27/08/2026
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(Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images)
David Moyes does not help himself at times. And this week has probably been an example of that.
Thankfully, for Everton and Moyes, results have been good. Two games, two wins, six goals scored, a striker getting four of those, two clean sheets. It all looks rosy. But then, when Moyes comes to speaking to the press, he simply can’t seem to help himself. He can’t seem to not cause some controversy.
Now, some of it feels a bit much from certain sections of the fanbase, who are happy to get any opportunity to stick the boot in. However, there is no real excuse for what Moyes said, or how he said it, in the pre-match press conference ahead of the Preston North End match.
That took place on Saturday, after the win over Crystal Palace, and Moyes bit back at Joe Thomas’s question about whether he wanted to win a trophy, and for some strange reason, brought up Premier League relegation.
Even if there was some sense in what Moyes was trying to say, it came across as twisted and negative.
But Moyes let his team selection do the talking on Wednesday at Deepdale. He went strong, and Everton won comfortably. Even then, though, there were some contentious choices.
Jake O’Brien was left on the bench, amid speculation — fuelled by no-doubt reliable reports in The Athletic — that the defender is open to leaving Everton, and the club are open to cashing in.
Then, in his post-match interview with Sky Sports, Moyes was in a dour mood despite the dominant manner of Everton’s victory.
Asked if fans could get carried away after the win, Moyes rightly said, “No, they can’t.”
He then went on to say: “I think we've got a lot of work to do and I still feel that, for us to be a side which is competitive, I still feel that we've got a lot of work to do. Hopefully we're able to try and do some of it.
“More players. Our squad's not big enough. We need to get more quality in some areas if we can do.”
Asked whether Everton would get those deals done, Moyes added: “I'm not sure we will but it's not for the want of trying.”
The last bit is typical Moyes. He will never insist something will definitely happen, especially when it comes to transfers, but perhaps plenty of people are just too tired of that pessimism.
The rest of what Moyes said is correct, though it does once again suggest that those at the top of the club are not quite aligned.
We are only just over a week on from CEO Angus Kinnear telling multiple outlets that Everton are on track in their recruitment and that the target this season is European qualification.
That’s all well and good, but this squad, on paper, is not ready for a European push. In that sense, Moyes is correct — they are far away from where they need to be and lacking in quality.
Now, who knows. This season could end up like last term, when multiple teams expected to compete for the top 7-8 places underperformed, opening up a seven-team race for the final European places, which included Everton.
That’s a distinct possibility, especially with some of the upheaval at other clubs this summer, but that does not then automatically mean Everton’s squad is one ready to be qualifying for Europe.
However, it all goes back to the messaging and communication. It does not seem that Moyes and Kinnear are on the same page.
When Kinnear is positive (and some of his positivity does seem a little unfounded even if you would rather that than the alternative), Moyes wants to play everything down.
Moyes has made mistakes. His communication style, at times, is outdated. He should not be looking to belittle journalists or turn their questions back on them, when the questions asked are totally fair.
But the key element here is that he and the leadership should be on the same page. Even if he does have less than a year left to run on his deal, that messaging must be clear and consistent.
Reader Comments (65)
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Ian Bennett
2 Posted 27/08/2026 at 12:04:04
2 Posted 27/08/2026 at 12:04:04
Dont see the problem.
Stay humble, we don't need to get giddy after two matches. Keep your eye on the ball and focused, the results do the talking not hyperbole.
Wants more players, and wants better players. Is realistic that getting better players, and we need better players, isn"t an easy ask.
It is clear we arent going to flash the cash like spurs.
Stay humble, we don't need to get giddy after two matches. Keep your eye on the ball and focused, the results do the talking not hyperbole.
Wants more players, and wants better players. Is realistic that getting better players, and we need better players, isn"t an easy ask.
It is clear we arent going to flash the cash like spurs.
Martin Reppion
3 Posted 27/08/2026 at 12:35:14
3 Posted 27/08/2026 at 12:35:14
Good point Ian.
The Spurs spending at the moment is reminiscent of the Leeds United team under Peter Ridsdale. They borrowed and spent in the belief that they would win trophies and increase revenue. It ended with bankruptcy and relegation to League One.
I'm not saying that this will happen to Spurs, but if they don't turn things around they are going to be in real difficulties. I prefer to see us grow in stages to redress the balance and get the club back to where we all believe we should be. Some deals will work immediately, others will take time, some will fail. But control the finances, show some improvement and win games. Then we should all be happy. Even Dour David.
The Spurs spending at the moment is reminiscent of the Leeds United team under Peter Ridsdale. They borrowed and spent in the belief that they would win trophies and increase revenue. It ended with bankruptcy and relegation to League One.
