1. Everton must strengthen squad before window closes
If yesterday’s defeat showed us anything, it is that Everton will have to strengthen their threadbare, injury-ravaged squad in order to progress this season. Indeed, one quick look at yesterday’s teamsheet shows a worrying lack of depth in a number of areas; from central defence to wide midfield and attack. With Lukaku injured, Arouna Koné and Steven Naismith were asked to shoulder the goalscoring burden in the Belgian’s absence, and neither really looked like imposing themselves on the opposition in any concerted way.
After the match, Roberto Martinez signaled his intention to add 3 players before the end of the window. On this evidence, the Catalan must come good on his promise. For, if a serious long-term injury were to befall Romelu Lukaku, the Blues would well and truly be in the mire.
2. Stones shows his class
This was another assured performance from Stones, who made light of recent speculation surrounding his future to impress at the heart of the Everton defence- the much-coveted 21-year-old showed little sign of reported (fabricated) discontent at the club’s firm stance and made a variety of timely interventions as the quality Spanish side threatened. One lapse in concentration nearly undid most of his good early work, with Tim Howard required to save the lively Gerard’s left-footed shot after the Villarreal youngster had broken through, yet yesterday only confirmed what we knew already: John Stones oozes class.
3. Rooney return would be welcomed
One of the big talking points heading into the match was the return of Wayne Rooney, with many expecting a mixed reception for the former Blue. What followed was quite astonishing, as the returning Manchester United man was given a standing ovation by the Gwladys Street and greeted like a prodigal son. Further proof, if you needed it that the old “time heals” adage does ring true. What price a Rooney return when his contract runs out in a few years? Let’s just hope the 29-year-old has something left to offer then…
4. Browning has a role to play
One of the major plus points for Everton this pre-season has to be the form of Tyias Browning. The versatile Finch Farm graduate excelled against Stoke City and Leeds and looked ready for regular first team action again here. A towering header indicated a growing influence in both penalty areas, while the youngster’s immense physical stature makes him the perfect one-on-one defender and an obvious replacement for Sylvain Distin. There are, obviously, things to iron out and better opposition to face, but the signs are that Browning will have a role to play this season.
5. Expect much the same from the Blues this season
For Evertonians hoping for an indication as to how Martinez’s men will play this campaign, yesterday’s game will invariably have followed the same worrying pattern displayed time and time again during the former Wigan manager’s tenure. Last time around the Blues failed to move the ball quickly enough, or play with adequate width, and this was once again evident against Villarreal, especially after Kevin Mirallas was forced off through injury. Given the current doubts surrounding the fitness of the Belgian and fellow winger Gerard Deulofeu, it is not inconceivable that the Toffees will line up with an underwhelming attacking midfield trident of Cleverley, Osman and Naismith against Watford on Saturday. On the face of it, little, in truth, has changed.
All images courtesy of Clive Brunskill: Getty
