the roof of the net. With the King Kenny factor now turned up to 11 on an emotional homecoming for the Anfield legend, you would have expected his side to go on from that commanding position and take the victory they so desperately need, especially against opponents who looked overawed by the occasion. And yet they were behind within seven minutes of the restart...and being completely outplayed by an Everton side who must have received one hell of a ear-bashing from their manager David Moyes in the dressing room. The Blues were a completely different side, and Liverpool simply couldn't cope with the physical approach they brought to the second half, which is a surprise given that it is second nature in the derby. Martin Skrtel had looked suspect in his positioning on set pieces all afternoon, and he made one mistake too many from Mikel Arteta's corner just 40 seconds after the restart, to allow Sylvain Distin a free header from which he made no mistake. If that wasn't bad enough, then the home side showed the vulnerability that must make Dalglish have sleepless nights, when the impressively physical Victor Anichebe got above Martin Kelly. Leon Osman seized on the knockdown, and with Liverpool this time snoozing, his found Darren Beckford and the Blues striker. On that fateful night almost 20 years ago, when Dalglish succumbed to post-traumatic stress and walked away from the club, it was Everton who had come back each time to draw level in a pulsating finale. This time, it was the reverse, and that wasn't the only difference from that classic 4-4 thriller. It was an FA Cup game, back then, but between two sides at the peak of their powers and at the top of the league.
As Liverpool stumbled around in a state of virtual paralysis after that stunning reverse, those days seemed like a lifetime ago. There are many weaknesses in this current model, not least their lack of belief in the talents they do possess. But at least the Kenny factor paid dividends, even if Everton enjoyed a period of their own when they could have put the game to bed. With the King in charge, the crowd got behind the team where they had booed openly under the previous manager, and it paid dividends. The equaliser came from a mistake by Howard of all people, who until that point had been the game's outstanding performer. Skrtel was left unmarked from a Meireles free kick, but slipped. Howard dived to take the loose ball, but Maxi got in front of the keeper, to force a rash penalty. Dirk Kuyt showed confidence with the conversion, to set up the finale, but this time there was to be no drama, just tension, as it dawned on both teams that the consequences of defeat far outweighed the need for victory. For Everton, a point at Anfield is always a good one, and this time even more impressive as they were without Cahill, Saha, Jagielka and Peinaar, and especially considering how bad they were before the break. For Liverpool, a point from their second half display was a relief, to put it mildly. But like their neighbours, they are still closer to the very foot of the table than they are even a Europa League place, and at this stage of the season - with a soft-centred side - that is a major concern.
LIVERPOOL 2 - EVERTON 2 - DANIEL AGGER OF SICK AND KENNY DALGLISH'S FEELING ROUGH
17th January 2011 By Kevin francis The Daily Star
Liverpool 2 – Everton 2
Central defender Agger was substituted at half-time after feeling unwell – a departure that preceded seven nightmare minutes for Liverpool and provisional new boss Dalglish. The Anfield faithful had gone for their half-time cuppa 1-0 up, well in control and seemingly on their way to their first win under ‘King Kenny’. However, two quick-fire goals at the restart put Everton ahead and left Liverpool battling to just get back into the game. Dalglish has had an iffy start to his second managerial reign at Liverpool, with only one point from two Premier League games. In his programme notes, Dalglish stressed how important it will be to get his players believing in themselves once again. After all, they have lost 10 league games this season and there will be much to do to get things back on track after Roy Hodgson’s woeful six-month reign. The signs were certainly there yesterday that the Scot is heading in the right direction with the team he last managed 20 years ago. There was more running, more guts and a general willingness by players to work for each other – something that was woefully lacking under Hodgson. Everything seemed to be changing for the better, with Liverpool taking that lead and dominating the game for lengthy periods. But, ultimately, they dropped two points because they let their guard slip for the opening 15 minutes of the second half. Despite having been on top for so long, they were given a reality check when the Toffees drew level just 40 seconds after the interval. Sylvain Distin rose above central defender Martin Skrtel to head the ball down and over the line from a Mikel Arteta corner on his 400th appearance in English football. Everton then stunned Liverpool again six minutes later by taking the lead, leaving Dalglish shaking his head in disbelief in the technical area. Leon Osman somehow managed to flick a pass through Skrtel and Raul Meireles which found the ever-alert Jermaine Beckford midway inside the box and he pushed the ball around keeper Pepe Reina to leave Everton with their tails well and truly up. However, in what was a topsy-turvy affair, the hosts equalised in the 68th minute from a penalty right in front of the Kop. Goalkeeper Tim Howard, who had an otherwise exceptional game, upended Argentine winger Maxi Rodriguez just a few yards from the goalline. And Dirk Kuyt fired home a right-footed penalty to signal the start of yet more Liverpool pressure. Portuguese star Meireles had earlier had Kopites singing their hearts out after his first goal for the club put Liverpool ahead in the 29th minute. Ironically, it came as a result of two brilliant quick-fire stops from Howard to deny battling Dutchman Kuyt. Everton fans thought the American keeper had averted the danger, but the ball ran into the path of Meireles. He whipped in a cracking shot which flashed into the back of the net as Howard got no reward at all for those two great saves. But it was a goal that Liverpool thoroughly deserved after a sustained period of attacking had put Everton on the ropes. The goal came in an opening half in which Liverpool were by far the dominant force – so much so that they could easily have been two or three ahead. However, you can’t take too much away from Everton, who just refused to give up and kept on attacking. The Toffees, who have not won at Anfield this century, were certainly in an adventurous mood. With two men up front – Beckford and Victor Anichebe – they managed to put the home team under pressure. Beckford was always willing to chase after any half-chance and almost surprised Liverpool as early as the fourth minute. And Anichebe, particularly after the interval, was a revelation as he tried his heart out to get Everton’s nose in front. With a bit more luck, they could have sneaked it. But that, in all fairness, would have been against the run of play.
Dirk Kuyt spot on again as points shared between Liverpool and Everton
Guardian report
Liverpool 2 Raul Meireles 29, Kuyt (pen) 68
Everton 2 Distin 46, Beckford 52
Andy Hunter Sunday 16 January 2011
The 215th Merseyside derby enticed John W Henry to only his second Anfield game as Liverpool's principal owner but told him nothing he did not already know. That his appointment of Kenny Dalglish was the right one to galvanise a previously fractured club was confirmed in the spirited reaction of fans and players alike. What followed, unfortunately for Henry's pockets, was evidence there is a limit to the Dalglish effect and to what £300m can buy. Dalglish's wait for a victory to herald his Liverpool homecoming continues and so too David Moyes's quest for a win at Anfield as Everton manager. The last time Everton won across Stanley Park was 1999 and they arrived believing this represented their finest chance of a first league double over Liverpool since 1984‑85. Those aspirations were dented when Louis Saha joined Tim Cahill on the absentee list with a thigh strain, and must have risen again when Dalglish sent out a central midfield of Jay Spearing and Lucas Leiva. Ultimately, however, it was the appetite, work rate and adventure of Liverpool that left their neighbours grateful for a point, but with even that insufficient for a victory, the depth of Dalglish's five-month challenge was laid bare once again. "We are happy with the way we are playing," said the Liverpool manager. "When there is a change in management there is a change in philosophy, training and how you prepare for matches and players have to adapt to that. They've got to believe in what we are doing and I think you can see the belief is coming back." Dalglish again lamented a lack of luck in Liverpool's performance, arguing the corner that led to Sylvain Distin's equaliser "should have been a goal-kick" and that Martin Kelly "was clattered" by Victor Anichebe before Jermaine Beckford swept Everton ahead. It took a needless challenge from the otherwise impressive Tim Howard on Maxi Rodríguez for Liverpool to salvage a point from the penalty spot, however, while the home side had only themselves to blame for not establishing a comfortable first-half lead. Moyes, who left out Steven Pienaar after the Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur transfer target announced he was not in the right mind-set, said: "I was disappointed not to take all three points after the second half but at half-time I was delighted to come in only one goal down." Liverpool were inspired by the fanfare around Dalglish's return but their first half performance, while a vast improvement on recent weeks, showed why the club is interested in Ajax's Uruguay forward, Luis Suárez. Howard made four important saves before the interval while the excellent Fernando Torres struck a post and Rodríguez squandered a glorious chance to add to Raul Meireles's 29th‑minute opener. Everton, by contrast, did not force José Reina into one meaningful save in the opening 45 minutes yet, remarkably, had turned the game on its head within seven minutes of the restart. Torres served notice of Liverpool's intent by testing Howard from the angle on 10 seconds and gave Distin a demanding afternoon on the turn. One outstanding run inside both Everton central defenders resulted in the Spain international beating Howard only for his effort to strike the inside of the post, with Dirk Kuyt failing to convert an inviting rebound. Liverpool's relentless pressing prevented the visitors from building any momentum or releasing Seamus Coleman against an unorthodox left-back, Glen Johnson, and it was from the England international that Dalglish's team deservedly took the lead. Johnson's cross to the far post invited Kuyt to force a fine save from Howard, who threw himself in the way of the Dutchman's second attempt. The ball fell perfectly for the lurking Meireles, who drove beyond Leighton Baines and beyond the Everton keeper from the edge of the area. The home side left the pitch to a standing ovation at half-time but were left bewildered at the unforeseen transformation that followed. Distin headed Everton level 38 seconds into the second half when he ghosted behind Martin Skrtel and headed Mikel Arteta's corner through the legs of Reina. Seven minutes later Moyes's side were ahead when Anichebe and Leon Osman combined to give Beckford a sight of goal and the former Leeds United striker struck low into Reina's far corner. Everton were suddenly comfortable, Liverpool anxious, but the home side were gifted a route back when Rodríguez tumbled over Howard as they both stretched for Skrtel's scuffed shot. Referee Phil Dowd instantly pointed to the spot and Kuyt drilled home his third successful penalty in a Merseyside derby. "We are not getting a good deal of good fortune going our way at the moment," said Dalglish. "It is a great credit to the players that they keep chipping away and, the harder they try, the quicker it will come."
Anfield pub on Walton Breck Road scene of violence after Merseyside derby
By Laura Jones
Jan 17 2011
THREE football fans are today recovering from injuries after they were attacked outside an Anfield pub after the Merseyside derby. The 12th Man pub - formerly the Salisbury Arms - on Walton Breck Road was last night cordoned off with police tape and drinkers today told the ECHO that trouble broke out at about 7pm. Today Merseyside police confirmed that officers were investigating an incident there after they arrived to investigate reports of a street brawl and found a 22-year-old man with head injuries, a 30-year-old man with a deep wound to his neck and a 32-year-old man with cuts to his hand. Friends of the men told the ECHO that the 30-year-old was slashed with a broken glass and was rushed to hospital for surgery. A police spokesman said: "All three victims were taken to hospital by ambulance for treatment. "The 22 and 32-year-old have since been discharged after having their injuries stitched. "The 30-year-old, who is from the Anfield/Walton area is currently in hospital recovering from surgery to a neck wound. He is expected to be discharged later today. "Detectives investigating the assaulting are appealing for anyone with information to call St Anne Street CID on 0151 777 4064 or Crimestoppers 0800 555 111."
Ian Snodin: Phil Dowd contributed to a watchable Merseyside derby
by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Echo
Jan 18 2011
PHIL Dowd had a steady game as the derby ref - and it isn’t one I’d envy. It must be one of the harder games in the Premier League to referee, and although he got the odd decision here and there wrong - generally he tried to let the game flow and use common sense. It’s very easy to brandish yellow and red cards willy nilly in a Merseyside derby, and it takes an experienced official with restraint to make it an enjoyable game. Derbies rarely have many goals, so Sunday was all the more enjoyable for the neutral. Four goals and no reds!
Ian Snodin: Everton FC boss David Moyes right to sell Steven Pienaar
by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Echo
Jan 18 2011
0ShareAdd a commentRecommend IT’S understandable that David Moyes wanted to hang on to Steven Pienaar until the summer even though it means losing him for nothing. He’s such an important and talented player, that his worth to the team may have compensated for missing out on a much-needed chance to boost the club coffers. But it’s hard not to agree with Moyes’ change of mind, and accept that the club are better off allowing him to leave this month. It looks like he’s going now, and while it’s disappointing it was always likely when cash bids started to surface. It’s a tough one - because with him and Leighton Baines we’ve got the best left-side in the Premier League. But I’d trust David Moyes to use the £3m or so he will get wisely - and hopefully pluck another diamond from the Championship. Chris Eagles is a player who has been linked with coming in to replace Pienaar, and while some fans have been a bit underwhelmed I think he’s a good player, who is strong with both feet, was well schooled at Manchester United, and could do a job at Goodison. Charlie Adam has been mentioned too - but he’d have to play behind a striker in Tim Cahill’s role and that’d make him far less likely to make the switch to Goodison Park.
Ian Snodin: Everton FC showed their mettle in second half of the Merseyside derby
by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Echo
Jan 18 2011
I HAD to use the ultimate football cliche when thinking about the 215th Merseyside derby - but it genuinely was the perfect example of a game of two halves. The usual pre derby atmosphere before kick off at Anfield, and the return of Kenny Dalglish combined to make it a really special feeling in the ground, and right from the whistle Liverpool came out like they meant business. I had the feeling we were going to be up against it, and Liverpool seemed ready to raise their game for their new (ish) manager. They started quickly and closed us down all over the pitch, but especially in midfield where we weren’t getting hold of the ball and struggling to dictate any of the play. Torres has supposedly not been at his best so far this season but he was sensational in the first half. The lad was on fire, and noticeably better than he had been in the Goodison derby. I recall at Goodison when Sylvain Distin backed off him at one point and gave him a few yards, and Torres didn’t capitalise and couldn’t reach the ball. He just didn’t look sharp, and as if he was on top of his game. But the moment he cut inside John Heitinga at Anfield on Sunday at pace and curled a shot at goal was the old him - I turned away convinced we’d just gone 1-0 down. Luckily his shot came back off the upright but it was only a temporary reprieve, and he gave our defenders a few more jittery moments during a demoralising first half for the Blues. People have speculated whether David Moyes went into the changing room at half time ranting and raving to try and scare a response from his under-performing players, but I doubt it. I’d imagine he went in calmly and simply reminded them what was a young team, that they could play at least 50% better than they had done. Moyesie showed his tactical nous in the second half too, asking Victor Anichebe to play slightly more towards the left flank, and the lad responded with a terrific performance which caused Liverpool all sorts of problems. In the end, a point was probably a fair result and you could walk away from Anfield reflecting on four points taken from our rivals over the season. Moyes got eventual rewards for his positive stance DAVID Moyes was under a lot of pressure to stick with the 4-4-2 system before the derby that had served him so well, and despite the setbacks before kick-off he stuck to it. In all honesty the Everton manager probably looked at the form of Liverpool and sensed they were there for the taking. Even though Everton only produced a great second half performance it was more about how well Liverpool played in the first - nothing to do with the system sent out there. Sylvain Distin gets special mention for recovering from a shaky first half to produce an immense second half display. You could’ve been forgiven for fearing the worst with Liverpool attacking the Kop but I think Everton got a lot of inspiration from the away fans and they roared them back into the contest. Fellaini was another player who started to impose himself much more, and Mikel Arteta finally found some space. I suspected there were more goals in it at 2-1, and it could easily have been 3-1 to the Blues, but it was a definite penalty - even if Maxi played for it.
Spurs move step closer to sealing capture of Everton FC’s Steven Pienaar
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
Jan 18 2011
Everton FC midfielder Steven Pienaar may be moving to Tottenham or Chelsea* FOLLOW us on Twitter for all the latest EFC news here SPURS appear to have won the race to sign Everton’s Steven Pienaar - after the Toffees agreed a fee close to £3m with the Londoners. Harry Redknapp’s side have always been the South African’s preferred option, despite a fee also being agreed with Chelsea last week. The title-holders were unable to agree personal terms with Pienaar, 28, however, and that meant Spurs only had to increase their initial £2m offer to make the deal happen. As reported in Saturday’s ECHO, the former Ajax star is now set agree a deal believed to be in excess of £75,000-a-week with the North London title pretenders. It comes after Harry Redknapp spoke of his apparent surprise at Chelsea’s initial bid being accepted. He said: “I can’t get to the bottom of it. I think I do know but I’ll end up in big trouble. “It’s very strange to me how they have suddenly offered £3m. The manager at Chelsea, who is a lovely guy, comes on TV and he denies it. I don’t think he is a liar.” Despite insisting after Sunday’s derby draw that he would expect to see Pienaar at training today, David Moyes wants the transfer concluded so he can being the process of signing a replacement. Meanwhile, the Everton boss believes natural goal-scorer Jermaine Beckford can build on his second half goal against Liverpool, his third this season. Beckford’s effort was a well-taken strike and gave indication of his growing comfort at the highest level. He said: “What he has had through his career, and it’s not been a long time, is the knowledge of how to score. In every game he has played he’s had his chances. You can’t fault his finishing, it is fantastic. “The amount of attempts he gets on goal is something, and strikers will tell you, that wins games. There is a knack in it and being in the right position and scoring goals is hard to do.” Moyes was also pleased with the way Victor Anichebe acquitted himself in a new partnership with former Leeds man Beckford. “With us losing Louis Saha through the week with a thigh strain it started to give me one or two problems,” said the Blues boss. “We have a lot of hope for Victor, he has had one or two injuries and not played enough football but I do think he has got something.” Moyes faces another barrier concerning one striking target in this month’s trasnfer window. Monaco forward Dieumerci Mbokani has been summoned to his club’s winter training camp, despite admitting he wanted to leave the French outfit – with a Goodison switch a possibility. The Congolese frontman recently informed the club of his desire to leave, having struggled to settle at Stade Louis II. A switch to England has been widely touted, with Everton, Fulham and West Ham believed to hold an interest in the 25-year-old. Monaco have been busy changing managers, though, with Guy Lacombe replaced by Laurent Banide at the helm, and the newcomer has been keen to offer a clean slate for those on the fringes of the fold. That includes Mbokani, who was initially left out of the Ligue 1 club’s plans for the mid-season break, but Banide is keen to keen a look at the striker.
Everton FC rumour mill: Palace bid for Vaughan, Eagles grounded at Burnley, Blues eye ex-Red?
Dawid Koziol
Jan 18 2011
Palace make official bid for Everton striker Vaughan CRYSTAL Palace have made an official bid for Everton striker James Vaughan
Full story: This Is Croydon
Howard: Pienaar is replaceable
Everton goalkeeper Tim Howard has no doubt that David Moyes will find a replacement for the departing Steven Pienaar
Eagles grounded at Burnley
Everton have been warned off the man they are hoping to add to their squad to replace Steven Pienaar, Burnley's Chris Eagles
Everton have been linked with a move for ex-Anfield trainee Adam Hammill
Everton target Jennings
Tranmere Rovers are prepared to sell Dale Jennings this month who has been watched by both Everton and West Brom
Everton FC latest: We can replace our ‘engine’ Steven Pienaar, says Tim Howard
by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
Jan 18 2011
David Moyes and Steven PienaarTIM HOWARD admits Everton are losing their “engine” with the imminent departure of Steven Pienaar – but believes the transfer acumen of David Moyes will unearth a replacement. Pienaar is on the brink of joining Tottenham Hotspur after Goodison officials last night accepted an improved offer from the Londoners. Chelsea agreed a price with Everton last week but the South African has set his heart on a move to White Hart Lane.
And the player will discuss personal terms with Tottenham after they lodged a bid believed to be worth £2million up front with another £1m due in 12 months. Pienaar requested not to be involved during Sunday’s 2-2 Merseyside derby draw at Anfield, with it likely the 28-year-old has now played his last game for Everton. And goalkeeper Howard believes the midfielder’s exit will leave a sizeable hole to be filled in the Everton squad. “Steven has been our engine for the last couple of years,” said the United States international. “There is no hiding from that. He has been our star player but my feeling having been at this club for so long is that we just get on with it. We don’t dwell on things.
“The manager is really shrewd. He’s found Arteta, Cahill, Pienaar. There will be another. That’s the way it is.” Howard produced a string of impressive saves during the first half at Anfield to prevent Everton from going under before half-time. But his afternoon was marred by conceding a penalty for a foul on Maxi Rodriguez from which Dirk Kuyt’s strike denied Everton a first league double over their neighbours since 1985. Of referee Phil Dowd’s decision, Howard said: “He called it, so I’m guessing it was. It was soft. “When Rodriguez comes in there, he has got every right to either shoot or take it away from me and go down. I was going into block the shot but once he takes it away from it becomes difficult. Should I have been sent-off? No way! “The penalty wasn’t blatant or dumb. The ball was there to be won and I had to go for it. If he swivels and smashes one on his left foot, you’ve got to say you had better gone for it. The choice is his. “I feel strikers always have to go down in the box. That’s what I want my own strikers to do. It is what it is.” As well as missing Pienaar, Everton were without injured duo Louis Saha and Phil Jagielka with Tim Cahill unavailable through international commitments. But Howard believes Moyes’s men could have taken more from the game, and added: “We have got mixed emotions. If you take the emotions about it being a derby out of it, which is hard to do, you look and see that you have gone to Anfield and taken a point. That’s a good thing. But the way the game took shape, we were on top. “We played really well in the second half but let them back into it. We felt could have won it. “Our performances have been good and that leads to results. It’s not easy when you are missing Jags and Louis, Steven and Timmy Cahill. The list goes on and on. We did good job. We dug in and that was very important. “There was a strong positive message in our dressing room that we needed to be on the front foot and not to sit back. We feel we can perform on these big stages with the squad we have.” Everton’s home game against Fulham on Saturday, March 19 has been put back to a 5.30pm kick-off and will be shown live on ESPN
Mark Lawrenson: Derby display shows better times lie ahead for both Liverpool FC and Everton FC
by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Daily Post
Jan 18 2011
0ShareAdd a commentRecommend (1) BOTH Kenny Dalglish and David Moyes can take plenty of positives from the derby match as Liverpool and Everton look to climb the table in the second half of the season. The tight nature of the Premier League table this season means that the pair of them will have been looking over their shoulders at the relegation places but there’s no reason why they both can’t now start to challenge for European places. It was an open game, far more so than many derbies and in the end the result was about right. The crowd played their part in a special occasion as did the referee Phil Dowd who adopted a sensible approach compared to some of the card-happy officials the fixture has had in the past. Liverpool had the better of the first half while Everton made a great start after the break but they must have known that with Liverpool attacking the Kop end they were bound the face a late onslaught. That performance was certainly the best Liverpool have been since Dalglish’s return while Everton will be pleased to have extended the little unbeaten run they’ve been building up. It was also the best display I’ve seen from Fernando Torres for a long time. He seemed to have the bit between his teeth, fought people off and almost created a goal for himself out of nothing. Liverpool also got people in and around Torres while the full-backs pushed up too which made a difference. You know that Glen Johnson is going to bomb on while Martin Kelly also got to the by-line. By the time Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher get back, Liverpool might have as many as four local lads in the team. Kelly has done really well but I’m not sure whether his future is at right-back. Dalglish obviously sprang a shock selection by picking Jay Spearing but he must have seen something from the youngster in training and he brings lots of energy and enthusiasm. I imagine that he was told to stand in and around Mikel Arteta and he did a decent job buzzing about and getting under the Spaniard’s feet.So far it has been slow but steady improvement for Liverpool under Dalglish which was just what they needed. If they’d have won a couple of games then expectation levels would have immediately gone through the roof and people would have been talking about Champions League qualification. As things stand, Dalglish can now get on with turning things around at a sensible pace – continuing with the trip to Molineux on Saturday. Last month Wolves came to Anfield with a plan and Liverpool couldn’t change their tactics against them. This weekend will be a completely different fixture. From Everton’s point of view, they’ll have been pleased to have kept the goals flowing during Tim Cahill’s absence. They don’t panic when they go a goal down and Jermaine Beckford will have been boosted by his goal. Unfortunately for Moyes, Yakubu was never the same player after his injury and unlike the Nigerian, Beckford gives you pace over the top that will stretch defences. I saw a lot of him at Leeds and quite a lot of his goals came from positions where the ball was threaded through and he just had the goalkeeper to beat. At that level you could still get in your shot even if your touch wasn’t the best but Beckford has realised that your first touch has to be spot-on in the Premier League. It’s a big jump moving up two divisions but he’s learning the best way he can – by playing regularly.
Why Everton FC scratch strike duo can irritate Premier League rivals
by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
Jan 18 2011
0ShareAdd a commentRecommend (4) THEY may have been a scratch strike partnership, but Victor Anichebe and Jermaine Beckford proved a major irritation for Liverpool at the weekend. And having been guilty of spurning too many chances during the first half of the season, now Everton’s strikers are beginning to make the most of their opportunities. With Yakubu departed and Tim Cahill on Asian Cup duty in Qatar, the news that Louis Saha had suffered a thigh injury could have dealt a devastating blow to David Moyes’s side, particularly with in-demand Steven Pienaar not in a fit state of mind to play. Victories over Tottenham Hotspur and Scunthorpe United had been achieved with a two-pronged strikeforce, and Moyes ultimately chose to stick to his guns and put faith in the untested union of Anichebe and Beckford. At half-time, it seemed an unwise move as Everton were fortunate to go in only one goal adrift. But a revitalised Anichebe spearheaded a second-half revival that saw Dirk Kuyt’s spot-kick equaliser deny Beckford the honour of being Everton’s first Anfield matchwinner since Kevin Campbell in September 1999. For both players, it provided a welcome boost of confidence. Anichebe is still winning back the support of the fans following his contract stand-off earlier in the season, while Beckford, despite a clutch of important goals, has struggled to convince in the Premier League. And of the latter, Tim Howard admits his Anfield strike could prove a turning point in his Goodison career. This goal will be huge for him,” says the goalkeeper. “His goal against Bolton (in November) lifted us big time. Scoring here in front of our fans lifted us again and that will have been brilliant for him. It’s not always easy stepping up to the Premier League. Everyone finds it. I certainly did. But Becks is a good player. We all believe in him and he is repaying us. He has been lively, all the way through, even when things weren’t going for him. He has got a swagger about him as most strikers do and he is a good kid. That’s part of the Premier League. You have to ride the ups and downs. You can’t be too high, you can’t be too low. You have got to come in to work every day and do it.” Anichebe’s game-changing influence immediately after the break earned the youngster plentiful plaudits and continued his impressive form of recent weeks. And Howard believes the 22-year-old needs to show more self-belief in his own talent. “His shift was fantastic,” he says. “Sylvain (Distin) got the champagne but Victor was terrific. He is so tough to play against. He enjoys his football. He enjoys the test and the toughness of it all. You saw how much he meant to us going into the game “The players and the management believe in him 100,000%. I don’t always think he thinks that way. He has that belief most days. You talk about football players being arrogant and there is a swagger that comes with Rooney, Ronaldo and those types. “Vic is a pretty humble kid and he has got to get a little bit more of that. We all believe it and he performs whenever we ask him. “You don’t want to lose guys like that. “When he stands in the tunnel, you can count on him giving you a performance every single week.”
Mark Lawrenson: Steven Pienaar just wouldn’t commit to new Everton FC contract
by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Daily Post
Jan 18 2011
0ShareComment (1)Recommend STEVEN PIENAAR missed the derby after telling David Moyes he wasn’t in the right frame of mind to play after Everton had accepted an offer for him. Whether he ends up going to Chelsea, Tottenham or somewhere else, Everton should be safe in the knowledge that they did everything that could be asked of them in their attempts to keep him. Pienaar was offered a really good contract to stay at Goodison Park but he just didn’t want to sign it. Everton should pick up about £3million as well as getting his salary off the wage bill. The South African must have thought that the list of clubs in for him would have been endless on the back of a good World Cup but it never really happened for him or the host nation. His departure will open up opportunities for others, especially Diniyar Bilyaletdinov but he looks like the kind of player who might need a run of half a dozen games to find his feet and Everton might not be willing to risk their form on such a gamble.
ACADEMY FOOTBALL: Everton under-18s hit back to earn draw at West Brom to stay of the FA Premier Academy League Group C
by Chris Wright, Liverpool Daily Post
Jan 18 2011
0ShareAdd a commentRecommend LATE goals from John Lundstram and Hallum Hope helped Everton under-18s come back from two goals down to draw 2-2 at West Bromwich Albion on Saturday. It meant Neil Dewsnip’s side continued their unbeaten start to the New Year and kept them top of FA Premier Academy League Group C table. Hope hit a post, but after 35 minutes West Brom took the lead. The home side doubled their advantage. at the start of the second half when full-back Tyias Browning was penalised for a foul and West Brom scored from the spot. Everton tried to hit back and on 65 minutes were given help as the Baggies were reduced to 10-men. After a collision between Hope and the West Brom keeper, the Baggies’ number one slapped Hope’s friendly hand away and was shown a red card for dissent to the referee afterwards. Everton reduced the arrears until 10 minutes to go. Lundstram firing home well from the edge of the area. Five minutes later Hope hit a low shot into the bottom corner to equalise. Then with time running out Everton almost snatched all three points but Johan Hammar’s header bounced off the post and straight into the substitute keeper‘s hands. Dewsnip said: “We came off disappointed we hadn’t won it but given we were 2-0 down a point was a good result. It was great mental courage by our players again and they have shown that on a number of occasions this year.” Everton were due to face Liverpool at Finch Farm this Saturday, but the match has been postponed as they face Middlesbrough in the fourth round of the FA Youth Cup at the Riverside Stadium next Monday evening (KO 7pm). EVERTON UNDER-18s: Roberts, Browning, Garbutt, Bidwell, Hammar, Lundstram, Donegan (Dobie 65), Kinsella, Forshaw, Hope, Forrester (Orenuga 45), McAleny (Thomas 45). Subs: Fitzgibbon, Barrow.
DAVID MOYES HAS A SYLVA LINING
18th January 2011 By Kevin Francis Daily Star
SYLVAIN DISTIN insists Everton can still mix it with the best – despite being also-rans in the transfer market.
Manager David Moyes does not have the financial muscle to compete for the top names. In fact, it looks like being all one-way traffi c, with a £3m bid from both Chelsea and Spurs for Steven Pienaar, 28, having already been accepted. Tottenham are also chasing captain Phil Neville, 33, while Moyes looks unlikely to bring in any new faces. But defender Distin is convinced Everton can still climb the league. The Frenchman, 33, said: “We have to stay focused and we’ve got enough quality already. “But the league is getting tougher. “Teams such as Sunderland and Birmingham are buying players they wouldn’t have dreamed of signing three years ago. It’s not a secret that we would like more players – but there’s nothing we can do. It would be disappointing to lose Steven. You don’t want to lose one of your best players, but that’s football.” Goalkeeper Tim Howard, 32, added: “Pienaar has been our star player but we’ll just get on with it.”
Everton FC: Cahill injured as Australia breeze through to quarter-finals
January 18 2011
Tim Cahill hobbled off injured in the dying seconds of Australia's Asia Trophy win over Bahrain.
The Everton midfielder picked up a nasty knock to the knee in the 90th minute of the game, in which the Socceroos triumphed 1-0, cruising through to the last eight of the tournament. It is not yet known how bad the injury is but Cahill, who has already had knee trouble this year, will be hoping to be back for his country's next game on Saturday. North Korea, UAE or Iraq await Australia in the next round.
Diniyar Bilyaletdinov listens to father’s advice in battle to prove himself at Everton
by James Pearce, Liverpool Echo
Jan 19 2011
THERE’S no danger of Diniyar Bilyaletdinov moping around and feeling sorry for himself. However, it’s not the fear of facing the wrath of Everton boss David Moyes that is keeping the out-of-favour Russian’s chin up, but the daily pep talk he receives from his father Rinat. Bilyaletdinov has been largely reduced to the role of bench warmer this season. The midfielder has made just five starts in all competitions and hasn’t made Moyes’ line-up for a Premier League game since the draw with Bolton in November. After an impressive display in the FA Cup at Scunthorpe, he found himself back on the bench for last weekend’s Merseyside derby and only made a brief cameo. Like most of the 12 substitute appearances he’s been handed this term it was hardly worth getting his boots muddy. But Bilyaletdinov believes his time will come and he has to stay positive or he will have Rinat to answer to. “My father is a coach at my old club Lokomotiv Moscow and every day I speak with him about football,” he said. “Since I started to play when I was five years old he’s been the most important person in my career. “He calls and says ‘why didn’t you play? Why didn’t you score?’ “He asks me ‘are you really working hard?’ I say ‘yes, of course’ and he says ‘okay, then you have to wait for a chance. You must be professional and don’t be in a bad mood’. “I try to stay positive because it’s my life and it’s my career. I have to be positive. “Of course if you don’t play a lot you start to think maybe there is something wrong. But that only lasts a few seconds. I don’t think about bad things, I just think about the future.” Despite his current lack of action, Bilyaletdinov hopes that future remains at Goodison. He enjoyed a promising first season at Goodison with seven goals in 33 appearances following his £9million switch from Lokomotiv in August 2009. But a player who signed a four-year contract on the back of a personal recommendation to Moyes from then Russia boss Guus Hiddink hasn’t kicked on. “I like this club, I like this team and the atmosphere here is great,” he said. “It’s nice to work here and I really enjoy it. I don’t think about changing (clubs). The only thing I want to change is the amount of time I spend on the pitch. “I have to prove myself on the training ground – that’s the best way to do it. I don’t think it’s correct to go to the coach and ask him (why I’m not playing). “I’m not going to go to him crying about it as I’ve got to be professional.” Equally at home on the left or the right flank, the departure of Steven Pienaar to Tottenham could open the door for Bilyaletdinov at Goodison. And he insists he’s happy to play anywhere Moyes wants him as he seeks the minutes required to ease the growing concerns of Russia boss Dick Advocaat. “I am worried (about my international place) and the national coach has spoken with me about my situation,” he added. “He said ‘try to play more if you can. We need you to be in good form for some very important games this year’. “In a few weeks we’ve got a friendly against Iran in Dubai and maybe he will speak with me about this situation some more. I’ve got time to change things. “I’ll play wherever I’m needed for Everton. I’m happy on either wing and I’ve also played behind the striker for Lokomotiv and the national team. “I’ve even played two times for Russia at left-back in not so important games. “It’s the coach’s choice, it’s not up to me. I can even play keeper maybe!” Bilyaletdinov admits there have been mixed emotions at Finch Farm in the wake of Sunday’s dramatic 2-2 derby draw at Anfield. Delight at the way the Blues fought back after being outplayed for 45 minutes was tempered by their failure to hang on to a lead given to them by goals from Sylvain Distin and Jermaine Beckford. Now the focus has turned to Saturday’s home clash with bottom club West Ham. “That was the fourth derby I’ve played in and I really love every minute of them,” he said. “In my country the derbies aren’t so popular but here the supporters love them and the games against Liverpool are the most important games in the season. “There are two parts to our feelings about the game. We didn’t play well in the first half and didn’t create any chances. I was out warming up at half-time but the players who were in there said the boss was really angry. “David Moyes spoke with the team, did some things to change the game and the second half was much better. “We totally dominated and scored twice but made a stupid mistake and they scored. Overall after 90 minutes a draw was probably fair. “Hopefully we can push on now. West Ham will come here with a defensive style. We have to look to score the first goal as then they will need to attack and that will leave more space for us. “We need these recent results to be the start of a good run to move us up the table.”
Bilyaletdinov was speaking during an Everton in the Community visit to Wallasey School. The 25-year-old held a question and answer session with pupils and showed off his North West Goal of the Year trophy for 2010 in recognition of his stunning strike against Manchester United last February. “That was a beautiful goal for me and I also scored a very good one against Portsmouth at the end of the season,” he said. “Together with the two I scored for my country against Slovenia, those four goals are all on the same level for me and are special.” Bilyaletdinov, who combined his early years at Lokomotiv with studying for an engineering degree at the Moscow State Industrial University, also revealed a love of chemistry. “When I was young I liked to mix things and watch the reaction,” he said. “I also love programmes about space and when I finish my career maybe that’s something I’ll look into more.” As for the advice offered to youngsters looking to follow in his footsteps, they could have been uttered by Rinat himself. “Train and then train some more,” he said. “After training stay on the pitch and work. You have to be very professional and only think about football.”
Everton FC's Diniyar Bilyaletdinov: I can fill Pienaar void
by James Pearce, Liverpool Echo
Jan 19 2011
Diniyar Bilyaletdinov insists he can fill Steven Pienaar voidEVERTON midfielder Diniyar Bilyaletdinov is keen to help fill the void created by Steven Pienaar’s £3m move to Tottenham. The Russian has been on the fringes of David Moyes’ squad so far this season and hasn’t started a Premier League game since November. However, with Pienaar completing his switch to North London yesterday, he’s hoping the coming months will bring more opportunities for him to stake a claim for a regular spot. “Steven has been a big player for Everton for four years and I have to say good luck to him,” he said. “He’s a very creative player and it’s not good for Everton that he’s gone but we still have many good players to keep us moving forward. “Maybe Steven going will be good for me but I’d prefer to play with him because he’s an intelligent player. Just because he’s gone it doesn’t mean I’ll start the next game but who knows? “Whether I’ll get more chances now isn’t a question for me, it’s a question for David Moyes and Steve Round.” Bilyaletdinov is determined to stay and fight for his place at Goodison rather than seek a new challenge elsewhere. “I like this club, I like this team and the atmosphere here is great,” he added. “I don’t think about changing (clubs). The only thing I want to change is the amount of time I spend on the pitch. “All I can do is work hard and do my best in training. I don’t think it’s correct to go to the coach and ask him (why I’m not playing). I’m not going to go to the manager crying about it as I’ve got to be professional.” Pienaar signed a four-and-a-half year contract with Spurs after passing a medical at their Chigwell training ground yesterday. Everton had also accepted a £3million bid for his services from Chelsea but the South African failed to agree personal terms with Carlo Ancelotti’s men. “To end speculation I am going to Spurs,” Pienaar said. “I can also confirm I’ll be jersey number 40. I’ve had brilliant years at Everton. It will always be a special place in my heart.” The 28-year-old midfielder joined Everton on loan from Borussia Dortmund in 2007 and the move was made permanent the following year for £2million. He became one of the club’s most influential figures and was named Player of the Year after an outstanding 2009/10 season. However, he turned down Everton’s offer of a new contract and the club opted to sell him now rather than lose him for nothing when his deal expired this summer. Pienaar, who scored 12 goals in 132 appearances for the Blues, could make his debut for Spurs at Newcastle on Saturday. Meanwhile, Everton are waiting news on the fitness of Tim Cahill after he hobbled off in the closing stages of Australia’s 1-0 win over Bahrain which secured their place in the quarter-finals of the Asian Cup. Cahill, who suffered a blow to the knee and was replaced in stoppage time, said: “For me, if it’s serious, then I’ll get through it but I honestly don’t know. “I took a few knocks and hopefully I’ll pull through.”
Everton FC latest: David Moyes scours market after Steven Pienaar completes Tottenham Hotspur move
by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
Jan 19 2011
DAVID MOYES faces a race against time to fill the breach left by Steven Pienaar’s departure to Tottenham Hotspur before this month’s transfer window slams shut. Pienaar underwent a medical at Tottenham’s training ground yesterday after agreeing personal terms on a four-year contract with the Londoners. The South African international rejected the chance of a move to Chelsea having already set his heart on linking up with long-time admirer Harry Redknapp. After days of negotiations, Everton reached a compromise deal with Tottenham on Monday believed to be worth £2million up front with another £1m in 12 months’ time. Confirming his destination on his Twitter account, Pienaar said: “To end speculation I am going to Spurs. I’ve had brilliant years at Everton and it will always be a special place in my heart. “I can also confirm I’ll be jersey number 40.” Goodison manager Moyes was tempted into parting with Pienaar rather than lose the player for nothing when his contract expired at the end of the season. Pienaar joined Everton on loan from Borussia Dortmund in the summer of 2007, and after an impressive campaign the move was made permanent the following year for £2m. The 28-year-old, who scored 12 goals in 132 appearances for the club, became one of the team’s most influential figures and was named Player of the Year after an outstanding 2009-10 season. However, by then Pienaar’s reluctance to sign a new deal led to constant speculation he would leave Goodison during the course of this season. Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp said: “He’s a good signing. He’s a good footballer, I think he’ll fit into the way we play great and I’ve always liked him. “He has a good attitude, a good trainer, a good player. I know David Moyes loved him at Everton and it was unfortunate he decided not to stay. “But in the end I think it is a fair deal – Everton got a decent fee in the end for him, Chelsea were in for him, and I think he spoke to Chelsea and he came and spoke to us and he's decided to come here.” With Pienaar following Yakubu through the Goodison exit, Moyes will now look to reinvest the money into reinforcements with a striker, right-sided midfielder and centre-back high on his list of priorities before the transfer window shuts in less than a fortnight. And reports in Belgium have again linked Everton with an interest in Anderlecht winger Jonathan Legear. Moyes has watched the highly-rated 23-year-old – who has also caught the eye of Newcastle United – on several occasions but any move would depend on Anderlecht not slapping an exorbitant price tag on the player. Meanwhile, Leighton Baines believes Everton must begin to enjoy home comforts as they prepare to greet Premier League strugglers West Ham United at Goodison on Saturday. Moyes’s men continued their impressive away form at the weekend with the 2-2 derby draw at Anfield stretching their run to just one defeat in nine away league games. But the 2-1 win over Tottenham earlier this month was only the third home league triumph of the season, a return Baines admits is not good enough. “We want to try and get on a little run now,” said the left-back. “We need to start winning some games at Goodison, if we can do that we will start to pick people off and climb up the table. “We need to start doing that, we’re coming into the second half of the season now and we need to put a run together and mount the table.”
Steven Pienaar seals Spurs switch
Jan 19 2011 The Guardian
South Africa midfielder Steven Pienaar completed his £3-million transfer to Tottenham Hotspur from Everton on Tuesday. Pienaar used micro-blogging website Twitter to reveal that he would join Tottenham after Everton accepted an improved offer from Harry Redknapp's side and the deal was concluded just hours later. The 28-year-old passed a medical at Tottenham's training ground before signing a four-and-a-half-year contract. "We are delighted to announce that we have reached agreement with Everton and Steven Pienaar for the player's transfer to the club," a statement on Tottenham's website confirmed. Redknapp on Sunday admitted he feared interest from Chelsea would ruin his chances of signing the former Borussia Dortmund star. Chelsea had a £3-million bid accepted over the weekend, but Pienaar preferred to join Spurs. International teammate He is Redknapp's second January signing, with Pienaar's international teammate, Bongani Khumalo, having already penned a pre-contract agreement. Confirming his destination on his Twitter account, Pienaar said: "To end speculation I am going to Spurs. I've had brilliant years at Everton and it will always be a special place in my heart. "I can also confirm I'll be jersey number 40."