I'm not saying that this will happen to Spurs, but if they don't turn things around they are going to be in real difficulties. I prefer to see us grow in stages to redress the balance and get the club back to where we all believe we should be. Some deals will work immediately, others will take time, some will fail. But control the finances, show some improvement and win games. Then we should all be happy. Even Dour David.
Duncan McDine
4 Posted 27/08/2026 at 12:55:04
4 Posted 27/08/2026 at 12:55:04
Moyes was spot on with his comments.
John Collins
5 Posted 27/08/2026 at 13:05:24
5 Posted 27/08/2026 at 13:05:24
"More players. Our squad's not big enough."
Plums.
You could give him a squad of 50 players and he would still play his favourites until they dropped
Plums.
You could give him a squad of 50 players and he would still play his favourites until they dropped
Kevin Molloy
6 Posted 27/08/2026 at 13:27:08
6 Posted 27/08/2026 at 13:27:08
you happy with the squad then John?
Josh Horne
7 Posted 27/08/2026 at 13:31:12
7 Posted 27/08/2026 at 13:31:12
Moyes seems to dislike Joe Thomas and I think this has fed into some of his more toxic comments. However, his statement that it is a conscious choice between premier league survival or aiming high in cup competitions tha we could realistically win was utterly inexcusable and he should correct himself if he said something he does not mean.
I read his post match comments as a sulky rebuke to the recruitment team, but we've been down this road before with him.
He has to get the best out of the squad he has. "Being competitive" is not a high bar in my view, and the squad is capable of meeting it.
He's got to stop bitching and get on with the job he's well paid for, or make way for someone who wants to do it
I read his post match comments as a sulky rebuke to the recruitment team, but we've been down this road before with him.
He has to get the best out of the squad he has. "Being competitive" is not a high bar in my view, and the squad is capable of meeting it.
He's got to stop bitching and get on with the job he's well paid for, or make way for someone who wants to do it
Soren Moyer
8 Posted 27/08/2026 at 13:34:18
8 Posted 27/08/2026 at 13:34:18
Even he knows he is shite!
Annika Herbert
9 Posted 27/08/2026 at 13:45:06
9 Posted 27/08/2026 at 13:45:06
What’s the point in Moyes having a large squad when he never utilises it to the full anyway?
If the transfers were his alone to make, I doubt there would be a player under 25 in it.
If the transfers were his alone to make, I doubt there would be a player under 25 in it.
Si Cooper
10 Posted 27/08/2026 at 13:45:22
10 Posted 27/08/2026 at 13:45:22
Steve (1), that’s a proper quibble that is. “There is no evidence that the top of the club are not aligned. This is pure fabrication…”. Except there is a clear difference in the fact that Kinnear was clearly positive that the careful planning will bear the appropriate fruit, whilst Moyes is saying he really doubts it will. So a definite suggestion that those at the top of the club are not fully aligned (if perhaps only in their ‘messaging’).
Ian (2), “Stay humble….” Why is that a necessity (even if being a wet blanket can be considered to be the same as actually being humble)?
Duncan (4), even if Moyes is being painfully honest the point is he doesn’t have to be when it achieves the sum total of eff all. Many would argue he could better demonstrate his virtue by refusing to let those who are failing the club by failing to deliver needed new recruits off the hook by actually giving an ultimatum.
There comes a point when “it won’t be for the want of trying” is a simple admission that ‘how it was tried’ was a huge problem and heads should roll.
Ian (2), “Stay humble….” Why is that a necessity (even if being a wet blanket can be considered to be the same as actually being humble)?
Duncan (4), even if Moyes is being painfully honest the point is he doesn’t have to be when it achieves the sum total of eff all. Many would argue he could better demonstrate his virtue by refusing to let those who are failing the club by failing to deliver needed new recruits off the hook by actually giving an ultimatum.
There comes a point when “it won’t be for the want of trying” is a simple admission that ‘how it was tried’ was a huge problem and heads should roll.
John Collins
11 Posted 27/08/2026 at 13:52:48
11 Posted 27/08/2026 at 13:52:48
Kevin,
Not at all, you know that from my previous posts.
My points are, he likes working with a small squad.
He very rarely rotates his squad, injuries excepted.
Its also a ready made excuse if he doesn't get his unnamed number of recruits.
Not at all, you know that from my previous posts.
My points are, he likes working with a small squad.
He very rarely rotates his squad, injuries excepted.
Its also a ready made excuse if he doesn't get his unnamed number of recruits.
