Ahead of Palace’s trip to Everton this weekend, TEB caught up with Everton supporter Charlie Magee-Wood to get his thoughts on the Toffees’ summer, David Moyes, expectations for the season, and his prediction for the match.
TEB: As the start of the new season beckons, are Everton fans feeling optimistic or pessimistic about the upcoming campaign?
CMW: It’s a difficult one, really. I think Everton fans started the summer with plenty of optimism, especially after signings such as Jack Grealish and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall. However, those positive feelings faded towards the end of last season.
Having had the chance to qualify for Europe with only a few games remaining, it was disappointing to lose so many matches at such a crucial stage. If the club doesn’t bring in a right-back or a left-back, areas where we’re severely lacking, I’ll be concerned.
I think most Everton fans are slightly pessimistic and expect another lower-half finish. That said, keeping Iliman Ndiaye was massive, and there’s still hope we could challenge for the European places if things go our way.
TEB: Has the summer transfer window solved any squad issues for Everton, or are there still areas that need improvement?
CMW: The lack of a natural left-back or right-back remains a major concern. Right-back, in particular, has been an issue ever since Seamus Coleman began struggling with injuries.
Nathan Patterson looks like a Championship-level player at best, while Mykolenko showed some of his weaknesses during a friendly against Stoke City recently. In my opinion, neither are currently at the level Everton need to compete higher up the table.
By comparison, someone like Daniel Muñoz is outstanding and exactly the calibre of player I’d love to see at Everton.
TEB: How do you feel about David Moyes in charge?
CMW: I love David Moyes. I grew up watching him build competitive Everton sides on limited budgets, bringing in players like Tim Cahill, Marouane Fellaini and Phil Jagielka.
However, his football can be quite conservative, which frustrates some Everton fans. It’s especially noticeable when you look at the pace and attacking quality we have out wide. There’s definitely potential for the team to play more expansive football.
It would be a dream to see Everton lift a trophy under Moyes after coming so close in the 2009 FA Cup Final. He steadied the ship when the club needed it most and helped push the team forward. There’s been clear improvement, but now I’m hoping he can take Everton to the next level.
TEB: What are your expectations for Everton this season?
CMW: I think we’ll finish comfortably in mid-table again, somewhere between 12th and 14th.
TEB: Who do you predict will finish as Everton’s top scorer this season?
CMW: With Barry and Beto leading the line, I don’t have huge expectations when it comes to goals. I’ll go with Barry to have the better season and finish as our top scorer.
TEB: How do you think Palace will get on with all the changes at the club and the added challenge of Europa League football?
CMW: I think Palace have positioned themselves well by keeping players such as Daichi Kamada and Daniel Muñoz, although I’d happily take the latter at Everton!
Jaydee Canvot is a brilliant talent as well. I loved watching him keep Jarrod Bowen quiet in person last season. Palace could have a very good campaign if they’re careful with managing the demands of European football and continue to strengthen the squad depth to cope with injuries and rotation.
Keeping Jean-Philippe Mateta is also massive. Overall, I’m expecting another solid season for the Eagles, along with a respectable showing in the Europa League.
TEB: Finally, what’s your prediction for the match against Palace?
CMW: Everton are at home, and the crowd will be right behind the team, so the atmosphere should be excellent.
I think it’ll be a draw. Both clubs will go for it, and I see them as fairly evenly matched at the moment. I just hope I don’t have to watch Dwight McNeil score a screamer from 40 yards!
CMW Prediction: Everton 1-1 Crystal Palace