Pienaar signs on with Spurs as Keane hits out at 'bizarre' Birmingham
By Jack Pitt-Brooke The Independent
Wednesday, 19 January 2011
Steven Pienaar has reached an agreement to join Tottenham Hotspur. The Everton midfielder, a transfer target for both Tottenham and Chelsea, made his decision clear on Twitter yesterday, and an official Spurs statement later confirmed they were "delighted" to have reached agreement with both Pienaar and Everton. Before Spurs' statement, Pienaar wrote on Twitter: "To end speculation I am going to Spurs. I've had brilliant years at Everton and it will always be a special place in my heart." He later added: "I can confirm I'll be jersey No 40." The South African had been subject to £3m bids from both Chelsea and Spurs. Chelsea were the first to offer the sum, but the 28-year-old preferred a move to White Hart Lane. Tottenham raised their bid to match Chelsea's on Monday, allowing Pienaar to join the North London club. Pienaar joined Everton on loan from Borussia Dortmund in 2007, having previously played for Ajax. After a successful loan spell he joined Everton permanently for a fee of £2m in the summer of 2008. He signed a three-year contract, however, which was due to expire this summer, thereby allowing him to leave on a free transfer if he did not go this month. Robbie Keane said yesterday that his proposed move to Birmingham City "was never going to happen". "That Birmingham stuff yesterday was a bit bizarre," he said, "with a statement coming out from them, which I found very strange. A deal was never really on the table, so I just think Birmingham was looking for a bit of publicity really." Tottenham's squad will be further strengthened by the returns from injury of Jonathan Woodgate and Jamie O'Hara. Both played 45 minutes of a match against a QPR side at Spurs Lodge yesterday. Woodgate has not since November 2009. O'Hara, similarly, has not played yet this season.
Why Everton's achievements under Moyes and Kenwright are far more impressive than anything Man City have done
Daily Mirror Jan 19 2011
Here is a dilemma for Everton fans. And it's one that strikes at the very heart of their current existence. Do they take pride in the achievements of their gifted manager and his equally gifted squad, and rejoice in the fact that the club is run prudently, with no danger of going bust? Or do they demand that the current owners gamble on future success, by borrowing heavily to mortgage the future in the hope of even more Success? It is a dilemma that is faced by just about every Premier League club outside Manchester's City and United, Chelsea and, to a lesser extent, Spurs and Arsenal. With wages at their current level, even Sky's TV money is not enough to satisfy the growing hunger of the modern-day player to maximise his earning potential. The departure of Steven Pienaar , and before him that of Joleon Lescott, illustrates that, and Everton, with their antiquated stadium and subsequent constriction of commercial capacity, have no chance of competing with the top clubs on wages, let alone transfer fees. hat has brought chairman Bill Kenwright some fierce stick, not least for his apparent intransigence in either spending lavishly or stepping aside to allow a billionaire to take over. There is a great deal of sympathy with the frustration of the Everton supporters, who are among the most patient (and most realistic) in the world, as well as being some of the most self-deprecating and amusing. But there is also another perspective that maybe the fans - and I'm sure many of them already do - can consider. Everton will rally round and absorb the loss of Pienaar because their manager, backed by a chairman skilled in negotiating and selling the merits of his club, has provided a squad of unrivalled talent on the budget they have. There is something to be said for any team that defies the hysteria of the modern world's need for instant success, to instead build slowly and carefully within their means. In a way, under those circumstances, what Everton have achieved is a far more impressive feat than Manchester City have managed so far. There is no massive debt at Everton, and no imminent threat to their future, even though they fit the model of a football club that could potentially struggle in the harsh world of modern sports business. It is hard to know if there is a string of potential buyers being turned away by Kenwright, but you have to doubt it. Newcastle, who have a massive stadium and extensive fanbase, have been on the market at a cut price for some time and have attracted no serious buyers. The world economy is still massively depressed, and people don't want to invest in football. They have looked at the events at Liverpool and thought it is too risky. There are simply not a long line of benevolent billionaires out there ready to 'do a Man City', and until one arrives, then perhaps financial prudence is the way forward. David Moyes is clearly frustrated at his inability to compete with the likes of Sunderland or even Stoke, let alone Spurs and Man City, but he has also frequently insisted the gap is closing between his club and the top sides because most of them are feeling the economic pinch. There is also the small matter of football's financial fair play rules, which will force clubs to live within their means, and level the playing field a little more. Once they are fully implemented over the next few seasons, Everton, with their realistic approach to finances, will be a better position than most to compete. In the meantime, they are still one of their more talented teams in the Premier League, as their performance at Anfield at the weekend - and previous displays against the likes of Spurs and Manchester City - have proved. It is still massively frustrating for the fans, for the manager, the team and the chairman, who would all dearly love more success. But there is a pride to be taken from the fact that the club is still so obviously competitive when they are so determined to run the finances sensibly. And if there is any group of fans who can appreciate that, then it is Everton's, even if they will feel betrayed by Pienaar's departure to Spurs.
Everton FC - a January transfer window history
By Sean Bradbury
Jan 20 2011
With the transfer window now wide open, here is a look back at the dealings done by Everton in January in the past six seasons.
January 2010
In
Jan Mucha (pre-contract, Legia Warsaw)
Phillippe Senderos (loan, Arsenal)
Out
Lucas Neill (£800,000, Galatasaray)
Lukas Jutkiewicz (loan, Motherwell)
John Ruddy (loan, Motherwell)
One-time Liverpool target Lucas Neill left the Blues for Galatasary having made 14 appearances for the club. Phillippe Senderos joined on loan from Arsenal and took Neill's number 23 shirt, but the Switzerland international only played three times before returning to London at the end of the season.
In
Joao Alves de Assis Silva (loan, Man City)
Out
Lee Molyneux (free, Southampton)
John Ruddy (loan, Crewe)
Brazilian striker Joao Alves de Assis Silva - known more commonly as Jo - had a short but fairly successful stint at Everton in the second half of the 2008/09 season, with five goals from 12 league appearances. He re-joined the Blues on loan for the following campaign but returned to Man City in January 2010 after David Moyes had suspended him for breach of conduct.
In
Dan Gosling (£1.5m, Plymouth)
Manuel Fernandes (loan, Valencia)
Out
James McFadden (£5.75m, Birmingham)
John Paul Kissock (loan, Gretna)
Alan Stubbs (derby, free)
Patrick Boyle (loan, Crewe)
Dan Gosling arrived in January and scored in a 3-0 win against Sunderland when making his home debut later that year. He famously scored in an FA Cup fourth round replay derby at Goodison in February 2009 in the 118th minute, knocking Rafael Benitez's Liverpool out of the competition. Gosling left under a cloud in the summer of 2010, joining Newcastle United after a contractual dispute.
In
Manuel Fernandes (loan, Benfica)
Out
Simon Davies (£2m, Fulham)
David Weir (free, Rangers)
A quiet transfer window for the Blues. Welshman Simon Davies departed after spending two seasons with Everton, making 53 appearances and scoring once against Birmingham City. Faithful EFC servant David Weir left for Rangers following nine seasons at Goodison Park.
In
Alan Stubbs (free, Sunderland)
Out
Per Kroldrup (undisclosed, Fiorentina)
Marcus Bent (£2m, Charlton)
Alan Stubbs returned for his second spell at Goodison Park. The defender is still with the Blues but now works in a coaching capacity. He currently assists Andy Holden instructing the Reserves and helps coach the U18 side.
In
None
Out
Thomas Gravesen (£2.5m, Real Madrid)
Kevin Campbell (free, West Brom)
The Blues brought no new recruits to Goodison Park but lost a couple of popular and loyal servants in the shape of Thomas Gravesen and Kevin Campbell. Between them the pair amassed almost 300 appearances for Everton.
Pre-match preview: Everton FC v West Ham United, featuring archive photos of the Blues 1985 title presentation
Jan 20 2011
To be played at Goodison Park, Saturday January 22 kick off 3pm
Everton's last five games
Jan 16: Premier League - Liverpool 2 Everton 2
Jan 8: FA Cup - Scunthorpe 1 Everton 5
Jan 5: Premier League - Everton 2 Spurs 1
Jan 1: Premier League - Stoke 2 Everton 0
Dec 28: Premier League - West Ham 1 Everton 1
West Ham's last five games
Jan 15: Premier League - West Ham 0 Arsenal 3
Jan 11: Carling Cup - West Ham 2 Birmingham 1
Jan 8: FA Cup - West Ham 2 Barnsley 0
Jan 5: Premier League - Newcastle 5 West Ham 0
Jan 1: Premier League - West Ham 2 Wolves 0
Previous meetings
P 123 W 61 D 26 L36 F 209 A 143
Selected matches
April 4 2010 - Everton 2 West Ham 2 - read match report here
Everton's hopes of European qualification took a blow as their relegation-threatened visitors twice fought back from a goal down to snatch a crucial point. Diniyar Bilyaletdinov and Yakubu, with only five minutes remaining, looked to have set the Blues on their way but Manuel Da Costa and Ilan captalised on slack defending to send Hammers boss Gianfranco Zola dancing down the touchline.
May 16 2009 - Everton 3 West Ham 1 - read match report here
The Blues finished off their Goodison programme in fine style ahead of the FA Cup final against Chelsea. Radoslav Kovac thumped in a 30-yarder to give the Hammers a surprise lead but Louis Saha levelled matters from the penalty spot before half-time and completed the scoring after Joseph Yobo had put Everton in front just after the interval.
May 8 1999 - Everton 6 West Ham 0
Everton coasted to a comprehensive end-of-season win over the hapless Hammers with Kevin Campbell continuing his hot streak of goalscoring form since his arrival on loan on weeks before with a hat-trick (watch here), Michael Ball (pen), Don Hutchison and Francis Jeffers also getting on the scoresheet.
May 8 1985 - Everton 3 West Ham 0
Everton cruised to a comfortable victory with goals from Andy Gray and Derek Mountfield (2) but the occasion was memorable for Kevin Ratcliffe receiving the league championship trophy before the kick off - it was also the Blues' 28th game without defeat since losing at home to Chelsea just before Christmas.
Paistow-born Tony Cottee bookended his two spells at West Ham, where he scored 116 goals in 280 games, with a six-year stint at Goodison where he managed 72 strikes in 184 appearances. Signed by Colin Harvey for a then-British record £2.2m in the summer of 1988, Cottee made the perfect start to his Everton career, scoring after just 34 seconds of his debut against Newcastle at Goodison, finishing the match with a hat-trick and while perhaps he never quite lived up to that incredble early promise, he notched some important goals while wearing the Royal Blue shirt, notably in the famous 4-4 FA Cup draw against Liverpool in 1991.
Quick Quiz (answers at the foot of the page)
1 Who scored Everton's equaliser in the 1-1 draw at Upton Park just after Christmas?
2 Which former Everton player scored an own goal when the Hammers were trounced 5-0 at Goodison in September 2001?
3 Which international defender joined the Blues from West Ham in the summer of 1997?
4 Everton finally notched their first league win of a troubled league campaign when West Ham were beaten 1-0 at Goodison in November 1994 - who was the Blues' matchwinner?
5 Which midfielder curled in a rare goal when four first-half strikes saw off the Hammers at Goodison as the Blues closed in on the title back in Apri 1987?
Ones to watch
Everton
Victor Anichebe performed well after his surprise start at Anfield last weekend and has now finally put pen to paper on a new contract at Goodison. Seamus Coleman has also committed his future to Everton and will be wanting to build on his superb season so far after a relatively quiet game in the derby. Louis Saha has had a nack of scoring against West Ham and will be hoping to have recovered from the knock that ruled him out of last weekend's game.
West Ham Loan signing Wayne Bridge had a nightmare debut last week against Arsenal and will be hoping to put in an improved performance at Goodison. Carlton Cole has only managed six goals so far this season but can be a handful on his day while midfield general Scott Parker missed the defeat to the Gunners through injury - James Tomkins has received some glowing reports for his efforts in defence during a difficult season so far for Avram Grant's men.
Latest odds from Betfred (click here for info)
Everton - 8/15
Draw - 3/1
West Ham 6/1
Quiz answers 1 Seamus Coleman 2 Don Hutchison 3 Slaven Bilic 4 Gary Ablett 5 Peter Reid
Seamus Coleman and Victor Anichebe sign new Everton FC deals
By Greg O'Keeffe
Jan 20 2011
0ShareComments (6)Recommend (3) EVERTON stars Seamus Coleman and Victor Anichebe have today signed new four and a half year deals with the club. Coleman, 22, had only signed a new contract last May, but his impressive progress this season has prompted Chairman Bill Kenwright to offer the Irishman a longer term deal on vastly improved terms. The defender has scored five goals already this campaign, winning rave reviews for his displays as a make-shift midfielder, and the better contract is designed to protect the club’s asset and ward off a list of potential suitors who might have come calling this summer. Likewise, former academy striker Anichebe, 22, who signed to put an end to speculation linking him with a move from Goodison. The Crosby-born Nigerian international’s former deal was set to expire this summer, and David Moyes was anxious to avoid a similar scenario to last July when he lost fellow starlet Dan Gosling to Newcastle for nothing. Anichebe was given a vote of confidence by Moyes when he started December's win at Manchester City, having previously been booed at Goodison over his decision to reject an initial offer of a new three-year contract. He responded with an encouraging display until being sent off for two bookable offences, but Moyes rates the powerful forward and started him again in last weekend’s derby draw.
Anichebe, who was instrumental in setting up Jermaine Beckford’s goal against Liverpool, has always insisted his future was with the Blues and the news of his contract will be a boost to Moyes who has recently allowed Yakubu out on loan, with James Vaughan likely to follow. One transfer target unlikely to be joining the Blues, however, is Anderlecht winger Jonathan Legear. The 23-year-old right-sided midfielder has been scouted several times by Everton, and watched personally by Moyes last year. But despite being determined to bring in a right winger, Moyes is likely to be priced out of a move for the Belgium international even with the boost to his coffers of the near £3m fee Spurs paid for Steven Pienaar. Legear left the Standard Liege youth academy for Anderlecht in the summer of 2003 and made his debut for the Brussels side's senior team hardly one year later at the age of 17.
The winger has since developed into a key player for the Belgians, and his good performances have won him a string of admirers elsewhere on the continent, with Paris St Germain among others monitoring his progress. Meanwhile, Celtic are continuing their pursuit of James Vaughan, with Parkhead boss Neil Lennon hoping to sign the striker on loan for the rest of the season. Everton would prefer a permanent deal for the 22-year-old striker, who has already been out on loan at Crystal Palace this season. But despite interest from various clubs for the Premier League’s youngest ever goal scorer, few can match the Toffees’ £1m price tag. Hull City had agreed a deal for the forward but that collapsed when his agent stalled talks over financial terms, and Cardiff City’s offer fell far short. Vaughan is understood to be keen on a move to the Glasgow giants, who have already made two approaches for him, but Moyes will not budge on his valuation of a player with potential even if his future looks certain to be away from Merseyside.
Everton FC rumour mill: Blues in for Wright-Phillips and Rakitic, Pienaar decision "explained"
By Sean Bradbury
Jan 20 2011Tim Cahill tracks Shaun Wright-PhillipsWright-Phillips on Everton's radar?
Shaun Wright-Phillips' agent has claimed Newcastle and Fulham are sniffing around the Man City winger, says Peace FM Online. Everton have been linked to the England international in the past and could renew their interest. With Steven Pienaar completing his move to Tottenham, Wright-Phillips would be a useful replacement in the Blues' attack. Moyes chasing Croat star Rakitic? A host of Premier League teams including Everton are after Croatian forward Ivan Rakitic, according to sport.co.uk. The man dubbed "the new Modric" is coming to the end of his contract with German club Schalke 04 and his agent has hinted at interest from several English sides. Pienaar decision to choose Spurs explained? Goal.com believe they have an exclusive in seeking to explain Steven Pienaar's decision to choose Spurs over Chelsea. The website claims he was offered an extra £11,000 a week to join Harry Redknapp's side - as well as a seven-figure signing-on fee. Pienaar could figure as early as Saturday when his new club take on Newcastle.
Everton FC idol Bob Latchford on the secret to eternal youth!
by David Prentice
Jan 20 2011
1ShareComment (1)Recommend (7) YOUNG children playing boisterously in the background isn’t an obvious soundtrack when you call a man who’s just qualified for a bus pass. But then Bob Latchford isn’t any ordinary man. Everton’s legendary centre-forward celebrated his 60th birthday on Tuesday. But he could comfortably pass for a man many years younger. And it’s his four-year-old daughter, Sina, and seven year old son, Sam, who help keep him young. Now living near Nuremburg in Germany, Latchford celebrated his landmark birthday quietly. “My eldest children came over from England and we met them in Munich. It was enjoyable but not too demanding.” Sixty is a landmark number in the history of Everton Football Club, and certainly its centre-forwards. And the significance isn’t lost on Latchford. He still lies still third in the list of the club’s all-time goalscorers, behind Graeme Sharp and the man who once scored 60 goals in a season. And he says: “I could have been second behind Dixie! I had a few injury prob- lems towards the end of my Everton career and I some- times ask myself ‘Why didn’t I take penalties?’ “I only took three in my career. Two when I was chasing the Daily Express prize for 30 league goals and one to complete a hat-trick against Wimbledon the following season (he went on to score five!) “Every one was different too, I smashed the one against Ipswich down the middle, put one against Chelsea to the keeper’s right and the last one to the goalkeeper’s left. “If I’d taken more penalties I might have edged out Sharpie!”
Not that there’s any edging Latchford out of Everton fans’ affections – even though he’s now out of sight in Germany. One Everton fan tweeted a birthday message to Latchford on Tuesday and within minutes there were numerous birthday greetings. “It’s nice to know they still remember me,” he said. “But as for as the birthday goes 60 is just a number – like 30, or 40 or 50. “I spoke to my eldest brother John (the only one of the four Latchford siblings not to play league football) who was 70 last June. “He told me the same thing. It’s just a number, but he did admit ‘it’s c**p getting old isn’t it?
“On the day my two eldest children came over from England and we met them in Munich. But I didn’t do anything other than that.” Despite entering his seventh decade, Latchford could still comfortably pass for a man many years younger. It’s a message he hears regularly from Evertonians used to the grizzled, bearded centre-forward who used to terrorise defenders in the 1970s and early 80s. “I’m probably lighter than when I was playing,” he laughs “but there’s no secret. I don’t really look after myself. “I like to drink a little, although we do eat a lot of organic food here so maybe that helps. I get over to England every now and then but I follow the Blues via the internet now.”
And he is pleased to see a man with a natural knack for goalscoring in the Blues forward line in the shape of Jermaine Beckford. “I don’t know much about Beckford,” he explained “only what people have told me, but he seems to have that knack of goalscoring and that’s something you can’t coach.
“You can try and improve some skills, but goalscoring is just a natural instinct. What he does need, though, is a run of games. Any striker needs that and now that Yakubu has gone maybe he’ll get that chance.” Latchford has no plans in following one of his playing contemporaries and rivals, Kenny Daglish, just three months his junior back into the game. “I’m not sure anybody would give me a job now,” he said. “Besides, I’ve got enough on my plate now with the little ones here!”
The Jury: Everton FC fans on Steven Pienaar's exit and the Merseyside derby draw
Liverpool Echo
Jan 20 2011
IN the space of a week we have loaned out our most expensive striker who scored on his debut and sold one of our ‘indispensable’ players – but not to worry, we are not a selling club! Fair enough, Pienaar was after money and he has got it. We had to cash-in, but Moyes has a point when he says that it is rare a player leaves us and it doesn’t work out better. I recall Gravesen being as prolific and leaving with six months to go for a similar fee and he didn’t do much after. Furthermore, it is Baines who has bossed our left hand side this season so maybe his performances have supported Pienaar’s ‘displays’. However, I will miss the free-kicks he wins us when getting fouled. I suppose this is a better opportunity more than ever for Bilyaletdinov to own the left hand side now and make a great partnership with Baines. David Wallbank
I HAVE dreaded this day for a long time now, the day a genius left our club. Steven Pienaar was a wonderful player and one we won’t be able to replace. I doubt he’ll enjoy his football without Leighton Baines – that partnership was special. But life goes on, and we need to reinvent ourselves again. Rodwell could find himself a starter, while Bily won’t get a better chance to shine! A player who got what he wanted in his contract, Arteta, really needs to find form. The derby result probably flattered our Red neighbours, and you sensed if one team was going to win it Everton clearly were the better team! It’s not all doom and gloom – Cahill is yet to come back and with West Ham our opponents this weekend we need to continue with our recently found form.
Debbie Smaje
SO Steven Pienaar has gone, and in the last week, my opinion on him has changed. All through the contract stories, I have defended him, because he has never let his attitude on the pitch drop. His work-rate never suggested he wanted away, and even if he did, I could appreciate that here was a player still giving his all while he was still ours. It may have only been to put himself in the shop window, but we’ll never know that. But for that attitude alone, he had my blessing should he ever have gone. But that opinion has changed, and all because he said he “wasn’t right” to play in the derby at Anfield. On Sunday, he was still our player, one of our most important players, and we went into one of our biggest games of the season without him. I can’t forgive that. He was an excellent player for us and will be missed, but why dwell on a player who may have given his all for three-and-a-half years, but let us down at the end?
Cole Fraser
I WOULD like to thank Steven Pienaar for his efforts in an Everton shirt. I don’t understand why a minority of fans are kicking up a fuss about the transfer. It was already a foregone conclusion that this would be his last season on Merseyside. I would have preferred to hang onto him until the summer. Transfer fees have inflated since his arrival for £2m in 2008, and we will struggle to find a worthy replacement for that kind of sum in today’s market. I do, however, think it is necessary to bring somebody in before the end of the month, as the squad now lacks an able left-sided midfielder. Bilyaletdinov has voiced his claim for a starting berth, but he lacks the quality required to perform in this league. Well done to the boys for their derby performance. After a shaky first-half, I was very impressed after the break and thought we were unlucky to only draw.
Celtic eyeing loan move for Everton FC’s James Vaughan
by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
Jan 20 2011
James Vaughan
JAMES VAUGHAN could become the latest player to depart Everton during this month’s transfer window with Celtic keen on signing the striker. The Scottish Premier League leaders are intent on pressing ahead with negotiations over capturing Vaughan on a loan deal until the end of the season.
Everton would most likely ask for a loan fee before allowing the 22-year-old to make the move north of the border. Vaughan made his first appearance of the season for David Moyes’s side on Sunday when he emerged as a 74th-minute substitute during the 2-2 Merseyside derby draw at Anfield.
The forward spent more than three months on loan at npower Championship side Crystal Palace earlier this season, scoring five goals in 14 appearances. Despite Celtic’s interest, new Palace manager Dougie Freedman still wants to take Vaughan back to Selhurst Park on a permanent deal but would have to increase his £850,000 valuation of the player. Cardiff City are also monitoring the situation of Vaughan, who, due to a litany of injuries, has made just 11 starts for Everton since becoming the club’s youngest-ever goalscorer on his debut back in April 2005. Meanwhile, Diniyar Bilyaletdinov hopes to benefit from Pienaar’s transfer by forcing his way back into Moyes’s first-team plans. He said: “Steven has been a big player for Everton for four years and I have to say good luck to him. “He's a very creative player and it's not good for Everton that he's gone, but we still have many good players to keep us moving forward. “Maybe Steven going will be good for me, but I'd prefer to play with him because he's an intelligent player. Bilyaletdinov added: “I like this club, I like this team and the atmosphere here is great. “I don't think about changing (clubs). The only thing I want to change is the amount of time I spend on the pitch. “All I can do is work hard and do my best in training.”
Blue Watch: Merseyside derby shows why EFC and LFC are in bottom half of table
Liverpool Daily Post
Jan 20 2011
0ShareAdd a commentRecommend (5) WHILE the typically chaotic nature of Sunday’s Anfield derby was never less than riveting, in that way that seems to leave neutrals delighted and horrified in equal measure, both of Merseyside’s Premier League clubs showed exactly why they have spent most of this season in the bottom half of the table. The stark truth is that only a sprinkling of individuals, spread over both line-ups, are really of a quality that is markedly higher than that of the players turning out regularly for what are widely seen as the top division’s cannon fodder.
In fact, can you think of a single club in the top flight that doesn’t contain at least one player who would make it into the present Everton or Liverpool sides? Without key figures like Louis Saha, Tim Cahill and Steven Pienaar, David Moyes’s cobbled-together looking team made the Reds look postively adequate in the first half, but thankfully that early second half blitz exposed many of their weaknesses. In the end a draw was a fair result, and one that both sides seemed to settle for once Dirk Kuyt equalised. According to many pundits, simply basking in King Kenny’s aura is going to transform fortunes at Anfield, however it seems as if Everton are going to have to put in some more conventional hard work, especially now that Pienaarhas finally moved to Tottenham. The average level of ability at Goodison has dipped sharply with the little South African’s departure, meaning that Moyes is going to have to surpass himself in the transfer market if an already struggling Blues are to avoid taking a further step backwards. Given that a deal with Spurs has been on the cards since before the end of last season, and Everton have been actively trying to give themselves some lattitude on the wage bill by moving the likes of Yakubu and James Vaughan out on loan, you would hope that the Everton boss has already got plans of his own in place and that we will see some additions to the squad sooner rather than later. What we don’t want is to be left panicking on deadline day. We’ve done that before and ended up spending good money on fellas who have struggled to make an immediate impact or fit into the way we play. Now more than ever we really don’t have that luxury – anyone who arrives this month needs to hit the ground running.
Howard Kendall: West Ham boardroom moves have undermined Avram Grant
Liverpool Echo
Jan 21 2011
0ShareAdd a commentRecommend TOMORROW’S opponents West Ham have been in the headlines for the wrong reasons lately, with board room machinations behind the scenes casting a long shadow on the pitch. There was all that speculation about Martin O’Neill coming in to take over from Avram Grant, and the owners David Sullivan and David Gold stayed quiet. O’Neill’s odds went from 20-1 to 2-1 on and it really did undermine Grant, but when it didn’t happen the Israeli was left in charge after a difficult start to the new year. Like Everton they have a better side than their league place suggests, with a strong spine in Rob Green, Matthew Upson, Scott Parker and Carlton Cole.
However I still expect the Blues to win the game comfortably.
David Prentice: Jermaine Beckford may have his faults but he knows how to score goals
by David Prentice, Liverpool Echo
Jan 21 2011
I’LL accept all of the criticisms aimed in Jermaine Beckford’s direction . . . and more. Suspect technique, poor decision making, erratic finishing. But all are wiped away by his most endearing quality – he scores goals. In a season when Everton have struggled for that most precious of commodities (at least until Beckford began to start matches) can the Blues afford not to give him a long term run in the starting line-up? Beckford is already the club’s second top-scorer, which may be a little like claiming that in the kingdom of the blind the one-eyed man is king, but he has earned an extended run in the Blues starting XI.
Howard Kendall: Merseyside derby was a happy throw-back
Liverpool Echo
Jan 21 2011
Passion is all but guaranteed in these games, and even more so with Kenny Dalglish managing Liverpool for the first time since 20 years ago at Anfield. Passion is a given from any David Moyes side too, so it was set to be a classic – and while it maybe wasn’t that in terms of quality, it was a lot more like the derbies of years ago. With only a handful of local lads playing on either side too, you may have been concerned that the foreign boys might not get the importance of the game but they clearly do. There was a relentless pace, and Tim Howard, that unfortunate but fair penalty decision aside, was terrific. Marouane Fellaini was outstanding for Everton too, and comfortably my star man.
He covered every blade of grass, was a threat from set pieces going forward, and defended all the time. He was dominating that much, that I believe Kenny Dalglish brought on the big Greek Kyrgiakos to help deal with the threat. When Fellaini first signed for a big fee, it’s natural that the fans took a while to make their mind up on him. The Jury was out. Well the jury’s definitely back now – and they say not guilty! Everton have got a superstar.
Howard Kendall: Steven Pienaar deserves a good reception when he returns to Goodison as a Spur
Liverpool Echo
Jan 21 2011
IT WAS heartening to see Seamus Coleman and Victor Anichebe sign new deals this week, especially after the disappointing news that Steven Pienaar was leaving for Spurs. Victor is clearly a part of David Moyes’s plans and it’s good that his future has been resolved, and there won’t be a repeat of what happened with Dan Gosling last season when the club lost a young English player with a market value for nothing to Newcastle. With Seamus it’s a case of common sense, and looking after a lad who has become very special since bursting onto the scene last season. He has been one of the best players so far this season, weighed in with five goals from an unfamiliar position, and would have value on the transfer market. He’s become an even bigger asset. So even though he signed a new deal in May, it makes sense to get him on better terms. It’s a shame that in the end, nothing more could be done to make Steven Pienaar want to stay, but he is a lad who deserves no criticism for moving on. Often there’s animosity when players leave clubs, but Pienaar could have waited until the summer and moved then, meaning Everton got nothing for him and he’d probably have pocketed even better personal terms. I remember when I was at Bilbao, and the fans never forgot about a big striker called Julio Salinas who ran down his contract and then left for Barcelona on a free transfer. Bilbao is a close-knit family club, and everyone was furious. The reception the lad got when he returned was unbelievably bad. Pienaar has played by the rules, and left for a better deal. I hope the boo boys lay off him.
David Prentice: How Harry Redknapp is such a keen admirer of Everton’s transfer targets
by David Prentice, Liverpool Echo
Jan 21 2011
THERE was a time when transfers between Everton and Tottenham were rarer than pork pie shops on the Seven Sisters Road. Direct deals between the clubs started and finished with Vinny Samways (And Joe Royle still hasn’t forgiven Gerry Francis for inflicting that particular switch on Everton Football Club). But that all changed when Harry Redknapp took charge at White Hart Lane. The Spurs boss has always taken a healthy interest in Everton’s transfer policy, going back to his days at Bournemouth when he and Howard Kendall haggled over the terms of a deal for a goalkeeper called Gerry Peyton. But in recent years that interest appears to have been more than just passing. Everton had a £5m deal lined up for promising Sheffield United full-back Kyle Naughton in 2009, until ‘Arry got wind of the deal, jumped in and snapped him up. The sum total of Naughton’s Tottenham starts? Two. In the Carling Cup. So Everton turned their attentions to Kyle Walker instead. Except ‘Arry snapped him up as well. Sum total of Walker’s starts in white? Two. Later that summer Everton tried to buy Portsmouth’s promising Croatian star, Niko Kranjcar. Until ‘Arry heard. A week later he was on his way to White Hart Lane. This time Kranjcar did play for Spurs, although 20 league starts suggests he wasn’t exactly a must-have accessory. But if there were fears Redknapp was using Everton as a cut-price scouting department, those worries have now escalated after he appeared to have cut out the middle man. Steven Pienaar this week became only the second Everton player to move to White Hart Lane since the original Alex ‘Sandy’ Young in 1910. (He'll be hoping for third time lucky after Psycho Pat spent more time on the front pages in Mandy Smith's underwear than the sports pages after his capital switch, while Young was charged with the manslaughter of his brother!) And with Redknapp’s reaction to questions about Phil Neville’s future - “We played them twice recently and he is a real leader for them but I’m sure David Moyes wouldn’t want to lose him”– he may not be the last. Regular Youtube users will be aware that Harry Redknapp takes exception to being called a “wheeler dealer.” But there’s no doubt he plays the transfer market like a harp, as Everton have found out to their cost.
Former Everton FC player Steven Pienaar aims for silverware at Tottenham Hotspur
by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Echo
Jan 21 2011
TOTTENHAM new boy Steven Pienaar is confident he has the mental strength to fight for a starting place and firmly believes Spurs are capable of winning something this season. The 28-year-old South Africa midfielder on Tuesday completed his move to White Hart Lane, signing a four-and-a-half-year contract with the north London club to leave Everton for a fee believed to be between £2.5million and £3million. Pienaar knows he has his work cut out trying to pin down a regular spot in Tottenham’s talented midfield, but is relishing the challenge ahead of this weekend’s Premier League trip to Newcastle. He said: “I am delighted to be here. For me personally, I want to make sure I work hard and fight for a starting place in the team. I know it won’t be easy but I am mentally strong to do that. “As for the team, we are not far off first place in the Premier League so I think we’ve got a good chance to go all the way and win a trophy this season. “When you look at the way the team has been playing, they are really serious challengers for the cups, while the run in the Champions League has made a lot of people change their minds about Spurs. “I hope to bring a lot of energy, creativity and of course hard work to the team. I always put the team before myself and I think that’s important as a player. “Of course, as a player, you want to play in a good team and challenge yourself and that’s what I always try to do as an individual.” The switch sees him link up with his former Ajax team-mate Rafael van der Vaart and international colleague Bongani Khumalo.
Pienaar added: “I have played a few times against Spurs and I know the club have a big following in South Africa so, for me, being from there, it was an easy choice to make.”
We got good deal for Everton FC's Seamus Coleman says Sligo Rovers boss Paul Cook
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
Jan 21 2011
REMIND people that Seamus Coleman cost Everton just £60,000 and they shake their head with disbelief. Few can comprehend that a player who has taken the Premier League by storm this season, scored five goals from an unfamiliar position, and pushed himself to the brink of international football, could be signed for such a paltry fee – not even enough to pay the weekly wage of some of his team-mates. Surely it was a piece of shrewd business by the Blues that even bordered on a spot of day-light robbery? Not so, according to the manager who sold him, former Tranmere player and Southport boss Paul Cook. The plain-speaking 43-year-old Scouser has no regrets over the transfer in January 2009 that saw Coleman join the Blues for that minimal fee.
If anything, says Cook after his former protege yesterday signed a new four-and-a-half year deal with the Toffees, it is the rest of English football who should harbour regrets. “There is no sense that we were underpaid for him,” he says. “No regrets from us. We got a fair fee for a young League of Ireland player, with add ons based on appearances and if he plays international football. “The people kicking themselves will be the chief scouts of all the other clubs who looked at him and dithered. Or the clubs who spoke to us and offered little bits here and there, or tried to get him for £30,000. “We got a good price for him and full credit to the lad for making the most of his opportunity.” Cook, who last year guided Sligo to FAI Cup success, speaks glowingly of the unassuming Donegal man who he nurtured for a while, and admits the whole club share in a sense of pride at his progress.
Coleman’s stay on Merseyside will now run until at least 2015, and the only thing which has surprised Cook is the speed at which the defender has become a first team regular in David Moyes’ side. “It’s been a pleasant surprise that he’s had such an immediate impact,” he says. “From being on the fringes when he first went over, he’s now playing week in week out. “I originally thought it was a great move for him because he’d carry on his footballing education with Alan Stubbs and Andy Holden in the reserves. “It’s been a meteoric rise. People forget the size of the gap he has bridged. He hasn’t just stepped up from the Championship or something. “He’s gone from League of Ireland to the Premier League. I’m not sure there are many player’s who’ve ever done that. I remember he came on against Spurs last season and changed the game – it was fantastic. “It helps that the fans took to him massively from day one. It’s always a boost for a lad at a new club when you have an affinity with the supporters. “That’s probably because they can sense the type of lad he is. He’s the sort of lad anyone would love to manage, from a great background with a lovely family. “He’ll never cause you a moment of trouble and will get on with everyone and do whatever he’s asked. He hasn’t been groomed by the academy system in England. “If anything Seamus is the opposite of that. He wasn’t on a contract from the age of 16. “He has raw enthusiasm, and a love of the game. He loves playing and getting stuck in - there’s no cynicism.” Predictably Cook cannot see the lucrative terms of Coleman’s new deal changing him as a person. “Money can change some footballers.” he says. “They start believing their own hype but I hope he always stays the same lad who left us. I think he will. “Maybe lads with more natural talent than Seamus have fallen by the wayside over the years, but with him you will never want for desire, effort or courage – and he will only get better.” Typically, Coleman was keen to insist his focus remains on improving, despite signing the new deal at the same time as fellow 22-year-old Victor Anichebe yesterday. “I just want to keep going now,” he said. “When I came over first it was a two-year contract and I treated it as a trial. “I got a new one whilst I was at Blackpool, and to get another one so quickly was a surprise because that’s three in a short space of time. “When I go out on the pitch I get my head down and I have a go,” said Coleman.
“Even if it’s not going well for me on the ball, I’ll keep running around and giving it 100 per cent and the fans appreciate that.” Coleman will now be hoping to repeat his achievement from December on Saturday, when he scored against West Ham as the sides met at Upton Park. “West Ham aren’t going so well and they are going to be fighting for it but we need the points at Goodison,” he said.
Everton FC star Leighton Baines is club’s player of the month
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
Jan 21 2011
LEIGHTON BAINES insists he would rather focus on Everton’s progress in the League instead of taking plaudits after he was named the club’s player of the month for December. The defender has been given the award after a string of excellent performances as David Moyes’ went unbeaten in the final month of 2010. Baines started December by playing a key part in Jermaine Beckford's equaliser in the 1-1 draw with Premier League Champions Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. Then after keeping a clean sheet against Wigan Athletic, the left back netted a cooly taken goal with his right foot in the superb 2-1 win over Manchester City at Eastlands, Everton's fourth in a row on their travels to the Sky Blue half of Manchester. He rounded off the month by helping the Toffees to a 1-1 draw at this weekend’s opponents West Ham. Baines accepted his award at Liverpool’s Hilton Hotel in front of local businessmen and representatives from the club's partners and said he is focused on helping the Blues continue their good run of form. He said: "It's always pleasing to receive personal accolades but the most important thing is how the team is getting on. "We've been doing well recently and hopefully that will continue in the second half of the season." Baines hopes this Saturday’s clash with West Ham can see the Blues build on their inconsistent home form this season. The Blues continued their excellent away form at Anfield last Sunday, with their run stretching to just one defeat in nine games on the road following the 2-2 draw. But the recent 2-1 win over Spurs was only Everton's third home win of the season, and Baines knows that figure must improve if they are to challenge for the European places. "It was a decent point and something to build on, we want to try and get on a little run now," he said. "We need to start winning some games at Goodison, if we canŠ do that we will start to pick people off and climb up the table. "We need to start doing that, we're coming into the second half of the season now and we need to put a run together and mount the table."
Meanwhile, Australia expects Tim Cahill will recover from a thigh injury in time for Saturday's Asian Cup quarterfinal. The Everton player was hurt in a challenge near the end of Australia's 1-0 group win over Bahrain, but a spokesman for the team said Cahill had made a "quick recovery".
Former boyband singer in court after row with ex-Everton FC player Kevin Ratcliffe over fence
Jan 21 2011
A FORMER boyband singer who fell out with his neighbour over a boundary fence has been bound over to keep the peace. Matthew Johnson, 25, who was a singer in the band One True Voice, telephoned ex-Wales football captain Kevin Ratcliffe "ranting and raving", Mold Crown Court heard today. The pair, who live in Ewloe, north Wales, had fallen out over a 20ft fence which Mr Ratcliffe had erected between their two homes. The court heard that Johnson took down the fence and that the dispute between the two families came to a head with an altercation at a restaurant in nearby Queensferry, involving Johnson’s father and Mr Ratcliffe’s son on September 8 last year. Johnson was not present at the incident but telephoned Mr Ratcliffe at 6.45pm. Alun Humphreys, prosecuting, said: "Mr Ratcliffe described his demeanour as ranting and raving." The two men then engaged in a war of words, with Mr Ratcliffe asking Johnson how he could afford having his house at his then age of 24. The court heard he asked if Johnson was a drug dealer. Mr Humphreys said that Johnson responded with a direct threat, adding: "Mr Ratcliffe heard him say, ’I will get you shot’. "He said he knew people who could harm Mr Ratcliffe’s son." The court heard that Mr Ratcliffe’s wife ordered him to end the call after seeing the concern on her husband’s face. Johnson then sent a text which was also threatening in nature, the court heard. Brian Cross, defending, said his client admitted he was "furious" after hearing about the altercation in the restaurant involving his father and said he did phone Mr Ratcliffe. But he said both men were trading abuse with each other.
Mr Cross said Johnson told Mr Ratcliffe to leave his family alone and that he had called the police.
"Mr Johnson accepts that he was furious. He was ranting and raving and on that basis he is prepared to be bound over," said Mr Cross. The court heard Johnson was the director of his own record company and that he engaged in regular charity work. Mr Cross said Johnson does 50 gigs a year for high school children and raised money for Children In Need when he took part in a record with Welsh singers Tom Jones and Katherine Jenkins which reached number one in the Welsh charts.
Mr Cross said Mr Ratcliffe has now put up a 6ft fence which is acceptable to both parties.
Magistrates bound Johnson over in the sum of £1,500 to keep the peace for six months and ordered him not to communicate in an abusive or threatening manner with Kevin Ratcliffe. A charge of placing a menacing phone call was dismissed. Speaking after the hearing, Johnson said: "I am extremely pleased with the outcome of the case." He added: "I am looking forward to moving on with my life." Johnson had his first taste of fame in 2002 when he made it through public votes to the final of ITV’s Popstars The Rivals - which also produced girl group Girls Aloud - to form One True Voice with four other young men. Mr Ratcliffe was capped nearly 60 times for Wales, often as captain, and he also captained Everton.
Everton FC land highly-rated England prospect Eric Dier on loan
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
Jan 21 2011
Everton FC manager David Moyes* For Everton FC updates on Twitter from the ECHO click here
EVERTON have pipped a host of Premier League clubs to the loan signing of teenage England prospect Eric Dier from Sporting Lisbon. The 17-year-old central defender will move to Merseyside until the end of the season, and is set to link up with Blues academy at Finch Farm. Dier has come through the junior ranks at Sporting after his parents moved to Portugal to work when he was seven.
They have now returned to England but Dier, who has attracted interest from Manchester United, Tottenham and Arsenal in the past, stayed in Portugal to develop his game and is contracted to Sporting until 2013. The 6ft 2in defender is rated so highly by England coaches that he was picked by national kit manufacturer Umbro to form part of their promotional package for last year’s new home kit. A statement on the Sporting website read: ‘Eric Dier, central defender of the Sporting Lisbon junior team, has joined Everton on loan until June 30, 2011. ‘This is an opportunity for him to grow in a competitive and more demanding environment.’ Dier, who is regarded as a versatile, goalscoring centre-back, is bilingual and could be eligible for dual English-Portuguese nationality when he turns 18. He also has footballing heritage as his grandfather, the late Ted Croker, was secretary of the Football Association from 1973-89 after playing as a defender for Charlton and Kidderminster. However, he is unlikely to play for David Moyes’s first team during the loan period, when club coaches will assess whether to make a bid for his services in the summer. Signing Dier on a permanent deal could prove more tricky for the Blues, with Sporting believed to want a significant multi million pound fee for a player they have developed from childhood. The Cheltenham-born star is expected to return to Sporting in the summer, where he is contracted until June 2013 and has previously expressed his desire to play for the first team before signing for a Premier League club.