Tim Stone
12 Posted 27/08/2026 at 13:59:40
12 Posted 27/08/2026 at 13:59:40
A non story with a "journalist" trying to create tension amongst the supporters. As for those who troll out the same rubbish that Moyes only plays his favourites should actually look at the facts... And before you mention Patterson, he's championship level only that no one else wants
Ian Bennett
13 Posted 27/08/2026 at 14:05:49
13 Posted 27/08/2026 at 14:05:49
If players don't arrive, there will be a tension as to who was responsible. The fans will be pointing the finger at someone.
The manager for turning down 'lesser players' or the Ceo for not getting the list of players over the line.
This will be avoided if a late spree happens, but it usnt looking likely currently.
The manager for turning down 'lesser players' or the Ceo for not getting the list of players over the line.
This will be avoided if a late spree happens, but it usnt looking likely currently.
Patric Ridge
14 Posted 27/08/2026 at 14:06:45
14 Posted 27/08/2026 at 14:06:45
1# Steve, it maybe could have been clearer in my piece but I don't have issues as such with what Moyes has said, especially last night. More how he says it.
I'm certainly not looking to create division.
However, AK is on record as saying Europe is the target and the squad is on track. I think we can take from that, that the CEO feels this squad could compete for Europe. Moyes is on record as saying the squad is far away and needs a lot of work.
I'm certainly not looking to create division.
However, AK is on record as saying Europe is the target and the squad is on track. I think we can take from that, that the CEO feels this squad could compete for Europe. Moyes is on record as saying the squad is far away and needs a lot of work.
Steve Jones
15 Posted 27/08/2026 at 14:24:48
15 Posted 27/08/2026 at 14:24:48
Patric @14,
Fair Do's I'll take that at face value.
Angus Kinnear context in his interviews with ToffeeTV, Radio Merseyside and El Bobble, was where we are in the transfer window -- some good work; more to come -- and squad on track with a lot of work done to agree the priority positions and target player lists and the 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 etc options. He stated that all players, agents and clubs contacted and waiting for the domino effect to play out.
He also stated that these players had expressed interest to come to Everton.
The goal is to get the best in, not a lesser choice. Fighting against other options for players is the balance. Moyes would have agreed with all of this -- both saying we need more in and the highest quality. They are and the recruitment team will be totally aligned on this process and the detail of the priority lists.
Kinnear stated that Europe is an overall target, as is winning trophies. Kinnear did not say this current squad is good enough or large enough for Europe (qualifying or playing in Europe) -- this is another made-up fact.
I will agree and we all know, Moyes doesn't like what he percieves as adversarial questions in pressers and can be a bit dour and aggressive. However, the interview on the pitch which I shared the link really shed some nuances and the drive for improvements -- that is more of an editorial story of where we are in the team development and for the best interests of our club and the fanbase on ToffeeWeb.
This would have been and can be the subject of a detailed and insightful analysis of the current status and journey the team is on and how far we have to go -- directly from the manager. Open goal missed there -- at the expense of distraction and focus on a false division in the camp.
Fair Do's I'll take that at face value.
Angus Kinnear context in his interviews with ToffeeTV, Radio Merseyside and El Bobble, was where we are in the transfer window -- some good work; more to come -- and squad on track with a lot of work done to agree the priority positions and target player lists and the 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 etc options. He stated that all players, agents and clubs contacted and waiting for the domino effect to play out.
He also stated that these players had expressed interest to come to Everton.
The goal is to get the best in, not a lesser choice. Fighting against other options for players is the balance. Moyes would have agreed with all of this -- both saying we need more in and the highest quality. They are and the recruitment team will be totally aligned on this process and the detail of the priority lists.
Kinnear stated that Europe is an overall target, as is winning trophies. Kinnear did not say this current squad is good enough or large enough for Europe (qualifying or playing in Europe) -- this is another made-up fact.
I will agree and we all know, Moyes doesn't like what he percieves as adversarial questions in pressers and can be a bit dour and aggressive. However, the interview on the pitch which I shared the link really shed some nuances and the drive for improvements -- that is more of an editorial story of where we are in the team development and for the best interests of our club and the fanbase on ToffeeWeb.
This would have been and can be the subject of a detailed and insightful analysis of the current status and journey the team is on and how far we have to go -- directly from the manager. Open goal missed there -- at the expense of distraction and focus on a false division in the camp.
Martin Berry
16 Posted 27/08/2026 at 15:03:50
16 Posted 27/08/2026 at 15:03:50
I think the CEO''s previous comments about Everton still having 70% of transfer business yet to do, will come back and haunt him and alienate the fans, unless something miraculous happens between now and deadline hour.
Interesting that the Manager when asked about Jakes omittance against Palace, he stated that he will get many chances to play for the team. Maybe there has been a few grumblings behind the scenes, who knows ? and Moyes is just reminding him whose boss.
