What has happened to Everton?
In Roberto Martinez’s first season in charge of the Toffees, his side exceed expectations and finished fifth while qualifying for the Europa League. Much of their success last season was built on being solid at the back but maintaining enough possession to create chances and carve teams open. So far this season, the Toffees have conceded more goals than any other side in the top five European leagues, their record signing Romelu Lukaku has struggled so far and they look a pale imitation of the side that finished fifth last season. The big question is, what has happened?
First things first, the injuries the club have suffered haven’t helped, particularly to Ross Barkley. But then again, quite a few clubs have had injuries, case in point their opposition on the day. To put it all on injuries wouldn’t be fair as some of the players haven’t really stepped up to the plate so far. Tim Howard, who has been a rock at the back has suddenly started to show cracks and much of it has been down to the defence in front of him, who haven’t covered themselves in glory. But the biggest problem for Everton has been their inability to get going right from the start. For the second week running, the Toffees left it until the final 15 minutes to get going and that is a worrying sign for Martinez who will be hoping for some change in his side’s fortunes once they are back from the international break.
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