Meanwhile, Anderlecht playmaker Mbark Boussoufa has refused to rule out the possibility of joining Everton. Reports suggest the Toffees have turned their attention to the Holland-born Morocco international after losing Steven Pienaar to Tottenham. The 26-year-old won a second Le Soulier d’Or award in 2010 after being recognised as the best player in the Belgian top flight. Although he insists he will not force Anderlecht’s hand during the January transfer window, he said a switch to England would be tempting. He said: “Listen, I am very happy here but you never know what will happen in football,” he said. “Once all parties are happy, you can move on. Everton? They are a very good club and to play in England would be fantastic.”
Everton FC rumour mill: Pienaar eager to work with Rafa, Neville still to Spurs' sights and Saha a doubt
By Jo Kelly
Jan 21 2011
Steven Pienaar eager to link up with Rafa New Tottenham winger Steven Pienaar cannot wait to play with Rafa van der Vaart again.
Full story: Express
Neville still being targeted by Spurs?
Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp reportedly still sees Neville as someone who can comfortably fit in his side.
Full story: Daily Mail
Saha a doubt for West Ham game?
Although Louis Saha is starting to find form, there is a worry he still won't be fit enough to face West Ham.
Full story: Mirror
Everton FC set to secure loan deal for Sporting Lisbon defender Eric Dier
by James Pearce, Liverpool Daily Post
Jan 21 2011
EVERTON have signed young English defender Eric Dier on loan from Sporting Lisbon until the end of the season. The highly-rated 17-year-old has come through the academy at Sporting after his parents moved to Portugal to work when he was seven. They have since returned to England but the 6ft 2ins centre-back stayed in Portugal to develop his game. Dier, who has attracted interest from Manchester United, Tottenham and Arsenal, is contracted to Sporting until 2013 but if he impresses at Goodison it could lead to a permanent deal. In a statement Sporting revealed: “Eric Dier, central defender of the Sporting Lisbon junior team, has joined Everton on loan until June 30, 2011. “This is an opportunity for him to grow in a competitive and more demanding environment.” Dier, who will start off training with the academy at Finch Farm, is bilingual and could be eligible for dual English-Portuguese nationality when he turns 18. His late grandfather, Ted Croker, was secretary of the Football Association from 1973-89 after playing as a defender for Charlton and Kidderminster.
Dier is rated so highly that Umbro used him as one of the faces of England’s future alongside Joe Hart, Adam Johnson and Theo Walcott when they launched the new kit last September. He has made a big impression at Sporting, captaining every junior side since he was 11 and breaking into their under-19s at the age of 16. It’s the same academy which produced the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Luis Figo and Nani. “I think of myself as a little bit Portuguese but I still consider myself English,” he said. “Ultimately I want to test myself against the best and the Premier League is where I dream about playing. I’m not like a traditional English centre-back, the kind who kicks people.
“I can do that as well but I can pass it and I’m very comfortable on the ball. In Portugal it’s all very technical and that’s what they emphasise most. People tell me that I am a leader and very competitive. I’m not the quickest but I’ve been working on that. I think I read the game well, which compensates a bit.” Meanwhile, Australia are hopeful that Tim Cahill will be fit for their Asian Cup quarter-final against Iraq tomorrow. Cahill hobbled off near the end of Australia's 1-0 group win over Bahrain this week and sat out training yesterday. A team spokesman said Cahill had made a “quick recovery” ahead of the match with the defending champions. Phil Jagielka is likely to return from injury for Everton’s home clash with Barclays Premier League strugglers West Ham tomorrow but Louis Saha (thigh) remains a doubt.
Seamus Coleman surprised himself with progress at Everton FC
by James Pearce, Liverpool Daily Post
Jan 21 2011
SEAMUS COLEMAN admits he has surprised himself with his rapid progress through the ranks.
Just two years ago the 22-year-old was plying his trade with Sligo Rovers in the League of Ireland.
However, yesterday the young Irishman celebrated putting pen to paper on a new four-and-a-half-year deal which keeps him at Goodison Park until the end of the 2014/15 campaign. Coleman only signed a new contract last May but it’s a sign of the huge impression he’s made at Everton so far this season that his previous deal has been torn up. With striker Victor Anichebe also committing himself to a new contract, it was a timely double boost for Everton boss David Moyes ahead of tomorrow’s showdown with bottom club West Ham at Goodison. Coleman was snapped up by Moyes from Sligo for just £60,000 in January 2009 as Everton beat off interest from Ipswich, Birmingham City and Celtic. A successful spell on loan at Blackpool followed with Coleman playing a key role in the Tangerines winning promotion to the Premier League. This season the Republic of Ireland Under-21 international has been a revelation, firmly establishing himself on Everton’s right flank and scoring five goals in 22 appearances. “I’m over the moon to sign the contract,” Coleman said. “My aim was to keep impressing after every contract and this new one proves that I’ve been doing well. I just want to keep going now. “When I came over first it was a two-year contract and I treated it as a trial. “I got a new one whilst I was at Blackpool, and to get another one so quickly was a surprise because that’s three in a short space of time.” Coleman’s fiercely committed displays have won him plenty of admirers among the club’s supporters. “When I go out on the pitch I get my head down and I have a go,” he said. “Even if it’s not going well for me on the ball, I’ll keep running around and giving it 100% and the fans appreciate that.” Coleman is hoping to celebrate his new contract in style with victory over West Ham tomorrow. The teams drew 1-1 when they met at Upton Park last month with Coleman on target for Moyes’ men. Everton are looking to build on their recent revival which saw wins over Tottenham and Scunthorpe followed by last weekend’s draw at Anfield. “The Premier League this season is so tight and everyone is beating everyone apart from United at the top,” Coleman added. “You can’t take anything for granted and West Ham aren’t going so well and they are going to be fighting for it but we need the points at Goodison.” Academy product Anichebe has also penned a four-and-a-half year deal to end speculation linking him with a move. The 22-year-old Nigerian striker, whose contract was set to expire in the summer, has battled his way back into the first team after recovering from the knee injury he suffered in pre-season. Anichebe started the 2-2 draw against Liverpool last weekend and played a crucial part in creating Everton’s goal for Jermaine Beckford. He said: “It’s good to finally get it out the way. “There’s been a lot of speculation about what I’m going to do but it’s just good to be able to concentrate on playing for the club. “When the fans heard that I rejected a deal a while ago it wasn’t really a good time for me. “I knew myself the stuff in the papers wasn’t true. The reasons it’s taken so long isn’t anything to do with money.” Injuries meant it was November before Anichebe made his first Premier League appearance of the season.
But he’s now fighting fit and determined to enjoy an extended run in the side.
“I always stressed that I needed to build my fitness up and the manager has said he’ll help me as much as he can with that,” he said. “I don’t like to dwell on the past, I see the injuries as a positive. Hopefully it will give me more hunger to succeed. “But it’s taken me a while to get back, my fitness and confidence goes up and down, but the manager has showed great faith in me and the supporters have always backed me so it’s good to get things sorted.” Leighton Baines has been named as Everton’s Player of the Month for December. The left-back, who accepted his award at Liverpool’s Hilton Hotel, has been rewarded for a string of excellent performances as Everton went unbeaten in the final month of 2010. “It’s always pleasing to receive personal accolades but the most important thing is how the team is getting on,” Baines said. “We’ve been doing well recently and hopefully that will continue in the second half of the season.” Despite intense speculation about his position, Avram Grant remains in charge of West Ham for tomorrow’s game. Amid reports that Martin O’Neill has turned down the chance to replace him, the board have vowed to keep faith with the Israeli. Former West Ham striker Iain Dowie believes his old club could learn from the relationship that exists between Moyes and chairman Bill Kenwright which ensures there is stability at Goodison Park. “I’m a huge admirer of David Moyes and he’s certainly got the best out of his players,” Dowie said. “I think he’s up there amongst the top three or four managers in the Premier League – I’ve always believed that. “He’s coped with everything really well. “He’s just got on with what him and Steve Round do really well. “I was at the Spurs game, and in the second half Everton were sensational, they made a very good Spurs side look average and that’s got a lot to do with David Moyes. “Bill Kenwright knows he’s got a very good manager there and he knows that David Moyes will work the players hard and get the best out of them. “As a chairman that’s what you want from your manager – that you do it in the right way and David Moyes has always done that.”
Can West Ham take advantage of Everton changes?
Dave Evans, West Ham correspondent
Friday, 21 January, 2011 The Newsham Recorder
Avram Grant takes his beleaguered Hammers troops to Goodison Park on Saturday.
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IT MAY have only been last month, but a lot seems to have changed at Goodison Park since the Toffees grabbed a 1-1 draw with the Hammers. Top scorer Tim Cahill has gone off to the Asia Cup and will miss Saturday’s return clash; Louis Saha, so often a thorn in West Ham’s side is injured and Steven Pienaar, their talented South African, has moved on to Tottenham Hotspur. Their new look attack of Victor Anichibe and Jermaine Beckford are talented, but raw and it could be that West Ham have a real chance to get a positive result on Merseyside for a change. Everyone knows that the Hammers can’t beat Liverpool at Anfield, but they haven’t won against the blue half of the city either since 2005. That day an own goal from David Weir and a fine strike by Bobby Zamora cancelled out James Beattie’s early goal and gave West Ham all three points. Tony Hibbert’s own goal last month gave West Ham the lead at Upton Park, only for Seamus Coleman to earn David Moyes’ side a point they certainly deserved. After another of their notoriously slow starts, Everton now find themselves fairly comfortably placed in mid-table with 26 points from 22 games, despite winning only three of their 10 home games. Beckford and Coleman have scored four goals apiece this term for Everton, but perhaps the one to watch is dangerous and distinctive midfielder Marouane Fellaini, who had an impressive game at Upton Park. Remember, miracles can happen at Goodison Park, if last season’s encounter is anything to go by. The Hammers seemed to be drifting to a 2-1 defeat with just a couple of minutes left when Julien Faubert delivered a magical cross and just as unlikely, Ilan thumped in a bullet header to make it 2-2! Nobody is saying something like that is going to happen, though you may remember Radoslav Kovac scoring from distance there a couple of seasons ago, so you never know. With the managerial situation finally decided, maybe West Ham can finally concentrate on the field and get a result. Possible team: Howard, Heitinga, Baines, Coleman, Distin, Neville, Fellaini, Osman, Arteta, Anichebe, Beckford.
Prediction
Everton 1 West Ham 1
Cahill in, Culina still unlikely for do-or-die clash Michael Lynch
January 22, 2011 Sydney Morning
: Star Australian striker Tim Cahill looks set to win his race to be fit for the Asian Cup quarter-final clash with Iraq, but regular Socceroos midfielder Jason Culina remains a serious doubt. David Carney and Luke Wilkshire, who picked up groin and shoulder injuries respectively in the draw with South Korea which forced them to miss the win over Bahrain, are also expected to be back in contention. Cahill, who scored twice in the opening game against India but drew a blank against Korea and Bahrain, limped out of the latter match in the dying minutes with a corked thigh and heavy bruising. Advertisement: Story continues below He did not train the next day and is being monitored by medical staff. But coach Holger Osieck is confident Cahill will be available for the must-win match with the defending champions. ''The knock he picked up in the game, it's definitely very painful, he has a haematoma or something like that in his thigh and the best thing of course is to give him the treatment and give him a bit of a rest so he can fully recover. According to our medical staff there won't be any problems for him to be on the pitch against Iraq. ''They [the other injury concerns] are going to be in training today, except Jason, he won't train. Luke and Carns - they will be on the pitch. I'm pretty sure [they will be available], that's why I want them in training to see if they are already catching up. It looks a good, positive spirit. ''In a tournament you can never avoid injuries and you always get something which doesn't please you . We have a very competent medical staff and I think we will be in a good position to get the players back in playing conditions.''
Phil Jagielka boosts Everton FC for West Ham clash
by James Pearce, Dpw
Jan 22 2011
Phil Jagielka boosts Everton FC for West Ham clash
EVERTON will be boosted by the return of Phil Jagielka for today’s Premier League clash with West Ham at Goodison Park. The centre-back has recovered from the thigh injury which ruled him out of their last three games. Striker Louis Saha has been hampered by a similar problem and will undergo a late fitness test. “Phil Jagielka has trained so I am hopeful he will be available,” said boss David Moyes. “Louis Saha has only done some light training so I am not as confident about him. “We will have a look at it on Saturday – it might be that he can be risked.” Everton go into the game buoyed by the news that Seamus Coleman and Victor Anichebe have penned new long-term contracts. Moyes admits it was a timely boost after the departure of midfielder Steven Pienaar to Tottenham. “It is really important news for the club,” he said. “Seamus already had a contract but we thought he had done well and he deserved a new one. It is what Everton do – we reward people who do well. “He has played wide right most weeks because we haven’t had anybody to play there. We will look to put him back in the end (to full-back) and hopefully when he does go back then this will stand him in good stead. We might then find he is a better wide player than full-back, we’ll see. “His hunger and passion for the game is certainly helping him. What we need to do is help him with the technical side and his understanding of the game. But he is a great listener, has a great attitude and is a pleasure to work with. “There have been talks with Victor for a while and he has now put pen to paper to stay in the place where I think he should be. “Hopefully he can stay injury-free because I think he has the potential to become a really good player.” Moyes insists pocketing £3m for Pienaar, out of contract this summer, represented good business for Everton. “It was not a difficult decision to make financially,” he said. “I said we would not let him go if we did not get a good offer. I was happy to let him see out the contract – he played well in the games for us and I have no problem with Steven. “But when Chelsea made the offer, we had not had an offer from Tottenham, so Chelsea’s offer kind of flushed Tottenham out. “The lad has decided to go to Tottenham and good luck to him – we got a decent deal for a player who had six months left on his contract.” Diniyar Bilyaletdinov has said he’s desperate to fill the void created by Pienaar’s departure and Moyes could turn to the Russian today. “We are probably looking to get Billy back in the team a little bit,” he said. “I think he has looked good in training, he hasn’t had much of a chance recently, but the reason he has been out of the team is because his form hasn’t been good enough. “But we have missed his goals because he got seven or eight last season, so hopefully we can get him back in and benefit from his goals.”
It's not nice when 'What a waste of money' is reverberating around the stadium
By Neil Moxley
Daily Mail 22nd January 2011
Darren Bent will on Saturday begin his quest to justify Aston Villa’s staggering £24million outlay on him. Bent’s move this week makes him the second most expensive English striker of all time, behind Wayne Rooney. Here, NEIL MOXLEY asks three strikers who moved for record fees how they coped with the weight of expectation.
TREVOR FRANCISBritain's first £1m player, who broke the seven-figure barrier when he moved to Nottingham Forest from Birmingham in 1979. My first game for Forest was at Ipswich. That was when the pressure hit me. I didn’t play well and suddenly I found I was making a few mistakes, trying too hard to live up to the price tag. The crowd was making it difficult as well. Big money move: Trevor Francis moved from Bimingham to Nottingham Forest When ‘What a waste of money’ is echoing around the ground, it’s certainly not nice.
Afterwards, I was given permission by Brian Clough to speak to the press but I was so disappointed that I didn’t want to speak to anyone. I was heavily criticised on the Monday for not giving interviews. Unknown to me, Match of the Day was analysing my every move — passes, shots, headers. I didn’t come out too well from that, so the pressure did get to me on that day. My way through it was to forget I was this million-pound player and just attempt to play my normal game but every time I played, I was judged on the basis of that £1m. My second game was against Villa. The minute I stepped on to the pitch before kick-off, the Villa fans launched into ‘What a waste of money’. I remember looking over at Martin O’Neill and saying: ‘Blimey, I must be having a terrible warm-up!’ The pressure eased considerably when I scored my first goal, against Bolton. I remember a weight lifting off my shoulders. But only for about 20 seconds. Then it descended again...
TONY COTTEEBecame Britain’s most expensive player in August 1988 when he joined Everton from West Ham for £2.2m. My move to Everton was big news because transfers of that size were few and far between. As a striker, if you are scoring regularly, then everyone is happy. I found it tough, and I didn’t enjoy it. I didn’t want the tag of being Britain’s most expensive player. My first goal came after 34 seconds of my debut, against Newcastle. It was my first touch of the ball and the feeling was unbelievable — something I will never forget.
I went on to score a hat-trick, the stuff dreams are made of. In many ways, though, it couldn’t get any better than that, and some people expect you to do it every week. When I hit a barren spell a few months later, people began to question me, and I found that hard to deal with.
DWIGHT YORKEWas Manchester United’s record signing when he joined from Aston Villa for £12.8m in August 1998. You go from being pretty well-known to being public property. The expectation level rose from the change in clubs rather than the fee itself. The new boy: Dwight Yorke scores for United against Charlton in 1998 I had nothing to do with the fee, so it didn’t bother me that much. I coped by being determined to enjoy myself. I just thought: ‘I’m playing for Manchester United, how good is this?’ I’ve got a West Indian background and, to a certain degree, a West Indian mentality. I’m not easily fazed. The day I walked into that fabulous dressing room, filled with world-class players, I felt confident that I could carry on doing what I had done for Villa at Manchester United.
Everton must buy or be caught standing still, says David Moyes• Hoffenheim striker Demba Ba could be a loan signing
Andy Hunter The Guardian
Saturday 22 January 2011
Everton have turned their attention to Hoffenheim's Demba Ba in an attempt to bring in new talent. David Moyes has revealed his concern that Everton could be caught "standing still" if they fail to invest in new talent but remains confident of signing a much-needed striker before the transfer window closes. The Everton manager now has funds for a loan deal having sold Steven Pienaar to Tottenham Hotspur for £3m this week and reduced his wage bill by off-loading Yakubu Ayegbeni to Leicester City until the end of the season.
Having had to sell players to buy for the past two seasons, however, and been thwarted in a January move for the Monaco forward Dieumerci Mbokani, Moyes fears the club could be overtaken by Premier League rivals who do have the money to invest. Moyes, who has consolidated the bulk of his Everton squad on new long-term contracts over the past year, said: "I've not really liked any of the last four or five transfer windows. I've not really enjoyed them because they have been really difficult for us. "There is a worry that we will stand still if we don't spend money, but if you have none that's the way it is and you just have to deal with it. We have said we are trying to look for investment and I am positive I will bring somebody in. "You know the players need a boost as well, they need to see something moving forward, and I'm aware of that. I have been a player myself and I have seen how it can boost the squad, so we'll try to do that. But it won't be with a [permanent] transfer." The Hoffenheim striker Demba Ba, who has seen moves to West Ham United and Stoke City collapse this month over a failed medical, could be Moyes' next target after being unable to secure Mbokani. "We made an offer to get Mbokani on loan, for his wages and the loan fee which was the best we could have done but I think Monaco have bigger, permanent offers in for him," Moyes said. "There are not many clubs who would let a player go out on loan six months after spending £7m on him."
You've treated Avram badly! Everton boss Moyes hits out at West Ham over Grant affair
Daily Mail 22nd January 2011
David Moyes has come out in support of Avram Grant and claimed West Ham’s under-fire manager has been treated badly. Since Moyes took charge of Everton in March 2002, he has been able to form what many regard as the closest manager/chairman relationship in football with Bill Kenwright. Grant, on the other hand, has endured a turbulent spell with West Ham’s owners David Sullivan and David Gold, resulting in the botched attempt to replace him with Martin O’Neill. Hitting out: Moyes (left) has criticised West Ham's treatment of Grant (right) Moyes said: ‘Avram is a good manager and I would not like to be treated that way but, then again, I know my chairman would not do that. ‘I do not know what is going on at West Ham and maybe it is a completely different scenario than is being reported. But I am a lucky in that Bill and the board have been really good to me.’ Moyes saw influential midfielder Steven Pienaar join Tottenham for £3million this week but he is adamant Everton had no choice but to cash in.
'It was going on for a long time,' said Moyes. 'But we got a fee and if someone had said what we were going to get, people would have thought we’d have been mad not to take it with three months to go on his contract.'
Lost Tribes The People’s Memories, Victoria Settlement, Everton
Liverpool Echo Jan 22 2011
SEVERAL readers have been in contact asking me to revive memories of the famous Victoria Settlement, pictured, on Netherfield Road North that served the people of Everton for the best part of 100 years. The community centre, founded in 1897, crossed all the age boundaries with its community work and was still going strong up to the 1970s. Set in an elevated position between York Terrace, Hobart Street and Melbourne Street, its main buildings were originally old merchants' houses dating back to the late 1700s. The centre began its work at a time when Everton had some of the worst slums in the North West and pioneered many developments in social work. But it always saw its main priority as a focal point for community development in Everton, reaching out to the families in those steep terraced streets in one of the most densely populated areas of the city. In the early days its, the Settlement concentrated on poverty relief for the people living in squalid conditions, including the provision of food and medical attention. The Centre was an important meeting point, not least throughout the Second World War when Everton ridge was hammered by German bombing. In its latter years, the Settlement offered a whole range of community facilities, not least for the many youngsters in the area. There were art and music classes, library facilities and a real focus on sport, including keep fit classes. The Settlement was also a major information centre for the local community as the 1960s slum clearance programme unfolded, the main subject matter for the Lost Tribe of Everton & Scottie Road book. I was delighted when George Rimmer, who lived in the nearby Conyers Street and whose family all used the Settlement facilities, sent me a tremendous picture of the old buildings from 1976. It will bring back tremendous memories for the thousands who saw the Settlement as a home from home. Of course, the Victoria Settlement has long since been demolished, but its impact on the district of Everton and the work done by all its volunteers down the years will never be forgotten. Send your “Lost Tribe of Everton & Scottie Road” memories to: Ken Rogers, Liverpool Echo, PO Box 48, Old Hall Street, Liverpool L69 3EB. The Lost Tribe book is available on www.losttribeofeverton.com where you can review street pictures and maps and interact with your old neighbours,.
Moyes dreads transfer window pain
By David Maddock
Jan 21 2011
David Moyes admits he now dreads every transfer window. And the Everton boss is worried his club’s financial position could leave them standing still, while Premier League rivals push on. He said: “I’ve not really liked any of the last four or five windows, I’ve not enjoyed them because they have been really difficult for us. “A lot of the summer we have been fighting off clubs who want our players. But it’s the same for 90 per cent of managers – whether it be the January transfer window or the summer one.” Moyes has just been forced to sell Steven Pienaar to Spurs, because Everton could not match the South African’s wage demands. And he will only be able to bring in a loan signing as replacement. He added: “There is a worry we will stand still if we don’t spend money, but if you have none, that’s the way it is, you just have to deal with it. Our team spirit can only take us so far, but I have to get through this January window and try to take the team forward if I can with what we have.” Everton take on West Ham this afternoon, looking for a victory that will give them the momentum to challenge for a European spot in the second half of the season. And even though he is frustrated by the lack of cash, Moyes has told Everton’s fans that things have been worse in the recent past. He added: “There’s been times when there’s not been an awful lot in the team, but I see us as having some really top players now – Everton’s biggest assets play most Saturdays.” Moyes has made progress over a move that will bring Hoffenheim striker Demba Ba to Goodison until the end of the season. He is also trailing forward Dieudonne Mbokani of Monaco, but may be priced out of that deal.
Barry Horne: Hammer Blow would make Everton a laughing stock
by Barry Horne, Liverpool Echo Jan 22 2011l
I’VE gone beyond feeling sorry for West Ham. They’re another club with fine traditions and standing. But whatever you think of Avram Grant – and I’m not convinced he’s a succesful manager – you have to feel sorry for the way he’s been treated. He has conducted himself with incredible dignity when he would have been well within his rights to have told Gold, Sulivan and Brady what to do with their club. Their behaviour means The Hammers have gone from being a club everyone was sympathetic towards, to a laughing stock. But if we fail to get three points from today’s clash at Goodison Park, then I’m afraid the joke will be on us.
Greg O'Keeffe: Former Everton FC star Slaven Bilic thinks they need a top class striker
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo Jan 22 2011
SLAVEN BILIC’S signing in 1997 might have got many Blues excited, but he never quite lived up to his promise despite being a cultured central defender. Of course Bilic went on to make a name for himself in management, and one of European club football’s top jobs awaits when he decides his time as Croatia national coach is over. Bilic arguably played his best Premier League football with West Ham, but admits his loyalties are torn ahead of today’s Goodison clash. “Everton has a great ground, amazing supporters who get behind the team and make it very difficult for the away team. So it is not a good game for West Ham given their situation,” he said. “Everton have had a strange season,” he said. “In the summer I was at the World Cup and I had dinner with David Moyes, who I rate as one of the best managers in England. He told me at that dinner that this season Everton can do it big time and get right up the league. “But they have had a strange season, dropping points when you think they should be winning. They have a great squad, a great manager and great fans but they don’t have an out and out goalscorer. If you do not have a guy who can score 20 goals then you don’t have the chance to be really consistent.”
Greg O'Keeffe: Former Southport FC boss Paul Cook’s eye for a player stretches beyond Seamus Coleman
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo Jan 22 2011
DAVID Moyes has rightly got a reputation for nurturing young talent to rival any manager in the world - but Sligo Rovers boss Paul Cook is no slouch either. The former Southport manager guided Seamus Coleman in his transition from Sunday football amateur to Sligo Rovers first team before a move to Everton in January 2009. But Coleman is not his only gem. Last September, he sold 22-year-old striker Padraig Amond to top flight Portuguese club Paços de Ferreira. For his part, Cook is hoping Everton may send some youngsters his way on loan in the near future. It could be a wise move.
Barry Horne: Darren Bent deal highlights Everton’s shrewd management
by Barry Horne, Liverpool Echo Jan 22 2011
DESPITE the best efforts of the massed media, and Sky Sports News in particular, this transfer window has not been nearly as exciting as they’d have you think. But one transfer which undoubtedly has caused a stir is that of Darren Bent. I saw Bent in his last game for Sunderland – the Tyne-Wear derby – and quite frankly he was hopeless. But that doesn’t necessarily suggest anything untoward, especially for a derby. Later in the week I saw Gerard Houllier’s press conference in which he sought to justify the fee he had just paid for a limited striker. It made for painful viewing. The whole thing smacked of desperation and makes me, as an Evertonian, think how grateful we should be for the stewardship of our club. Obviously we will still cast envious glances at those clubs with money, and think to ourselves ‘what if?’ But Villa have now staked a staggering sum of money on a limited forward, while Sunderland are staking a claim for the moral high ground and openly saying they believe their player was tapped up. Of course he was. That is the norm in football today. Steve Bruce also claims to be really disappointed about the deal, but I can’t imagine the phone call from Villa took more than a nanosecond to respond to. “You can have £18m rising to £24m for Darren Bent.” “Done!” In private Sunderland probably couldn’t believe their good fortune. They are complaining purely to protect themselves from the backlash from their fans in case he does well. Steve was also upset not to receive a call from Gerard Houllier. What did he expect from a Frenchman not known for his humility?
Barry Horne: Steven Pienaar switch is good business for Everton
by Barry Horne, Liverpool Echo Jan 22 2011
IF Sunderland have hit the jackpot with the transfer fee they pocketed for Darren Bent, Everton have also done some good business in this transfer window. Once again David Moyes and Bill Kenwright have done well in securing £3m for wantaway Steven Pienaar. To get three-and-a-half good years and make a profit on a player who had clearly planned his exit strategy some 12 months ago is good business in my book. Steven Pienaar is another in a growing list of players who Everton Football Club have done really well for and, in turn, you have to say, have done well for the club. But it’s the nature of football today that players hold all the aces and have all the options. The generous side of me wants to wish him well for the future, but there is always a tiny bit of me who can’t help being disappointed that a player does not appreciate just what he’s got. True, Steven is going to a club with fabulous tradition, and is undoubtedly getting paid more money. In that respect you can totally understand his desire for a change. But from a purely footballing point of view, there has to be a question mark as to just how successful he is going to be in a new team and a new environment. Time will tell. He won’t be the first player to think that the grass is greener on the other side. But not all discover that it is. For every Wayne Rooney there’s a Joleon Lescott.
Greg O'Keeffe: Why Leighton Baines has reason to feel dismayed at Steven Pienaar’s Everton FC exit
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo Jan 22 2011
LEIGHTON Baines may not say it publicly, but he has more reason than most to feel dismayed about Steven Pienaar’s departure to Spurs. Everton’s first team will say the same thing when they are asked about the South African’s exit – “these things happen in football,” “players move on,” “we have got the players to cope without Steven,” – but the evidence points to the contrary. Let me say right from the start, that Pienaar is not perfect. A disappointing zero direct assists this season, and just one goal from midfield are not exactly OPTA-busting statistics. But the Bafana Bafana poster-boy’s importance to David Moyes’ side has been plain to see over recent seasons, and the stats would tell a different story if broken down into how often he played an integral part in a move which created a goal, or how often he won a set-piece shortly before the Blues scored. For Leighton Baines, Pienaar’s exit is the end of something special. The telepathic relationship they enjoyed on the pitch established Everton’s left flank as the most potent in the Premier League. The left-back told me as we killed time in a Sydney hotel during Everton’s pre-season tour Down Under, how he had sent Pienaar, then on an extended break after World Cup duty in South Africa, dozens of texts imploring him to sign a new deal. “We’ve been texting each other,” he said. “I’ve got a decent relationship with Steven and he’s been sending me his holiday pictures while I’m here. “It’s awkward discussing his future with him, because you want to leave him to it. But then at the same time I’m like my mate who is a season ticket holder and asks me what is happening. “I start saying to him “What’s happening? Hurry up and get it sorted”. I’ve tried to get into him a few times about it and he just laughs it off. I am desperate for him to stay. “He is a dream to play with. Not just for me but for all of us. You see how important he was last year to the way we play. I’m so desperate for him to stay and hopefully it will get done soon.” That was July. Back then it seemed possible that a compromise could be reached, but neither Pienaar’s representatives or Everton budged and his transfer became more likely by each passing day. The problem for the Blues was probably not whether they wanted to meet the 28-year-old’s wage demands, but whether they could. Having signed other stars like Tim Cahill and Mikel Arteta up to lucrative long-term deals, the coffers had been stretched. Baines was being pragmatic this week. “It is a shame Steven has left the Club because he has been a big player for us and all the lads liked him,” he said on Thursday. “But that is football – players leave and clubs move on. It doesn’t matter who the player is, you have seen it with clubs like Manchester United losing people like Ronaldo, but the club is most important and will always move on. Hopefully someone here will step in and use this as their chance. “Yes I enjoyed a good relationship with Steven but it is not like I will now be playing with someone I don’t know,” he added. “We have a few options there. Victor has played well there and did well in that position in the second half against Liverpool while I have felt comfortable playing with Bily (Diniyar Bilyaletdinov) when he has been involved recently. I am sure he will look at this as a chance to come in and play regularly.” Baines is an intelligent footballer who can yet build a similar relationship with another player, but whether that individual is on the club’s books at present is debatable. Bily is a different type of player than Pienaar. While the Russian may share the South African’s quick feet and passing ability, he lacks the dynamism – and is yet to fully convince his manager. Victor Anichebe’s presence on left midfield will only ever be a short term solution. The chances are David Moyes will have to pluck yet another world-beater from obscurity before Baines has another worthy muse.
David Moyes: I dread transfer windows too but fans need to stick with Everton FC
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo Jan 22 2011
DAVID Moyes has urged Everton fans to stick with their team – despite admitting he shares their sense of transfer window dread. The Everton manager feels the sense of frustration at his limited spending power this month more keenly than most, but takes consolation from at least being able to retain shining stars like Seamus Coleman and Victor Anichebe. The pair both signed new four-and-a-half year deals this week, and Moyes is clinging to the comfort that Everton still have an array of youthful talent, even if he feels like he is banging his head against a brick wall on the transfer front. Nevertheless, the Scot hopes the fans can weather the storm. “I’ve not really liked any of the last four or five windows, I’ve not really enjoyed them because they have been really difficult for us,” he says. “But it’s the same for 90 per cent of managers – whether it be the January transfer window or the summer window. “A lot of the time in the summer we have been fighting off clubs who want to take our players – that’s what the summers have generally been about. “We have never really done a great deal of business in January anyway, so maybe it’s not so important for us. “I’d say to the fans that we’ve been here before. “I’d ask them first and foremost to stay with the team. “They’ve supported the club when it’s been in a poorer situation than this over the years. “I don’t see this as being a really bad period. I see us having some really good, top players in the team and there have been times when there wasn’t a lot on the field. All our assets are on the field. “If we could add to that we could be up there. If I had a top player we could be there, and I said it at the start of the season.” Moyes knows that success in the transfer market can provide a timely boost for his squad, as they strive towards consistency in this second half of the campaign. “We do have to watch that we have not stood still,” he says, in a week which saw Aston Villa sign Darren Bent for an initial £18m. “We are continually trying to sign loan players and to bring kids through and get them on long term contracts, to keep our momentum. “It is important the players see that we are trying to develop the squad as well, and see we can continue to grow. I understand and accept that our team spirit can only take us so far, but I have got to get through this January window, and try to get the team and take them forward if I can with what we have. “We have tried everything we can to try and change that. It will not be dramatic. We have got a group and we have to take them to the maximum, and if we can then we still have the talent to still finish strongly this season.” One area Moyes is keen to strengthen is right midfield, although he insists that the emergence of Coleman and the potential of Anichebe mean he must guard against buying for the sake of it. “Time might tell and Seamus might end up a better wide right than a right back,” he says. “I think we’ve now got a chance to see and maybe see him doing either job at different times for us. But we’ve still wanted to bring a natural a right sided midfielder in. “Steven Pienaar did well for us probably most off the left. But I don't want to bring someone in that could stop Seamus Coleman’s development. “As long as his performances are good enough, I want to keep him playing. I don’t want to shunt him backwards. “He deserves to keep playing and has done really well.” He accepts that his search for a striker is not effected by the same worries. “There’s a level of centre forward we could do with at Everton,” he says. “It would help Jermaine or Victor, because Victor is as comfortable wide as he is through the middle and it would give me options. We are just short because of Louis’ injury or Tim Cahill being away.” Anichebe could feature against West Ham today after a promising second half performance against Liverpool last Sunday, and Moyes was pleased that the powerful forward also put pen to paper this week. “If we could get him up to a level it could be like a new signing,” he says. “He needs a lot more self belief, he needs the crowd’s support. That’s important personally. And he needs to show them the level of effort. “His fitness will improve. We needed him on Sunday at Anfield but come 70 minutes he had just run out of gas, and he had no more left. “He hasn’t played that many games, mainly due to injury, but we think the boy’s got ability.” Ultimately though, if Moyes admits to finding January a difficult month, spare a though for his opposition boss Avram Grant. “I wouldn’t want to be treated like he has been,” he says.
Everton FC boss David Moyes confident he can use Steven Pienaar fee to find loan strike star
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo Jan 22 2011
DAVID Moyes is continuing to trawl the transfer market for a loan star striker - after he was given the go-ahead to spend the money Everton received for Steven Pienaar. The Everton boss, who is sweating on the fitness of Louis Saha ahead of today’s Goodison clash with West Ham, is still confident he will add to his squad before the window closes. Although he admitted the Blues have failed in their attempts to land Monaco striker Dieumerci Mbokani on loan, he is busily pursuing other options. The Toffees could yet make an approach for Hoffenheim forward Demba Ba, 25, despite the Senegalese forward, who has played most of his German club’s games this season, failing a medical at Stoke City earlier this month. Moyes said: “I have money to do a loan deal. We’re looking to bring someone in, but we haven’t found anyone to fit the bill. “The problem is we’re looking in the loan market, we can’t have anyone with a price tag, and it’s not that easy in the loan market to get someone who will improve your team. “We have said we are trying to look for investment, and I am positive I will bring somebody in. “In the end Mbokani was never really a goer. I did enquire about him and we made an offer to see if we could get him on loan but I think there were bigger offers from other clubs. “We were ready to match his wages and made an offer which was the best we can but I think he’ll leave on a permanent deal.” The Blues boss is at least hoping to able to welcome back Phil Jagielka for today’s game, after the England defender returned to training last week. David Moyes will make a late call on whether to include Louis Saha. The Frenchman missed last week’s Merseyside derby with a thigh strain but is closing in on a return after taking a small part in training this week. The striker has five goals in four Everton appearances against the Hammers. Moyes said: “Phil Jagielka has trained so I am hopeful he will be available. Louis Saha has only done some light training so I am not as confident about him. We will have a look at it tomorrow – it might be that he can be risked.” Meanwhile, the Everton boss insists Leighton Baines can still prosper without his left-sided star man Steven Pienaar. He said: “Nobody can feel sorry for themselves. If you lose somebody you work with, you have to move on. It could be two centre halves and you lose your partner, or two strikers and you lose the one who makes your goals or does your running. “But Bainsey will be fine. His form this season has been outstanding, and we’ll try and help him and give him people who can help keep his form as good.”
Everton FC will be boosted by Phil Jagielka's return today
By James Pearce Jan 22 2011
EVERTON will be boosted by the return of Phil Jagielka for today’s Premier League clash with West Ham at Goodison Park. The centre-back has recovered from the thigh injury which ruled him out of their last three games. Striker Louis Saha has been hampered by a similar problem and will undergo a late fitness test. "Phil Jagielka has trained so I am hopeful he will be available," said boss David Moyes. "Louis Saha has only done some light training so I am not as confident about him. "We will have a look at it on Saturday – it might be that he can be risked." Everton go into the game buoyed by the news that Seamus Coleman and Victor Anichebe have penned new long-term contracts. Moyes admits it was a timely boost after the departure of midfielder Steven Pienaar to Tottenham. "It is really important news for the club," he said. "Seamus already had a contract but we thought he had done well and he deserved a new one. It is what Everton do – we reward people who do well. "He has played wide right most weeks because we haven’t had anybody to play there. We will look to put him back in the end (to full-back) and hopefully when he does go back then this will stand him in good stead. We might then find he is a better wide player than full-back we’ll see. "His hunger and passion for the game is certainly helping him. What we need to do is help him with the technical side and his understanding of the game. But he is a great listener, has a great attitude and is a pleasure to work with. "There have been talks with Victor for a while and he has now put pen to paper to stay in the place where I think he should be. "Hopefully he can stay injury free because I think he has the potential to become a really good player." Moyes had been resigned to losing Pienaar for some time and insists pocketing £3million for the South African, who would have been out of contract this summer, represented good business for Everton. "It was not a difficult decision to make financially," he said. "I said we would not let him go if we did not get a good offer. I was happy to let him see out the contract – he played well in the games for us and I have no problem with Steven. "But when Chelsea made the offer, we had not had an offer from Tottenham, so Chelsea’s offer kind of flushed Tottenham out. "The lad has decided to go to Tottenham and good luck to him – we got a decent deal for a player who had six months left on his contract." Diniyar Bilyaletdinov has said he’s desperate to fill the void created by Pienaar’s departure and Moyes could turn to the Russian international at Goodison today. "We are probably looking to get Billy back in the team a little bit," he said. "I think he has looked good in training, he hasn’t had much of a chance recently but the reason he has been out of the team is because his form hasn’t been good enough. "But we have missed his goals because he got seven or eight last season so hopefully we can get him back in and benefit from his goals." Moyes had been resigned to losing Pienaar for some time and insists pocketing £3million for the South African, who would have been out of contract this summer, represented good business for Everton. "It was not a difficult decision to make financially," he said. "I said we would not let him go if we did not get a good offer. I was happy to let him see out the contract – he played well in the games for us and I have no problem with Steven. "But when Chelsea made the offer, we had not had an offer from Tottenham, so Chelsea’s offer kind of flushed Tottenham out. "The lad has decided to go to Tottenham and good luck to him – we got a decent deal for a player who had six months left on his contract." Diniyar Bilyaletdinov has said he’s desperate to fill the void created by Pienaar’s departure and Moyes could turn to the Russian international at Goodison today. "We are probably looking to get Billy back in the team a little bit," he said. "I think he has looked good in training, he hasn’t had much of a chance recently but the reason he has been out of the team is because his form hasn’t been good enough. "But we have missed his goals because he got seven or eight last season so hopefully we can get him back in and benefit from his goals."
Everton FC 2 West Ham 2: Blues stumble to poor home draw with rock-bottom Hammers
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
Jan 22 2011
Marouane Fellaini celebrates his equaliser against West HamEVERTON rode their luck to clinch a fortunate point after twice falling behind to bottom of the table West Ham at Goodison Park.
The Toffees nearly paid the ultimate price for a pitiful first half display that saw Avram Grant’s troubled side take a deserved lead, and David Moyes’ men had to equalise in injury time to avoid slipping even closer to the relegation zone. A solitary point, from another potentially winnable home game, means a side talked-up as top six contenders in the summer remain in mid-table anonymity. The Blues line-up was unchanged from the side which secured a draw at Anfield last Sunday, with Louis Saha’s failure to recover fully from a groin strain meaning Victor Anichebe, fresh from signing a new four-and-a-half deal, continued up front alongside Jermaine Beckford. Everton created the first genuine chance of the game, when a clever move involving Leon Osman and Marouane Fellaini on the edge of the area saw the ball played in low to Jermaine Beckford at a tight angle. Unfortunately nobody in a blue shirt was able to latch onto the striker’s cute back-heel. At the other end Frederic Piquionne looked lively for the Hammers, connecting with a couple of volleys that were not far from forcing Tim Howard into saves. But Everton could have taken the lead when Beckford again found himself in space in the area, but a heroic block from centre back James Tomkins prevented the former Leeds man unleashing a shot. He should have done better moments later though after a sumptuous through ball from Anichebe again set him free on goal. The Blues had started the afternoon by slipping to 13th in the table, courtesy of Liverpool’s win over Wolves. But they were certainly brimming with positivity to do something about it, committing plenty of men forward and playing with confidence and adventure. Unfortunately, West Ham had looked dangerous on the counter attack despite not having much of the ball, and so it proved with almost half an hour gone. Mark Noble switched the ball to Luis Boa Morte, and the veteran cut inside an alarmingly exposed Phil Neville, and cut the ball across the area for Jonathan Spector to blast home from close range. And as their passing deteriorated and the early fizz started to seep away, Everton were lucky not to be two down. Spector’s cross found Heitinga snoozing and Picquionne flashed a majestic header against the post. Their passing was not the only casualty as the game approached half time; the Blues defending was oddly woeful. Perhaps inevitably, the boos rang out at half time. If Moyes had to use his motivational skills at half time of the Merseyside derby, he had to step them up a level here. Saha replaced Beckford for the second half, but the Blues failed to start palpably brighter. Their malaise continued for the majority of the second period too, Moyes replacing Anichebe with Diniyar Bilyaletdinov as the game meandered towards defeat, and asked Fellaini to support Louis Saha. Their set-pieces were as bad as their open play, eight corners cresting virtually no chances as Arteta’s deliveries continued to go awry. Bily’s initial touches helped the Blues keep possession in key areas, but he was to offer more than that. Everton began to press as West Ham sat deep, and when Phil Neville’s deep cross was cleared meekly by Piquionne, the Russian lashed a wonderful right-footed volley past Robert Green. Bouyed by the turnaround, and with ten minutes left Everton went close again when Saha’s shot was blocked by Green, and Seamus Coleman’s first-time effort flew over the bar. But just as they should have been seizing the momentum, anther set-back ensued. The Londoners countered, on-loan defender Wayne Bridge was given too much space to cross and Piquionne leapt highest to score with a header. The impressive striker earned an unfortunate second yellow card for celebrating by jumping into the crowd. Louis Saha responded by narrowly missing with a low drive from the edge of the area, and then Marouane Fellaini rescued a point with a terrific injury time goal, his first of the season, which saw the Belgian take the ball on his chest, burst past his man and beat Green convincingly. Ultimately, West Ham join Wolves, Newcastle and West Brom as sides the Blues failed to take advantage of at home. Many more afternoons like this, and any hopes of the Blues achieving something in the league this season will disappear faster than the disenchanted home supporters at the final whistle.