Interesting that the Manager when asked about Jakes omittance against Palace, he stated that he will get many chances to play for the team. Maybe there has been a few grumblings behind the scenes, who knows ? and Moyes is just reminding him whose boss.
Andrew Bentley
17 Posted 27/08/2026 at 15:05:06
17 Posted 27/08/2026 at 15:05:06
I don’t think there is any mixed messaging here. It’s clear from the interview after the match that Moyes feels let down on the transfer front by the club.
I think the team selection tonight was essentially making a point that we don’t have depth in the squad. He clearly feels that the club isn’t bringing in the players he wants and with 5 days left of the transfer window left it’s hard to disagree. We still don’t have a quality RB (we need a quality addition not just a RB), if O’Brien goes then we will need another CB as we are an injury away from having it be Keane and Tarky as first choice, and then I feel we need a LB and another forward option.
The worry is that the likes of Ndiaye gets sold as well so we end up weaker than when we started the window
I think the team selection tonight was essentially making a point that we don’t have depth in the squad. He clearly feels that the club isn’t bringing in the players he wants and with 5 days left of the transfer window left it’s hard to disagree. We still don’t have a quality RB (we need a quality addition not just a RB), if O’Brien goes then we will need another CB as we are an injury away from having it be Keane and Tarky as first choice, and then I feel we need a LB and another forward option.
The worry is that the likes of Ndiaye gets sold as well so we end up weaker than when we started the window
Jay Harris
18 Posted 27/08/2026 at 15:17:37
18 Posted 27/08/2026 at 15:17:37
Moyes had a face like thunder when he came out at the start of the game.
I wonder what that was about?
I wonder what that was about?
Steve Jones
19 Posted 27/08/2026 at 15:18:16
19 Posted 27/08/2026 at 15:18:16
Martin @16
Yep - good call noticed the Jake comment - it came across as business as usual - carry on - nothing to see here. The reporter dare not follow up on that one ;-)
I expect it was an agent getting busy.
BTW - The 70% was a comment on the overall football world that "70% gets done in the last two weeks" - Not Everton so much but given what we are hearing lots going on - might well end up being 70% - interesting few days.
However they AK and DM agreee much work to be done.
Given they probably knew about NDiaye - plus they want to off load 2-3 others - they knew there that there is lots more work to be done when interviewed.
Yep - good call noticed the Jake comment - it came across as business as usual - carry on - nothing to see here. The reporter dare not follow up on that one ;-)
I expect it was an agent getting busy.
BTW - The 70% was a comment on the overall football world that "70% gets done in the last two weeks" - Not Everton so much but given what we are hearing lots going on - might well end up being 70% - interesting few days.
However they AK and DM agreee much work to be done.
Given they probably knew about NDiaye - plus they want to off load 2-3 others - they knew there that there is lots more work to be done when interviewed.
Tony Abrahams
20 Posted 27/08/2026 at 15:42:48
20 Posted 27/08/2026 at 15:42:48
A part of me is convinced that the people behind the scenes are not completely aligned. A part of me is thinking Angus, has put himself under a lot of pressure now, because he has went public and promised everyone a right back?
But then you read Moyes saying, that if we don’t sign anyone it won’t be for the want of trying and then I think to myself, is this subdivision a load of shite and are we getting played by the two of them?
We might need players, but players cost money, and the manager doesn’t really like having a big squad anyway, which means that if we don’t sign another few few more players, then I’m just gonna get even more paranoid about these silent fucking friedkin’s.
But then you read Moyes saying, that if we don’t sign anyone it won’t be for the want of trying and then I think to myself, is this subdivision a load of shite and are we getting played by the two of them?
We might need players, but players cost money, and the manager doesn’t really like having a big squad anyway, which means that if we don’t sign another few few more players, then I’m just gonna get even more paranoid about these silent fucking friedkin’s.
Andrew Bentley
21 Posted 27/08/2026 at 15:52:02
21 Posted 27/08/2026 at 15:52:02
Angus Kinnear's “promise” of a right-back is reminiscent of Moshiri's infamous promise of a striker.
Only for him to get gazumped by Spurs!
Only for him to get gazumped by Spurs!
Mike Gaynes
22 Posted 27/08/2026 at 16:00:59
22 Posted 27/08/2026 at 16:00:59
Steve #15: "The goal is to get the best in, not a lesser choice."
Amen, huzzah and hallelujah. In some cases the lesser choice might be a necessity, but it should never be the preference.
Tony #20, of course they're not completely aligned. These are varied people brought in from different organizations who have been working together for one year and are, as you say, under heavy pressure. At this point there's probably a lot of yelling in those meetings. And you can bet Davy is a high-volume contributor to that.
Good organizations overcome those disagreements to get the job done. We'll know in five days if this is a good organization.