EVERTON: (4-4-2) Howard, Neville (capt) (Rodwell, 84), Distin, Heitinga, Baines, Fellaini, Arteta, Coleman, Oman, Anichebe (Bilyaletdinov, 68), Beckford (Saha, 45).
Subs not used: Mucha, Jagielka, Gueye, Hibbert..
Bookings: Fellaini,
Goals: Bilyaletdinov (76), Fellain (92)
WEST HAM UNITED: (4-4-2) Green, Faubert, Upson (capt), Tomkins, Bridge, Boa Morte, Parker, Noble, Spector, Hines (Sears, 81), Piquionne.
Subs not used: Boffin, Reid, Gabbidon, McCarthy, Barrera, Noble.
Bookings: Parker, Piquionne (yellow x 2),
Goals: Spector (27), Piquionne (85)
Ref: Peter Walton
Attendance: 34, 179
Man of the match: M Fellaini
EVERTON 2 - WEST HAM 2 - AVRAM GRANT NEEDS A GRIN BONUS
23rd January 2011 By Steve Millar Daily Star
Everton 2 - West Ham 2
BY rights this should have been Avram Grant’s frowning glory after a season with nothing to smile about. Not that the West Ham boss does much of that anyway. It’s not in his nature to grin and bear it even after what he’s been through at doom-laden Upton Park. But surely Grant should have been allowed an inward chuckle inside the dressing room to celebrate a deserved victory. Instead, hitman Marouane Fellaini guaranteed Grant would wear that hangdog expression once more with an equaliser deep into stoppage time. Grant deserved better after saying his goodbyes seven days ago, waving farewell to the faithful and throwing his scarf into the crowd. He was astonishingly endorsed, though, by the Hammers board when Martin O’Neill refused the job and Grant showed immense courage by deciding to carry on, regardless of the knives plunged into his back. And how Grant must have thought his luck had changed as his midfield duo of Scott Parker and Mark Noble boosted a dispirited camp with two powerful performances which merited more than just sharing the spoils of war. Jonathan Spector gave Grant and West Ham a huge early lift only for Diniyar Bilyaletdinov to equalise nine minutes after coming on as substitute. Frederic Piquionne restored the Hammers’ lead in the 84th minute before jumping into the crowd to celebrate and earn his marching orders for a second bookable offence. And then we witnessed in amazement the Fellaini leveller. Heartbreak with a capital ‘H’ to leave Grant further down in the mouth. He clearly didn’t see the funny side of the sending off and said: “For me it’s a joke, the red card. “He scores a goal and went to celebrate with the supporters. He didn’t do anything wrong. “He celebrated with people who deserve this more than anyone. What do I tell him? Be very calm in the celebration? Shake hands? This is an emotional game. “What can we say to a player who scores an important goal for us?” No-one could question Grant’s belief that the first half belonged to the Hammers as die-hard Evertonians yelled their displeasure. It was no surprise that West Ham rocked Everton back on their heels after just six minutes when Piquionne steadied himself before driving high over the bar. Then Noble had a go and suffered a similar fate. Everton did muster an effort when Mikel Arteta slipped Jermaine Beckford through only for James Tomkins to stop the Everton striker in his tracks as he lined up a shot. Sylvain Distin volleyed towards goal only for his blockbuster to hit Matthew Upson square on his huge frame. Then came the breakthrough which lifted Hammers’ hearts. Noble brilliantly slipped a pass through on the left to Luis Boa Morte, who drew keeper Tim Howard, before pulling back for Spector to hammer into the net. And it could have been further punishment for Everton seven minutes before the break when Spector crossed for Piquionne, whose stooping header hit the foot of the post. The boos broke out once more to leave boss David Moyes ashen-faced and looking totally bewildered. Moyes said: “I think the sending off gave us the chance to throw the kitchen sink at them if we could. “At 2-2 I thought we could have used the last couple of minutes better than we did.” Everton were totally lacklustre with only Fellaini showing the desire – but he walked a disciplinary tightrope after picking up a 42nd-minute booking.
It was fitting then that he played some part in Everton’s first equaliser as he rose to challenge for Phil Neville’s cross and the ball fell to Bilyaletdinov who hammered into the bottom corner.
And then came what looked to be the winner with Piquionne heading in Wayne Bridge’s cross before heading for the tunnel in the blink of an eye. The drama didn’t end there, though. Fellaini scored that incredible equaliser as he rammed his shot home to complete a day of personal satisfaction.
EVERTON 2 - WEST HAM 2 - MAROUANE FELLAINI STEALS A POINT
Sunday January 23,2011 Sunday Express
By Steve Miller Everton 2 - West Ham 2
BY rights this should have been Avram Grant’s frowning glory after a season with nothing to smile about. Not that the West Ham boss does much of that anyway. It’s not in his nature to grin and bear it even after what he’s been through. Yet Grant should have been allowed an inward chuckle to celebrate a deserved victory. Instead it was Marouane Fellaini smiling with an equaliser deep into added time. Grant must have thought his luck had turned as his midfield duo of Scott Parker and Mark Noble boosted a dispirited camp with two great performances. Jonathan Spector gave Grant and West Ham a huge early lift only for Diniyar Bilyaletdinov to equalise nine minutes after coming on as substitute. Frederic Piquionne restored West Ham’s lead in the 84th minute but he jumped into the crowd to celebrate, received a second yellow card and was sent off. And then came that Fellaini leveller that was a real heartbreaker for the Hammers. The first half belonged to West Ham. They rocked Everton back on their heels after just six minutes when Piquionne steadied himself before driving high over the bar. West Ham’s breakthrough came after 26 minutes. Noble brilliantly slipped through on the left to Luis Boa Morte who drew keeper Tim Howard before pulling back for Spector to hammer home. And there could have been further punishment for Everton seven minutes before the break when Spector crossed for Piquionne whose stooping header hit the foot of the post. Everton boss David Moyes withdrew below-par Jermaine Beckford at half-time to throw on Louis Saha to add a bit of quick thinking up front. But still the Everton front men struggled to break down West Ham’s defence. But Everton grabbed an undeserved equaliser after 77 minutes when the ball fell to Bilyaletdinov who hammered into the bottom corner. Suddenly Everton burst into life and Saha spun and shot for goal only for keeper Robert Green to pull off a remarkable save. Seamus Coleman, following up and spooned over. But then Piquionne headed in a beauty before heading for the tunnel in the blink of an eye. The drama didn’t end there. Fellaini scored an incredible equaliser as he rammed his shot into the bottom corner. What a sickener for– He pulled all the strings in midfield ith a magnificent show of craftsmanship, ably supported by Mark Noble.
EVERTON: Howard; Neville (Rodwell (85), Heitinga, Distin, Baines; Coleman, Arteta, Fellaini, Osman; Beckford (Saha 45), Anichebe (Bilyaletdinov 68).
WEST HAM: Green; Faubert, Tomkins, Upson, Bridge; Spector, Noble, Parker, Boa Morte; Piquionne, Hines (Sears 80, Reid 89).
Ref: P Walton Att: 34,179
Piquionne celebrates too soon
By Tim Rich at Goodison Park
Sunday, 23 January 2011The Independant
There is stupidity and then there is football. There were five minutes remaining when Frédéric Piqui-onne's header looped over Tim Howard to restore West Ham's lead. The Frenchman, who already been booked, then rushed into the seething mass of supporters in the Bullens Road end, for which he was inevitably shown a second yellow card. West Ham had to see out the final few minutes with 10 men, and Marouane Fellaini's turn and shot in stoppage time ensured they remained bottom of the Premier League. It is impossible to say whether West Ham would have held on had their centre-forward remained on the pitch, but Piquionne's absence did not help and he will miss the second leg of West Ham's Carling Cup semi-final with a Birmingham side who have issues of its own after yesterday's disembowelling by Dimitar Berbatov at Old Trafford. Avram Grant confirmed there was little chance of Piquionne's potential replacement, Carlton Cole, recovering from injury in time. So the choice of leading West Ham's attackis down to Freddie Sears, who was replaced after nine minutes yesterday, and the underperforming, overweight Benni McCarthy. When in 2008 Grant came to Goodison while his future as Chelsea manager looked as black as the shirts he favours, he chose to answer virtually every question with a simple "Yes" or "No". This time, after a performance that was unrecognisable from the sleepwalk his players produced against Arsenal on the day it seemed clear that he was to be sacked and replaced by Martin O'Neill, he was rather more animated. "For me it's a joke, this red card," he said of Piquionne's dismissal."He scored a goal and went to celebrate with the supporters, and the supporters deserve to have a player celebrate like that with them. Maybe people should shake hands and say 'Thank you'?" After the board's botched attempt to remove him, the West Ham co-owner David Sullivan, who watched this game in a bearskin hat and Russian military greatcoat, issued the kind of statement beloved by Pravda at its most Stalinist: "The entire board is 100 per cent behind Avram. West Ham United is a club that does the right thing and at this time that is to support the manager." However true this was, West Ham so completely outplayed Evertonthat the home side were jeered offat the interval. The visitors' football was everything it had not beenagainst Arsenal, epitomised by the opening goal. Mark Noble's wonderfully judged pass let Luis Boa Morte loose down the left flank. He outpaced Leighton Baines and pulled the ball deepinto the area where, with Howardstranded, Jonathan Spector, the centre-back turned midfielder whose goals had inflicted Manchester United's only defeat of the season, thundered the ball home with a swing of hisright foot. But for the post that met a diving header from Piquionne, West Ham might have won the game by half-time. Goodison was, as it has been for much of this season, anxious and angry. "David, they are getting lazy, start shouting at them," came one voice from depths of the Main Stand. Everton are not lazy, but none of their strikers has functioned properlyin this fractured campaign and of their midfield, Steven Pienaar has been sold before he walked out on the club and Tim Cahill is in Qatar, playing for the Asian Cup with Australia. Moyes may well have shouted at his footballers in the home dressing-room at half-time. Certainly, they were a different, more aggressiveside afterwards, and when Diniyar Bilyaletdinov lashed home his shot from the edge of the area into the depths of Robert Green's net, the Everton manager thought his team would go on to win. Instead, when Wayne Bridge, who had a rather better game than his catastrophic debut at Upton Park last Saturday, delivered a perfectly measured cross to Piquionne's head it seemed Moyes would suffer a defeat as embarrassing as the 4-1 humbling by West Bromwich Albion in November. But then the celebrations began. Attendance: 34,179 Referee: Peter Walton Man of the match: Spector Match rating: 7/10
Everton 2 West Ham 2: Avram Grant sees red at 'joke' Piquionne sending-off
By Mark Ryan Sunday 23 2011 Sunday Mail
The red card shown to Piquionne by referee Peter Walton, for jumping into the arms of fans in the 84th minute, means he will miss West Ham's Carling Cup semi-final, second leg at Birmingham on Wednesday. The irony is that Walton hates showing a card for excessive celebrating but the referee had to issue Piquionne with his second yellow and almost buried his head in his hands before doing his duty. Slide rule: West Ham United's Jonathan Spector, second left, scores against Everton
Marouane Fellaini took full advantage to score Everton's injury-time equaliser to leave the Hammers bottom of the Barclays Premier League. The West Ham manager said: 'For me it's a joke, this red card. Who deserves it more than the supporters when a player goes to celebrate with them?
'This law is stupid and we must change it - this is an emotional game. I celebrated when I scored in a staff game on Thursday. Lucky I didn't get a red card, too.' The visitors had taken the lead after 27 minutes as the once goal-shy Jonathan Spector found the net for the fourth time in two months but Diniyar Bilyaletdinov came off the Everton bench to level. The result was yet another blow for Grant, whose position has again been the subject of heavy speculation over the past week.
Yet for most of the game his team, with the returning Scott Parker driving them forward, the visitors acquitted themselves superbly. The Hammers gave their fans early encouragement as top scorer Piquionne, back in the side after recovering from dental surgery, burst into the area and fired over from a tight angle. Mark Noble went even closer moments later as he was picked out by Parker on the 18-yard line but his chip just dipped over the bar. Great start: West Ham's Jonathan Spector and Zavon Hines celebrate Spector's goal Everton toughened up after those early scares and began to assert themselves more in midfield. Fellaini exposed the Hammers defence when he played in Jermaine Beckford but the striker's flick back was cleared. Beckford had an opportunity himself as he raced onto a through-ball from Mikel Arteta but Matthew Upson just did enough to break his stride and Robert Green blocked. West Ham responded well and snatched the lead as Luis Boa Morte latched onto a Noble pass and squared for the inrushing Spector to slide home from the penalty spot. It was a goal that lifted the Hammers and, with Parker instrumental, they dictated play for the rest of the first half. Piquionne was inches away from adding a second as he rose to meet a Spector cross with a firm header that struck the far post and rolled across goal to safety.
Everton survived another scare before the interval as Boa Morte poked the ball past Tim Howard but was adjudged offside. Everton boss David Moyes decided to change his attack by sending on Saha, fit again after a thigh strain, for Beckford at half-time. The hosts enjoyed prolonged spells of possession as the second half got under way but were unable to prise open West Ham's hard-working defence. Show of passion: West Ham manager Avram Grant, right, and assistant Wally Downes Wayne Bridge, after a much-criticised debut last week following his loan move from Manchester City, seemed assured up against the threat of Seamus Coleman on the Everton right.
Saha appealed for a penalty after a challenge from James Tomkins but referee Peter Walton gave nothing. West Ham caught Everton on the counter-attack as Parker charged through midfield but Howard comfortably dealt with his long-range shot. Zavon Hines also went close with an acrobatic attempt to turn in a Spector cross but his volley flashed wide. At the other Saha threatened after being picked out by Leon Osman but the Frenchman got the ball caught under his feet and was unable to shoot. Everton pulled level 13 minutes from time as Bilyaletdinov, sent on for the ineffective Victor Anichebe eight minutes earlier, beat Green with a fierce drive.
Fellaini rose the highest to meet Phil Neville's cross and his nod down was helped into the Russian's path by Piquionne. Double take: Everton's Leon Osman (centre) battles with West Ham United's Scott Parker and James Tomkins (right) Bilyaletdinov, who has been challenged to fill the boots of the departed Steven Pienaar, made no mistake as he caught the ball with a sweet half-volley into the bottom corner. Coleman could have added a second moments later as he cut inside from the right but shot narrowly over. TEAMSEVERTON (4-2-2-2 ): Howard; Neville (Rodwell 86min), Heitinga, Distin, Baines; Fellaini, Arteta; Coleman,
Osman; Beckford (Saha 46), Anichebe (Bilyaletdinov 68). Subs (not used): Mucha, Hibbert, Jagielka, Gueye. Booked: Fellaini.
WEST HAM (¬4-2-2-2): Green; Faubert, Tomkins, Upson, Bridge; Parker, Noble; Spector, Boa Morte; Piquionne, Hines (Sears 81, Reid 90). Subs (not used): Boffin, Gabbidon, McCarthy, Barrera, Nouble. Booked: Parker, Piquionne. Sent off: Piquionne (85min).
Referee: P Walton (Northamptonshire).
Green then produced a brilliant save to deny Saha from close range and Coleman put the rebound over the bar. But as the Toffees pressed for a winner, they were caught by a sucker punch. Bridge found room on the left to swing in a cross and Piquionne jumped to place a looping header over Howard and into the top corner. The downside for Piquionne - who had been booked four minutes earlier - was that in his jubilation he jumped the advertising hoardings and was shown a second yellow card. Everton manager David Moyes admitted: 'That sending-off gave us impetus and the chance to throw the kitchen sink at them, which we did. Celebrating should be allowed, but we know the rules.' West Ham attempted to play safe by substituting substitute Freddie Sears, who had been on the field just nine minutes, and sending on defender Winston Reid. It proved to no avail as Fellaini jinked his way into
Everton 2 West Ham United 2: match report
January 23 2011 Sunday Telegraph
Fortune really does seem to hide from Avram Grant. For so much of this match, it appeared that the apparently dead man walking would have reason to depart with a spring in his step. A week ago, it looked like Grant’s reign could end at any moment only for Martin O’Neill to back away from replacing him at Upton Park. West Ham did not look like the Premier League’s bottom club, taking the lead through Jonathan Spector and recovering from Diniyar Bilyaletdinov’s equaliser when Frédéric Piquionne restored the advantage with four minutes left. But, this being West Ham, good times are generally followed by bad, and swiftly. Just booked, Piquionne jumped over the barriers to celebrate with the visiting fans, earning himself a second yellow card. The Frenchman had also been vital to his team’s defensive effort, seemingly winning everything in the air at set-pieces, and Grant must have despaired when Marouane Fellaini drove in a second equaliser in the first minute of added time. Piquionne misses the Carling Cup semi-final, second leg against Birmingham on Wednesday through suspension, as does Victor Obinna. Carlton Cole is doubtful with a calf problem that kept him out yesterday. Grant said: “I’m very proud of what I saw. It wasn’t easy in this situation. We missed players again but they showed a lot of good spirit and good football and a tactical awareness. From the start of the season, with everything that’s happened, they have shown a lot of commitment. “For me the red card is a joke. I know this is the law but the law is stupid and we need to change it.Maybe people should shake hands and say 'thank you’. It’s an emotional game and when I score goals in the staff games on a Thursday I celebrate but I don’t get booked for it.” It was only his third visit to Everton as a manager but Goodison Park has been a checkpoint of significance in an increasingly bizarre managerial career. During his short tenure with Chelsea, the stadium was the stage for a bizarre press conference after a 1-0 victory, with Grant mumbling one-word answers as a sort of protest. A low-key 1-0 defeat here on the final day of last season marked relegation for Portsmouth under the Israeli. For a variety of reasons, Grant’s career must have him feeling like an unwelcome visiting relative. No sooner had he taken charge of Chelsea, Portsmouth and now West Ham, he has everyone wondering how long he would stick around. The way his team played should give Grant hope but the manner of their late surrender can bring only more doubt. Despite the shenanigans of last weekend, he has the public backing of West Ham’s board, but it seems unfeasible that he will survive beyond the end of the season. West Ham were well worth their lead, earned when Mark Noble rolled the ball to Luís Boa Morte behind Seamus Coleman and the Portuguese’s pull-back was thumped home by Spector for only his second Premier League goal.
With Everton unable to retain possession, the visitors should have been out of sight by half-time. Piquionne saw a header come back off the post and Boa Morte had an effort ruled out The hosts looked to have run out of ideas when Phil Neville pumped a long ball into the area, Fellaini headed down and Bilyaletinov’s shot beat Robert Green. Still West Ham came back and after Wayne Bridge’s corner was not cleared, his cross from the right was headed in from close range by Piquionne. There was time for Everton to strike back again when Jack Rodwell knocked down for Fellaini to score but there were still boos from the home fans at the final whistle. “I have to give them credit for coming back,” Everton manager David Moyes said. “We’re trying a different system just now.”
Marouane Fellaini gives Everton last-gasp leveller against West Ham
Andy Hunter at Goodison Park guardian
Sunday 22 January 2011
Avram Grant has escaped the executioner but not the torture. With six minutes remaining at Goodison Park, a deserved victory, a place outside the relegation zone and an emphatic riposte to last weekend's managerial circus beckoned for West Ham. Then, for the heinous crime of Frédéric Piquionne celebrating a late goal by embracing his delirious supporters, their perfect afternoon turned to dust. Piquionne may have allowed human nature to influence his reaction but a law devoid of common sense dictated that referee Peter Walton issue a second yellow card to the West Ham striker. There was no shirt removed, no stage-diving, no leaping into the Bullens Road stand feet first, but off he went, booked only moments after a first yellow card for a trip on the Everton substitute and goalscorer, Diniyar Bilyaletdinov. What followed was inevitable for a bottom club. Marouane Fellaini spun on Leon Osman's cross in injury time and struck Everton's second equaliser of the game low beyond Robert Green. The luck belonged entirely to David Moyes and his declining team. "It is a joke," said the West Ham manager, reprieved last weekend when Martin O'Neill decided against taking his job. "He scored and celebrated with the supporters, who deserve it the most. No one deserves it more than them. I know it's the law but the law is stupid and it needs to be changed. Are we supposed to remain calm and just shake hands when we score a goal? I celebrated after scoring in a staff game on Thursday." The final outcome was cruel on West Ham, who had delivered an accomplished away display as Everton served up the latest in a long and damaging line of poor home performances. Wolverhampton Wanderers, Newcastle United, West Bromwich Albion and Wigan Athletic have all left Goodison either unscathed or victorious this season and it was quickly apparent that with a subdued home crowd waiting on their team to rouse them, and vice-versa, this would be another arduous afternoon in Liverpool – providing the visitors had the intent and organisation to prosper. West Ham displayed both from the start. Grant's side deservedly took the lead when John Heitinga, not for the first time this season, was lured out of position in central defence to make a challenge in Everton's exposed midfield. The influential Mark Noble seized on possession and, with Phil Neville having to step in-field to cover for the World Cup finalist, sent Luís Boa Morte scurrying away from Seamus Coleman down the right. Boa Morte drew Tim Howard and cut the ball back for Jonathan Spector to score into an empty net. Piquionne almost doubled West Ham's advantage before half-time when, from Spector's right-wing cross, Heitinga slipped and the West Ham centre‑forward had a free header that kissed the inside of the post and rolled agonisingly across goal. Boa Morte then tapped home a centre from Piquionne but was correctly adjudged offside. Moyes braved the wrath of Goodison by withdrawing both strikers, Jermaine Beckford and Victor Anichebe, while chasing the game. Neither could complain on the basis of their barren contributions and especially when Bilyaletdinov scored from Fellaini's knockdown. Everton sensed victory, only for Piquionne to glance home a Wayne Bridge cross and embark on celebrations that, as well as two points here, will cost him a place in the Carling Cup semi-final at Birmingham City on Wednesday.
STEVE JONES, BlueKipper.com or website A real escape – we were awful. In the first half we played some decent football but they got the goal and we didn't get into our rhythm at all. I think everyone was trying – maybe trying too hard. The second half was much better but it was a calamitous, bonkers last 10 minutes. When we got to 1-1 I really thought we'd go on and win it – then they went 2-1 up. It was fitting that Fellaini scored, he was the best on the pitch for us. I really like Arteta but he's never regained the form that he had before his injury. I thought Parker was their best player – he was outstanding in running the game for them. The fan's player ratings Howard 7; Neville 6 (Rodwell 85 7), Heitinga 7, Distin 7, Baines 8; Coleman 6, Arteta 4, Fellaini 9, Osman 6; Anichebe 6 (Bilyaletdinov 68 7), Beckford 6 (Saha ht 6) HAMISH MACKAY, Over Land and Sea fanzine That game sums up our season, really – we play well at times but we can't keep a lead and can't win games – particularly away from home, where we've won only once I think in the past 18 months. But at 2-1 up, even with only 10 men we should be able to hold on to a lead for five minutes. For any hope of staying up we simply need to start winning games – one point is no good. To do that we need another striker and preferably a winger as well. Sears and Hines are good young players but are still not up to the level of Piquionne – we rely on him too heavily and he needs reinforcement.
The fan's player ratings Green 7; Faubert 5, Tomkins 6, Upson 7, Bridge 6; Spector 7, Noble 6, Parker 6, Boa Morte 6; Piquionne 7, Hines 6 (Sears 80 5; Reid 90 n/a)
Everton FC boss David Moyes to ignore calls to play Marouane Fellaini as a striker
by David Prentice, Liverpool Echo Jan 24 2011
DAVID MOYES insists he will ignore the temptation to use Marouane Fellaini as a solution to his side’s striking problems, despite the Belgian’s match-saving switch to stand-in striker against West Ham. Fellaini was sent forward with Everton trailing 1-0 and then 2-1 against The Hammers and he made one goal and scored another. But while Moyes acknowledged his impact, he said he didn’t foresee Fellaini returning to the role he scored nine goals from in his debut season in England. “I think that changed the game. I think Fellaini moving up front made the difference,” said Moyes. “We had someone to play off if we needed it, something to play with and it gave us a chance. We were more of a threat. “But I don’t really want to (play him up front) because I’ve said many times I think he’s a really, really top midfield player. “He plays behind the striker for Belgium and they play him a little bit more advanced. Last year he played more advanced for us as well and scored a lot of goals, but I see him as being a central midfield player who plays more behind the ball. “But he’s a threat wherever he plays because he’s a good player.” Despite Moyes’ repeated desire to add extra firepower to his squad in the shape of a loan signing, he insisted that he will not sacrifice young talent like Jack Rodwell in a bid to raise funds. “I’ve always said we won’t sell our best players,” he said. “Of course I would like the money, but I don’t want it at the cost of selling our better players. “He will figure. He will get games. “We seem to have had the same problems for a lot of the season, but then if you’d come here against Tottenham you’d have gone ‘that’s more like it!’ “At Scunthorpe we got a good result, okay, at Anfield maybe we should have done better, but not a bad result. “Today we dropped down again. “We didn’t get up to heights to win the game. “I really don’t think we were at the pitch of it in the first half but I thought we got better and I have to give them credit for coming back. “I thought when we got to 1-1 we would go on and win the game, but the second goal destroyed that thought. “I think their sending-off gave us the impetus to go on. We made a change right away. As you well know when you’re 2-1 at home you got for it anyway but I think when we saw that, it gave us the chance to try and throw the kitchen sink at them and thankfully we got the equaliser. “I actually think that when it went to two-each I thought we could have probably used the last couple of minutes better to try and go and get the winner.” Louis Saha was back on the substitutes’ bench after missing last week’s Merseyside derby with a thigh strain, and the Blues boss explained that he had hoped not to have to bring him on as early as he did. He added: “Louis hadn’t trained but came in yesterday and said ‘I think I can maybe do a wee bit.’ “I wouldn’t have put him on with 45 minutes to go if I didn’t think I’d needed to take some form of action. “Phil Jagielka is the same. He only trained Thursday-Friday and it would have been a risk to play him. “It will be good to get a full week’s training in him, although Johnny Heitinga’s come in and done okay. “I think he’s played four games and we haven’t lost any of them so he’s done okay.”
David Moyes insists Everton FC can cope with loss of Steven Pienaar
by David Prentice, Liverpool Echo Jan 24 2011
DAVID MOYES believes his squad has the depth to overcome the loss of Steven Pienaar, who made his Spurs debut on Saturday at Newcastle. It was pointed out to the Blues boss that Pienaar had been Everton’s most-fouled player and the individual who had made the most passes prior to his switch to White Hart Lane. But Moyes hit back: “How many goals did Steven score? "How many games have we won with Steven in the team? "We’ve only won four this season and Steven didn’t play in three of them. “I can back your stats up with my stats if you want me to. “Steven’s a really good player and if you lose a Steven Pienaar it’s a big, big miss. "He was our player of the year and has played as well as anybody so of course we’re going to miss him. “People say Leighton Baines will suffer and he did get a lot of the ball off Steven. They did have a good combination together, but I’ve tried to keep a similar style with Ossie down that side. “We’re trying to look for a new formula at the moment. We played a different system. We had a front line with youngish type players in the Premier League. “I don’t know if Bily can be a solution to Pienaar, but what we’ve missed is his six or seven goals he scored last season. “I thought he took the ball brilliantly on his bad foot. It was a sweet connection and we needed it because we were running out of ideas to find ways to score.”
David Prentice’s analysis: Everton FC’s inconsistency flared up once more against West Ham
by David Prentice, Liverpool Echo
Jan 24 2011
0ShareComment (1)Recommend THERE was a time when a West Ham visit to Goodison was a banker. But while bankers have been discredited in recent years, so, too, has Everton’s ability to hand out a Hammering. Before their last spell outside the top flight, The Hammers used to leave their resistance on the team bus. The Blues routinely totted up 15 wins in 17 visits. Heck, even Mike Walker engineered a home win. But since their return to the top flight the Hammers have proved a stubborn obstacle, carving three draws and a win in their last six visits to Goodison. That statistic should be even bleaker today – because only one side deserved to win on a shocking Saturday afternoon in Walton – and it wasn’t the side in Royal Blue. From being installed as the Premier League’s great Champions League hopefuls in August, Everton have become the top flight’s great inconsistents. Capable of terrifically turning over Tottenham one week, then drawing at home to rock bottom West Ham the next. Able to win away at cash rich Manchester City, then getting walloped at home by West Bromwich Albion. Perhaps the optimistic way to look at it is that Chelsea are next up at Goodison, in a match which has the rest of Everton’s season riding on it. But optimists were in short supply at Goodison Park on Saturday when Everton produced a rotten performance. Much depends on how Carlo Ancelotti approaches the FA Cup tie. Tottenham came to Goodison and played an open, attacking game – and Everton simply out-footballed them. West Ham, however, were tighter, more compact, more reliant on the counter-attack (very effectively so) and that takes a different type of game plan to break down, one based on possession, patience and incisive creativity at crucial moments. Some of those qualities are sorely lacking at Everton at present. David Moyes articulated it more bluntly: “Spurs came and got at us and that gave us a chance to get at them. “West Ham had chances today but they started from a tight base, counter-attacking, and when we were forcing it we were maybe lacking creativity or a player who can score you a goal out of nothing.” Unfortunately those players cost fortunes – and a fortune is something Everton simply don’t have. The Kenwright critics will instantly point the finger at the boardroom, which is far too simplistic. It’s no secret that Everton is up for sale. Yet not one single party has lodged one firm bid, or even openly expressed interest in buying the Blues, since Paul Gregg tried to spark civil war in 2004. And until new investment materialises (and would Evertonians really relish interest from a group like, say, Venky’s – who post statements on their Facebook page that they plan to sign Ronaldinho for Blackburn Rovers, then take the comments down?) David Moyes will have to continue to juggle the modest resources at his disposal. He did so effectively on Saturday.
The introduction of Diniyar Bilyaletdinov yielded a gloriously struck first equaliser, and the decision to push Marouane Fellaini up front proved a match changing switch. But what Moyes needed from the first minute was a player in the mould of Scott Parker. A midfielder who espouses the work ethic Moyes so admires, with a high level of technical ability to match, the Blues boss has tried to sign the West Ham playmaker many times. He probably came closest in the summer of 2005, but Parker preferred the greater financial rewards on offer at Newcastle. That’s a phrase the Blues have heard a few times since, with Steven Pienaar the latest to decide that God may indeed be Great, but £70,000 a week is better. Only the magnificent Marouane Fellaini came close to matching Parker’s influence on the match. There have been faint signs recently that Everton’s own big earner, Mikel Arteta, was finally starting to break out of the season-long slumber which seems to have affected him. But on Saturday Moyes explained that the Spaniard had been suffering from flu during the week so excused his inconsistent contribution. With Jack Rodwell trotting eagerly up and down the touchline now, the time for a switch may not be too distant – and such has been Leon Osman’s outstanding appetite for hard work and decent technical input since Steven Pienaar’s departure that a positional switch for Arteta may not be Moyes’ first option. Some big decisions may have to be taken at Goodison very soon, because results like Saturday’s point to a team on the slide. In such a tight Premier League, Everton are still capable of claiming a respectable finishing position. But you certainly wouldn’t bank on it.
Everton FC 2, West Ham 2: Signs of progress few and far between for deflated Blues
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
Jan 24 2011
West Ham celebrate at Goodison LIKE a torn up old case ball which has been volleyed against too many curbs, Everton’s season is deflating rapidly. Are there enough tears to genuinely fear going down? No chance, but just where David Moyes’s team are going in the grand scheme of things is a question that increasingly feels like the elephant in the room. Nobody wants to dwell on it, because the majority of answers are too demoralising. Yes they rescued a point against West Ham courtesy of Marouane Fellaini’s injury time turn and shot, but they were fortunate to avoid defeat by a side rock bottom of the Premier League. Goodison Park, like so many other times this season apart from those vintage days against Spurs and Liverpool apart, was flat. But who can blame the supporters? Transfer windows turn the focus intently on a club’s means to progress, and so far the conclusion for Everton is gloomy. There are no easy answers, and too many easy scapegoats, but this half way point in the season should prompt deep contemplation in the club. The Blues are treading water in 13th place, they continue to fail to take three points from sides at home that should be the foundation of a successful season, and they have lost one of their more talented players in Steven Pienaar. Elsewhere, rivals like Stoke, Aston Villa and Sunderland are able to make the necessary additions to pursue their ambitions. To compound matters, golden playmaker Mikel Arteta is struggling through a patch of form which is sapping his and the team’s confidence. While it’s positive that bright young things Seamus Coleman and Victor Anichebe have signed new deals, they are existing assets at a club crying out for new ones. Wallowing in self pity, though, is not an option. There is the little prospect of a potentially epic FA Cup fourth round tie against Chelsea next weekend which could yet get things crackling again. The team’s brittle confidence at Goodison Park needs to be addressed though, failing to score early still causes the Blues to doubt themselves and the crowd to become nervy. That elusive additional centre forward would help massively too. Everton created the first clear-cut opportunity of the game against Avram Grant’s side, and with Louis Saha on the bench still nursing a thigh injury, it fell to Jermaine Beckford, a player still adapting to the top flight, and he took one touch too many before being denied by a heroic block from Hammers defender James Tompkins. Everton had actually started the afternoon positively, committing plenty of men forward and playing with confidence and adventure. Unfortunately, West Ham had looked dangerous on the counter attack despite not having much of the ball, and with almost half an hour gone they took advantage of Everton’s inability to take the lead.
John Heitinga got caught out of position trying to make a tackle in midfield, and Mark Noble switched the ball to Luis Boa Morte who drifted inside Phil Neville, and crossed for Jonathan Spector to score. Galled by the setback, Everton’s passing deteriorated and as the early fizz started to seep away they were lucky not to be two down. Spector crossed, Heitinga slipped and Frederic Picquionne flashed a majestic header against the post. Their passing was not the only casualty as the game approached half time; the Blues defending was oddly woeful. Saha replaced Beckford for the second half, but the Blues hardly improved. As the malaise continued, Moyes replaced Anichebe with Diniyar Bilyaletdinov, and asked Fellaini to support Louis Saha. Suddenly there was a cutting edge up front, and if a target man cannot be found in this transfer window the Blues manager may have to reluctantly consider pushing the Belgian into attack more often. In Pienaar’s absence, Bily did his claim to fill the South African’s boots no harm. His initial touches helped the Blues keep possession in key areas, and he was to offer more than that. Everton began to press as West Ham sat deep, and when Phil Neville’s deep cross was cleared meekly by Piquionne, the Russian lashed a wonderful right-footed volley past Robert Green. Buoyed by the turnaround, and with ten minutes left Everton went close again when Saha’s shot was blocked by Green, and Seamus Coleman’s first-time effort flew over the bar. But just as they should have been seizing the momentum, anther set-back ensued. The Londoners countered, Wayne Bridge was given too much space to cross and Piquionne leapt highest to score with a header, then get his second yellow card for celebrating by jumping into the crowd. Saha responded by narrowly missing with a low drive from the edge of the area, then Fellaini prevented Goodison going into melt-down with his well taken leveller. The league table remains the biggest cause for optimism. Salvation of sorts is only ever two or three victories in a row away. But for a team which has only won five games all season, hope is not in abundance.
Phil Jagielka will be back to settle the backline soon, and Tim Cahill’s return from Qatar cannot come quickly enough. A galvanising fresh face in the Landon Donovan mould is the number one priority though. “That sending-off gave us impetus and the chance to throw the kitchen sink at them, which we did. Celebrating should be allowed, but we know the rules,” DAVID MOYES was grateful for his team’s late rally. 'This law is stupid and we must change it - this is an emotional game. I celebrated when I scored in a staff game on Thursday. Lucky I didn't get a red card, too.' AVRAM GRANT makes his point about Piquionne’s red card.
EVERTON (4-4-2): Howard, Neville (capt) (Rodwell, 84), Distin, Heitinga, Baines, Fellaini, Arteta, Coleman, Oman, Anichebe (Bilyaletdinov, 68), Beckford (Saha, 45). Not used: Mucha, Jagielka, Gueye, Hibbert.
WEST HAM (4-4-2): Green, Faubert, Upson (capt), Tomkins, Bridge, Boa Morte, Parker, Noble, Spector, Hines (Sears, 81), Piquionne. Not used: Boffin, Reid, Gabbidon, McCarthy, Barrera, Noble.
GOALS: Spector (27), Bilyaletdinov (76), Piquionne (85), Fellain (92).
CARDS: Booked – Fellaini, Parker, Piquionne (2). Sent off – Piquionne.
REFEREE: Peter Walton (Northamptonshire).
ATTENDANCE: 34,179.
FA Cup can save Everton FC’s season says Marouane Fellaini
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
Jan 24 2011
MAROUANE FELLAINI is determined that Everton can put the disappointment of their faltering league campaign behind them to progress in the FA Cup. The Belgian midfielder scored an injury time equaliser at Goodison on Saturday to prevent the Blues sinking to defeat against bottom of the league West Ham. Now the 22-year-old, who was in fine form leading the line against Avram Grant’s side in the second half, hopes the Toffees can reinvigorate their season by beating Chelsea in the FA Cup fourth round tie at Goodison at the weekend. He said: “The players weren’t happy, and neither was the manager. It was a bad game for Everton. The draw was no good for us. “We’ll take the point but the focus has got to be on the FA Cup because it’s so important for us here. It was difficult when we went behind, and we tried to come back. “I scored, but it was a tough afternoon and nobody is happy with the outcome. “For me to get my first Premier League goal of the campaign was nice but that’s not what is important. The Cup is our focus now.” Diniyar Bilyaletdinov, Everton’s first goal scorer in their 2-2 draw with the East Londoners, was also taking little consolation from his strike. The Blues had to twice come from behind to secure a point, and the first of those levellers came from the right boot of the Russian. Bilyaletdinov scored seven times in his debut season in English football but has found his chances restricted this term. He said: “Yes I am pleased (to score) but it is not a big thing as the team only took a point, so overall I am not happy today. “We are all disappointed by this result, we did not play well enough in the game and hopefully we can play better next week. “I think today was a tough game. We did not always attack well and I think in the next game we need to be more intelligent with our play. We were not clever enough and sometimes did not make the right decisions and that is why we only took a point. “We showed character (to come back) but after the first goal we created chances and could not take them – we will work hard in training and hopefully next week in the FA Cup we will be more aggressive.” Meanwhile, reports suggest Everton are set to miss out on the loan signature of Hoffenheim striker Demba Ba, with the Senegalese front-man rumoured to prefer a switch to the capital, and West Ham also vying for his services.
Everton 2 West Ham 2: Blues in real danger of going backwards
by James Pearce, Liverpool Daily Post
Jan 24 2011
FORGET about standing still; Everton are in serious danger of going backwards. Marouane Fellaini’s last-gasp equaliser may have spared their blushes against the Premier League’s bottom club but there was little to celebrate at Goodison Park on Saturday. Another desperately disappointing home display merely served to reinforce fears that Everton are in the process of being overtaken by lesser names with more cash to splash. After the optimism generated by back-to-back wins over Tottenham Hotspur and Scunthorpe United and a battling draw at Anfield, this was a reality check.
It was a point Everton scarcely deserved against a side who have won just once on their travels since the opening day of last season. The squad is clearly in need of being freshened up, but there isn’t the money for manager David Moyes to carry out the necessary improvements. Of course after nine years, Moyes is used to the tough financial constraints but it doesn’t make it any easier to stomach while the likes of Aston Villa, Sunderland and Stoke City get their chequebooks out. The Everton manager craves a striker before the transfer window shuts next week but with only the funds to complete a loan signing he faces a monumental task to bring in someone of sufficient quality to make a difference. The need for more firepower is pressing. It spoke volumes that as Everton chased the game in the second-half on Saturday, he withdrew both Jermaine Beckford and Victor Anichebe. It was only when the impressive Fellaini was pushed further forward alongside substitute Louis Saha that the hosts gave the Hammers anything to worry about. The departure of Steven Pienaar to Tottenham and the continued absence of Tim Cahill due to the Asian Cup was keenly felt as for the best part of 80 minutes Everton were toothless. They needed a sweet strike from substitute Diniyar Bilyaletdinov to belatedly cancel out Jonathan Spector’s opener and then benefited from Frederic Piquionne’s bizarre dismissal after the Frenchman had nodded West Ham back in front. Prior to Saturday’s game Moyes had expressed his concern that Everton would be caught “standing still” if they failed to invest in new talent. His current crop spent most of the opening half doing exactly that as they allowed the Londoners to dominate. With Phil Jagielka and Saha only deemed fit enough to sit on the bench, Moyes kept faith with the starting line up who held Liverpool to a 2-2 draw six days earlier. However, just as at Anfield, Everton were comprehensively outplayed for 45 minutes and were fortunate to get to the break with only a one-goal deficit to make up. West Ham belied their lowly status with some slick counter-attacking football for under-fire manager Avram Grant. But Everton gave them a massive helping hand. Possession was carelessly conceded as the visiting central midfield duo of Scott Parker and Mark Noble were given time and space to dictate proceedings. Spurred on by Everton’s lethargic start, Piquionne and Noble both went close before the visitors grabbed a deserved 26th minute lead. The hosts were undone far too easily by a pass from Noble which enabled Luis Boa Morte to get in behind Seamus Coleman and Phil Neville. Boa Morte picked out Jonathan Spector in the middle and the American produced a composed finish for his first Premier League goal. Rather than act as a wake-up call for Moyes’s men, the breakthrough only served to give West Ham the belief that Everton were there for the taking. Seven minutes before the break Piquionne was left cursing his luck after seeing his header from Spector’s cross bounce off the inside of the post and along the goal line. It was a huge let-off and Everton then benefited from a tight offside call which chalked off Boa Morte’s effort. With frustration levels inside Goodison having risen steadily throughout the first-half it was no surprise that the home side were jeered off at the break. Beckford and Anichebe may have helped turn the derby on its head at Anfield, but Moyes wasn’t prepared to rely on that unconvincing double act to turn this one around. Neither had made a meaningful contribution in the opening 45 minutes with Beckford’s only sight of goal snuffed out by a fine last-ditch tackle from James Tomkins. Beckford made way for Saha after the interval but the expected cavalry charge failed to materialise. Rob Green remained untested as attacks prematurely broke down. Everton looked to Mikel Arteta for inspiration but it wasn’t forthcoming. The Spaniard’s form is a concern and his delivery from set-pieces was way below the standards expected from him. Arteta wasn’t the only one, with the sloppy John Heitinga guilty of poor lapses in concentration. With Everton lacking a cutting edge and the natives increasingly restless, it was crying out for a change and it belatedly arrived midway through the second-half with Bilyaletdinov replacing Anichebe. The reshuffle saw Fellaini pushed up front with Leon Osman switching to the centre and the substitute providing width on the left flank. Finally, Everton came to life. Bilyaletdinov’s opportunities to impress have been severely limited this season but the winger has vowed to stay and fight for his place. The Russian international is hoping to benefit from the departure of Pienaar and he did his chances no harm with a sweet 77th minute equaliser. Neville’s cross was nodded down by Fellaini and Bilyaletdinov unleashed an unstoppable right-footer into the bottom corner. It was his first goal since victory over Portsmouth on the final day of last season. Relief engulfed Goodison and Everton were transformed. Coleman went agonisingly close from distance before the Irishman blazed over after Saha’s strike had been parried by Green. However, the push for victory was swiftly halted as Piquionne rose to nod home Wayne Bridge’s cross. Having only been booked minutes earlier for a petulant off-the-ball kick at Bilyaletdinov, the Frenchman promptly picked up a second yellow for his over-exuberant celebrations. Everton went for broke with Jack Rodwell on for Neville and they made their extra man count deep into stoppage time. Osman’s lofted pass was flicked on by Rodwell and Fellaini swivelled to fire past Green and rescue a share of the spoils. The celebrations didn’t last long. Six home games against West Ham, Wigan, West Brom, Bolton, Newcastle and Wolves have yielded a miserable return of four points. Only Wigan have won fewer top flight home games this season.
As a result, rather than launching a late push for Europe, Everton could spend the coming months looking anxiously over their shoulder.
Diniyar Bilyaletdinov's goal joy tempered by Everton drawing against West Ham
by James Pearce, Liverpool Daily Post
Jan 24 2011
DINIYAR BILYALETDINOV admitted his joy at netting his first goal of the campaign was tempered by Everton’s failure to beat West Ham. The Russian midfielder needed just nine minutes after coming off the bench in the second half to end his eight-month drought. Bilyaletdinov’s sweet right-footed strike from the edge of the box cancelled out Jonathan Spector’s first half opener. However, Frederic Piquionne swiftly put the Premier League’s bottom club 2-1 up and Everton had to rely on Marouane Fellaini’s stoppage time effort to earn a point. “Yes I am pleased (to score) but it is not a big thing as the team only took a point so overall I am not happy,” he said. “We are all disappointed by this result. We did not play well enough in the game and hopefully we can play better next week. I think today was a tough game.” Bilyaletdinov admits a big improvement will be needed for next Saturday’s FA Cup tie with Chelsea at Goodison. “We did not always attack well and I think in the next game we need to be more intelligent with our play,” he added. “We were not clever enough and sometimes did not make the right decisions and that is why we only took a point. “We showed character (to come back) but after the first goal we created chances and could not take them.
“We will work hard in training and hopefully next week in the FA Cup we will be more aggressive.”
David Moyes paid tribute to Louis Saha after the striker came off the bench to help ensure Everton avoided a damaging defeat to West Ham. The Frenchman, who has been troubled by a thigh injury, hadn’t trained all week but played the second half of Saturday’s eventful 2-2 draw. Twice Saha forced fine saves from Hammers keeper Rob Green as he impressed alongside makeshift frontman Marouane Fellaini, who struck a stoppage time equaliser. “Louis is a top player and he made a difference in our performance,” Moyes said. “He hadn’t trained all week and it was a risk to play him for 45 minutes. “He knitted us together and we were able to build through him. After we put Fellaini up with him we got much better.” Meanwhile, West Ham boss Avram Grant branded the decision to send off Frederic Piquionne “a joke” after he was punished for his exuberant goal celebration after making it 2-1 at Goodison. The striker was shown a second yellow card by referee Peter Walton for jumping a hoarding and running to the away fans who mobbed him. It proved costly as with the Hammers down to 10 men Fellaini equalised at the death. “The red card is a joke,” said Grant. “He scored and celebrated with the supporters who deserve it the most. No one deserves it more than them. “I know it’s the law but the law is stupid and it needs to be changed. Are we supposed to remain calm and just shake hands when we score a goal? “I celebrated after scoring in a staff game on Thursday. Next time I will tell my players to go to a funeral when they score. “We dominated the game in the first half and could have scored more. We created a lot of chances and after scoring the second one we were unlucky. shown a lot of commitment. I am very proud of the players.” Meanwhile, Tim Cahill is facing a race against time to be fit for Australia’s Asian Cup semi-final against Uzbekistan on Wednesday. The Everton midfielder has been hampered by a bruised thigh but managed to play 92 minutes of the Socceroos’ 1-0 win after extra time over Iraq in the quarter-finals on Saturday. Harry Kewell scored the only goal of the game. Asked if he would play in the last four, Cahill said: “I hope so. I’m very lucky to have played today so thanks to the physio department, they’ve been fantastic. “I thought I had no chance so I’m surprised to have been out there. I wished we had scored goals earlier so I could’ve come off but it’s fantastic.”
Liverpool's struggles have masked Goodison gloom for Everton FC
by Chris Beesley, Liverpool Daily Post
Jan 24 2011
SIX days before this fixture, Everton ensured that Kenny Dalglish’s Anfield homecoming was not a triumphal one by earning a creditable draw in a Merseyside derby even more emotionally-charged than usual. An open, attacking game was seen as providing both the city’s sides with plenty of positives to take into the remainder of the season after each enduring miserable campaigns to date.
But whereas Liverpool have now leapfrogged their neighbours in the table with a convincing 3-0 rout of a Wolves side that had humbled them at Anfield less than a month previously, David Moyes’s men continue to labour under the same old problems that have dogged their lacklustre displays this term.
Liverpool record their first win under Dalglish in over 20 years proclaimed one internet headline from the day’s early Premier League game, to which one wag responded: “Who says there’s no patience in football these days?” However, once the serious business of this dire encounter had got underway, there were few around Goodison Park in a mood for joking. More positive observers such as Sylvain Distin have predicted that the rivals from across Stanley Park could be going head-to-head in the coming months in search of a final Europa League qualification spot, but while Liverpool swatted away Mick McCarthy’s men with ease on their own turf at Molineux – where reigning champions Chelsea have come unstuck this season – Everton had to get out of jail twice against the division’s bottom club who almost won by default through their hosts’ ineptitude rather than any brilliance shown from themselves. There is no such thing as a routine three points in the Premier League, but how many times can a team of seemingly-impressive footballing quality throw away opportunities in winnable home games and not be dragged into the mire? After all, over half the season has now passed and the ‘Groundhog Days’ just keep coming back. Moyes took a team of relatively limited talent that had finished the previous campaign 17th with 39 points and lost Wayne Rooney to a remarkable fourth place finish in 2005, above their Champions League-winning neighbours. Now, with the folks next door supposedly just regaining consciousness after being in a critical condition for months, Everton are failing to usurp them with a squad that their manager described at the start of the season as the strongest he had worked with. Too many times this season, teams of supposedly inferior quality have come to Goodison Park and bloodied Everton’s nose and on most occasions, Moyes’s dazed troops have failed to muster a response.
Poor Diniyar Bilyaletdinov has looked like he’s been singing from a different hymn sheet to his teammates for most of his time on Merseyside and continues to struggle to impose himself on games. But thankfully on this occasion, he showed another glimpse of his talent for spectacular strikes as he provided the hosts with the flash of inspiration that could and should have turned this contest in their favour. The visitors could have been out of sight before then had their own finishing not been sharper but even this lucky break was not enough to galvanise Everton as Seamus Coleman missed a golden opportunity to secure the victory in a similar position to his winner against Tottenham in the previous home game. This coming Saturday presents Everton with their biggest challenge of the campaign to date as, with their League form stuttering, they bid to keep the season alive by conquering Chelsea in a repeat of the FA Cup final of 2009. Back then, Moyes declared that his side were in touching distance of breaking their trophy duck and that silverware was a certainty on the horizon. In less than two years since, things are threatening to unravel. Rivals – even the likes of Stoke City and Sunderland – seem to outspend them and the likes of Joleon Lescott and now Steven Pienaar have sought greater riches elsewhere, leaving Everton to scratch around for loan signings during the transfer window. Mikel Arteta contemplated a future elsewhere last summer before committing himself to a lucrative five-year contract but continues to struggle to recapture the majestic form that made him such a favourite with Evertonians. And with an attack that glides through opposition defences with all the potency of a plastic knife through frozen butter, Everton’s powder-puff finishing continues to frustrate. A quick glance at the Everton mural around the stadium’s exterior made uncomfortable reading as spectators are reminded that Moyes has broken the club’s transfer record to bring in a trio of strikers in the shape of James Beattie, Andrew Johnson and now the loaned-out Ayegbeni Yakubu, all of whom have failed to replicate their previously prolific scoring ratios with the Nigerian a shadow of the 21-goal hit-man in his debut season since returning from an Achilles tendon injury. Almost nine years of groundwork by Moyes have improved Everton’s fortunes greatly from the ailing club that he inherited, but the strength of the foundations he has put in place are now being severely tested.
Everton FC manager David Moyes on a mission to sign striker in the January window
by James Pearce, Liverpool Daily Post
Jan 24 2011
Everton FC manager David MoyesDAVID MOYES will step up his search for a new striker this week in the wake of Saturday’s 2-2 home draw with West Ham United. The Goodison manager was indebted to a stoppage time equaliser from Marouane Fellaini as his side fought back to claim a point against the Premier League’s bottom club. Moyes bemoaned Everton’s lack of firepower and admitted he’s desperate to boost his squad before the transfer window shuts. However, a lack of cash means the manager is restricted to signing someone on loan until the end of the season. Having failed in a bid to land Monaco forward Dieumerci Mbokani, Moyes could now target Hoffenheim striker Demba Ba.
“We are lacking a bit of creativity or a player who can score you a goal out of nothing,” Moyes said.
“I would like a forward and I’ve been saying that for a while. I’ll try but it will be in the loan market.”
Everton came to life against West Ham after Fellaini was pushed up front midway through the second-half, but Moyes has ruled out playing the Belgian there on a regular basics. “I thought Fellaini going up-front changed the game,” he said. “We had someone to play off and it gave us a chance. We were a bigger threat with him up there but I don’t really want to play him there. “Last season he played more advanced for us and he plays behind a striker for Belgium but I see him as a top central midfield player. But he’s a threat wherever he plays because he’s a good player.” Added Moyes: “After impressive victories over Tottenham and Scunthorpe followed by a hard-fought draw at Anfield, Moyes admitted Saturday represented a backward step for his side. Diniyar Bilyaletdinov came off the bench to cancel out Jonathan Spector’s opener but Frederic Piquionne nodded West Ham back in front. The French striker’s celebrations with the away fans earned him a second booking and Fellaini’s late strike ensured Everton made their extra man count. It left Moyes’ side in 13th place and only five points clear of the relegation zone.We didn’t get up to the heights needed to win the game and after some good results we have dropped down today.” “We weren’t up to the pitch of it in the first half but I thought we got better and I have to give them credit for coming back.
“When we got it back to 1-1 I thought we would go on to win the game but their second goal destroyed that thought. “After the sending off we made a change straight away. At 2-1 down we would have gone for it anyway but when we saw the red card it gave us the chance to throw the kitchen sink at them. “When it went to 2-2 we could have used the last few minutes better than we did to try to get a winner. “We are trying to look for a new formula at the moment and are playing a different system with one or two new players getting introduced to the team. We all want to try to get up the league but we’re struggling to turn games at home into wins.” Moyes praised the impact of substitute Bilyaletdinov and leapt to the defence of Mikel Arteta who endured a poor afternoon at the heart of the Everton midfield. “Bily coming on gave us something slightly different and we have missed his goals from last season,” he said. “For his goal he took the ball brilliantly with his bad foot and we needed it because we were running out of ideas. “In fairness to Mikel, he had flu this week. After the Liverpool game he was off for a few days and only trained a bit on Thursday and Friday. “I thought in the first half him and Fellaini tried to win us the game. In doing so we were maybe emptying the middle of the park.” Meanwhile, the future of striker James Vaughan remains uncertain. A loan move to Celtic has fallen through but he could still leave Goodison before the transfer window shuts.
Everton 2 west ham 2
From PHIL THOMAS at Goodison Park
24 Jan 2011 The Sun
IT wasn't exactly from the Jack Dee school of one-liners, but for the Frown Prince of Upton Park it was as close as you will get. Future apparently guaranteed and having outplayed an Everton side always tough to beat at home, surely Avram Grant felt more secure at last? Maybe the twinkle in the eyes gave the truth away, but you would never have guessed it from the deadpan delivery. Asked if getting the owners' backing made him more comfortable, he hit back: "So you think it can be comfortable in football? "I don't think so. In football everything, including the position of the manager, is temporary. "I treat every game like it is my last AND my first, so I always need to do my job for the short term and long term." Well if Saturday was evidence, he should be planning for the latter. Seven days on from what we all thought was his Upton Park farewell, waving to the fans and tossing his scarf into the stand, his name echoed around Goodison from the travelling masses. How different to his last trip to Merseyside, when the only chants from the away end were mocking ones in a Liverpool victory. This time their bellows to "give us a wave" were genuine in the extreme. And with good reason, too. No one will be pleased at leaking a stoppage-time goal to rob them of a deserved win, as Marouane Fellaini's 92nd-minute drive had done. But when you are looking for silver linings they were in plentiful supply. Scott Parker masterfully led the way to prove further how crucial he is to the survival cause. MC Hammer, you might say. But not far behind were Mark Noble alongside him in midfield, Luis Boa Morte and Jon Spector on the flanks and Freddie Piquionne leading the line. Matty Upson and James Tomkins were rocks at the back, while Wayne Bridge put last week's horror debut against Arsenal firmly behind him. How unjust that all they had to show was a point, as Spector's and Piquionne's goals were cancelled out by Diniyar Bilyaletdinov and Fellaini. For Grant, it is only a matter of time before his West Ham vision starts coming to fruition. He said: "Of course it is easier for the players when there is no problem off the pitch. But even before that, I must say, the players were very focused. If we play like this, yes, we can kick on. We've played many games like this but today we were more efficient. "It is frustrating because we played well and deserved more." Grant was too focused to hear his name chanted, and offered a belated wave back through the media. He said: "In the game I am very concentrated so I did not hear it, but it is touching. I know fans are only behind the team when they are winning, but ours are behind us in difficult times. Look at the points we have taken in the last month and part of that is because of the supporters." After Piquionne's crazy dismissal, Grant is without firepower for Wednesday's Carling Cup semi-final return at Birmingham. Victor Obinna is already banned, now Piquionne joins him, while Carlton Cole is struggling. Fellaini's strike apart, Piquionne's red card was a rare blip, coming for celebrating in the crowd having been booked earlier for a petulant flick at Bilyaletdinov. Grant said: "For me it's a joke. I know this is the law but it's stupid - what do we tell them now, be very calm and just shake hands? "When I score when I'm playing with the staff on Thursdays, I celebrate. I hope they don't give me a red card... " With that he was gone, heading for the team bus and the trip home. Headlining the Palladium, it is safe to say, is still some way off.
STAR MAN - SCOTT PARKER (West Ham)
EVERTON: Howard 6, Neville 5 (Rodwell 6), Heitinga 4, Distin 6, Baines 6, Coleman 4, Arteta 5, Fellaini 7, Osman 6, Anichebe 5 (Bilyaletdinov 7), Beckford 6 (Saha 6). Subs not used: Mucha, Hibbert, Jagielka, Gueye. Booked: Fellaini.
WEST HAM: Green 6, Faubert 6, Tomkins 7, Upson 7, Bridge 7, Hines 7 (Sears 6, Reid 5), Spector 7, Noble 8, Parker 9, Boa Morte 8, Piquionne 8. Subs not used: Boffin, Gabbidon, McCarthy, Barrera, Nouble. Booked: Parker, Piquionne. Sent Off: Piquionne.
REF: P Walton 6
Tony Cottee Column: Piquionne’s actions cost West Ham at Everton
Tony Cottee, Newham Recorder
FREDDIE PIQUIONNE knew he was on a yellow card and you must act responsibly. He didn’t and we paid the price. It was a fantastic goal, but he had only just made a silly tackle three minutes earlier and the players know if you run into the crowd you will get booked. You can’t blame referee Peter Walton as he is only following the rules, Which for the record a complete nonsense and I have been saying so for years. Football is an entertainment business and celebrating a goal is part of that. Who could forget Ryan Giggs scoring that wonderful winning goal at Villa Park in the semi-final? The celebration was almost as dramatic and sensational as the goal and nowadays you could get booked for that. Could you imagine if he had already received a yellow card and he was sent off for celebrating that wonderful goal? Of course health and safety think its dangerous to go into the crowd which is why the rule is there, but a little girl at the front is going to get a hug from Piquionne and for her parents who have come to the game at great cost, it is a wonderful memory to take away from the game. Obviously if he celebrated or goaded the Everton fans after scoring then of course a booking should be handed out as that can incite a crowd and cause trouble, but celebrating success with the loyal people who watch you play week in, week out should not be penalised. Its so frustrating because playing with 10 men for those last few minutes certainly had an impact in the way we played and no doubt contributed to the second equaliser. Its natural when leading away from home and minutes left to defend deep. Its mental. You put everything into trying to defend well and the back four keep backing off towards goal and in doing so the others follow. It leaves the one striker you have isolated and gives you little chance to retain possession and keep the opposition at bay. We have struggled to defend leads all season and a big factor is our inability to stop the cross and clear danger. Tony Cottee was talking to Matt Diner
Grant slams laws after Freddie gets early bath
Dave Evans, West Ham correspondent Tuesday, 25 January, 2011
Newsham Recorder
WEST HAM boss Avram Grant has slammed the rules that forced referee Peter Walton to send off Freddie Piquionne during Saturday’s 2-2 draw with Everton at Goodison Park. Already booked, the Frenchman was given his marching orders after jumping the advertising barrier and celebrating what he thought was the winning goal with just five minutes to go of the Premier League clash. Piquionne was sent packing and Everton took full advantage to grab a late equaliser, but Grant believed it should never have come to that. “For me, Piquionne’s red card was a joke,” slammed the West Ham boss. “He scored a goal and wanted to celebrate with the supporters. “Who, more than the supporterts, deserves to celebrate a goal with the player who has just scored it? “Our fans came all the way here to the game, they were behind us throughout the match and they wanted to celebrate with us.”
Piquionne had been booked the first time when the linesman flagged for a late tackle and though the referee played the advantage, he went back to yellow card the Frenchman at the end of the move. That put the striker on a tightrope, but it seems that he must have forgotten that, because when his super header hit the net he wheeled away towards the Hammers’ fans, and the rest is painful history. “I know it’s the law, but if the law’s stupid, then we need to change it,” said Grant. “What do we do, tell the players to shake hands and calmly say ‘thank you’?” “Football is an emotional game. When I score a goal in our Thursday staff match, I celebrate and now I just hope they won’t start giving me a red card too! “I know that Frederic Piquionne has to respect the ruled, but what do I tell a player who has scored an important goal for us – don’t celebrate?” Well, when that player has already been booked, when you are bottom of the league, but have gone in front with five minutes to go away from home, then yes, you do tell the player not to jump a barrier and cuddle the crowd. It is common sense, and it is that lack of common sense that was to cost West Ham two points towards their survival battle.
Tim Cahill: I’m not part of SEC’s probe
By Jay Fitzgerald
Tuesday, January 25, 2011 – Boston Herald
Boston Herald General Economics Reporter
Jay Fitzgerald has been a journalist and blogger for years. He's now the general economics reporter for the Boston Herald. Tim Cahill’s lawyer said the former treasurer isn’t the subject of a federal probe into a former Goldman Sachs employee who worked on Cahill’s gubernatorial campaign last year. The Securities and Exchange Commission has issued subpoenas to new state Treasurer Steve Grossman’s office, seeking any records or e-mails related to Goldman Sachs’ dealings with the office under Cahill and his campaign. The SEC is believed to be probing whether then-Goldman Sachs vice president Neil Morrison, a one-time top official in Cahill’s treasury department, broke regulatory rules by acting as an unpaid adviser to Cahill’s 2010 campaign. “Tim Cahill is not the subject of the SEC inquiry,” said a statement yesterday issued by Cahill’s attorney, Joseph L. Demeo, of Boston. “The campaign’s understanding is that the SEC, in performing its oversight role of Municipal Securities Dealers, is seeking information about Goldman Sachs and Neil Morrison.” Last year, Goldman stopped underwriting state bonds after Morrison’s role with the Cahill campaign came to light.. Cahill, who left office last week after his term expired, declined comment yesterday, as did officials at Goldman Sachs and the SEC. Morrison, who is listed by the Financial Industry Regulatory Advisors as no longer working at Goldman Sachs, couldn’t be reached for comment.
Everton FC latest: Leighton Baines sets sights on Chelsea scalp as Crystal Palace eye James Vaughan again
by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
Jan 25 2011
LEIGHTON BAINES has joined Marouane Fellaini in targeting a lengthy run in this season’s FA Cup.
Everton take their latest step on the road to Wembley on Saturday when they entertain holders Chelsea. Baines was part of the team that was defeated 2-1 by the Londoners in the final of the competition 18 months ago. And having acquired a taste for the FA Cup, the left-back is determined to go one better this time around. “We want to have a good run in the Cup,” said Baines. “Chelsea were the team that beat us in the final two years ago, and on the way to that game we beat some good teams like Liverpool, Aston Villa and Manchester United. “Chelsea are a big hurdle but one we have got to overcome if we have any ambitions to win a cup competition.” Everton go into the game on the back of a disappointing 2-2 home draw with bottom side West Ham United on Saturday, a result that keeps It took an injury-time Fellaini strike to prevent David Moyes’s side from falling to an embarrassing defeat and extend their mini-unbeaten run to four games. But the Belgian admits that there was little to smile about at Goodison at the weekend, and that the FA Cup represents a chance for Everton to salvage something from an underachieving campaign. The players weren’t happy, and neither was the manager,” said Fellaini.” It was a bad game for Everton. The draw was no good for us. “We’ll take the point but the focus has got to be on the FA Cup because it’s so important for us here. “It was difficult when we went behind, and we tried to come back. I scored, but it was a tough afternoon and nobody is happy with the outcome. “For me to get my first Premier League goal of the campaign was nice but that’s not what is important. The Cup is our focus now.” Tim Cahill will miss the clash against Chelsea as he competes for Australia in the closing stages of the Asian Cup in Qatar. Cahill shrugged off injury to play 90 minutes in Saturday’s 1-0 quarter-final win over Iraq, and is now expected to line up for his country in tomorrow’s semi-final against Uzbekistan. “I’m very lucky to have played against Iraq so thanks to the physio department, they’ve been fantastic,” said the 31-year-old. “I thought I had no chance, so I’m surprised to have been out there.” Meanwhile, Crystal Palace are confident they can re-sign James Vaughan on loan for the remainder of the campaign. Celtic were willing to pay a £250,000 loan fee for the 22-year-old until his 16-minute appearance as a substitute in the Merseyside derby earlier this month. It meant the Glasgow side would have been Vaughan’s third club of the season, which is against FIFA regulations. Vaughan scored five goals during a spell at Palace earlier in the campaign, and the npower Championship side are now ready to take the forward back to Selhurst Park. In other transfer news, Hoffenheim striker Demba Ba, who was one of a number of players under consideration by Moyes, has joined West Ham United on loan until the end of the season.
Mark Lawrenson: Why Everton FC can dream of FA Cup glory
Liverpool Daily Post Jan 25 2011
0ShareAdd a commentRecommend EVERTON are facing possibly their biggest game of the season – and they should be doing so with confidence. As they found out in the final two seasons ago, Chelsea don’t give up their grip in the FA Cup easily. But Everton are on a little bit of an unbeaten run since New Year’s Day and that should give a confidence lift that’s so vital in knockout competitions. When you consider the win over Tottenham, followed by a fine derby draw at Anfield and then a less than impressive 2-2 with West Ham, you can still see the battling qualities and team spirit shining through. Saturday’s performance was way below par and they got a bit lucky with the Piquionne sending off, but you’ve still got to battle back and keep pressing. David Moyes knows the problems this season all too well. He doesn’t have a guaranteed goalscorer to call on and is severely limited in what he can do about it. And then there’s the fact that Mikel Arteta hasn’t been anywhere near his best. With the loss of Steven Pienaar, it’s vital Arteta finds his best form and the incentive of knocking a big gun out of the FA Cup can quicken that process. But Everton are only a couple of elements from being a very good side again – this weekend is the perfect time to prove it.
Everton go out of the FA Youth Cup at Middlesbrough
by Chris Wright, Liverpool Daily Post
Jan 25 2011
EVERTON’S Youth team went out of the FA Youth Cup as they lost 1-0 against Middlesbrough at the Riverside Stadium last night. A Charlie Wyke header in the first half was enough to give the home side victory and set up a fifth round clash at Nottingham Forest.
Everton FC star Tim Cahill set to start in Australia's Asia Cup semi-final clash Uzbekistan
by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Echo
Jan 25 2011
AUSTRALIA coach Holger Osieck has confirmed that Everton’s Tim Cahill will start tomorrow afternoon’s Asian Cup semi final against Uzbekistan. Cahill had played the quarter-final against Iraq with simultaneous ankle and thigh problems, and was considered a major doubt for the match. But the Socceroos manager confirmed Cahill’s position, saying: “There’s no worry about Tim Cahill at all, he is fit, he’s in good spirit and there is no question about him playing tomorrow.” The Everton star is lucky to be playing after Australia progressed to the semi-final through a goal from former Red Harry Kewell. “I’m very lucky to have played against Iraq so thanks to the physio department, they’ve been fantastic,” said Cahill. “I thought I had no chance, so I’m surprised to have been out there. “I wished we’d scored goals earlier so I could have come off, but it’s fantastic, great for Harry, great for the team, great for team spirit.”
Middlesbrough Youth 1 Everton FC Youth 0: Charlie Wyke header put Blues out of the FA Youth Cup at the Riverside
by Chris Wright, Liverpool Echo
Jan 25 2011
EVERTON went out of the FA Youth Cup last night as they lost 1-0 against Middlesbrough at the Riverside Stadium. A Charlie Wyke header on 20 minutes was enough to send the home through to a fifth-round tie at Nottingham Forest. Neil Dewsnip’s side had beaten Boro in last season’s competition through an extra-time goal from Conor McAleny but the Teesiders gained revenge. It was a disappointing night for Everton, who went into the match on an eight-match unbeaten run and sitting top of the Group C table of the FA Premier Academy League. Blues keeper Connor Roberts was alert to deny Matthew Dolan on 17 minutes, but soon after Boro took the lead. Johan Hammar cleared one cross, but Dolan returned the ball back and Wyke headed in. Boro were in the ascendancy at this stage and Roberts saved well from Jake Fowler on 26 minutes. As the half drew on Everton saw penalty appeals waved away despite the ball appearing to hit Ben Gibson’s arm. Wyke almost doubled the home side’s lead but headed wide from Dolan’s cross. Then just before half-time Boro keeper Connor Ripley palmed away Jordan Barrow’s long-range effort and Hallam Hope couldn’t force home the rebound. At the other end Ryan Brobbel set up Fowler, but his chip hit the bar.
In the second half Everton pressed for an equaliser. Luke Garbutt saw a low drive tipped wide by Ripley and Anton Forrester fired just wide. Barrow headed into the side-netting from Forrester’s cross, while on the hour Everton had a goal ruled out for offside as Hope’s header didn’t count. With 20 minutes to go Tom Donegan was denied by Ripley and then Hope also couldn’t find a way past the in-form Boro keeper.
EVERTON YOUTH: Roberts, Browning, Bidwell, Murphy, Hammar, Lundstram, Barrow, Donegan, Hope, Forrester, Garbutt. Subs: Orenuga, Fitzgibbon, Dobie, Thomas, Higgins.
IAN SNODIN: Wide-boy Mikel Arteta can still be a force for Everton FC
Liverpool Echo Jan 25 2011
MIKEL ARTETA is a fabulous footballer who would probably admit himself that he is not playing fabulously at the moment. In fact it hasn’t really happened for Mikel all season. But regardless of his current form, he is one of those players you would always want in your team. I’ve heard some supporters suggesting that maybe the time is right to give Mikel a rest and promote Jack Rodwell into the starting line-up. The argument goes that Mikel would be able to find his form again in the reserves and come back showing the kind of style that was so influential in recent seasons. For me, that doesn’t work. Reserve football is not what it used to be and it simply isn’t the environment for a player like Arteta to rediscover his best form again. He’s not playing international football either, so for me the only way forward is to persevere with Mikel in the first team. But there is something we could try, and it’s a switch which has paid dividends in the past. When Mikel Arteta played wide for us previously, he proved a major source of chances and goals. He may benefit from being asked to play in either of the wide positions again, which of course creates room for Rodwell to come into the starting line-up. I don’t think leaving Arteta out of the Everton side will make us a better team. He is an outlet, always wants the ball no matter how he is playing and he has proved in the Anfield derby that he is capable of delivering a setpiece which can lead to a goal. Sometimes a subtle switch of position is all it takes for a player to find his feet again, and it’s worth trying with Mikel Arteta. Only Mikel though! I’m totally in agreement with David Moyes that Marouane Fellaini has to continue in central midfield, despite his impact in the final third on Saturday. Felli is an outstanding central midfield player and is performing well in that role. I was also delighted to see Diniyar Bilyaletdinov come off the bench and score such a good goal on Saturday. Everybody at Goodison will tell you that Bily is one of the nicest lads at the club and his attitude, even though he hasn’t been involved as often as he’d like, has been impeccable. Saturday was a small reward for that attitude and hopefully he will get even more rewards in the future. He clearly has ability and could still have a significant influence on the rest of this season. Sub-standard rules of having seven substitutes is so damaging EVERTON’S subs bench was a very strong one on Saturday. But seeing seven players of the quality of Saha, Jagielka, Bilylatedinov, Rodwell, Mucha, Gueye and Hibbert made me wonder ... do we really need that many senior players available on matchdays? I think the decision to have seven substitutes on-duty for every match is an unhelpful one that is ultimately damaging. Because so many players are needed for first team duty, they are missing out on reserve football so that they don’t get injured and are fresh enough to play if called upon. It must be soul destroying for some players to train week after week after week, just to sit on a substitutes bench. I would much rather be playing competitive football for the reserves rather than twiddling my thumbs on the bench hoping to get a 15-minute run-out if I’m lucky. Seven subs is simply too much. Why not bring it back down to, say, four? That would allow you select a goalkeeper and cover for each department of the team. And the three players then spared from senior duty would be able to enjoy some beneficial match action for the reserves. That, for me, is a much more sensible way to go. Sell our skipper? Nev-er! THE reasons for Saturday’s poor show against West ham were clear. Simply too many players had off-days at the same time. You can normally carry one or maybe two players having poor performances. But on Saturday there were five or six not at it. There’s not much a manager can do about that, but what David Moyes can do is bring in a new face in the next six days. We need a striker badly – and I know from experience that a new face around the training ground gives everyone a lift. It also lifts the crowd and you could tell on Saturday that the Evertonians need a boost from somewhere. What’s just as important as recruiting some new blood, though, is keeping hold of the players we have. David Moyes needs to generate funds – and with the presence of Tony Hibbert and Seamus Coleman in the squad you could say that maybe right-back is an area where Everton are well catered for. But Phil Neville is a massive influence on the Blues and any Spurs interest in him must be resisted. FA Cup fever gripping Goodison CUP FEVER is gripping Goodison this week. I was in Middlesbrough last night watching Everton’s youngsters in the FA Youth Cup – and I’ll be at Goodison on Saturday when Chelsea come to town for the FA Cup tie. In many respects the pressure is off Everton. Chelsea will be favourites, but we all got a taste for Wembley – twice – a couple of years ago. Players, manager and fans will want to experience that again and the atmosphere at Goodison should be crackling on Saturday. Goal-scoring celebration rules need changing PEOPLE might say I’m not the best person to be commenting on goal celebrations – and they may have a point – but I totally agree with Avram Grant regarding Frederic Piqionne’s ridiculous red card. As far as I’m concerned players should be allowed to celebrate with their own fans, take their shirts off and show their excitement and joy at scoring a goal in whatever way they want. The law is Completely wrong.
Everton FC's Leighton Baines hoping to forge a new left-sided partnership
by David Prentice, Liverpool Echo
Jan 25 2011
LEIGHTON BAINES is hoping to forge a devastating new left-flank partnership at Everton, after the departure of Steven Pienaar to Spurs. Interplay between the Goodison full-back and the South African schemer has been a regular feature of Everton’s attacking play this season and has helped Baines to a remarkable eight assists already this campaign. But following Pienaar’s exit the Blues defender says he now hopes he can develop a new rapport. “It’s a shame that Steven’s left,” said Baines.
“He was a big player for us and he’ll be missed by all the lads because everyone liked him, but as happens so often at clubs people move on. It doesn’t matter what player it is.
“Manchester United have lost players like Cristiano Ronaldo in the past and the club has moved on, hopefully someone’s ready to come in and do the same job. “There’s a lot of options. Victor played out there against Liverpool, and did really well in the second half, Bily has been doing well for us lately when he’s been given the opportunity and I’m sure he’s been relishing the opportunity to get a run in the side. “He’ll be looking at it now and really wanting to have a good go from now until the end of the season. “It’s important whoever does come in can do a good job for the team.” Baines added: “There’s no new players so it will be somebody I’m already familiar with, somebody I play with daily. “I did have a good relationship with Steven, we did have a good understanding together but I’m sure with a few games, if I can keep playing myself, whoever comes in I can get a similar relationship going.” The full-back has been one of the few players at Goodison this season to produce a consistently good level of performance, but Baines insists he isn’t getting carried away with his own personal form. “From a personal point of view I’ve had some good performances this season but, like anybody, I’ve also had some games when it’s not gone so well,” he said. “The important thing is not to get too carried away with either – not to get too ahead of yourself, or too down when I have a good or a bad game and just keep trying to play consistently really. “You can’t play out of your skin every week, but it’s important that if you don’t have a good game you can follow it up and get back to your normal levels.” Baines has already enjoyed his best season for goals at Everton, with spectacular strikes against Tottenham, Manchester City and Scunthorpe.
The Premier League goals in particular have been significant strikes, earning a point at White Hart Lane and a memorable win at Manchester City. Baines insists he doesn’t want to stop there.
“I’d like to chip in with a few goals,” he said. “I feel like I should be scoring three or four a season and trying to set goals up as well is part of my game so to contribute to those things is important to the team. “It’s getting to that point of the season where if you can put a run together, two or three wins, it can make a big difference to where we are in the league table and start edging us closer to where we want to be. “We’re in a position we don’t want to be in at the moment. If we can put a run together we can start picking some of the other sides off and get closer to the sides who are sixth and seventh in the table.”
Diniyar Bilyaletdinov calling for intelligent play from Everton FC
by David Prentice, Liverpool Echo
Jan 25 2011
DINIYAR BILYALETDINOV wants Everton to be more “intelligent” and “aggressive” if they are to keep their season alive in Saturday’s FA Cup tie with Chelsea. Saturday’s disappointing draw with West Ham left Everton in 13th place in the Premier League, seven points behind sixth-placed Sunderland, but closer to the relegation zone. And that performance in the Premier League has heaped added pressure on Saturday’s lunchtime visit of the Londoners to Goodison Park with a place in the last 16 at stake. The Russian, who scored a sweetly struck volley to equalise Jonathan Spector’s first half strike on Saturday, said: “We did not always attack well and I think in the next game we need to be more intelligent with our play. "We were not clever enough and sometimes did not make the right decisions and that is why we only took a point. “We showed character, but after the first goal we created chances and could not take them – we will work hard in training and hopefully next week in the FA Cup we will be more aggressive.” Bilyaletdinov scored seven times in his debut season in English football. This season, however, he hasn’t made seven starting appearances so far.
He said: “I was pleased to score on Saturday, but it is not a big thing as the team only took a point, so overall I am not happy. “We are all disappointed by the result, we did not play well enough in the game and hopefully we can play better next week.” The Republic of Ireland have called up Seamus Coleman in a provisional 29-man squad to face Wales in the opening game of the Carling Nations Cup next month. Coleman is still waiting for his first cap but could figure in the February 8 clash at the Aviva Stadium. Everton target, Dieumerci Mbokani, meanwhile, insists he will definitely leave Monaco in January despite the French club having sacking their manager Guy Lacombe earlier in the month. Laurent Banide has been appointed as replacement, but even a change in coaches has failed to change the mind of the Congolese striker. “I stand by my decision,” said the 25-year-old. “I still want to leave. I haven’t changed my opinion. It has come too late. I have told the vice-president, Michel Aubery, that if he had an offer for me, he must accept it.” Before moving to France, Mbokani spent three excellent seasons with Belgian side Standard Liege, scoring 35 goals in 81 appearances.
Everton FC rumour mill: Mbokani and Krancjar in, Neville and Rodwell out?
By Gareth Dowling
Jan 25 2011
Although Everton feel they have been priced out of a move for striker Dieumerci Mbokani, Monaco seem to be prepared to let the striker go out on loan this month. Sunderland and Hoffenheim had also been interested, although the latter's may be cooled following their capture of Ryan Babel today from Liverpool. Source: Afrikan Soccer
Neville out?
With Ledley King looking unlikely to be included in Spurs' 25 man squad for the Premier League due to his chronic injuries, and Jonathan Woodgate still to prove his fitness, Harry Redknapp may look to strengthen his back four with a bid for the Everton captain, Phil Neville. Harry has enquired before, but has made no official bid for the former England international and Champions League winner, who would add great experience to Tottenham's Premier League and Champions League campaigns.
It is unlikely Moyes will not want to lose yet another player, with incming prospects still looking bleak.
Source: Mirror Football
Kranjcar in?
Everton-Tottenham negotiation teams are in contact again this month, this time with the prospect of Croation midfielder Niko Kranjcar moving to Goodison Park. This would seemingly be a direct replacement for the recently departed Steven Pienaar, that is if Moyes can bring Spurs' valuation of their out of favour midfielder down from £5m.
Source: Goal
Rodwell out?
David Moyes will be looking to hold on tight to his prize asset Jack Rodwell who has again been linked with long term admirers Manchester United. Moyes has already seen Steven Pienaar sold, and Yakubu leave on loan, and will be looking to keep the rest of his squad together at least until the summer when he can really plan to reinforce.
Source: IM Scouting
John Terry warns Everton and Sunderland: Chelsea are no southern softies
By Dan Levene
Jan 25 2011 Fulham & Hammersmith Chronicle
Look out Everton and Sunderland – Chelsea are no 'southern softies'. So says John Terry, who captained his side to a thumping 4-0 win at highly-rated Bolton last night. With games coming up at Goodison at Saturday and the Stadium of Light on Tuesday, Terry says its time the Blues employed a bit of London pride to beat their northern opposition. Asked if opponents on Merseyside and Wearside might think of the Blues as lacking the spirit for a fight in the north, Terry said: “Like we're southern softies?! Well I think people might have that impression, but we're certainly not that as we saw (at The Reebok Stadium): we can mix it with the likes of Bolton, who on their day can play very good football. “But when they do put it in the box, we've got people like Iva (Branislav Ivanovic), and myself, and Didier (Drogba) who comes back on set plays, and we're ready to fight. “I think that's a key as well: moving forward we have to fight, and earn the right to play first.”
Former Everton FC striker Andy Gray sacked by Sky Sports after sexism row
By Greg O'Keeffe Jan 25 2011
FORMER Everton striker and Sky Sports football pundit Andy Gray has been sacked following his comments about assistant referee Sian Massey. Sky Sports announced Gray was dismissed "in response to new evidence of unacceptable and offensive behaviour" following an "off-air incident that took place in December 2010", having been handed a warning following his comments about Massey. Sky Sports' managing director Barney Francis, who yesterday disciplined both Gray and Richard Keys for their comments, said he had "no hesitation" in summarily terminating Gray's contract. The 55-year-old former centre forward, who moved to Everton in November 1983 for £250,000, enjoyed two seasons with the Toffees. He lifted the FA Cup in May 1984, and a year later won the League Championship and then scored when Everton triumphed in the final of the European Cup Winners' Cup. It is not clear whether the fresh incident which sealed his dismissal is a YouTube clip that emerged today, during which Gray is heard making sexist comments to a co-presenter before going on air. Gray, Sky's expert pundit for almost two decades in a long standing partnership with Keys, was originally suspended yesterday after a Sunday newspaper published a transcript of the pair criticising female match official Sian Massey during Wolverhampton Wanderers' match with Liverpool on Saturday. The pair discussed Massey's appointment for the game at Molineux on Saturday, speaking when they believed their microphones were switched off. They agreed that female officials "don't know the offside rule", with Keys adding: "I can guarantee you there'll be a big one today. Kenny [Dalglish] will go potty." Keys went to remark on the newspaper column by the West Ham United vice chair Karren Brady, saying: "The game's gone mad. See charming Karren Brady this morning complaining about sexism? Yeah. Do me a favour, love."