Andrew #21, getting gazumped by clubs with 3X or 4X our buying power is inevitable. It'll happen this week for sure. The question will be how we overcome that challenge.
Amen, huzzah and hallelujah. In some cases the lesser choice might be a necessity, but it should never be the preference.
Tony #20, of course they're not completely aligned. These are varied people brought in from different organizations who have been working together for one year and are, as you say, under heavy pressure. At this point there's probably a lot of yelling in those meetings. And you can bet Davy is a high-volume contributor to that.
Good organizations overcome those disagreements to get the job done. We'll know in five days if this is a good organization.
Andrew #21, getting gazumped by clubs with 3X or 4X our buying power is inevitable. It'll happen this week for sure. The question will be how we overcome that challenge.
James Newcombe
23 Posted 27/08/2026 at 16:05:09
23 Posted 27/08/2026 at 16:05:09
He looks furious to me, over this week or so…
Last minute Ndiaye sale and no time for these jokers to spend it?
Last minute Ndiaye sale and no time for these jokers to spend it?
Pete Ambrose
24 Posted 27/08/2026 at 16:09:37
24 Posted 27/08/2026 at 16:09:37
Yet again, we see some looking for any excuse to pillory Moyes.
Whether or not Moyes keeps the same players playing is irrelevant, it's the depth of the squad behind those players that's important. Players need to know that there is always the potential that someone will step in if they don't perform.
As for transfers and the areas that need to be sorted: right-back and another quality striker, Moyes has his hands tied by TFG. They seem to be trying to get players on the cheap or not at all.
To qualify for Europe, you need quality and at the moment Everton don't have that quality across the pitch. There's an old saying: you can't make a silk purse out of a sow's ear, and it's true.
Everton failed in the last part of the season because there wasn't quality on the subs bench to cover for those who got injured or needed a rest. Why do the top clubs play the same players but have extremely strong benches. It's not rocket science.
Players get tired during a game, they get injured, they need to be replaced, a change of tactics because it might not be working on the day.
Quality needs to be replaced with quality. Everton will struggle to be up near the top of the Premier League if they don't have a quality squad and that lies purely at the feet of TFG and Kinnear.
Whether or not Moyes keeps the same players playing is irrelevant, it's the depth of the squad behind those players that's important. Players need to know that there is always the potential that someone will step in if they don't perform.
As for transfers and the areas that need to be sorted: right-back and another quality striker, Moyes has his hands tied by TFG. They seem to be trying to get players on the cheap or not at all.
To qualify for Europe, you need quality and at the moment Everton don't have that quality across the pitch. There's an old saying: you can't make a silk purse out of a sow's ear, and it's true.
Everton failed in the last part of the season because there wasn't quality on the subs bench to cover for those who got injured or needed a rest. Why do the top clubs play the same players but have extremely strong benches. It's not rocket science.
Players get tired during a game, they get injured, they need to be replaced, a change of tactics because it might not be working on the day.
Quality needs to be replaced with quality. Everton will struggle to be up near the top of the Premier League if they don't have a quality squad and that lies purely at the feet of TFG and Kinnear.
Stan Grace
25 Posted 27/08/2026 at 16:10:56
25 Posted 27/08/2026 at 16:10:56
My predictions are that Grealish and Ndiaye will move in the opposite direction and that we'll get three more in: a RB, a CB/LB and a striker. Tim and JOB sold and Aznou out on loan.
Most, if not all of that will be wrong of course.
Most, if not all of that will be wrong of course.
Christy Ring
26 Posted 27/08/2026 at 16:12:55
26 Posted 27/08/2026 at 16:12:55
A good article, Patric, and I agree with you, something is not right behind the scenes.
I also think what Moyes said is absolutely correct, we are down one man from last season's squad, and need to sign more quality players, and he's hoping but not confident that will happen.
He's saying the complete opposite to Kinnear, and hopefully it'll make the CEO and TFG pull their finger out, and put their money where their mouth is.
I was quite happy with his response about Jake, and that he will get his chance to play centre-back sooner rather than later.
I also think what Moyes said is absolutely correct, we are down one man from last season's squad, and need to sign more quality players, and he's hoping but not confident that will happen.
He's saying the complete opposite to Kinnear, and hopefully it'll make the CEO and TFG pull their finger out, and put their money where their mouth is.
I was quite happy with his response about Jake, and that he will get his chance to play centre-back sooner rather than later.
Stan Grace
27 Posted 27/08/2026 at 16:25:39
27 Posted 27/08/2026 at 16:25:39
TFG and Kinnear will be under pressure if they don't strengthen the squad sufficiently.
Moyes will be if he gets a strengthened squad but again doesn't use it.
Moyes will be if he gets a strengthened squad but again doesn't use it.