Brady said the comments made her "blood boil" while the England captain Rio Ferdinand labelled them "prehistoric". Keys apologised to Massey, who was this afternoon stood down from her engagement to run the line tonight at a League Two match between Crewe Alexandra and Bradford City, by telephone on Sunday night.
Everton FC defender Leighton Baines believes Blues can cause an FA Cup upset against Chelsea
Liverpool Echo
Jan 26 2011
LEIGHTON BAINES is under no illusions that the fourth round FA Cup draw could have been far kinder to Everton. The Toffees reward for smoothly navigating a potentially tricky third round tie at Scunthorpe United was, after all, reigning Premier League champions and cup holders Chelsea. But he insists the Blues are no strangers to doing things the hard way in the world’s most famous cup competition. On their way to the final in 2009, Everton beat a host of the Premier League’s leading lights and the left-back knows they will have to do the same again if they are to progress to the latter stages of the competition. The Kirkby-born star scored in the 5-1 hammering of Scunthorpe United but knows the competition will only get tougher from here on in. “We want to have a good run in the Cup, Chelsea were the team that beat us in the final two years ago,” he said. “On the way to that game we beat some good teams like Middlesbrough, Aston Villa, Liverpool and Manchester United. “Chelsea are a big hurdle but one we have got to overcome if we have any ambitions to win a cup competition.” Baines played in every round of Everton’s run to Wembley two years ago and admits the highlight was the semi-final success against Manchester United. The defender scored in the shoot-out and thoroughly enjoyed his first appearance at the ‘home of football’ – even if his second was less successful. “The semi-final was a big occasion for all of us really and it was nice for the game to be at Wembley,” said Baines. “To go to penalties gave it some added drama but to take a penalty and score one was nice as well.”
Phil Jagielka set to return to boost Everton FC’s FA Cup dream
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
Jan 26 2011
PHIL JAGIELKA is poised to help shore up Everton’s defence as they attempt to overcome Chelsea in the FA Cup on Saturday. The England defender has missed the Toffees’ last four games, when a normally water-tight defence has shipped six goals, and David Moyes is hoping his return will help the Blues deal with Chelsea striker Didier Drogba who found form spectacularly on Monday night.
Jagielka, 28, was an unused substitute for the disappointing 2-2 draw with West Ham, but will train this week after recovering from a thigh strain, and is set to return to the side for the weekend’s fourth round tie. The Everton boss is also waiting to see how Louis Saha’s thigh responds to testing this week, after the French striker managed to play 45 minutes of Saturday’s Premier League game.
Ideally he would have Saha, who scored twice against Chelsea at Goodison last season, and Jagielka in his starting line-up for the 12.30pm kick off against the Londoners. Meanwhile, the Blues will hope to have Tim Cahill back at Finch Farm next week after he helped Australia into their first ever Asia Cup final as the Socceroos beat Uzbekistan 6-0 to set-up a final with Japan on Saturday.
Cahill, who came into the game nursing a slight thigh injury, played for 71 minutes in Doha before being replaced by Leeds United midfielder Neil Kilkenny.The 31-year-old started the game just behind Harry Kewell, and it was the former Liverpool man that gave Australia a fourth-minute lead. Cahill then helped the Aussies to double their advantage as he laid on the second goal for defender Sasa Ognenovski on 34 minutes. After the break Blackpool’s David Carney made it 3-0 on 65 minutes, and soon after coach Holger Osieck gave Cahill a little extra rest with their place in the final all but secure. The midfielder is likely to fly back to the UK early next week after the final, but it is unclear whether he will be available for game against Arsenal at the Emirates on Tuesday, February 1.
Tottenham set to return with new bid for Everton FC’s Phil Neville
by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
Jan 26 2011
EVERTON are braced for another attempt by Tottenham Hotspur to lure Phil Neville away from Goodison. Tottenham were given no encouragement earlier this month when they indicated their interest in Neville, with David Moyes declaring he would not welcome any offers for the player.
However, Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp remains keen on the 33-year-old as he looks to add experience, leadership and a genuine right-back to his squad. The Londoners possess the significant lure of Champions League football and the prospect of helping bolster a title challenge that has faltered in recent weeks. Redknapp has already taken one player away from Goodison this month with the signing of Steven Pienaar, and has not given up hope of Neville following suit. But Moyes is prepared to fight tooth and nail to retain his captain given the huge influence the former Manchester United man holds in the Everton dressing room and his versatility on the pitch.
Meanwhile, Leon Osman admits the Goodison outfit cannot keep relying on late goals if they are to start climbing the Premier League table. Everton have conceded the first goal in four of their last five league games and required a last-gasp Marouane Fellaini strike to earn a draw against rock-bottom West Ham United on Saturday. It was the fourth game in which they have scored in injury time this season, three of which have earned them a point. But while lauding that never-say-die attitude, Osman concedes Moyes’s men have to address their slow starts to recent games. “I don't think an Everton team has given up on a game until the referee blows the final whistle,” said the midfielder. “A few times this season we've managed to salvage something in the last minute.
“It's positive, from that point of view, but we've got to start winning games from the first minute rather than in the last minute.” Despite the disappointing draw at the weekend, it extended Everton’s unbeaten run to four games. And Osman added: “We felt as though we were picking up some pace now and were getting a bit of momentum. But it's still a point gained, rather than two points lost on the day.” Next up for Everton is Saturday’s FA Cup fourth round visit of holders Chelsea, and Osman believes the Goodison crowd have their part to play. “Hopefully we'll have a good run again,” he said. “Chelsea are one of the top sides in the country, if not Europe, but hopefully we'll get the crowd behind us and have a good cup tie.”
Everton FC team-mates support Andy Gray after Sky Sports sexism sacking
by Rob Pattinson, Liverpool Daily Post
Jan 26 2011
SACKED Sky presenter Andy Gray was defended by former Everton colleagues following his shock dismissal in the ongoing sexism row. The Sky Sports pundit had already been suspended for comments made off-air about female official Sian Massey before last Saturday’s match between Liverpool and Wolves. And after new evidence emerged yesterday of another off-air incident that took place in December, the broadcaster made the decision to fire Gray for “unacceptable and offensive” behaviour. But Gray, who has fronted Sky Sports football coverage since 1992, was backed by his former boss Howard Kendall last night. Kendall, who managed Gray while the pair were at Everton in the 1980s, said: “What speaks volumes about the lad is he has been doing the job so long. You couldn’t not like him, he’s such a bubbly guy.” Referring to the comments Gray and fellow presenter Richard Keys made about Massey, he said: “It was only like a couple having a banter down the pub. They have always been professional on air and done their job well.” But he also lent support to Massey, claiming officials should be judged on their performance, not their gender:
Another former colleague, one-time Everton midfielder Peter Reid, expressed his sadness. He said: “I think it is very sad for Andy. The comments he made to Richard were tongue-in-cheek and a joke and you can’t do that nowadays, so it seems. “Knowing Andy the way I do, it will be a big blow for him because he did enjoy his work. I thought personally, he was excellent at his job. It is a personal blow for him . . . I think it’s unfair.” Sky confirmed the “unacceptable and offensive behaviour” related to a clip, filmed in December but only released yesterday, that appears to show Gray making a suggestive comment towards colleague Charlotte Jackson. Barney Francis, Sky Sports' managing director said last night: “Andy Gray's contract has been terminated for unacceptable behaviour.
“After issuing a warning yesterday, we have no hesitation in taking this action after becoming aware of new information today.” In a further twist, another Sky presenter, Andy Burton, was taken off-air after footage emerged of him also discussing Massey with Gray before the game at Molineux.
In the clip, Burton said: “Apparently, a female lino today, bit of a looker”, with Gray responding: “A female linesman?” Burton continued: “He (a Sky Sports crew member) says she (Massey) is all right. Now I don’t know if I should trust his judgement on that?” Gray then said: “No, I wouldn’t. I definitely wouldn’t . . . I can see her from here.” Gray and Keys had initially been disciplined for off-air comments where they agreed that female officials “don’t know the offside rule”, with Keys adding: “I can guarantee you there’ll be a big one today. Kenny (Dalglish) will go potty.” Gray did not call Massey to say sorry but Sky Sports insisted that Keys, who did phone the official, had done so on behalf of them both, and she is believed to have accepted. A spokesman said: “It wasn’t a case of Andy not apologising. It doesn’t really make sense for both of them to call.” Massey was withdrawn from last night’s League Two match between Crewe Alexandra and Bradford City. Mike Riley, the general manager of Professional Game Match Officials said: “PGMO and Sian believe with any football match the focus should not be on the officials but on the players and the game itself. Sian only wants to be notable for her performance as an assistant referee and is keen for things to get back to normal.”
Everton FC letters: Bill Kenwright is taking the Blues nowhere
Jan 27 2011
WITH regard to Barry Horne’s column in Saturday’s Echo (We should be grateful for Kenwright’s stewardship of Everton FC). Well Barry speak for yourself about Kenwright but keep me out.
I am watching my club going nowhere while Kenright clings to the Chairman’s role at the club.
We will take one step forward and two back. Before the match against West Ham the whole atmosphere was flat and that was before the game, the players did nothing to lift the crowd and the manager’s tactics and team selection put a further downer on the crowd. Moyes is not doing his job and not doing Arteta any favours by picking him week after week, the lad is just not performing and is utterley and completely out of form. He is doing Rodwell out of a place and further football education. The Russian is not doing it on the wing, so give him a chance in another position just behind the striker. With just a week to get players in Moyes is gambling again with loan players. Kenwright is gambling with Everton’s future, he has no right to do this. If Kenwright tried to buy Everton today in exactly the same circumstances that he did buy then, he wouldn’t be allowed to – he has no financial back-up. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, Wayne Rooney brought at least four times the amount into Everton than Kenwright bought the club with, yet to some Rooeny is a devil and Kenwright a saint.
Dave Abrahams
I am writing relating to the lack of any prospective buyer who wants to buy our beloved club and take us to the next level. Another year begins, another year of no money, another year of Moyes buying at Aldi, another year getting loan players in, another year of no news on a new ground and another year with Kenwright in charge. Yes he steered us from rough waters several years ago, but that is as far as it goes. All we are doing under his clueless and lack of ambition leadership is going round and round in circles, so his message is finishing (if we’re lucky) in the top six, getting to an FA Cup final every seven years, beating them across the park once a season. He is indirectly saying that this is acceptable. Well it is not. I want the best and I won’t accept being a mediocre team because that’s all we are, under our current leader we will never win the league, we will never win a cup, we will never be great again – it doesn’t take seven years to sell our club. Only a change of owners will solve our problem and only the minority will back Kenwright but I will ask the minority to re-read my letter and look at the facts, because supporting Kenwright you are supporting mediocrity. I would rather take a chance on a new owner than take a chance on Kenwright being in charge for another seven years. D Frederickson, Prescot
The Jury: Everton FC fans on the Chelsea FA Cup tie & the lack of transfer window movement
Jan 27 2011
TONY SCOTT, Walton
AS another transfer window is about to pass us by with arguably our best striker and best winger leaving the club, Bill Kenwright's actions are as useless as Andy Gray would be as a star guest on Loose Women. Many Evertonians seem to have a huge problem with action against one of the richest boards in the country and that is considered to be "Kopite behaviour". Well it’s done okay for them hasn't it? But unfortunately our board don't currently feel that level of pressure at the moment do they ? Are we just going to sit here and watch HMS Everton sink away from 4th to 14th in a matter of seasons ? I don't blame Steven Pienaar one bit as he doubled his wages and signed for a football club with AMBITION and I think a few current players are thinking the same. As big an Evertonian as Bill Kenwright proclaims to be, would you do this to your Everton FC ?
MIKE WILLIAMSON, Chester
AFTER the quality performance against Spurs it was back to the usual dross against West Ham. How Moyes and Kenwright are getting away with this excuse for a season I do not know. I cannot remember a time since the days of Walter Smith when the short and long term future of Everton looked so bleak. It made me want to weep watching a donkey like Anichebe attempt to control a ball on Saturday, knowing we can’t even keep quality players here who want to stay here. Who’s next – Rodwell, Fellani? The game against Chelsea on Saturday is probably the most important game we have played since the final two years ago. With Saha and Beckford up front, we must attack and press them back from the start. Starting cautiously will hand over the initiative and ensure certain defeat. Actually, we could add another striker into the mix now that he’s not commentating any more. The God that is Andy Gray would probably be more effective even now than the rest of our strikers put together!
RICHARD KNIGHTS, West Derby
SURVIVAL. Like a trapped wildebeest on the Serengeti Plain, West Ham fought as though their lives (and Avram Grant's job) depended on it. Once again this season, against a team lower down the league, Everton weren't up to the mark, too many players went missing. Heaven help us if we get involved in a relegation scrap, have the players got it in them? I'm not in favour of panic buying, but the need for a striker is getting desperate. When is Bill Kenwright going to fork out? All the other Premiership owners have put their hand in their pockets. Bill, it's your round! Frankly it's getting embarrassing. Why is it that every other club, even those with a lower fan base can attract investment. Just look at our away support, every ticket allocation sold out. Compare that to the clubs who visit Goodison with a sprinkling of fans in the Lower Bullens. The FA Cup game against not so mighty Chelsea assumes greater importance, it's our one chance of rescuing the season.
LEE MOLTON, St Helens
THE FA Cup is a welcome distraction from the League and it does not come much tougher than Chelsea. Have Chelsea used up all their goals against Bolton? Can the Blues fire themselves up for a big Cup tie? We need to go out and attack Chelsea with a high tempo, a crackling atmosphere and Chelsea won’t like it. We can beat the Mighty Chelsea! The transfer window may still be open but at Goodison it is locked with the key thrown into the Mersey! Where does the money from season tickets and appearances on Sky go? We need to increase our small squad, even West Ham and Stoke are bringing in players! We are encouraged to buy our season tickets early to give Moyes some money to spend in the transfer market, maybe this summer fans won’t buy early any more. The FA Cup is important to us Evertonians, let’s give it a real good effort on Saturday and beat Chelsea to continue on our Road to Wembley!
Victor Anichebe wants to repay Everton FC boss David Moyes
by David Prentice, Liverpool Echo
Jan 27 2011
EVERTON striker Victor Anichebe will use his past injury problems as motivation to improve as he seeks to repay manager David Moyes for his faith in giving him a new long-term contract.
The Nigeria international last week signed a new four-and-a-half-year deal and he now has an important part to play in the club’s future following the departure of Ayegbeni Yakubu to Leicester on loan and Louis Saha approaching his 33rd birthday. He made his debut as a 17-year-old five years ago – coincidentally in the FA Cup fourth round against Chelsea, against whom he is likely to line up at the same stage of the competition at Goodison Park on Saturday – but has had a couple of seasons blighted by injury. Now back to full fitness, Anichebe is determined to show progress. “I am 22 now and 17 seems a long time ago. I am not really one to dwell on the past. I want to think about the future and push on and do well,” he said. “I always stressed that I needed to build my fitness up and the manager has said he’ll help me as much as he can with that. “I see the injuries as a positive. Hopefully it will give me more hunger to succeed. “But it’s taken me a while to get back. My fitness and confidence goes up and down, but the manager has shown great faith in me.”
Saturday’s Cup tie falls precisely five years and one day since Anichebe’s debut. The result back in January 2006 was a 1-1 draw with James McFadden’s first half header eventually cancelled out by Frank Lampard. The Blues went on to lose the replay 4-1 at Stamford Bridge, but Anichebe is confident there will be no such cup misery this time round. “I did make my first appearance and also my full league debut against Chelsea,” said the 22-year-old, whose maiden Premier League start came against the West Londoners in a 3-2 Goodison Park defeat almost a year after that initial taste of the action. “Because of that it is always special when I play against them as it brings back some good memories of what were significant moments for me. “(With that in mind) I would love to score a goal but I am just focused on doing well and if I can play well, make a difference and the team gets a result then that is what it is all about.” For two seasons following his debut Anichebe was used sparingly by boss David Moyes – his contributions coming largely as an impact substitute. And it was in that role he began to mature as a first-team performer in the 2007/08 season with his explosive cameos a highlight of the club’s extended run in the Europa League. Since then his progress has been blighted by injury and as a result he is eager to concentrate on the future, something he can now fully do with a new deal to keep him at Goodison until 2015.
Everton FC legend Graeme Sharp hopes current Blues time for FA Cup glory has come
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
Jan 27 2011
GRAEME SHARP rarely tires of recalling the FA Cup glory of his era – but he is acutely aware that there are some who might. The Everton goal-scoring legend has sympathy for the current crop of players who have yet to experience their own brush with history. And Sharp is hoping that this could finally be the year when that gap on David Moyes’ CV is filled. Despite drawing current holders Chelsea in the fourth round of the cup, Sharp is optimistic the Blues can progress even if, he concedes, it will require an inspired performance at Goodison on Saturday lunch-time. “I’d be delighted if the present team won an FA Cup, League Cup, or any silverware,” he says, as we chat at Goodison with the trophy itself beside us. “Over the last few years Moysie has done remarkably well. He’s got to the Carling Cup semis and FA Cup final but players from our era would be delighted if the current team won something. “The lads now must be sick of hearing about the squad of 84/85 or the ‘95 FA Cup. For them it would be great. We are pleased with what we achieved, but David Moyes deserves his first trophy.” Chelsea’s ominous 4-0 demolition of Bolton on Monday may have unsettled some Evertonians, but Sharp insists Carlo Ancelotti’s side are still eminently beatable.
“They’ve got a tough draw with Chelsea but that’s the way it goes - sometimes you get a comfortable run to the final and sometimes you have to knock out big teams,” he says.
“Look at the run a couple of years ago. We had to knock out Aston Villa, Liverpool, and Manchester United and nobody expected us to do that. “Chelsea will be favourites, but the players can put the West Ham disappointment behind them and look towards Wembley. “I know coming into this year’s competition that a lot of people in football, at Sky and other places, fancied Everton for the cup. Even though they’ve got Chelsea that hasn’t changed. “There are flaws in Chelsea. You need to get after them, and press them high up the pitch. Whether or not Frank Lampard plays will be a big factor in it. He can make a big difference. “But we need to compete with them and make a difference. Our front men have to be mobile and if we move John Terry into channels and expose him, they can be knocked out of their stride. We’re at home and the onus is on us, so let’s make it uncomfortable for them. You can’t let them dictate the pace of the game. Against West Ham the tempo suited the opposition more.” Sharp insists the cup is the perfect platform for Moyes’ side to atone for their faltering league progress. “Everybody has been disappointed with the league performances,” he says. “We would expect to be higher than where we are, but the league is so, so tight from seventh down and can change every week so that offers hope. “The FA Cup is a welcome distraction. It’s a massive trophy, and I don't agree with people who demean it and say Premier League survival should be the be all and end all. The cup is a fantastic way for your supporters to get to Wembley and a way into Europe as well. “It’s only an extra five games, so you’re not telling me the players are too tired for that. The most important thing is that it can help you get on a long run and give you confidence that affects all areas.” Sharp admits to a sense of lingering regret over Everton’s last FA Cup encounter with the West London billionaires, and believes victory in 2009 could have transformed Everton. “It’s a cliche but you can score too early in some games, and we did,” says the man who scored 111 times for Everton. “To go ahead then defend for 89 minutes is tough, especially against a quality team on an expansive pitch on a roasting hot day. “They did expose us that day. Malouda hit the cross bar and it could have been 3-1. “But it was so disappointing in the wider scale of things. If David had won he could have really gone from there, and taken a confident squad into the next league campaign. It wasn’t to be though, and the best team won. “Everton still had a great run and just came up against a better side.” Sharp remembers how the all conquering team he played in didn't always do things the easy way either. “When I was playing we always seemed to struggle against lower league teams. We’d inevitably beat them but we didn’t make it easy. “Three times we had to go to Gillingham, and Middlesbrough was another one. Doncaster Rovers, UCD in the European Cup Winners Cup...the under dogs have nothing to lose. They’re geared for it. “We used to love the FA Cup, the famous stories about Howard at Stoke away opening the window so we could hear the fans. You’ve got to earn the right to go as far as you can in the cup.” Now the club ambassador is hoping Everton’s experienced players like Phil Neville and Tim Howard can lead the way. “Goodison has been flat at times but you go around other teams this season and they will be saying the same. The fans are wanting something to get them revved. Whether it’s a tackle, like when Phil Neville clattered Cristiano Ronaldo at Goodison, or something else. The whole place can change then. Sometimes it takes that. It’s important the fans get behind the players and it fires the players up, but its a double edged sword. Being underdogs will suit us and if we can get after them early we can do it. Going an early goal ahead will help.” l Tickets are still on general sale for Saturday’s game. Adult tickets start at £30 (£27 for season ticket holders), OAPs are £19.75 (£18), under-16s are £14.50 (£13.50). See evertonfc.com for details or call 0871 663 1878 .
Everton FC's Jermaine Beckford can cause FA Cup chaos for Chelsea
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
Jan 27 2011
Everton FC's Jermaine Beckford and Victor Anichebe* FOLLOW us on Twitter for all the latest EFC news here EVERTON legend Graeme Sharp believes Jermaine Beckford can help Everton beat Chelsea at Goodison on Saturday. The former Toffees goal hero insists Beckford has the pace to cause problems for Carlo Ancelotti’s rearguard in the fourth round FA Cup tie, and could force John Terry into errors. Beckford, who has been on target five times in his debut season with David Moyes’ side, was substituted at half-time against West Ham at the weekend, but Sharp has backed him to bounce back. He said: “Jermaine can keep running into the channels and pull John Terry into areas where he’s not comfortable. He has shown he is a quick, lively player and will create chances by being in the right place at the right time. “Now he’s got an opportunity to really make a name for himself, and it’s not like he hasn’t scored important goals in the FA Cup before. Hopefully it’s a competition he’s got a knack of finding the back of the net in. “For him and the rest of Everton’s players the Chelsea game is a big opportunity.” Beckford scored against Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United in the FA Cup last season, while still playing in npower League One for Leeds United. His last goal for the Blues came in the 215th Merseyside derby, when he finished smartly to give his side a second half lead. Meanwhile, highly-rated Everton defender Luke Garbutt has been named in the England Under-19s squad for their forthcoming friendly against Germany. The game takes place at the B2net Stadium, Chesterfield on Tuesday February 8 (7.30pm ko). Left-sided Garbutt, who Everton signed from Leeds United as a 16-year-old for £600,000, has yet to win a cap for Noel Blake’s Under-19s but has played for England at every other age group including the Under-17s for whom he made 24 appearances. The promising 17-year-old, who played in Everton’s 1-0 FA Youth Cup defeat to Middlesbrough on Monday, will be hoping to impress Blake ahead of the UEFA European Championship Elite Round Qualifiers which begin in May. Garbutt is selected in the squad alongside a couple of players with Premier League experience, Chelsea’s Josh McEachran and Liverpool’s Jonjo Shelvey, along with highly-rated Southampton frontman Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.
One former Everton academy prospect, meanwhile, has moved on for the second time this season. Striker James Vaughan, 22, has rejoined championship side Crystal Palace on loan for the second time this season, after a proposed move to Celtic fell through.
Everton FC rumour mill: Blues move for Matri, Neville staying put, Krancjar not Goodison bound
By Gareth Dowling
Jan 27 2011
Matri in?
As Everton continue their so far doomed search for signings due to lack of funds and and other clubs swooping in for Moyes' targets, Cagilari's Alessandro Matri could be the last chance for the Blues to entertain an arrival. The Toffees are looking to replace the loaned out pair of Yakubu and James Vaughan, but face compeition from Aston Villa for the striker's signature.
Source: Tribal Football
Neville staying put
Sebastian Bassong's insistance that he has a place in the Spurs side will be good news to Everton fans with the possibility of losing their captain reduced slightly if Redknapp holds on to his defenders.
Source: Football 365
Kranjcar looks abroad
Despite attracting interest from both clubs on Merseyside, it looks like Niko Kranjcar could be on his way to Werder Bremen in a £5m move; a price Everton fell short of earlier this week.
Source: Mirror Football
Everton FC striker search on as James Vaughan rejoins Crystal Palace
by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
Jan 27 2011
DAVID MOYES will intensify his search for a new striker after allowing James Vaughan to rejoin Crystal Palace on loan for the remainder of the season. Vaughan has returned to Selhurst Park after spending three months with the Londoners during the first half of the campaign. And should the second spell prove as successful as his first, in which he scored five goals including a first career hat-trick, then Palace have the option to make the switch permanent in the summer. Celtic were poised to take Vaughan on loan last week until the move was scuppered by FIFA regulations. The 22-year-old’s late substitute appearance in the Merseyside derby 11 days ago was his first appearance of the season for Everton and meant he could not play for a third different club during the campaign.
Vaughan, who still has 18 months remaining on his Goodison contract, became the Premier League’s youngest-ever goalscorer when netting on his debut against Palace in April 2005. With Yakubu and Steven Pienaar already departed this month, Moyes now faces a race against time to bolster his striking options before the transfer window slams shut on Monday evening. However, it appears interest in Monaco striker Dieumerci Mbokani will come to nothing after the French side claimed the Congolese will move to Bundesliga outfit Wolfsburg. Monaco’s general manager Marc Keller said: “Dieumerci Mbokani will be joining VfL Wolfsburg. He has already been travelling to the club.”
Meanwhile, another Everton striker, Victor Anichebe, has vowed to push on his Goodison career as he prepares for a notable milestone. Saturday’s FA Cup fourth round visit of Chelsea will mark the fifth anniversary of Anichebe’s first appearance for Everton – against the same opposition at the same stage of the same competition. After a period of uncertainty, Anichebe reaffirmed his Goodison commitment last week when he penned a new four-and-a-half-year contract.
And having spent much of the previous two seasons battling against injury, the 22-year-old is determined to further his development under David Moyes. “It does feel like ages ago (that I made my debut),” said Anichebe. “I am 22 now and 17 seems a long time ago. I am not really one to dwell on the past – I want to think about the future and push on and do well. “I always stressed that I needed to build my fitness up and the manager has said he’ll help me as much as he can with that.
“I see the injuries as a positive. Hopefully it will give me more hunger to succeed. “But it’s taken me a while to get back, my fitness and confidence goes up and down, but the manager has showed great faith in me and the supporters have always backed me.” Of his impending landmark, Anichebe added: “I did make my first appearance and my also my full league debut against Chelsea. “Because of that it is always special when I play against them as it brings back some good memories of what were significant moments for me. “I would love to score a goal but I am just focused on doing well and if I can play well, make a difference and the team gets a result then that is what it is all about.”
Tickets are still available for Everton FC’s FA Cup tie against Chelsea
by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Echo
Jan 28 2011
0ShareAdd a commentRecommend Tickets are available for Everton’s clash with Chelsea in the FA Cup, sponsored by E-ON. Prices start from £30 for adult, £14.50 for juniors and £19.75 for concessions. To buy your ticket visit evertonfc.com/eticketing, call 0871 663 1878 or drop into the box office in person at Goodison Park.
Chelsea skipper John Terry fears Everton FC will home in on FA Cup victory
Liverpool Echo
Jan 28 2011
CHELSEA travel to Goodison Park tomorrow looking to continue their recent revival following their worst run of results in the Barclays Premier League for almost 15 years. They have now won their last three in all competitions without conceding a goal, scoring 13 times in the process. They will face an Everton side who have been inconsistent all season but who have raised their games against the big names, losing just one of eight meetings with Chelsea, Manchester United, Arsenal, Manchester City, Tottenham and Liverpool this term. Chelsea captain John Terry said: “Everton are in and out of form but, against the big sides, especially at home, they do tend to raise it so it is going to be a big test for us.” One player who could be involved in the cup tie is Benfica’s David Luiz, who appeared a step closer to becoming a Chelsea player last night after the Portuguese club went public for the first time about their negotiations with the Premier League champions. Benfica released a statement to their country’s stock exchange confirming they had received an offer, reportedly worth £26million, from Chelsea for their 23-year-old Brazil defender. It read: “We have received an offer from Chelsea Football Club for the acquisition of the sporting and economic rights of David Luiz.
“A negotiation process between both parties is ongoing and the market will be informed when it is completed.” Chelsea have four days to reach an agreement with Benfica before the transfer window closes, which on paper is plenty of time. However, they have been in and out of talks with the Portuguese champions for almost a month since seeing a reported £17million bid rebuffed at the end of December. Meanwhile, Jacob Mellis became the latest Chelsea youngster to commit his future to Stamford Bridge after signing a new contract that will keep him at the club until 2013.
Dave Prentice: Are Everton FC heading for another historic crossroads?
by David Prentice, Liverpool Echo
Jan 28 2011
EVERTON are a club that has seen more turning points than most. Kevin Brock’s backpass, Joe Royle’s Port Vale ‘watershed’, the Greek tragedy/Old Trafford turnaround in 1971 – all have assumed historic significance in Evertonian eyes. And there’s a growing sense that tomorrow’s FA Cup tie could be another. Everton are at a crossroads, not just for this season, but maybe for the forseeable future too. A famous victory over Chelsea could be a platform for a talented squad of players to finally reignite a stuttering season. Defeat . . . and a growing sense of unrest could turn into mutiny. There’s something brewing in the air at Goodison. Message boards, letters pages and radio phone-ins will always attract the disaffected, the cynical and occasionally the downright lunatic. But there’s a growing sense now that the rank and file are also becoming disillusioned at Goodison. Attendances have settled around an unimpressive 34,000 this season, only the derby has seen a sell-out, the atmosphere against West Ham was flat even before Jonathan Spector scored – while one fans group has already made public its intention to ‘protest’ tomorrow – win, lose or draw. Their major gripe appears to be the lack of any significant transfer outlay since Marouane Fellaini arrived in 2008 (Bilyaletdinov, Heitinga and Distin were all funded by Lescott’s sale) and the lack of any means of transmitting concerns to the board since the AGM was guillotined. Everton chairman Bill Kenwright is the man who appears to be copping the most flak. And I still find that stance unsettling. For me Kenwright is the best type of football club owner.
A fan.
And if he occasionally seems reluctant to relinquish the reins of his club maybe that’s because he witnessed at close quarters the unholy mess created when another lifelong fan of a football club sold up across the park. But is Kenwright really so reluctant to sell? Is he beating off billionaire bidders left, right and centre? That certainly doesn’t appear to be the case. Yet some fans still talk about the Blues chairman refusing to part with the club as if he was a child refusing to hand over his prized train set. Kenwright’s willingness to listen to offers for Everton has been widely advertised.
But there have been few, if any, realistic takers. The only genuine publicised offer for the club came from Paul Gregg back in 2004 – and heaven help the Blues if that bid had been successful.
Everton’s status as the second club in a small city (The Toffees might have been the first chronologically, but five European Cups and 18 league titles tends to distract when outside investors look at Merseyside), with a sizeable debt and an ancient stadium tends to put off football club browsers. Yet some supporters still criticise Kenwright for refusing to sell to anonymous bidders, and for not being rich enough to personally fund a bid for a forward. But if those criticisms are unwarranted, some forward momentum could be generated by appointing an agency to unearth a potential buyer. That would at least show a firm desire to attract investment. If you were keen on selling your house, you might plant a ‘For Sale’ sign in the front garden. But you’d have a much better chance of selling if you hired a reputable estate agent. Everton’s arrangement with Keith Harris always appeared to be a loose one. Liverpool, on the other hand, formally appointed Hawkpoint and paid them in the region of £2m to unearth an investor. They found not one, but two – and it was hardly their fault that the Reds chose a pair of Texans – but until Everton do something similar the mood will persist that Bill Kenwright isn’t sincere about his desire to sell. Without fresh investment it’s difficult to see how Everton can progress any further. Victory tomorrow may buy a little more time, but not much more. Defeat and Saturday January 29 could mark another turning point in Everton’s history.
Howard Kendall: Everton FC can beat Chelsea because FA Cup matters more to them
by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Echo
Jan 28 2011
THERE will be more than a few nerves jangling at Goodison tomorrow because the FA Cup fourth round tie with Chelsea is massively important. The cup is really the last achievable objective in a season of disappointment so far, when the Blues may be looking at simply finishing in mid table.
It’s crucial that Everton get into the next round but they couldn’t have got a more difficult draw really. Chelsea are obviously flourishing again on the back of their convincing win at Bolton, and it just proves how pathetic it is that Carlo Ancelotti ever received criticism or pressure for his job after what he achieved last season. Worryingly Everton do not head into the game on a similar high, after a Premier League clash with a West Ham side who belied their position at the foot of the table.
The Hammers have got a bit going for them, with Scott Parker and players like Carlton Cole showing what he can do when he feels like it. That’s why I don’t fancy Avram Grant’s side to go down, and in fact my money is on West Brom, Wigan and..perhaps surprisingly Blackpool. But despite that I actually believe Everton can do it on Saturday. The reason is that for Chelsea, it’s an important game - but to David Moyes, his players, and the expectant fans who will pack into Goodison Park, it’s a huge game. Chelsea can still dream of league titles, or at the very least a duel for runners-up spot and more Champions League glory. They do not need the FA Cup run in the same way the Blues do.
Subsequently Everton should have the greater hunger and I hope that’s evident. Andy Gray and Richard Keys have been stitched up I THINK Andy Gray and Richard Keys have been stitched up by Sky. If the bosses at the channel want to make changes, which it seems like they did, this has been a convenient way of going about it. I’m not going to defend their comments, but they were off-air and I think the lads have been set up. Andy is not a bad lad, and he has a great personality, which goes to explain why he has been so successful at Sky for 20 years. If he wasn’t an engaging character he wouldn’t have survived in that job for so long. Of course I’ve got good reason to be grateful to Andy. When I signed him for Everton a lot of people said he was finished through injuries. Luckily he proved the doubters wrong and enjoyed a magnificent, if too brief, spell at the club. Then of course he was the favourite for the Everton manager’s job when I got it for the third time. Andy was the bookies’ top tip but he decided to stick to his well-paid job with Sky, where he didn’t have to get involved in the pressure business of winning football matches, and I benefited as a result. I jumped at the opportunity to return to the club I love for the third time, and even though it didn’t turn out how I might have wished in the end, I’m still grateful to Andy in a round about way for that. Managers should not get cut off player sales I DISAGREE with manager’s pocketing a cut of transfer fees for players they’ve coached. It automatically raises doubts over the motives of a manager, even a good guy like Ian Holloway, when a player is being chased by other sides. The fans will start second guessing things and it just prompts a messy situation. It’s not a new thing, deals like this have happened for years, but I’m surprised it’s still happening. Sadly all this underlines for Blackpool is what a small club they are. It does raise another question – if a manager buys a player for £500,000 and it doesn’t work out, the lad leaving on a free, will the chairman be taking a cut from the manager’s pay? I don’t think so!
Jack Rodwell: I want to get back to Wembley with Everton FC
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
Jan 28 2011
JACK Rodwell has tasted the highs that the FA Cup can offer - and the Everton starlet wants more.
He might have spent the majority of this faltering season a frustrated figure on the sidelines, but the teenager is bursting with desire to start making an impact for the Blues once again. Rodwell’s goal against Aston Villa helped the Blues to the quarter final of the competition in 2009 when they went to Wembley twice, and ultimately returned with only runners-up medals and regrets. But the man often singled out as a leading light for the future of the national side knows that this time around a cup run would be even more of a fillip. Everton finished fifth in 2009, and fortunes were far removed from their currently lowly status of 14th. But with the same opposition as that scorching hot day at Wembley arriving at Goodison tomorrow, Rodwell is convinced the Blues can overcome them, just as he is convinced he can help. “It’s massive,” says the midfielder. “Our form in the league has been up and down, and the Carling Cup exit was disappointing so the spotlight will be on Saturday. “We need to give the fans something back. The FA Cup is probably the best cup competition to play in, especially at home. To go and get to the final and give the fans a day out at Wembley would be amazing, even if it’s a long way off at this stage. “The FA cup has some special memories for me. I got a couple of goals in it the season when we went to the final, and it’s a big thing for me as it is for any player. “I'd love to do the same this year. “I think if we got to the final again it’d possibly be even better, because we’d know what to expect and we’d be better prepared.”
Rodwell’s season has been disrupted by injury more than non-selection, and he admits to a deep feeling of frustration after some scintillating display during the club’s pre-season tour of Australia.
“It’s been frustrating for me,” he says at Everton’s Finch Farm training ground, where he continues to put in the hard work to ensure he is fitter than ever. “I had an injury and that set me back, and I haven’t been involved as much since. “But I’ve been getting back to full fitness, and I’m there now so I’d like to play more and more and I just want to be out there helping the lads on the pitch.
“It’s a great feeling when you come on and have an impact, and when you’re not playing you can feel down a bit.” Rodwell is not the only one feeling down. Supporters have felt their expectations deflate as the season continues to flatter to deceive, and January’s transfer market has offered little cause for optimism. “The fans are entitled to criticise and we’ve not done too well form wise but we all know we need to make that better,” he says after a 2-2 draw against West Ham last weekend saw the Blues slump below Liverpool. “We’re strong mentally and the fans are behind us when it matters.” Some pundits believes Frank Lampard’s presence tomorrow could be crucial to how Chelsea rise to the occasion, and as a goal scoring midfielder for club and country, Rodwell concedes he would like to emulate the Londoner. “There is no one player in particular that I model my career on though,” he says. “I’ve got high hopes in terms of England and like every boy it has been my childhood dream to play for England. “The overwhelming priority is playing well for Everton though, and one thing should lead to another then. “I’d love to play in a World Cup one day though.”
For a player who was the first to score a winning goal on the new Wembley pitch in an England U-16 game, there are few occasions that daunt Rodwell. So the thought of clashing with the reigning FA Cup holders does not automatically set his nerves on edge. “You go into any game, especially an FA Cup game treating them the same, with the same level of focus and determination,” he says.
“It doesn’t matter to me if it’s Chelsea or Scunthorpe - I’ll be treating it exactly the same.
“Yes Chelsea have had a big result against Bolton but we won’t be dwelling on anything like that.
“Chelsea have amazing players who can perform at any occasion, and they did look good against Bolton. We just need to give 100%.” Wembley might still seem a million miles away for Rodwell & Co, but the player who divulges he was too young to recall anything about the last time Everton lifted the famous trophy in 1995, it’s time to create some new memories. “I was only four when Everton won it,” says the unused substitute from the 2009 final. “I have been to Wembley as part of the match day squad but I’d love the chance to go one further. To play and win.”
Everton FC rumour mill: Redknapp back again for Neville, Bily to follow in Yak's tracks
By Gareth Dowling
Jan 28 2011
Harry back in for Neville again?
With Harry Redknapp allowing Jonathan Woodgate to move to Wolves on loan if he so wishes, Phil Neville could well be on his way to Spurs to add to their defensive department. Chairman Daniel Levy is due to meet Kenwright with a view to confirming a second bid this window.
Source: Mirror Football
Bily to City?
No, not Man City...Leicester City. One of the more improbable rumours to crop up this transfer window claims that Diniyar Bilyaletdinov could be following Yakubu from Everton to the Walkers Stadium to link up with Foxes manager Sven-Goran Eriksson. Even more unlikely now that Pienaar has departed for Spurs.
Source: Soccer Voice
Everton FC can cope without new faces says midfielder Jack Rodwell
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
Jan 28 2011
JACK RODWELL believes Everton can flourish even without any last-minute January transfer market signings. The 19-year-old midfielder admits he was unhappy at Steven Pienaar’s recent departure to Tottenham Hotspur, but insists the Blues have enough quality within the current squad to replace him. David Moyes will not give up in his hunt to recruit a new striker, especially after he sanctioned James Vaughan’s departure on loan to Crystal Palace this week, but available players remain a scarcity. And Rodwell is unconcerned about the club’s inactivity so far, instead hoping to force his way into Moyes’ first team plans ahead of this Saturday’s FA Cup fourth round tie with Chelsea, when he says Diniyar Bilyaletdinov has the quality to fill the creative gap created by Pienaar’s exit.
The Russian has admitted to feeling “hurt” by his failure to break into the first team this season, but Rodwell hopes the Russian’s fortunes will change. “Obviously it was disappointing to lose Steven but we’ve got good players like Bilyaletdinov who can step in and play really well,” said Rodwell.
“We’ve got a great squad generally as it is. The morale in the team is actually really good.
“There is competition for places and there are good players on the bench alongside me. So whatever happens in the transfer market is a bonus really. It’s not the end of the world if nobody comes.”
Meanwhile, excited skipper Phil Neville believes the Chelsea game will have neutrals transfixed.
Further speculation linking Everton’s captain with a move to Spurs has emerged this week, despite both clubs ruling any deal out. But Neville is simply focusing on overcoming Carlo Ancelotti’s team at Saturday lunch time. He said: “Personally I can’t wait for this tie,” the skipper said. “It is really exciting – a real glamour tie, the tie of the round. “It takes you back a couple of years and reminds you of when we got Liverpool. At the time that seemed a daunting prospect but we got through with the help of the fans. “At times we were dead on our feet in that game but we knew we could get a result and the fans dragged us over the line. “This time we are against the reigning league champions and cup holders in our own backyard – it is really exciting.”
Pre-match preview: Everton FC v Chelsea, FA Cup fourth Jan 28 2011
To be played at Goodison Park, Saturday January 29 kick off 12.30pm
Everton's last five games
Jan 22: Premier League - Everton 2 West Ham 2
Jan 16: Premier League - Liverpool 2 Everton 2
Jan 8: FA Cup - Scunthorpe 1 Everton 5
Jan 5: Premier League - Everton 2 Spurs 1
Jan 1: Premier League - Stoke 2 Everton 0
Chelsea's last five games
Jan 24: Premier League - Bolton 0 Chelsea 4
Jan 15: Premier League - Chelsea 2 Blackburn 0
Jan 9: FA Cup - Chelsea 7 Ipswich 0
Jan 5: Premier League - Wolves 1 Chelsea 0
Jan 2: Premier League - Chelsea 3 Aston Villa 3
Past meetings (all competitions)
P 140 W 49 D 50 L 61 F 231 A 250
The Blues have won just two of 16 Cup meetings with the Londoners - here are some selected past meetings
May 2009 FA Cup Final - Everton 1 Chelsea 2
Louis Saha scored the quickest goal in FA Cup Final history to put the Blues ahead within the first minute but goals from Didier Drogba and Frank Lampard saw Everton's brave efforts come to naught.
August 1970 Charity Shield - Chelsea 1 Everton 2
Play Slideshow« Previous PhotoNext Photo » Play Slideshow« Previous PhotoNext Photo » .Champions Everton travelled to Stamford Bridge meet FA Cup winners Chelsea in the pre-Wembley Charity Shield era with goals from Alan Whittle and Howard Kendall ensuring the silverware on offer would be heading back to Merseyside.
Feb 1956 FA Cup 5th round - Everton 1 Chelsea 0
Chelsea arrived at Goodison having won the League Championship for the first time in their history the previous season but a goal from Irish right-half Peter Farrell (pictured) sent the Blues through to the quarter-finals.
January 1938 FA Cup 3rd round - Chelsea 0 Everton 1
Another Irishman Alex Stevenson, who scored an impressive 90 goals in 271 appearances for Everton and was a member of the Blues side that won the last First Division title before the start of the Second World War, was the matchwinner at Stamford Bridge as the Blues progressed to round four.
Quick quiz (answers at the foot of the page)
1 Louis Saha's first opener at Wembley in 2009 broke which Chelsea player's record as the quickest FA Cup Final goal?
2 Who scored Everton's equaliser at Stamford Bridge in the first leg of the 2008 Carling Cup semi-final?
3 Which Everton player injured himself falling over a 'Do Not Train In The Goalmouth' sign on the pitch before the 2006 FA Cup 4th round replay at Stamford Bridge?
4 Which Chelsea winger signed for Everton for £925,000 in the summer of 1988?
5 Which Everton player was sent off at Chelsea in the Milk Cup fourth round tie at Chelsea in November 1985?
The last time Everton and Chelsea met in the FA Cup almost two years years ago, spirits were high amongst supporters before the Cup Final - here's a reminder of the Wembley Way feeling
Ones to watch
Everton
Diniyar Bilyaletdinov finally got off the mark for the season in last weekend's draw with West Ham and will hoping for a better second half to the campaign. Jermaine Beckford was subbed at half time against the Hammers but will be looking to build on his recent goalscoring form. Louis Saha scored at Wembley of course in the Final of 2009 and also bagged a brace in the Goodison league win last February.
Chelsea
Didier Drogba's explosive goal at Bolton on Monday gave an indication he may be returning to his best form. Michael Essien and Frank Lampard's return from long-term injury may help the Londoners recover from the surprising winter dip while youngster Josh McEachran has impressed since breaking into the first team.
Latest odds from Betfred
Everton - 13/5
Draw - 5/2
West Ham 11/10
Quiz answers
1 Roberto di Matteo
2 Yakubu
3 Richard Wright
4 Pat Nevin
5 Kevin Sheedy
I’m ready to put Everton FC hurt behind me – Diniyar Bilyaletdinov
by Neil Jones, Liverpool Daily Post
Jan 28 2011
DINIYAR Bilyaletdinov has admitted his hurt at being left out of Everton’s first team this season, but says he is ready to seize his chance to impress manager David Moyes. The Russian midfielder has found opportunities limited at Goodison Park so far this season, making just three Premier League starts, as Moyes has opted to use him sparingly as a substitute. Indeed, the 25-year-old has already appeared no fewer than 16 times from the bench, more than any other player at the club. But having seen Steven Pienaar – the Blues’ main left-sided choice during the first half of the campaign – depart for Tottenham earlier this month, Bilyaletdinov believes he may now get the chance to show his true worth to the side. His latest outing, the 2-2 draw at home to West Ham last Saturday, saw him find the net with a smartly-taken strike, and the former Lokomotiv Moscow man is keen to build on that. “With the exit of Pienaar I will have more chances and I am going to take a tight grip on them,” he said. “But at the same time I do not want that my return to the squad is connected only with the other man’s exit.” Bilyaletdinov enjoyed a stellar debut campaign in the Premier League following his £8.9million switch from Lokomotiv in August 2009, making 33 appearances and scoring 7 goals - including the club’s goal of the season, against Manchester United - but admits that he is at a loss to explain his absence from the side this season, and that he has had to draw upon extra reserves of strength in order to cope with his disappointment. “What do I feel? I feel hurt a bit,” he said. “There are weeks when I fly in training, the coach speaks highly of me, but still I am not in the team. “At such moments I try to focus on something positive, force myself to work even harder - for the future. “The realisation that I am training in great conditions, in a strong team, participating in the strongest European league helps me.”
Lustre of FA Cup goes on for eager Everton FC
by Neil Jones, Liverpool Daily Post
Jan 28 2011
) IF the doom-mongers, the snobs and the cynics are to be believed, there is no meaningful football being played this weekend. The absence of Premier League fixtures from the schedule could well be enough to ensure the casual fan opts for the tennis, the cricket or, worse, the ‘celebrity’ ice dancing on Saturday and Sunday. Better that than to waste time watching a competition which has lost its lustre, after all. The FA Cup may be getting the predictable big build-up from the advertising folk at ESPN and ITV but really, surely, no-one cares any more? Try telling Evertonians that. David Moyes and his side prefer to welcome champions Chelsea to Goodison Park for the tie of the fourth round on Saturday knowing their last chance of silverware this season lies with the world’s most famous cup competition, and eager to avenge their defeat in the 2009 final. That day, Louis Saha fired the Blues into a first-minute lead, but goals from Didier Drogba and Frank Lampard ensured the trophy went to Stamford Bridge, and that Everton are still without a major trophy since victory in this competition in 1995. Graham Stuart was a key figure in that triumph. It was his semi-final strike against Tottenham at Elland Road which set Joe Royle’s men on the road to Wembley, and he was instrumental in Paul Rideout’s winning goal in the final against Manchester United.
So has the FA Cup lost its charm for Stuart? “No, I don’t think so,” he says. “I can see why people would think that, and it’s fair to say the Premier League has probably become the big competition in English football. “It is so important for clubs to stay in the Premier League that it makes it difficult sometimes to dedicate time to the Cup. “But from a personal perspective, I can’t say it has lost its appeal. I know some teams like to rest players in the Cup, but for me those are big games, and any player wants to be playing in big games. “Ask any kid growing up what their enduring memories are, and they will be the FA Cup and the World Cup. “For me, I remember things like Ricky Villa’s goal for Spurs in 1981, and to get the chance to emulate those great players at Wembley, well it doesn’t get any better in my book.” It has been 16 years since his Wembley high point, but Stuart still lives on Merseyside, and is eager to see a new crop of Everton players supercede the class of 95 by delivering silverware to the club. “Of course it would be fantastic to see Everton lift the Cup again,” he says.
“It’s a long time since our side did it, but in a way that’s no great surprise. “The dominance there has been in that period, from the likes of Manchester United, Arsenal and Chelsea, has been huge.
“There are a lot of clubs in the same boat as Everton unfortunately. “But they have shown, in 2009, that they have the players and the know-how to beat the so-called bigger clubs, and the hope is that they can repeat those feats and maybe even go one better.” It has been something of a troubled campaign at Goodison Park. Events across Stanley Park at Liverpool have dominated headlines local and national all season, but Moyes’ side has endured an indifferent time. Lying 14th in the Premier League, just five points above the relegation places, there is increasing pressure to turn encouraging performances into tangible results. Stuart admits that the club’s league form is a worry, but says Moyes deserves the full backing of supporters, and believes a trophy would be just reward for his work at the club. “I don’t think there is anybody who would not be delighted to see David Moyes win a trophy,” he says. “The job he has done, on a shoestring budget compared to some sides, has been absolutely fantastic. “He is a top manager, and one who actually develops players, which is a rarity in the modern game. “This season has not been great; it is easy to say that Everton are in a false position, but after 23 games, that is clearly not the case. “They are where they are in the league because they have not been good enough, simple as that. “David has struggled like mad to find the right team and system, but it hasn’t happened on a consistent basis yet. “But the hope is that they can find a big performance on Saturday and kick on from there.” So where will the man with the south London accent’s loyalties lie come Saturday lunchtime? It’s a pointless question.
“I must have been asked that a thousand times; every time Everton play Chelsea it comes up,” laughs Stuart, “And every time the answer is exactly the same. “I had an unbelievably good upbringing at Chelsea, one that I enjoyed tremendously and am forever grateful for, but I enjoyed the best years of my career at Everton, and it is with them that my affections remain. I think the fact that I still live up here speaks volumes. “From a personal point of view it is slightly disappointing that two clubs which I hold very dearly should meet at this stage of the competition, but at least I am guaranteed a place in the fifth round this way!” How Mr Moyes must wish he had a similar luxury.
Everton v Chelsea
By Matt Lewis
Jan 28 2011 Fulham and Hammersmith Chronicle
CARLO Ancelotti is yet to decide on whether to start Frank Lampard against Everton in the FA Cup on Saturday. The England star missed the Blues' 4-0 demolition of Bolton with a calf problem and Ancelotti says the midfielder may have to settle fora place on the bench. "Maybe Lampard can come back," said Ancelotti. "I have to decide if he can start from the beginning or during the game. He is the only doubt I have at the moment, the rest of players will be the same as against Bolton." "We did very well against Bolton and I don't want to change these performers. Finally I think we can show good football." Gael Kakuta and Patrick van Aanholt will not feature having leftStamford Bridge on loan this week, while Yury Zhirkov (calf), Alex(knee), and Yossi Benayoun (Achilles) all remain sidelined.
James Vaughan exit could be permanent
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
Jan 29 2011
JAMES Vaughan has been on the move again, and this may have been his final Goodison exit.
The 22-year-old forward rejoined Crystal Palace on loan until the end of the season after finding his opportunities limited at Goodison Park. "I just felt I couldn't give him the opportunities here," said Moyes. Even if he never runs out at Goodison again, Vaughan still has that special memory of becoming the youngest player to score in the Premier League. That goal, ironically against the Eagles, was a proud achievement many of his peers would love on their CV.
Everton FC fan group admits rivals inspired them in search for a voice
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
Jan 29 2011
IT IS a sacrilegious sentiment for some Evertonians - but many Blues admit there is one aspect of their rivals across the park they admire. While it’s fun for Toffees to titter at the various quirks of Liverpool’s worldwide supporter-base, most acknowledge one truism. When Kopites aren’t happy with something - they let the world know about it. The Liverpool supporters who marched, protested, e-mailed, and you-tubed to force the club’s former owners Hicks & Gillett out of town got their way eventually, and those same fans were the first to demand a voice in Anfield’s new era.
Now a group of Evertonians, formed as a result of a growing dissatisfaction with the club’s progress, want to try and emulate the Reds’ tactics. Don’t wince just yet though. They’re not hell-bent on marching down Goodison Road calling for the board to resign - but the men behind Evertonians for Change do want to lobby Bill Kenwright & Co to grant them a voice the way John Henry and Tom Werner have for Kopites. Spokesman Simon Magner believes it’s high-time Everton created a proper forum that allows fans to speak directly to senior figures at the club. At Anfield, that involves a scheme that will see 17 democratically appointed fans discuss matters directly with the owners and senior executives. The Reds committee will meet four times a season to discuss every issue affecting the club, and Magner insists there is even greater need for such transparency and democracy at Goodison. “There has been talk of protests, especially over the past week, but we understand a lot of Evertonians are sceptical of protesting, and rightly so, there is a time and a place for protests,” he says. “As I said, one of our primary aims is to establish some sort of meaningful dialogue with the club, and if their first impression of us is that we’re trouble causers or protesters we feel it will do more bad than good. “Protesting is something we’re prepared to do, and is a real possibility for the future, but it is really worst case scenario. “We intend to try and get the club to agree on reinstating the AGM – not the Shareholders Forum – and a Fans Forum similar to what Liverpool are in the process of doing.” Simon’s group, which has attracted growing support on its Facebook page and is in the process of creating a website, want to put the emphasis on sensible, balanced dialogue with the club. “E4C came about just after the Stoke game on new year’s day,” he says. “It was setup by a couple of the regular posters on NSNO.co.uk – and was, for me the culmination of weeks and months and years of getting more and more frustrated with the direction and ambition shown by the club at board level. “The Stoke game, and the West Ham game at the weekend, pretty much highlighted for me where our problems lie on the field, and the most frustrating issue is the knowledge that unless Moyes managed to pull another rabbit out of a hat during the transfer window, things weren’t going to get better. “Indeed we all fully expected the worst to be realised with Pienaar looking likely to be sold, and the future of the Yak extremely clouded. “A lot of the lads including me, had been sitting watching the proceedings during the first months of the season, of our neighbours across the park. “We saw a group of passionate fans who stood up for what they believed in, and we firmly believed that if it wasn’t for that group of supporters, Hicks and Gillett would probably still be there. “A lot of fans have lost faith in what is happening at boardroom level and I think the club is out of touch with how the fans feel. “We want to show everyone related with the club that we’re not here to cause trouble. “We’re not here because the results have been bad, and we won’t go away if our season turns around. “We’re here for the long haul and see it through to the end whatever that maybe.”
Bily the Kid deserves a chance to shine for Everton FC
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
Jan 29 2011
DINIYAR Bilyaletdinov has admitted feeling hurt at his lack of playing time this season. The Russian was quoted earlier this week airing his unease at the prospect of only breaking into the Everton team because of Steven Pienaar’s departure, and spoke of his frustration at going unrewarded despite training hard. If the quotes have not been lost in translation I’d be surprised. Because complaining is not Bily’s style. The former Lokomotiv Moscow midfielder splits opinion among fans, and has given David Moyes plenty of pause for thought since his signing two summers ago. Moyes admires his technique, goal contribution, and intelligence but still questions whether the 25-year-old has developed the dynamism and strength for the Premier League. But one feature he insists Bily is not lacking is in character. You suspect that if Moyes could create a template for a player’s attitude it would be based on Bily. While he may have cause to grumble, whine and train half heartedly after spending so much time on the sidelines he has done the opposite instead. Maybe that goal against West Ham is the beginning of a turn around for the Russian with a rocket in his left foot.
Barry Horne: Ryan Giggs should be recognised as a real Premier League great
by Barry Horne, Liverpool Echo
Jan 29 2011
IN many ways I was disappointed that Blackpool couldn’t hang on to their 2-0 lead in a fantastic Premier League match at Bloomfield Road this week. I have seen Blackpool live on five occasions this season and I know that the oft-trotted line about them being a ‘breath of fresh air’ is true.
For them to have beaten United would have been a reward for their approach, which in turn is a reflection of their manager. As it was the remarkable turnaround has merely reinforced United’s sense of invincibility. The phrase ‘turning point’ is used far too frequently in football reporting, but this could well be a match that people look back on as a watershed and, in particular, the moment that Rafael bundled Luke Varney to the floor for the most obvious penalty decision I’ve seen in a long time. The main feeling that I had after the game, however, was the contribution of Ryan Giggs, which was not given the credit it deserved. Coming on at 2-0 down the 37-year-old reinvigorated his team-mates and completely transformed the pattern of the game. When people talk about Premier League greats he usually gets a mention behind a list of players. Ryan was around performing brilliantly, if a little inconsistently, in 1992 and he’s still around now heading towards what would probably be his 12th Premier League title. He doesn’t seek recognition, but it will surely come.
Barry Horne: FA Cup cracker could be a pivotal Blues moment
by Barry Horne, Liverpool Echo
Jan 29 2011
WHILE a home game in the FA Cup against Chelsea is a big game in its own right, I have an ominous feeling that this weekend might be a pivotal one not just for this season, but for possibly a few years hence. Having said that, I actually quite fancy our chances against Chelsea, despite their recent upswing in fortunes. But nevertheless defeat is a possibility, which after a very disappointing draw against West Ham would realistically see an end to competitive football for this season – always assuming of course that we keep our heads above the brown stuff at the bottom of the table.
But this weekend also sees the final hours of the latest transfer window, in which Everton have been net losers in terms of personnel. This comes at a time when all the signs are that we should be adding to our squad. By that I don’t just mean the obvious recent need for a goalscorer, because at the start of the season we were all totally convinced we had our strongest squad for many a long year. That, of course, is a good time to keep adding here and there, looking forward to maintain that strength. Defeat by Chelsea and those depleted squad numbers will come sharply into focus.
I hope that the former scenario whereby we win and reach the last 16 of the FA Cup transpires and we can keep blue skies over Goodison for a little while longer. But I can’t shake that ominous feeling that this could be a very big weekend for the Blues, one way or the other.
David Moyes: We’ve drawn Chelsea yet again - but we can still get into the fifth round
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
Jan 29 2011
) FATE can be a cruel and unoriginal master. The frequency with which Everton have drawn Chelsea in cup competitions over the last few years borders on exasperating. The West Londoners knocked Everton out of the Carling Cup at the semi final stage in 2008, and then defeated them in the FA Cup final in 2009. But as he prepares to take on the juggernaut that is Carlo Ancelotti’s side in yet another key cup tie tomorrow, David Moyes was relaxed enough to express wry humour at the constant pairing. “We get Chelsea in every cup competition,” he says. “Has a year gone by recently where we haven’t drawn them? “It’s a really tough tie but we need to do whatever we can to get through. “Chelsea’s record in the FA Cup has been exceptional over the last couple of seasons, and it’s a big ask. But we’ve done OK against them in the last few outings and we’ll try again.”
Moyes is referring to the morale-boosting 2-1 win over Chelsea in February 2009, when the Blues beat the Premier League champions as they embarked on a scintillating run of form. It is a morale-boosting memory for Evertonians looking for a sign, even if their team’s current form seems far removed. “We will look back at when we beat Chelsea and try and use it,” he says. “It wasn’t done easily, and the Chelsea are one of those teams who can create a goal out of almost nothing. They have match winners who can win the game without any opportunities. “We didn’t think we played that well against West Ham but the good think is we got something out of the game. “It could have quite easily gotten away from us so I give them credit for keeping going, and finding the solution to score a goal. “It does worry me that we have had to try and score three to win the last couple of games because it has been the goal scoring where we’ve struggled. “But I don't think we’ve lost many either. Conceding does make it hard though. The draw at Liverpool was disappointing, and last Saturday was disappointing.” Moyes is hoping his team can take the lead against Chelsea, after admitting they have struggled to come from behind and win recent games. “It’s looking like we can score but maybe we’re only scoring after the opposition have got one,” he says. “We need to start being the ones that go ahead in games because once we’re in the lead we’re much harder to overhaul. In the main we’re harder to play against.” Another quiet January in the transfer market, and faltering performances in the league have prompted growing disquiet among supporters.
But Moyes doubts there will be any eruptions from the terraces at Goodison, even if the Blues fail to overcome Chelsea. “I don't think frustration would bubble over,” he says. “It’s a very tough tie, and people are aware of that. “We’ll do what we can to get through, and I feel that whatever happens we must keep going. “We need to win as many Premier League games as possible after tomorrow whatever happens. “The supporters are aware of the financial situation at the club. The chairman has made that known at every opportunity. Everyone knows we can’t make big signings.” Moyes will be hoping the pragmatism he senses among supporters extends to their views on FA Cup success too. Despite going all the way to the final on a wave of unbeatable blue euphoria two seasons ago, he knows full well how difficult it can be. Aiming for the final is the thing, but then when you get to the final winning it is the thing,” he says. “You don't look back and say it was great to get to the final and lose. Yes there’s a level of achievement getting there, but you want to win it. “Like the year we did well we had to beat Villa, overcome Liverpool twice, and beat Man United on penalties. What a cup run it was to beat all those teams and get something. “If we could get a winner’s medal it’d be terrific. You can get knocked out by lower league teams in the cup, as we have been in the past, or then you can draw top sides and have to find a way to overcome them on the day.”
The Everton boss finds solace in the list of recent teams who have reached the big day at Wembley.
“Look at the finalists over the years; West Ham have got there, Milwall, Cardiff, Portsmouth,” he says. “There are ways through to success and the cup competition is a great way. “The draws are a big thing though, and they can make it difficult. A lot depends on your route. “We’re in the storm at the minute and we’re trying to do better than we are right now, but Everton is a great club and I enjoy being here.”
Everton FC star Louis Saha can be Chelsea’s bogey man again, says David Moyes
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
Jan 29 2011
DAVID Moyes is backing Louis Saha to give Everton the fire-power to overcome Chelsea in the FA Cup today. The Toffees boss is ready to unleash the Frenchman from the start against Carlo Ancelotti’s cup holders, after insisting he is approaching top form. Saha, 32, was a second half substitute in last weekend’s 2-2 draw with West Ham, but has recov-ered fully from a thigh strain.
Moyes, who has also tied up a £250,000 deal for promising Greek teenage forward Apostolos Vellios, is hoping Saha can turn the clock back to his two-goal winning performance over Chelsea at Goodison last February. He said: “He scored the goals for us last time, and I would say he is actually in a little bit of form right now. “He helped turn the game against West Ham last week when he came on, and I’m hoping that he will be fit and raring to go.” Moyes moved to sign long-term target Vellios, 19, yesterday to ward off interest in the 6ft 3in centre-forward from Fulham, Italian club Bologna and Greek giants Olympiakos. It is expected the u-19 international will join the summer capture of Magaye Gueye and Joao Silva as part of Everton’s policy of investing in young prospects.
Vellios has four goals in 22 games to his name in Super League Greece and seven goals in 14 games for the youth international side. Meanwhile, the Blues are still trawling the market for an experienced striker to bolster their ranks, after James Vaughan departed on loan to Crystal Palace.
Moyes said: “I would like to bring a couple of players in for the good of the group itself. They need a lift and they need to see it. “But then, if we can’t get anyone, it gives a chance for other players to play and that’s sometimes how you get people like Seamus Coleman into the team regularly. “That’s how young lads get an opportunity otherwise they don't get a chance in the team.” Moyes believes it is becoming harder for him to find bargains in the transfer market who can boost his side.
He said: “It becomes more difficult because the better you get as a team, the bigger the fee you ultimately need to spend. You might be needing the icing on the cake, rather than a cog in the wheel somewhere. But we haven’t lost our best players. “We lost Wayne a long time ago now, and probably needed that for rebuilding at that time, even though we couldn’t stop it anyway. We lost Joleon and at the time he wanted to go, but we replaced him well with Sylvain Distin. “Steven was a top player, but come midnight Monday he was worth no money, whereas a week before he was worth £3m. We couldn’t pay the wages required to keep him, so we had a decision to make, and decided to take the £3m. But you wouldn’t replace him for £3m, you’d have to spend big.”
EVERTON 1 CHELSEA 1: Gutsy Blues keep FA Cup dream alive
by James Pearce, Liverpool Echo
Jan 29 2011
EVERTON face a FA Cup fourth round replay at Stamford Bridge after being held to a 1-1 draw by Chelsea at Goodison Park. David Moyes' side produced a gutsy performance against the holders but were left ruing their failure to hold on to the lead given to them by Louis Saha. The Frenchman nodded home his seventh goal in eight games against the Londoners just past the hour mark.
However, 13 minutes later Salomon Kalou fired Chelsea level and both sides went close to grabbing a winner in a frenetic finale. Moyes made three changes from last weekend's 2-2 draw with West Ham as Jack Rodwell, Diniyar Bilyaletdinov and Saha returned to the side in place of Jermaine Beckford, Victor Anichebe and Leon Osman. Didier Drogba tested Tim Howard from the edge of the box early on but the Blues soon settled and began to impose themselves on the tie. Marouane Fellaini led the way as Everton worked tirelessly to force Chelsea into making errors. In the 13th minute Phil Neville's throw was flicked on by Rodwell but Bilyaletdinov could only fire weakly at Petr Cech. At the other end John Terry rose highest to meet Florent Malouda's corner but nodded narrowly over. Everton were soon back on the attack and wasted a glorious chance to break the deadlock midway through the half. Fellaini dispossessed Terry and Saha's pass released Rodwell through the middle. The England Under-21 international had time to pick his spot but shot straight at Cech who saved with his legs. Seamus Coleman more than held his own against Ashley Cole and the young Irishman embarked on a surging run into the box before lashing a shot wastefully wide.
Chelsea looked dangerous when they counter attacked at pace and Everton had Howard to thank for ensuring they stayed on level terms in the closing stages of the first half. The keeper had already forced Nicolas Anelka's shot behind after the striker had been put clean through when he tipped Malouda's long range effort past the post. Everton started the second half with renewed vigour and roared on by their supporters they dominated the opening exchanges. Rodwell was at the heart of the action and his deep cross picked out Saha whose acrobatic volley was forced behind by Ramires. From the ensuing corner Rodwell nodded over the bar. The Blues continued to press and Fellaini saw his header from Mikel Arteta's free-kick tipped over by Cech. The goal Everton's pressure deserved finally arrived in the 62nd minute. Leighton Baines swung a corner into the box and Saha rose six yards out to nod into the far corner. Rather than sit back, Everton looked to add to their account and were agonisingly close to killing off the tie 16 minutes from time. Coleman's powerful header was parried by Cech and the rebound dropped into the youngster's path but his goal-bound shot was deflected over by Michael Essien. Everton were still cursing their misfortune when Chelsea equalised 60 seconds later. Substitute Kalou, who had only been on the pitch five minutes, raced on to Anelka's pass and as Sylvain Distin backed off he arrowed a low shot past Howard from the edge of the box. With four minutes to go Chelsea almost won the tie as Ramires' long range effort beat Howard but cannoned back off the post. Moyes introduced Beckford late on and the Everton substitute went desperately close to dumping out the holders at the death. His blistering dipping volley was brilliantly pushed over the bar by Cech and it finished honours even.
Everton 1 Chelsea 1: Super sub Saloman Kalou rescues FA Cup holders
By Rob Draper on 30th January 2011 (Daily Mail)
It was only 18 seconds' worth of time yet it could prove pivotal to the seasons of both Chelsea and Everton. More than 75 minutes had elapsed and Seamus Coleman, excellent throughout, had initially jumped superbly to meet a Leighton Baines cross, only for Petr Cech to save sharply. The young Irishman then hauled himself to his feet and struck the rebound goalwards. All seemed lost for Chelsea. They were already a goal down and seemed about to concede the second. They have already effectively conceded their Premier League title and seemed about to surrender their FA Cup. At the last, though, came Michael Essien, diving desperately across to block the chance. He was an unlikely saviour, for had you wished to single out a visiting player who was furthest from fulfilling his potential in this game - and there were a clutch of candidates - Essien would have topped the list with his repeated inability to retain possession. But his heart remains and there he was, saving Chelsea. Then came the 18 seconds as the ball eventually reached Nicolas Anelka after going out for a corner. A dash down the left wing followed, a misplaced pass for Ramires, which eventually found Salomon Kalou on the right flank, a cut inside and an equaliser off a post. From being a fraction away from another crushing blow to morale to a saving moment, all in the space of less than half a minute.'The difference between 2-0 and 1-1,' sighed Everton manager David Moyes. 'It was against the run of play as we'd had the better of the second half. We were caught on the break and Chelsea do that to you because they have so much speed.'Everton skipper Phil Neville added: 'It was the turning point. We're disappointed because, in the second half, we took it to them.'The manager wanted more tempo in the second half and he wanted us to play the ball forward because the sun was in their eyes. 'The big man, Louis Saha, was world class for us. And if Seamus's effort goes in, we win the tie.' Everton talked up their record of not losing to Chelsea since their FA Cup final defeat in 2009 as they began preparations for next week's replay at Stamford Bridge. But for all that, they recognised that they had missed their best chance to finish off the holders. 'If you get a chance at home, you want to take it,' said Moyes. Fernando Torres, watching at home, would doubtless have been unimpressed with his potential new team-mates.'Torres, Torres, give us a wave,' chanted the visiting Chelsea fans triumphantly early in the first half. Both sides had been seemingly stupefied before half-time, with little class of note. Jack Rodwell was played in by Saha after Marouane Fellaini had caught Essien in possession on 25 minutes but his shot was saved by Cech. And Anelka, fed beautifully by Ramires, was in on goal but had his strike well saved by Tim Howard on 31 minutes. Those were the only meaningful efforts on goal in the opening 45 minutes. John Terry put a free header over on 18 minutes and Mikel Arteta shot just wide on the stroke of half-time but that was about it for the first half. Nevertheless, Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti made all the right noises about the performance. 'A draw was the right result,' he said. 'The second half was really difficult and they put us under a lot pressure. Going 1-0 down wasn't easy but we showed good attitude and spirit.' And for all Chelsea's lack of bite in midfield, the ineffectiveness of Didier Drogba up front and the failure of Terry to mark Saha for the opening goal, they did show resilience. It was not just Essien's block, but a similar lunge from Ramires which saved them from Saha on 53 minutes. And there were key saves from Cech, from Fellaini on 56 minutes and then his last-minute tip over the bar from substitute Jermaine Beckford's spectacular volley, which had been presented to him following a woeful error by Branislav Ivanovic. Chelsea's vulnerability from set-pieces became evident again when Saha's checked run fooled Terry, allowing him to rise magnificently and relatively unchallenged to head in a Baines corner, his seventh goal in eight games against Chelsea. Until Chelsea's equaliser Everton had looked in control, yet they almost lost the game when Ramires struck a post from 25 yards on 86 minutes. That would have been a travesty, yet Everton still may live to regret those infamous 18 seconds that snuffed out their lead and their best chance of overcoming the FA Cup holders.
Everton 1-1 Chelsea: Sunday Mirror match report
30/01/2011 By Simon Mullock (Sunday Mirror)
Carlo Ancleotti may be in the market for more quality, but there is nothing wrong with Chelsea’s spirit. The Blues boss is desperate to take Liverpool striker Fernando Torres and Benfica centre-back David Luiz to Stamford Bridge before the transfer window slams shut tomorrow night. Whether he is successful or not, the players Ancelotti already has at his disposal proved at Goodison Park that when it comes to the business end of the season they won’t be taking a backward step. Nothing illustrated Chelsea’s hunger to make history by becoming the first club since Blackburn 125 years ago to lift the FA Cup for a third successive time than the turning point of this fourth round tie in the 75th minute. Louis Saha had put the home side into a deserved lead just after the hour and David Moyes’ dogs of war had the scent of blood in their nostrils. Leighton Baines crossed from the left for Seamus Coleman to climb above Ashley Cole and connect with a textbook downward header that Petr Cech did well to claw away at the foot of a post. The livewire Coleman reacted first to the rebound, only to be denied by a heroic block from Michael Essien. This was Chelsea refusing to be beaten, despite coming off second best for much of the tie. And within seconds, Blues substitute Salomon Kalou had secured a replay by putting the finishing touch to a sweeping counter-attack. Neither manager was in any doubt as they highlighted those two moments as the reason why the clubs will be meeting again in west London next week. “The block was a very important moment for us in the game because after that we equalised immediately,” said Ancelotti. “In the end a draw was a great result for us because Everton are a good team and they can be very dangerous from set-pieces.” Ancelotti’s relief was in contrast to Moyes’ sense of injustice. “The game changed with that chance for Coleman,” he said. “It was a good, old-fashioned header at the far post that Petr Cech did really well to save and then Essien made an unbelievable challenge from the rebound. “Then they go up the pitch and score pretty much against the run of play. “We are disappointed because when you get the chance to beat Chelsea at home you really have to take it.” Everton skipper Phil Neville set the tone for the contest with a bone-jarring first-minute challenge on Florent Malouda. Jack Rodwell failed to test Cech with a shot on the run after Saha had given him a clear sight of Chelsea’s goal. And at the other end, Tim Howard managed to block Nicolas Anelka’s drive when the Frenchman went for power rather than precision after being freed by the impressive Ramires. After the break, though, the home side really forced the champions on to the back foot. Ramires showed that he can operate in both penalty areas by throwing himself fearlessly in front of Saha’s far-post volley after Rodwell had served up a teasing cross. Then Marouane Fellaini should have scored when he rose unchallenged to meet Mikel Arteta’s free-kick but instead directed his header straight at Cech. Saha made no such mistake in the 62nd minute. The Frenchman scored the fastest goal in FA Cup final history in 2009 with a strike after 25 seconds – only to finish on the losing side. This time, Saha’s movement when Baines swung in a corner from the right was too clever for John Terry and his header gave Cech no chance. But Chelsea had not been beaten in 14 FA Cup ties and this was time for their sheer bloody-mindedness to kick in. Ancelotti replaced Malouda with Kalou after 70 minutes – and was given his reward just minutes later. But not before Essien had come up with the kind of inspirational block that will go down in Chelsea folklore if the Cup is back at Stamford Bridge in May. Ramires started the move after dispossessing Rodwell deep inside Chelsea’s penalty area. The Brazilian sent Anelka galloping into Everton territory and although he failed to find Ramires with a return pass, there was Kalou drifting in to fool the unsighted Howard with a low shot that bobbled through the legs of Sylvain Distin. Chelsea could have stolen it in the last five minutes when Ramires’ fierce low strike from 20 yards hit the foot a post. Asked whether there was any update over the signing of Torres, Ancelotti simply smiled and said: “No, but I am always happy.” With his Blues still in with a shout of making history this season, the Italian had every reason to be cheerful.
Everton 1-1 Chelsea: FA Cup holders come away from Merseyside empty-handed
30/01/11 By MirrorFootball (Daily Mirror)
Salomon Kalou came off the bench to maintain Chelsea's hold on the FA Cup this afternoon. The holders and winners for the past two seasons appeared to be heading for a fourth-round exit at Everton after falling behind to a Louis Saha header. But Kalou, who had entered the field just five minutes earlier, booked a replay at Stamford Bridge as he finished off a swift counter-attack 15 minutes from time. It came just moments after Petr Cech had produced a brilliant save to prevent Seamus Coleman doubling the Toffees' lead. Both sides went close to a late winner as Ramires struck a post for Chelsea and Jermaine Beckford also tested Cech. The visiting fans had been in good voice, gleefully proclaiming Fernando Torres as "Chelsea's number nine" in reference to the Stamford Bridge club's attempts to sign the Liverpool striker. But the game lacked urgency at the start with Chelsea's Didier Drogba having the first opportunity for either side when he shot weakly at Tim Howard after five minutes. Everton's first spell of pressure ended with Leighton Baines delivering a deep cross but Coleman's header back across goal was cleared. A sliced clearance by Ashley Cole allowed Everton captain Phil Neville to launch a long throw into the box and Diniyar Bilyaletdinov almost profited but the Russian failed to make firm contact. Chelsea captain John Terry went close to opening the scoring when he headed narrowly over from a Florent Malouda corner after 17 minutes. Everton came to life midway through the first half as Marouane Fellaini robbed Michael Essien and Saha sent Jack Rodwell through. The youngster got a clear sight of goal but Cech reacted quickly to block his shot. The hosts had another opportunity moments later as Neville picked out Bilyaletdinov with a cross from the right but his header was comfortably taken by Cech. Chelsea responded with fit-again Frank Lampard slipping Nicolas Anelka through on goal but the Frenchman was flagged offside. Anelka timed his run better when Ramires threaded a fine pass through the defence but this time Howard rushed out of goal to block his shot. Mikel Arteta tried his luck from distance in the closing minute of the half but drilled a low shot wide of Cech's post. Everton lifted the tempo after the restart and had an early opportunity after Coleman's persistence won possession on the right. The Irishman fed Rodwell and his cross was almost turned in on the volley by Saha at the back post but Ramires blocked on the line. Fellaini then brought a fine save from Cech as he met an Arteta cross with a firm header after Cole had needlessly pushed Coleman to concede a free-kick. Fellaini turned provider to set up Arteta with a shooting chance on the edge of the area with a good nod down but the Spaniard flashed wide. Everton were rewarded for a good spell of pressure when Saha got behind Terry and rose highest to head home a Baines corner in the 62nd minute. It maintained Saha's fine personal record against the Londoners, having scored against them three times last season and in the 2009 cup final defeat. Cech brilliantly prevented Everton from adding a second by saving at point-blank range as Coleman met a teasing Baines cross with a diving header. The true value of the save became clear moments later as the Londoners broke up the field to equalise. Kalou, who had seen little of the ball, finished off a swift counter-attack by charging into the area and finding space to hammer a low shot into the far corner. The game then appeared to meander towards a replay but Everton were almost caught out five minutes from as Ramires struck a fierce shot against the post from 25 yards. Everton substitute Beckford then pounced on a Branislav Ivanovic error to test Cech with a well-struck shot but again the Chelsea keeper saved superbly.
Pienaar sought divine inspiration before opting for Spurs switch
30/01/2011 By Steve Stammers (Sunday Mirror)
Steven Pienaar sought ¬divine inspiration before he opted to join Tottenham instead of Chelsea. The £2.5million signing from Everton revealed: “I asked ¬advice from people and I prayed – I prayed and tried to make the right decision.” The South Africa international midfielder was guided to Spurs and is now relishing the prospect of joining Harry ¬Redknapp’s revolution. “I am the one who had to make the decision,” Pienaar went on. “Why Tottenham? The kind of football they play has been attractive for the last couple of seasons. quality to win trophies. “They are in the Champions League and they are still in the FA Cup and playing for a top-four place. “And here I have -competition. Everton have a small squad and, as a footballer, you need competition. I am willing to fight for my place. You have to compete with the best.” Pienaar can feature in a ¬variety of positions, though he was nicknamed “Schillo” as a youngster after Italian striker Toto Schillaci. But he said: “I don’t mind where I play – as long as I am in the team.” While growing up near Joahnnesburg – playing for a youth team called ¬Arsenal – he was ¬captivated by the gung-ho football of Kevin Keegan’s Newcastle. And now he is working alongside one of his ¬boyhood heroes, Les Ferdinand, who coaches the Spurs strikers. Pienaar sees ¬joining Spurs as the chance to win medals. He said: “The only one I have is from winning the league with Ajax.” Twenty months ago, Pienaar was in the Everton team that took the lead in the FA Cup final against Chelsea but ended up losing. He recalls: “It was so sad for me. You see the other team at the podium lifting the cup and you are by the pitch just watching. But maybe it is possible to win it with this club.” His quest to reach Wembley resumes at Fulham today, though he admits he never even got to speak to Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti when his move was imminent. But he was impressed by Redknapp’s enthusiasm. “The kind of football we are playing is what I like,” he said. “It is football that has you on the edge of your seat. But I am here to fight for my place and if I am not in the team, I will work harder.”
EVERTON 1 - CHELSEA 1 - SALOMON KALOU SAVER FOR CARLO ANCELOTTI
30th January 2011 By Paul Hetherington
Everton 1 - Chelsea 1 (The Star)
CHELSEA are the team who have forgotten what it is like to lose in the FA Cup. But they needed late heroes in substitute Salomon Kalou and goalkeeper Petr Cech to ensure they extended their unbeaten run in the competition to 15 matches. Chelsea, who have lifted the cup in both of the last two seasons, fell behind to Louis Saha’s fine second-half header. But Kalou rescued Carlo Ancelotti’s men 15 minutes from time with the equaliser. And, with just a minute remaining, Cech produced a vital save. Everton sub Jermaine Beckford hammered the ball towards the roof of the net – but Cech reacted in a flash to turn the ball over the bar. Chelsea, who defeated Everton in the final two years ago, were also indebted to a magnificent block by Michael Essien, which prevented the impressive Seamus Coleman making it 2-0 to the Toffees in the 75th minute. Everton boss David Moyes said: “The turning point was Cech’s save from Coleman and then Essien’s block. “Otherwise, we would have been two up. Then they went straight down the field and equalised. “That goal came against the run of play. We played well – but you want to take your chance when you are at home. “At least we are in the hat and we will have another go.” Ancelotti said: “It was a difficult game. They put us under pressure. “But for Essien, it would have been 2-0. We lost control of the game in the second half. But we showed good spirit.” Chelsea have won the FA Cup in three of the last four seasons. But Everton’s fans demanded a performance from their side to keep their season alive and show they can still mix it with the big boys. Generally, Everton do perform well against the country’s top teams and their early, assured and patient passing showed they certainly weren’t suffering from an inferiority complex. Diniyar Bilyaletdinov failed to connect cleanly when he had a half chance, then Jack Rodwell surged forward, only to be denied by Cech’s save. But Chelsea, whose fans happily reeled off a number of Fernando Torres chants as they await his arrival, were the more threatening. John Terry headed just over and Nicolas Anelka looked like scoring until Tim Howard diverted the ball for a corner. The Everton keeper also saved well from Florent Malouda, before Everton upped the pressure after the break. Rodwell crossed superbly for Saha to meet the ball at the far post, only for Ramires to make a vital block. From the resulting corner, Rodwell should have done better with a headed chance, then Cech turned the ball over when Marouane Fellaini attempted to nod home. But Everton made their dominance tell when they finally made the breakthrough in the 62nd minute. Leighton Baines’ inswinging corner from the right was met by Saha, who superbly headed the ball down and in after evading his marker with a fantastic piece of movement. Cech prevented Coleman making it 2-0 with a fine save and the Everton midfielder’s follow-up effort was bravely blocked by Essien. But Everton had the wind taken out of their sails when Chelsea equalised in the 75th minute against the run of play. Anelka raced down the left, before finding Kalou with a superb pass. And the Chelsea substitute made no mistake as he rolled the ball into the far corner of Howard’s net for his ninth goal of the season and his second in two FA Cup games. Ramires, who signed from Benfica last summer, then almost won it for the holders with a shot which came back off the post.
EVERTON 1, CHELSEA 1: CECH'S HAND OF FATE
Everton 1, Chelsea 1
Sunday January 30,2011 (Express)
EVERTON 1, CHELSEA 1: Once again a Louis Saha FA Cup strike against Chelsea failed to quell a side who regard the competition as their own exclusive property.
In the Wembley final two years ago the Everton striker scored after just 25 seconds. Chelsea came back to win 2-1, and yesterday their powers of recovery were once again needed as the Frenchman racked up his seventh goal in eight games against the Double holders. His 63rd minute header shook Carlo Ancelotti’s side, who had last tasted defeat in the tournament 13 games ago before arriving here. It may have been substitute Salomon Kalou who stole in for the equaliser which sends the two teams to Stamford Bridge, but the real reason that Chelsea can breathe again is keeper Petr Cech. Cech was at his razor sharp best to crush Everton’s ambitions – none more so than when Seamus Coleman seemed poised to make it 2-0.
Coleman pounced on an inviting Leighton Baines cross and his powerful header was kept out with a sturdy Cech hand. Coleman’s follow up brought an equally defiant response from Michael Essien. He literally placed his body on the line to illustrate Chelsea’s determination to cling onto the trophy they have won in three of the past four seasons. From a lacerating counter attack Chelsea discovered the inspiration to save the tie. Nicolas Anelka went on a charge and his ball, probably meant for the on-running Ramires, spurted into Kalou’s path and his low drive speared into the corner of the net. Yet it still wasn’t job done for a side seeking a third successive FA Cup triumph, a feat last achieved by Blackburn in the 1880s.