Kevin Molloy
28 Posted 27/08/2026 at 16:40:33
28 Posted 27/08/2026 at 16:40:33
If everything goes as expected, we are looking at bringing in £150M in transfer fees in the next few days. By rights, that should also mean us spending around £200M.
Does anyone think we are going to be doing that? Cos that should be the ballpark. We need to revamp the defence completely and get in a striker. Top quality additions.
No more 'we'll wing it with a centre-back at full-back all fucking year and hope Jarrad doesn't get injured'.
Time to walk the walk, Angus!
And if we hear him coming out with 'Oh, we tried, we really did. But Real Madrid came in at the last minute, what can you do?'
You pay the money Angus. You don't hear Forest or Spurs saying 'Oh, we really tried'. No, if you want the player, you pay the asking price. Like what Man City are doing with Ndiaye.
Does anyone think we are going to be doing that? Cos that should be the ballpark. We need to revamp the defence completely and get in a striker. Top quality additions.
No more 'we'll wing it with a centre-back at full-back all fucking year and hope Jarrad doesn't get injured'.
Time to walk the walk, Angus!
And if we hear him coming out with 'Oh, we tried, we really did. But Real Madrid came in at the last minute, what can you do?'
You pay the money Angus. You don't hear Forest or Spurs saying 'Oh, we really tried'. No, if you want the player, you pay the asking price. Like what Man City are doing with Ndiaye.
Mike Gaynes
29 Posted 27/08/2026 at 16:43:30
29 Posted 27/08/2026 at 16:43:30
Just pointing out that this is an annual summer complaint from Moyes. He said the same thing last summer about inadequate squad depth, and he openly warred with Steidten at West Ham about recruitment there.
He's never happy.
He's never happy.
Ian Bennett
30 Posted 27/08/2026 at 16:43:46
30 Posted 27/08/2026 at 16:43:46
If £200m provides 2 centre backs, a right back and a centre forward, fucking bring it on.
Tony Abrahams
31 Posted 27/08/2026 at 16:59:28
31 Posted 27/08/2026 at 16:59:28
It does beg the question: Who his he unhappy with, though, Mike.
When he uses the words “It won't be for a lack of trying,” it could be interpreted to mean, “We are trying like fuck, but the owners don't really want to spend the money.” But, if this was the case, then surely he would just come right out and say it?
I suppose we are best just waiting until next Tuesday, I know!!
It's been planned all along, Bramley-Moore Dock, will be bouncing a week on Sunday when Everton entertain Man Utd with a cluster of new signings in the squad🤞
When he uses the words “It won't be for a lack of trying,” it could be interpreted to mean, “We are trying like fuck, but the owners don't really want to spend the money.” But, if this was the case, then surely he would just come right out and say it?
I suppose we are best just waiting until next Tuesday, I know!!
It's been planned all along, Bramley-Moore Dock, will be bouncing a week on Sunday when Everton entertain Man Utd with a cluster of new signings in the squad🤞
Andrew Ellams
32 Posted 27/08/2026 at 17:05:03
32 Posted 27/08/2026 at 17:05:03
Kevin,
My guess is that we will bring in more than we spend between now and Tuesday.
My guess is that we will bring in more than we spend between now and Tuesday.
Kevin Molloy
33 Posted 27/08/2026 at 17:08:58
33 Posted 27/08/2026 at 17:08:58
Andrew, yes...
And if that does happen, we will know beyond a shadow of a doubt what a cheapskate ripoff bunch we have running things.
And if that does happen, we will know beyond a shadow of a doubt what a cheapskate ripoff bunch we have running things.
Bill Hawker
34 Posted 27/08/2026 at 17:13:20
34 Posted 27/08/2026 at 17:13:20
While I don't think Moyes is the man for the job at this juncture, I don't find fault with anything he said.
Everyone knows we're still looking for a right-back (three years running now) and possibly another striker.
Everyone knows we're still looking for a right-back (three years running now) and possibly another striker.
Christy Ring
35 Posted 27/08/2026 at 17:17:09
35 Posted 27/08/2026 at 17:17:09
I reckon TFG & Kinnear will break the bank and bring in Tom Davies before the deadline, he's training at Finch Farm!
Mike Gaynes
36 Posted 27/08/2026 at 17:17:25
36 Posted 27/08/2026 at 17:17:25
Wouldn't that be great, Tony?
My hunch is that the problem is more along the lines of players, agents and clubs holding off to the bitter end on their decisions than TFG refusing to pay up.
It's not just that, as you point out, Moyes hasn't mentioned finances at all.
It's also that we haven't yet been outbid for players that we are seriously in for. Our prime right back targets like Doue and Munoz and Fort and the injured Johnson haven't been sold to anybody else. And even Wan-Bissaka only moved on loan.
So my guess is that Moyes' frustration isn't only with his own management.
My hunch is that the problem is more along the lines of players, agents and clubs holding off to the bitter end on their decisions than TFG refusing to pay up.
It's not just that, as you point out, Moyes hasn't mentioned finances at all.
It's also that we haven't yet been outbid for players that we are seriously in for. Our prime right back targets like Doue and Munoz and Fort and the injured Johnson haven't been sold to anybody else. And even Wan-Bissaka only moved on loan.
So my guess is that Moyes' frustration isn't only with his own management.
Mark Taylor
37 Posted 27/08/2026 at 17:27:53
37 Posted 27/08/2026 at 17:27:53
I think there is an issue between Moyes and Kinnear. It may well revolve around the absence of a new contract offer, or at least some re-assurance on that front.
Seems to be Moyes is happy to throw Kinnear under the bus for an inability (as DM sees it) to do the business that is needed.
Who gets the flak if there is no quality RB by next Tuesday? You can't field the same excuses for yet another year. Moyes has distanced himself from the flak in that interview.
My very rough calculations suggest we still have some headroom on SCR, although selling Tim would have helped the budget available for a RB. If it (as it appears to be) the plan to sell off a reasonably valuable asset like Jake or Ndiaye to fund it, that won't look good.
Seems to be Moyes is happy to throw Kinnear under the bus for an inability (as DM sees it) to do the business that is needed.
Who gets the flak if there is no quality RB by next Tuesday? You can't field the same excuses for yet another year. Moyes has distanced himself from the flak in that interview.
My very rough calculations suggest we still have some headroom on SCR, although selling Tim would have helped the budget available for a RB. If it (as it appears to be) the plan to sell off a reasonably valuable asset like Jake or Ndiaye to fund it, that won't look good.
Andrew Ellams
38 Posted 27/08/2026 at 17:27:55
38 Posted 27/08/2026 at 17:27:55
Why aren't players and agents holding off to the bitter end on their decisions for other clubs?
Tony Abrahams
39 Posted 27/08/2026 at 17:29:16
39 Posted 27/08/2026 at 17:29:16
Unsurprisingly I tend to think a lot differently Mike. Like Kevin, I was apportioning the blame at our owners, but now I'm not 100% sure.
I think it's reasonable to say that Moyes doesn't like or has never really worked with a big squad (other than the time he lasted about 9 months at Man Utd), so maybe he's wanting quality over quantity (even though I think you need both nowadays) and doesn't really want to bring in players who he thinks are no different to the ones he already has, maybe?
As we know, quality costs a hell lot a lot more money, so if we don't sign a right back, what other conclusion could we genuinely come to, when it's clear that we have badly needed a right back for a very long time now. Like you say, let's wait and see.
Mike, makes it sound like it's more on Everton, waiting for players to agree Andrew, but that's the stance he has taken from the start (with regards our recruitment under TFG), but these players and agents must have nerves of steel, and very big bollocks (hopefully that's something we eventually say about our new right-back) if they're sitting it out right until the end, because my own view is that it very rarely works like this, unless we are only thinking about loan deals.
I think it's reasonable to say that Moyes doesn't like or has never really worked with a big squad (other than the time he lasted about 9 months at Man Utd), so maybe he's wanting quality over quantity (even though I think you need both nowadays) and doesn't really want to bring in players who he thinks are no different to the ones he already has, maybe?
As we know, quality costs a hell lot a lot more money, so if we don't sign a right back, what other conclusion could we genuinely come to, when it's clear that we have badly needed a right back for a very long time now. Like you say, let's wait and see.
Mike, makes it sound like it's more on Everton, waiting for players to agree Andrew, but that's the stance he has taken from the start (with regards our recruitment under TFG), but these players and agents must have nerves of steel, and very big bollocks (hopefully that's something we eventually say about our new right-back) if they're sitting it out right until the end, because my own view is that it very rarely works like this, unless we are only thinking about loan deals.
Luke Welch
40 Posted 27/08/2026 at 17:33:40
40 Posted 27/08/2026 at 17:33:40
I think Moyes's contract is having a direct influence on players deciding they don't want to join.
If players don't know who they will be playing for next year, how can they believe in his promises regarding playing time, ambition for the team, and so on???
If players don't know who they will be playing for next year, how can they believe in his promises regarding playing time, ambition for the team, and so on???
Andrew Ellams
41 Posted 27/08/2026 at 17:39:36
41 Posted 27/08/2026 at 17:39:36
Tony, if we sell Ndiaye, O'Brien, and Beto and bring in a load of loan deals, then I reckon Texas is just about the safest place for the Friedkins to be.