With the clock rapidly running down Branislav Ivanovic sliced a clearance and Everton substitute Jermaine Beckford was suddenly in the clear. A fierce effort would have beaten many keepers but not Cech, who leapt to divert the ball over. Ancelotti looked to the heavens in relief. No doubt, if Chelsea return to Wembley in May, he will remember this late January afternoon when their grip on the world’s greatest knockout competition was tested. It had been a battle for survival once Saha had continued his personal goal fest against the Londoners. A Baines corner caught out Terry, and Saha took advantage to head in from six yards. Ancelotti admitted: “It was a difficult game. Everton put us under pressure with their long balls. We showed great spirit and in the end it was a great draw for us. “The game probably turned on us being able to prevent it going to 2-0 when Petr Cech and Michael Essien did so well.” For Everton much is expected of the emerging Jack Rodwell, who is seemingly on the radar of most big clubs. He was tucked in just behind lone striker Saha and warmed to the task the longer the game went on. Rodwell almost cashed in on Chelsea’s generosity when Marouane Fellaini hustled Ramires and then Terry into diverting the ball into his path, but Cech was able to block. Chelsea who had squandered some early chances – Anelka firing straight at Tim Howard and Terry wasting a couple of headers from corners – went to sleep after the break. This is when Everton should have cashed in. But Saha’s header from Rodwell’s chip was cleared by Ramires, then Cech palmed over a Fellaini header from Mikel Arteta’s free-kick. Everton manager David Moyes said: “We had the chances to have won this game and it was against the run of play when they scored. But Chelsea are a good side who are difficult to contain.”
Saha 62Kalou 75CARLO ANCELOTTIRef: H Webb Att: 28,376EVERTON: Howard, Neville, Heitinga, Distin, Baines, Coleman,Arteta,Fellaini, Rodwell (Beckford 86), Bilyaletdinov, Saha.
CHELSEA: Cech, Bosingwa,Ivanovic, Terry, Cole, Ramires, Lampard (Mikel 85), Essien, Malouda (Kalou 70), Drogba, Anelka.
MAN of the MATCH: Petr Cech: Maintained his nerve while others around him were all at sea to keep the holders afloat in the competition.
Phil Neville asks for repeat performance from Everton FC in cup replay
Liverpool Echo
Jan 31 2011
EVERTON captain Phil Neville was disappointed to see his side held to a draw in their FA Cup fourth-round clash with Chelsea – and has told them they must perform in the replay at Stamford Bridge. The Toffees were the better side at Goodison Park and took a deserved lead through a Louis Saha header, only for Salomon Kalou to slot home an equaliser 15 minutes from time after a slick Chelsea counter-attack. And Neville believes his side are capable of a repeat showing. He said: “We had all the play and possession and we are disappointed. We have played well against the top teams but we have to produce that sort of performance in the replay because that will be a very tough test. “The manager (David Moyes) wanted more energy, to play at our tempo and get the ball forward with Saha up front. He caused them a lot of problems and we are really disappointed to concede that goal. “But a couple of years ago (when Everton went on to reach the final) we beat Liverpool in a replay and we have to do it again.” Moyes felt that Michael Essien’s brilliant block as Seamus Coleman looked set to fire home was the key moment of the game. “When you get the chance at home you want to take it,” he said. “We limited them to few opportunities and the turning point was the Coleman header and the last-ditch tackle that kept them in the game. “Their goal was against the run of play, we had control in the second half and I thought the boys played well today. “I thought we had more chances in the second half.”
Louis Saha edging back to best says Everton FC boss David Moyes
by David Prentice
Jan 31 2011
DAVID MOYES believes Louis Saha is hitting form at the perfect time after the Frenchman shone in Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Chelsea at Goodison. The striker looked to have headed Everton into the fifth round of the FA Cup when he struck just past the hour mark. However, Salomon Kalou fired the holders level 13 minutes later and the sides will meet again at Stamford Bridge. The replay will take place on Saturday, February 19 subject to FA confirmation. It was Saha’s third goal in his last four appearances and continued his fine record against the Londoners. He has now netted five times in the last five meetings between the clubs dating back to his stunning strike when they met in the final at Wembley in 2009. “I thought Louis played really well,” Moyes said. “He has a pretty good record against Chelsea and scored another good goal in this game. “He was a threat throughout and I always felt if he got the ball he could do something. He looked keen. “Louis is beginning to play with a lot more confidence. I remember last season he scored most of his goals from August to January. Let’s hope it is now from January to May this time. “He has played with the best players and played in the biggest games. On his day he is as good as any centre forward. He has some outstanding attributes.” Moyes was proud of a gutsy performance and the only frustration was that Everton didn’t add to Saha’s opener. Seamus Coleman was thwarted first by Petr Cech’s save and then by Michael Essien’s block and Chelsea counter-attacked to devastating effect with Kalou grabbing an equaliser the visitors scarcely deserved. “Nobody can come away from that game and say that Everton did not deserve to be in the next round of the cup and we could easily have been in the next round on our own,” Moyes said. “But the block and the save by the goalkeeper was why they have good players and why they are always in cup finals and at the top of the league. “There’s frustration that we didn’t win the game but at the same time satisfaction that it was a good team performance. I couldn’t go into the dressing room and question anybody as they all did a good job “We knew it would be difficult to take the initiative but you are talking about a real top team in Chelsea. That was probably their strongest team. “We grew into the game and in the second half we wanted to make more runs forward than we did in the first half when we didn’t pass it quite as tidily as we should have. But I couldn’t turn round and say we played badly in the first half.” Moyes also dismissed fears that Everton’s chance of progressing may have gone after failing to make home advantage count.
The Blues have returned unbeaten from their last three trips to Stamford Bridge and the boss insists they will travel with genuine hope. Moyes added: “Chelsea will be saying that Everton will be tough opponents. We think we have a very good side and it is our chance to prove it again. “Since the Cup final we haven’t lost to Chelsea. They are a good side and you have to keep your discipline and organisation and try to create chances yourself. “Getting to the final last time was the hard way so this makes it an even harder one again.” Meanwhile, Moyes expects today’s transfer deadline to pass without him strengthening his squad. The Blues boss had hoped to sign a striker on loan until the end of the season but hasn’t been able to find someone of sufficient quality who is available.
“Look, something might come up but if you are asking me have I got anything (lined up) I am saying no,” he said. “I couldn’t even say I am trying.”
Fading Chelsea force holds no fear for Everton FC in replay
by James Pearce, Liverpool Echo
Jan 31 2011
IT'S not often Liverpool supporters find solace in the exploits of their neighbours across Stanley Park. But an enthralling FA Cup tie at Goodison on Saturday may have provided a glimmer of hope for Reds as well as a welcome boost for Blues. Everton were excellent and only the heroics of Petr Cech denied them the scalp of the holders. Having been outfought and outplayed, Chelsea were hugely fortunate to escape with a replay. A gutsy performance from David Moyes' side laid bare Chelsea's weaknesses and begged the question why is Fernando Torres so desperate to leave Anfield for the capital? The Spaniard may crave silverware but there's certainly no guarantee that thirst will be satisfied in West London. The fact is Torres would be joining a Chelsea side in serious decline. They are an ageing team and on Saturday it showed. Vulnerable defensively and lacking attacking invention, there is no longer the fear factor which used to come with facing them. Everton made them look ordinary and Liverpool fans will pray that the sight of Carlo Ancelotti's men on the back foot at Goodison is enough to give Torres second thoughts about pursuing a move. After all Chelsea are in need of almost as much rebuilding as the side the striker is currently part of. While Liverpool fight to cling on to Torres, tonight's transfer deadline is likely to pass quietly at Goodison. A lack of cash prevents Moyes from making the additions to the squad he craves but the manager will take great encouragement from what he witnessed on Saturday. Compared to the dismal draw against lowly West Ham seven days earlier, the Blues were transformed. This was the return of the 'real' Everton. Passion, desire and tireless running coupled with bursts of genuine quality. Chelsea were never allowed to settle as they were hustled and harried into mistakes. Marouane Fellaini set the tone with an outstanding display in the middle of the park, snapping into tackles and ensuring Frank Lampard remained a peripheral figure throughout. In front of him Jack Rodwell grew into the contest after being handed his first start for a month and provided a touch of class to proceedings.
Seamus Coleman has shown before he has no respect for reputations and he gave Ashley Cole a torrid time. The overworked England left-back was so preoccupied with containing the young Irishman that he wasn't able to venture past the halfway line. Moyes' decision to revert to 4-5-1 paid dividends with Louis Saha rising to the challenge of being the lone frontman on his return to the side. How Chelsea must be sick of the sight of the resurgent Frenchman. When he nodded home Leighton Baines' corner just past the hour mark it was his fifth goal in the last five meetings between the clubs. Not for the first time John Terry was embarrassed by Saha when he lost him in the box and the defender won't relish another duel with him at Stamford Bridge. Full of running, holding the ball up and bringing others into play, Saha's efforts left you wondering what he might have achieved if he hadn't endured such a torrid run with injuries. “On his day Louis is as good as any centre forward and he has some outstanding attributes,” Moyes said. It's just a shame those 'days' are so often punctuated by spells on the treatment table and afternoons when he looks restricted by his unreliable limbs. With three goals in his last four appearances, Everton will be desperately hoping he stays fit and his purple patch continues. Having dominated the opening exchanges of the second half after a tight opening 45 minutes the lead Saha gave the Blues was richly deserved.
With Ramires blocking Saha's volley and Cech tipping Fellaini's header over, Everton were unlucky not to be home and dry. Roared on by the Gwladys Street, they scented blood and their eagerness to put the game to bed ultimately contributed to Chelsea drawing level. Just 35 seconds after Michael Essien had somehow deflected Coleman's goal-bound shot over the bar, Salomon Kalou arrowed a low drive past Tim Howard. It was a lightning counter attack with Sylvain Distin paying the price for failing to close down the substitute. A glorious chance of victory had slipped through Everton's grasp but all is not lost. This tie and the Blues' season is still very much alive. Everton will take heart from past experiences having drawn their last five league trips to Stamford Bridge.
Moyes was bullish about his side's chances of setting up a home tie with Reading in the last 16 and rightly so. Chelsea are a fading force and Saturday merely underlined how fallible they are. Moyes knows it and if he was watching so will Torres.
Everton 1 Chelsea 1: Greg O'Keeffe on the Blues' gutsy cup draw
Liverpool Echo
Jan 31 2011
NEVER MIND sweets – the toffee lady should be dishing out motion sickness tablets at Goodison Park this season. Such are the drastic highs and lows of this roller-coaster campaign, supporters could be forgiven for stumbling out of the ground feeling decidedly queasy. Awful against West Ham last weekend, the Blues were fantastic against reigning Premier League champions and FA Cup holders Chelsea on Saturday. And if Evertonians aren’t feeling disorientated by their sides swinging fortunes, they may have a headache as they mull the inexplicables behind it. Why do David Moyes’ team struggle to raise their game against essentially limited opponents like Wolves, West Brom, Wigan and West Ham, only to sparkle against the top four sides? This all-Premier League fourth round cup tie summed it up. Of the current top five Everton are unbeaten against four, only losing to Arsenal at Goodison. The FA Cup is supposed to offer some romance and respite from the frustrations of league toil, but a fine draw against Carlo Ancelotti’s side only re-emphasised the puzzle. What is beyond doubt is that Everton like sides who let them play, and despite having enforcer Michael Essien in central midfield, the Londoners gifted the Blues time and space to pass the ball. That created a platform for a balanced Everton midfield to click, and suggest that Moyes may well have found a system that can flourish. A re-play at Stamford Bridge is difficult to stomach for a side that deserved to seal their progress into the fifth round at the first time of asking. At times the outstanding Petr Cech was the only thing in the way of an Everton victory.
The goalkeeper produced a save from Seamus Coleman to prevent the Toffees going two in front that proved to be a turning point, then denied Jermaine Beckford with a fingertip save in the final minutes to earn a replay. Everton were so close to inflicting Chelsea’s first Cup defeat since 2008, that pessimists will believe their opportunity to progress has now gone. It’s hard enough drawing quality opposition in the cup, but faintly ominous when a gilt-edged chance to beat them like this passes. David Moyes might not have a trademark facial tic as demonstrative as Ancelotti’s eye-brow, but even the normally poker-faced Scot may have revealed frustration when his side drew Chelsea again. The West Londoners are Everton’s cup nemesis; ruining their Carling Cup hopes in 2008, then prising their hand off the FA Cup in 2009. But this isn’t quite the dominant Chelsea of old, even if their star appears to be back on the rise, and the home side shaded a patchy first half enlivened by another mammoth performance from Marouane Fellaini. The Belgian is presently one of a kind in European football, and Everton must prioritise attempts to convince him to extend a contract which has only 18 months remaining. He harassed and bullied Essien, of all people, out of possession at one point to set up a dangerous break which ended with Jack Rodwell’s shot straight at Cech, while at the other end Nicolas Anelka was given a slightly clearer opportunity by Ramires's through ball but was unable to beat Tim Howard. The second half saw Everton, no doubt reminded that winning this tie at Goodison was vital, start dominating thanks to more adventure from their full-backs. With the tremendous Seamus Coleman causing Ashley Cole no end of problems, and Leighton Baines starting to link up nicely with the impressive Diniyar Bilyaletdinov, you senses Everton were ready to capitalise. From a nicely-orchestrated midfield five, Rodwell was getting forward more to support a fit and hungry looking Louis Saha, and Fellaini had Chelsea sweating from set pieces. Saha might have scored from a Rodwell cross after Terry had given the ball away but for Ramires sprinting back to block on the line, and from a Mikel Arteta free-kick Fellaini forced Cech into a marvellous reflex save. With more than enough stature in their ranks, it’s about time Everton started scoring from corners and they duly did. A typically excellent Baines sent over a deft corner from the right, and Saha found just enough space on the six-yard line to score with a fine bullet header. Sensing the kill Everton piled forward. Coleman, tireless and full of aggressive running all day, drew a double save from Cech thanks to his persistence but then Chelsea hit back. Anelka brought the ball out of defence and played a crossfield pass that Ramires allowed to run on to Salomon Kalou. The substitute had not been on long, but as Everton failed to block his progress, he wrong-footed Howard with a low shot past Distin and Phil Neville. So it was. Despite further spirited attempts the nagging feeling was the Blues are going to have to do things the even harder way. Everton may have drawn their five League matches at Stamford Bridge - but it was 1994 when they last won there so a tall task awaits. Still, with the added spice of Tim Cahill’s return, and a midfield balance that promises much, it might yet be time to upset the odds and earn a home tie against Reading in the next round of the cup. He said: “We'll go down there and try to win it. That's the key - you're in the Cup, you have to go and try and win it.” David Moyes hints that he will take the game to Chelsea in the re-play.” “It was not an easy game because Everton put strong pressure all the time on the pitch, used a lot of long balls, they were very dangerous on set-pieces and scored on one.” Carlo Ancelotti knows his side were close to bowing out of the cup.
EVERTON: (4-5-1) Howard, Baines, Heitinga, Distin, Neville, Coleman, Bilyaletdinov, Arteta, Fellaini Rodwell (Beckford 86), Saha. Subs not used: Mucha, Hibbert, Jagielka, Osman, Magaye Gueye, Baxter
CHELSEA: Cech, Ivanovic, A Cole, Bosingwa, Terry, Essien, Ramires, Lampard (Mikel 85), Malouda (Kalou 70), Drogba, Anelka. Subs not used: Hilario, Ferreira, Bruma, McEachran, Sala
GOALS: Saha (62); Kalou (75)
REFEREE: H Webb (Rotherham)
ATTENDANCE: 28,376
Everton FC can bridge gap says Seamus Coleman
by Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo
Jan 31 2011
SEAMUS COLEMAN reckons Everton’s FA Cup performance against Chelsea has given them confidence that they can triumph in the replay. The Ireland international was instrumental in an impressive display, as David Moyes' side narrowly failed to beat Chelsea in their fourth round tie on Saturday. Coleman, 22, went closest to giving the Blues a deserved lead in the game, and was equally effective helping Phil Neville curtail the threat of Ashely Cole’s forward surges. But despite admitting he was disappointed with being forced to a replay, Coleman was confident Everton can win at Stamford Bridge for the first time since 1994. He said: “There was only one team that looked like winning, we had countless chances and their keeper was on fire. We were disappointed not to get the win really. We’re still in with a shout now though which is the main thing. “When they saw the draw they wouldn’t have been too happy either. We need to keep our heads up, push on and get them down there. “We haven’t won down there for a while and that’s got to change. We’ve had a few draws with them at their place, and we’re not scared of them or anything. We respect them, but we’re more than capable of beating them." Coleman has previously admitted that his first year at Goodison felt like an extended trial, but after signing a new four-and-a-half year contract two weeks ago and establishing himself as a first-team regular, he is finally feeling at home in the top flight. He said: “I’m starting to feel more part of it now. I know that I can’t rest on my laurels though. Part of my game is my work-rate, that’s probably why the manager picks me a lot, and I’m just happy to be playing, impressing him and the fans. “The fitness coaches are great with us, but I’ve always been a naturally fit lad. The work we do with the coaches and the facilities we have here makes you improve a lot. The fitness and hard work are part of my game. I might not have the technical ability of the likes of Mikel Arteta, but I’ll work my socks off.” Coleman is a firm believer in the romance of the cup, and would love to be part of a successful run in the competition. He said: “It was a crucial game. You always want to go on a good run. I hear all the lads talking about the 09 season and that sounded like a good buzz so I want to do the same. “I used to watch any football that was on back home, but I always made sure I watched the FA Cup especially. The later stages were more exciting and it’d be nice to be part of that, to push on and beat Chelsea.” Should the Blues prevail at Stamford Bridge the reward will be a home tie against Reading in the next round of the cup, to be played on the weekend of 19/20 February. Everton are unlikely to do any business on the final day of the transfer window today, after sealing a £250,000 deal for promising 19-year-old Greek striker Apostolos Vellios on Friday. Moyes will keep trawling the loan market until midnight nevertheless, but may well face fresh disappointment in his search for an experienced striker.
Pre-match preview: Arsenal v Everton FC (with video of an ex-Blues & Gunners goal hero)
Jan 31 2011
To be played at the Emirates Stadium, Tuesday February 1 kick off 8pm
Everton's last five games
Jan 29: FA Cup - Everton 1 Chelsea 1
Jan 22: Premier League - Everton 2 West Ham 2
Jan 16: Premier League - Liverpool 2 Everton 2
Jan 8: FA Cup - Scunthorpe 1 Everton 5
Jan 5: Premier League - Everton 2 Spurs 1
Arsenal's last five games
Jan 30: FA Cup - Arsenal 2 Huddersfield 1
Jan 25: Carling Cup - Arsenal 3 Ipswich 0
Jan 22: Premier League - Arsenal 3 Wigan 0
Jan 19: FA Cup - Leeds 1 Arsenal 3
Jan 15: Premier League - West Ham 0 Arsenal 3
Past meetings (all competitions)
P 194 W 58 D 41 L 95 F 237 A 319
Selected meetings
9 Jan 2010 Arsenal 2 Everton 2
The Blues were denied a famous win at the Emirates after a stoppage time Tomasz Rosicky equaliser. Leon Osman and Steven Pienaar with a delicious lob after twice put Everton in front.
20 Jan 1996 Arsenal 1 Everton 2
Everton's last win at Arsenal came after a stirring second half fightback at Highbury. Ian Wright had put the home side in front eight minutes before the break but Graham Stuart equalised before Andrei Kanchelskis grabbed the winner with six minutes remaining.
28 March 1987 Arsenal 0 Everton 1
Wayne Clarke's 30 yard lob into an unguarded net following a John Lukic gave the Blues three vital points in the race for the title as rivals Liverpool were losing at home to Wimbledon
Having made his Arsenal debut against Everton in May 1988, Kevin Campbell made a name for himself by bursting onto the scene as the 1990/91 season reached its climax and firing the goals that helped George Graham's side secure their second title in three seasons. After spells at Nottingham Forest and Turkish side Trabzonspor, Walter Smith brough Campbell to Goodison in the spring of 1999 with the Blues in relegation trouble. The Londoner made an instant impact, scoring nine goals in six games to help secure top flight status. After joining the club on a permament £3m deal that summer, Campbell managed another 36 goals in a further 137 games for the Blues, including the winning goal the last time Everton win at Anfield back in 1999.
Quick quiz (answers at foot of the page)
1 Who scored Everton's first goal at the Emirates stadium in the 1-1 draw back in October 2006?
2 Both matches between the clubs in 2002/03 season finished in 2-1 wins for the home side but which player scored for Everton in both games?
3 Dave Watson scored a 25-yard screamer to the Blues a point at Highbury in January 1995 but which Everton player was sent off that day?
4 Whose goal gave the Blues a vital win at Arsenal back in April 1986 as Howard Kendall's team were striving to retain their league title?
5 Who scored the winner when Everton won 1-0 at Arsenal on the opening day of their successful 1969/70 league campaign?
One to watch
Arsenal
Cesc Febregas scored Arsenal's late winner over Huddersfield in the FA Cup on Sunday and has become of the world's best midfielders since making his debut at Goodison in August 2004. Defender Sebastien Squillaci was sent off against the Terriers and will be suspended for the visit of Everton. Nicolas Bendtner was linked with a move to Everton in the transfer window and needs to be watched carefully while Robin van Persie has been in goalscoring form since his return from injury and is a constant threat.
Everton
Louis Saha scored his third goal in four games during the FA Cup draw with Chelsea and will fancy his chances against the Gunners defence. Seamus Coleman's performance against Carlo Ancelotti's side proved again his appetite for the big occasion. Tim Cahill's imminent back at Goodison from international duty mean Jermaine Beckford and Victor Anichebe will be wanting to prove their worth to David Moyes.
Latest odds from Betfred
Arsenal 4/9
Draw - 5/2
Everton - 7/1
Quiz answers
1 Tim Cahill
2 Wayne Rooney
3 Duncan Ferguson
4 Adrian Heath
5 John Hurst
Everton FC manager David Moyes calls for Louis Saha to keep scoring
by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post
Jan 31 2011
DAVID MOYES has challenged Louis Saha to continue his New Year goal glut – while admitting Everton are unlikely to have any major new arrivals before this evening’s transfer deadline. aha netted the third goal of his last four games when putting the Goodison outfit ahead in their FA Cup fourth-round clash at home to Chelsea on Saturday before Salomon Kalou earned the visitors a replay 15 minutes from time. It represents a remarkable turnaround for the Everton striker, who scored only four goals during the whole of 2010 after netting 12 times in the first half of last season. And Moyes believes the Frenchman is showing the form and confidence to replicate that previously profitable period between now and the end of the campaign. “I thought Louis played really well,” said the Everton manager. “He has a pretty good record against Chelsea and scored another good goal in this game. “He was a threat for the whole game and I always felt if he got the ball he could do something. “He looked keen throughout. “He is beginning to play with a lot more confidence. You talk about strikers scoring goals and he has been scoring recently. “I remember last season he scored most of his goals from August to January time – let's hope it is now from January to May this time!” Saha has now scored seven goals in eight games against Chelsea, and Moyes added: “I don't think he so much as has the sign on John Terry or not. But it's a fact that Louis Saha has played with the best players and played in the biggest games. “On his day he is as good as any centre forward. He has some outstanding attributes.” To help ease the burden on Saha, Moyes is seeking a new senior striker having allowed both Yakubu and James Vaughan to leave on loan. But with the deadline approaching at 11pm this evening and financial restraints limiting him to the loan market, the Goodison manager is pessimistic about completing any business. Asked if he expected any arrivals on Monday, Moyes responded: “No. Look, it might come up, but if you are asking me have I got anything, I am saying no. I couldn't even say I am trying.” Moyes is also bracing himself for a last-minute attempt from Tottenham Hotspur to prise skipper Phil Neville away from the club. Everton were good value for their draw at the weekend and, but for fine saves from Petr Cech to deny Jack Rodwell, Seamus Coleman and substitute Jermaine Beckford, the Goodison outfit would be looking forward to a fifth round home tie against Reading. And of the game, Moyes said: “Nobody can come away from that game and say that Everton did not deserve to be in the next round of the cup – even that we could have been in the next round on our own! “But the block and the save by the goalkeeper, and one from Becks’s effort, show why they have good players and why they are always in cup finals and at the top of the league. “There’s frustration that we didn't win the game but at the same time satisfaction that it was a good team performance. I couldn't go into the dressing room and question anybody as they all did a good job.” Although disappointed Everton could not hold on for the win, Moyes takes heart from his team’s recent record at Stamford Bridge that has seen them unbeaten in their last five Premier League visits, the most recent of which was the 1-1 draw there last month. “Chelsea will be saying that Everton will be tough opponents,” he said of the replay, which is provisionally scheduled for Saturday, February 19. “We think we have a very good side and it is our chance to prove it again. “Getting to the final last time was the hard way so this makes it an even harder one again. But their squad is not as powerful or maybe as strong as the past.”
Cruel end to Everton FC's Tim Cahill’s Asia Cup dreamsby Our Correspondent, Liverpool Daily Post Jan 31 2011
TIM CAHILL and Australia’s Asia Cup campaign ended in a heartbreaking extra time defeat against Japan in Doha. The Socceroos were beaten 1-0 by Japan in Doha with substitute Tadanari Lee scoring the game’s only goal in the second half of extra time. Cahill, who wore a knee strap in extra time, was replaced a minute after Japan took the lead, with Leeds United midfielder Neil Kilkenny coming on. Japan became the first team to win the Asian Cup four times as Lee volleyed home Yuto Nagatomo’s left-wing cross after 108 minutes at Khalifa Stadium to clinch the title and deny Australia a maiden triumph. The Socceroos had the game’s first chance when a slick move ended with Carl Valeri feeding Matt McKay but he sliced wide of the far post. Mark Schwarzer nearly gifted Japan the opening goal when, in trying to prevent the ball going behind for a corner, he kicked it straight to Nagatomo. The defender’s effort from distance to sailed over the bar with former Everton youth player David Carney scrambling back to cover. Japan keeper Eiji Kawashima did well to push Harry Kewell’s close-range header away in the 18th minute after Cahill had met Carney’s corner on the far side of the box. Kewell hit the side netting from a narrow angle when he latched on to Cahill’s knockdown from Lucas Neill’s diagonal ball just after the half-hour mark and Ryoichi Maeda fired over from outside the box following Yasuhito Endo’s lay-off as the first-half ended goalless. Japan finally broke the deadlock in the 108th minute when Nagatomo surged down the left wing and his cross found Lee unmarked eight yards from goal. His fine left-foot volley left Mark Schwarzer with no chance as it flew into the back of the net.
Chris Beesley: Everton FC are still waiting to shake off ‘nearly men’ tag
by Chris Beesley, Liverpool Daily Post
Jan 31 2011
THIS was nearly one of Everton’s fairytale FA Cup results. It’s been suggested that the Goodison outfit have currently reached a crossroads and for all his sterling efforts over the past nine years, David Moyes does not want his epitaph to eventually read that he was the club’s ‘nearly man.’
The Scot is a manager who is good for Everton but Napoleon supposedly had a preference for lucky generals over good ones. Having got Everton in contention for competing for prizes again, his sides have so far ultimately fallen just short on many big tests. In 2005, a squad of relatively limited powers finished above their neighbours for the first time in 18 years to secure a place in the Champions League qualifiers but missed out on the group stages albeit after a horrendous refereeing decision from Pierluigi Collina in his last game. Three years later, a side of far greater ability almost broke their Stamford Bridge duck in a Carling Cup semi-final only for James McFadden to hit the post with the score at 1-1 and Joleon Lescott to put the ball in his own net in stoppage time when struggling to deal with the aerial prowess of Shaun Wright-Phillips. A couple of months later, the same Everton side had Fiorentina rocking in a UEFA Cup tie at Goodison with the aggregate scores locked at 2-2 but were unable to find a decisive third goal and the Tuscans triumphed on spot-kicks. To make matters worse, a rag-tag Rangers outfit led by Walter Smith, the man Moyes replaced at Everton, made it to the final barely 40 miles from Goodison at Eastlands to lose to a Zenit St Petersburg side who had been beaten by a Tim Cahill goal in the group stages.
Then of course in the 2009 FA Cup final, having beaten Liverpool, Aston Villa and Manchester United en route, a Louis Saha goal – the fastest in the final in the history of football’s oldest competition – was still not enough to overcome Chelsea. Despite producing the big-game display required from them on Saturday to keep their season alive following the previous weekend’s dour showing against West Ham, Moyes’s men were ultimately unable to possess the killer instinct needed to take the scalp of a Chelsea side who have lifted this trophy for the past two seasons. This was best exemplified when, in the dying stages of the game, Didier Drogba fell flat on the turf with nobody in touching distance of him for the umpteenth time in his Chelsea career and instead of getting the ball forward to mount a last-gasp attack, Everton’s players dawdled over whether to knock the ball out of play. Seemingly in two minds and not bold enough to launch play forward, the otherwise excellent Sylvain Distin, who was a rock at the heart of the home defence alongside John Heitinga – dispatched a slack cross-field pass which went out of play for a throw-in that would not be given back to them. As we all expected, Everton’s talented players, now capable of playing some of the most intricate football in the English game when on song, raised their game for the big occasion and if it had not been for the brilliance of Chelsea keeper Petr Cech then the Londoners would have been on the receiving end of their first FA Cup loss since they came unstuck at Barnsley almost three years ago. This was going to be the game that would make or break Everton’s season of frustration. Win, like they’d done against the odds against neighbours Liverpool at the same stage of the competition in 2009, and the momentum could well have lifted spirits around the club and inspired another march to Wembley. Defeat and hopes of a return to European football would be dashed and the long wait for silverware for both club and manager would continue. As it is, Everton’s hopes now remain hanging by a thread. Most observers will feel that Saturday was Everton’s big chance to knock Chelsea out. Given the much-improved performance they gave, especially in the second half, they arguably deserved it. But when you’re often relying on the raw enthusiasm of a rookie like Seamus Coleman – who nevertheless gave a player regarded by many as the world’s best left-back a dog’s life with his in-your-face attitude, energy and willingness to gamble – then you’re ultimately going to be up against it when tackling a squad assembled by a billionaire oligarch. The young Irishman is yet another of Moyes’s diamonds from the rough who have been polished up into top performers but the fact he cost Everton less than what some of Chelsea’s players will have earned between this cup tie and tomorrow night’s trip to Sunderland shows his manager’s dilemma of continuously having to turn water into wine just to try and keep up with the game’s big-spenders. A grain of comfort that Everton can take into the seemingly daunting replay at Stamford Bridge where they haven’t won at since 1994 is their recent record of five consecutive Premier League draws at the ground. Penalties anyone?
Forward-thinking Everton FC boss David Moyes ponders his options
Liverpool Daily Post
Jan 31 2011
IT wasn’t just the outcome of this FA Cup tie that remained unresolved on Saturday. Having pinpointed a pivotal weekend for his team, David Moyes was once again left with more questions than answers. For nearly everyone who filed out of Goodison following a hard-fought lunchtime battle, no sooner had the final whistle sounded when focus shifted to tonight’s transfer deadline and the possibility of bringing in a new striker. But while Chelsea’s followers were salivating over the audacious £50million move for Fernando Torres, the home supporters could at best only hope for a loan arrival or a bargain basement signing. Never has the mismatch between the Premier League’s haves and have-nots been so perfectly encapsulated. Yet on the pitch, the evidence continues to suggest that, when faced with the top-flight’s leading lights, Everton are still punching well above their financial weight. Only the brilliance of Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech and a momentary defensive lapse prevented the Goodison outfit from avenging 2009’s FA Cup final defeat and ending a 55-year wait for victory over the Londoners in the competition. Instead, as during that memorable run to Wembley, Everton must now do things the hard way with a replay at Stamford Bridge in three weeks’ time. Of course, that is something with which Moyes has become accustomed. And few would deny the Goodison manager a twinge of jealousy as he notes the monumental backing Chelsea counterpart Carlo Ancelotti is receiving from Roman Abramovich. Unless the Goodison manager surprises even himself by once again pulling a rabbit out of the hat before the transfer window slams shut tonight until the summer, he must make do and mend with his current resources. Much, then, will depend on nursing Louis Saha’s brittle frame through the remainder of the campaign. Having spent much of the first half of the season fit but frustratingly out of form, the Frenchman has burst into life since the turn of the year with three goals in his last four games, the latest of which had, for a brief while, appeared to have sent Everton towards the FA Cup fifth round. Saha clearly enjoys facing Chelsea, having now netted seven times in his last eight appearances against them. It was his brace at Goodison a year ago that earned Moyes his so far only win over the Londoners, and it was the Frenchman who lost John Terry to meet a Leighton Baines corner from the right and head home on 62 minutes. This was more like the Saha of old, employed as a lone striker with Moyes determined his team would not be overrun in midfield. Such an approach worked to similar good effect in the 1-1 Premier League draw between the clubs at Stamford Bridge seven weeks earlier. And with Tim Cahill due back on Merseyside this week, the recent experiment with two forwards may be halted indefinitely. Quite why Everton can consistently produce against exalted opposition yet stumble so awkwardly as against rock bottom West Ham United last weekend is a conundrum Moyes has yet to solve. Chelsea were rarely given time to settle and made to look more like the team that had lost at Wolverhampton Wanderers recently than the one that had netted 13 goals in their previous three games. A pity, then, that there were less than 30,000 to witness an encouraging afternoon for Moyes’s men, as high ticket prices, live television coverage, the grip of austerity and Everton’s indifferent form all combined to keep people away. Those that did turn up saw Seamus Coleman, one of several players under par the previous weekend, emerge revitalised and reinvigorated to torment Chelsea, with Ashley Cole in particular given a difficult afternoon by the raiding Irishman. One first-half burst that took him between Cole and Frank Lampard brought Goodison to its feet, and it required a combination of good goalkeeping and brave defending to prevent Coleman gaining the goal his display deserved on 74 minutes. The right-winger’s header from a deep Baines cross was met with a fine save from Cech and, after the Everton winger reacted quickest to fire the rebound goalward, Michael Essien threw his body in the way to block. It proved a turning point, as Chelsea broke away from the resultant corner to level, Nicolas Anelka swiftly shifting possession 50 yards upfield before playing in substitute Salomon Kalou who, with Sylvain Distin fatally hesitant in closing down, had enough space to trickle an angled drive inside Tim Howard’s far post. It was tough on Everton, who had created the better chances and, with the marauding Marouane Fellaini aided by Jack Rodwell, slowly exerted their dominance in central midfield. Rodwell, making his first start in a month, had similarly impressed against Chelsea in December, and he came closest in the opening 45 minutes for Everton when shooting at Cech after Fellaini harassed Essien into coughing up possession. Save a brief flurry in the first half when both Anelka and Florent Malouda worked Howard, Chelsea offered little in the final third with Didier Drogba at his surly worst and Lampard completely ineffective, whereas Saha, Fellaini and the lively Diniyar Bilyaletdinov all had opportunities for Everton. Both sides could have won the game in the closing moments, Ramires striking the outside of a post from 25 yards while a complete miskick from Branislav Ivanovic fell invitingly for substitute Jermaine Beckford to smash a volley that was brilliantly turned over by Cech. The murmurs among the disappointed but not downhearted home supporters at the final whistle betrayed the fear Everton’s best chance of progressing from this tie may have passed. An ageing Chelsea, though, are not the force they were and Moyes’s men will have nothing to fear going into the replay. Quite which players will be available to the Goodison manager, however, remains to be seen. The clock is ticking – but Everton haven’t called time just yet.
Louis Saha: Everton FC can still reach Wembley
Liverpool Daily Post
Jan 31 2011
LOUIS SAHA believes Everton deserved to have taken a step closer to a Wembley return after their FA Cup route was blocked by Chelsea. Saha had seemingly set David Moyes’s side on the way to the fifth round with his 62nd-minute strike against the Cup holders at Goodison on Saturday before substitute Salomon Kalou earned the visitors a replay 13 minutes later. The French forward’s goal was his seventh in eight games against Londoners, but the 32-year-old admits he would have gladly exchanged the strike for progress to the last 16 of the competition. “It’s a nice record to have but I would prefer to get three points or go through in the Cup,” said Saha. “There have been a few games against the top sides when we have put in a great performance but not got the result we deserved and we did that again. “We created chance after chance in the second half, took it to them, so it’s hard to take losing a goal on a counter-attack.” While having now won only one of the last 27 meetings with Chelsea, Everton have lost just once in 10 games against the Premier League’s current top seven in all competitions this season. And Saha concedes it is frustrating that Everton seem unable to transfer such impressive form to games against the top-flight’s lesser lights. There are many factors,” he said. “We haven’t got the results we deserved at times, at others things have gone against us, while the confidence dropped at the start of the season when we weren’t playing as well – and maybe the strikers haven’t scored enough. “The main thing is to keep fighting, because I do think that when you see the results against the big sides, we have to concentrated more when we are playing the smaller ones. “We have struggled to do that, but have to find a way. “ Everton face another test at Arsenal tomorrow, and Saha added: “We need to get some consistency and for me the target is scoring, scoring, scoring. “Hopefully we can continue our record against the big sides there too.” Saha was making his first start on Saturday since the 5-1 FA Cup third round win at Scunthorpe United after suffering from a thigh problem. And of his persistent injury concerns, he added: “I have to admit now that I have got used to it. “I have missed big games, missed finals and it’s not always easy. “But it’s part of my career and I have to accept that.” Everton are unbeaten in four meetings with Chelsea since losing the Cup final meeting between the pair in May 2009. And Saha said: “It’s a lot tighter and so physical at the top now. It’s really hard to predict that any team will win, but I still think Chelsea are a great side. “Every side now is getting stronger, I think this Everton team is stronger than previous ones. “You look at the likes of Stoke with big players now, so it’s really, really tough. Sides need to invest big money to get the top players.” With that in mind, Chelsea are set to bolster their squad with Liverpool striker Fernando Torre And Saha believes such a transfer would be a significant boost to the Londoners and may bring more out of Didier Drogba and Nicolas Anelka. “I think they are both big players and as a striker you all like competition and to show you are good enough to play,” said the forward. “So I think it would be a big boost, having that competition. “If you want to catch the other teams, you need to invest. “But if Torres comes that would take them to a higher level, with everyone pushing for places. “It’s only human nature when that happens to work harder.”
Kalou spares Chelsea blushes
By Dan Levene
Jan 29 2011 Fulham and Hammersmith Chronicle
Everton 1-1 Chelsea
A SOLO goal from sub Saloman Kalou kept Chelsea in the FA Cup – but there was little for either set of Blues to crow about at Goodison. Neither side showed much in the way of quality. Chelsea looked off the boil and gave Everton as much time as space as they wanted. The thing was, the Toffees didn't seem to want that much of either. As the half progressed, John Terry went close with a header from a corner and Jack Rodwell and Diniya Bilyaletdinov both forced Petr Cech to make impressive saves. On the half hour Nicolas Anelka had a diamond chance when one-on-one with Tim Howard, but decided to shoot right at the 'keeper's green jersey. Perhaps the one real highlight of the half was a chant from the visiting fans to chill the blood of the neighbours from across Stanley Park: “Fernando Torres, Chelsea's number nine!” The dearth of quality persisted in the second half. It almost seemed hat both teams, relative strugglers in the league, were concentrating on something else. Chelsea, particularly, struggled to string any meaningful passages of play together. A 62nd-minute corner from Leighton Baines found Louis Saha unmarked in the box and turning his orange mohican to the ball, he nodded it past Cech. 1-0 and the holders headed for the exit with barely a backward glance. Carlo Ancelotti ordered a re-ordering of his troops with Kalou (pic) coming on for the off-colour Florent Malouda in the 70th minute. Kalou is not the deadliest of strikers in front of goal, but cometh the hour cometh the man: and he rewarded Ancelotti with a solo goal of rare quality less than five minutes later. Picking the ball up 30 yards out he harried the defenders, controlled, dribbled, and threaded a pinpoint pass beyond defender and keeper. The teams will replay at Stamford Bridge on Saturday February 19 – the same ay as other teams play their fifth round ties to add to fixture pile-up problems for Chelsea.
Everton Chelsea 1
By PHIL THOMAS
The Sun Jan 31 2011
Add a comment (86) WHEN Chelsea launched their bid for Fernando Torres, maybe they should have slapped in another one across Stanley Park. It would certainly lead to less sleepless nights for John Terry when preparing to face Everton again. For while Torres has enjoyed his fair share of glory against Terry and Co - seven goals in eight games - Goodison counterpart Louis Saha is not too far behind. Saha is the one man who really seems to have the Indian sign over the Chelsea skipper as he made it five in five against the Cup holders. A year ago he gave Terry a real runaround, bagging both goals in a memorable league victory. This time he only managed the one - yet once again it arrived after a neat step and check that left the England centre-back in no-man's land and an unstoppable header past Petr Cech. OK, Saha was never really going to figure on Carlo Ancelotti's list of January things to do, but you get the point. Terry most definitely did and you can bet he will already be getting a few twitches at the prospect of shackling the Frenchman in the replay. Everton boss David Moyes said: "I don't know that he so much has the sign on Terry, but it's a fact Louis has played with the best and played in the biggest games. "On his day he is as good as any centre-forward. He has some outstanding attributes. "Louis has a pretty good record against Chelsea and scored another good goal. He was a threat the whole game." Saha has had his injury problems over the years but on Saturday was lightning-quick, constantly probing for an opening - and usually managing to find it. Yet for all his happy days against Chelsea, there was still a huge sense of frustration for Everton at not celebrating another glorious victory. Keeper Cech and Michael Essien excelled in denying Jermaine Beckford and the outstanding Seamus Coleman, while Jack Rodwell should have done far better with a header. John Heitinga was a rock at the back, closely followed by Phil Neville, yet outstripping them all was Marouane Fellaini, now looking a world-class act in midfield. So you can imagine the heartbreak when Chelsea defused another Everton attack and snatched an undeserved leveller through Salomon Kalou - stretching their unbeaten FA Cup record to 26, back to Barnsley three years ago. Saha admitted: "There have been a few games against the top sides when we have put in a great performance but not got the result we deserved and we did that again. "We created chance after chance so it's hard to take losing a goal on a counter."
Chelsea chief Ancelotti was more than happy with a draw, even though it threw another fixture in the way of their Premier League catch-up campaign. He confessed: "It was difficult, but the result was good for us and we have more possibilities to move on with the replay at home - they will find a different Chelsea. He said: "Nobody can come away from that game and say Everton did not deserve to be in the next round of the cup. "But the block and save by the goalkeeper, and one from Beck's effort, was why they have good players and why they are always in cup finals and at the top of the league. "Getting to the final last time two years ago was done the hard way, so this makes it an even harder one again." With Saha rediscovering the dynamite in his boots, however, it may not be the foregone conclusion Chelsea fans hope.
January 2011