Mike Gaynes
42 Posted 27/08/2026 at 17:40:08
42 Posted 27/08/2026 at 17:40:08
Luke, players never know who they'll be playing for beyond this season. The average managerial tenure in the Premier League is 20 months. And guess how long Moyes has been in his job?
Players (and/or their agents) understand the vagaries of the business.
Players (and/or their agents) understand the vagaries of the business.
Dale Self
43 Posted 27/08/2026 at 17:46:29
43 Posted 27/08/2026 at 17:46:29
Tony and Andrew, the new poster Darrell Noga(?) lives in Texas. We can get to Friedkin there as well.
Michael Kenrick
44 Posted 27/08/2026 at 18:24:21
44 Posted 27/08/2026 at 18:24:21
Looks like Phil McNulty has picked up on this at the Beeb:
Are Moyes and Everton's owners on same page?
Are Moyes and Everton's owners on same page?
Ian Bennett
45 Posted 27/08/2026 at 18:37:47
45 Posted 27/08/2026 at 18:37:47
Tony 31 - I suspect it is we are trying like fuck, but the player, agent and clubs aren't biting.
Same as last year.
Same as last year.
Annika Herbert
46 Posted 27/08/2026 at 19:00:18
46 Posted 27/08/2026 at 19:00:18
Pete @ 24 and yet again we are hearing the same old excuses for Moyes. What's the point of having squad depth if you never make use of it? Something Moyes clearly didn't do last season.
Top clubs build large squads so they can regularly rotate their squads, thereby giving key players a reasonable break. Moyes ran the same 11 players into the ground last season, even though it was obvious the team needed freshening up.
It might well be that the owners are reluctant to hand Moyes the money he feels is required, I don't know for sure. But to suggest Moyes rotates his squad is quite clearly wrong.
He claimed some of the players at his disposal weren't first team ready last season. Could they really have done any worse than the 11 that did play during those horrendous final 7 games?
Top clubs build large squads so they can regularly rotate their squads, thereby giving key players a reasonable break. Moyes ran the same 11 players into the ground last season, even though it was obvious the team needed freshening up.
It might well be that the owners are reluctant to hand Moyes the money he feels is required, I don't know for sure. But to suggest Moyes rotates his squad is quite clearly wrong.
He claimed some of the players at his disposal weren't first team ready last season. Could they really have done any worse than the 11 that did play during those horrendous final 7 games?
Kevin Molloy
47 Posted 27/08/2026 at 19:07:23
47 Posted 27/08/2026 at 19:07:23
Annika,
Are you suggesting that 'we'd have played Tarkowski, Keane and O'Brien all last season, even if we'd have brought in some decent defenders?
We need a whole new defence. When that new defence is brought in, they arent' going to be sitting on the bench, they are going straight into the first team (if we ever have the money released to buy them).
Are you suggesting that 'we'd have played Tarkowski, Keane and O'Brien all last season, even if we'd have brought in some decent defenders?
We need a whole new defence. When that new defence is brought in, they arent' going to be sitting on the bench, they are going straight into the first team (if we ever have the money released to buy them).
Ian Horan
48 Posted 27/08/2026 at 19:19:08
48 Posted 27/08/2026 at 19:19:08
I feel TFG may be keeping the cash until January for a new manager to drive for Europe.
Could it be the data squad are highlghting young players who Moyes doesn't want and Moyes wants older players who the TFG data squad don't!!
Could it be the data squad are highlghting young players who Moyes doesn't want and Moyes wants older players who the TFG data squad don't!!
Kevin Molloy
49 Posted 27/08/2026 at 19:24:17
49 Posted 27/08/2026 at 19:24:17
You may be right, Ian. I imagine Angus and his team reckon they can spot players better than Moyes. They will have had no track record of that, of course, it'll just be a feeling, which they can weigh against Moyes's buys in the market in the last 25 years.
It's been this club's downfall of the last decade, buying players. We finally get in a manager with a track record of success in the market, and then put him up against this chap from the Championship, and the various academy chiefs he's appointed... and here we are.
It's been this club's downfall of the last decade, buying players. We finally get in a manager with a track record of success in the market, and then put him up against this chap from the Championship, and the various academy chiefs he's appointed... and here we are.
James Marshall
50 Posted 27/08/2026 at 19:55:26
50 Posted 27/08/2026 at 19:55:26
To sum up: Moyes thinks we need more players. He says this every transfer window because, we need more players.
O'Brien wants to play more, and at centre half. Branthwaite & Tarkowski are our first choice centre halves so O'Brien won't get a game there. Thus, he wants to leave. Moyes is stuck between a rock & a hard place.
Lots of transfer activity usually happens on the last day, or thereabouts so I'll wait till then before I get my knickers in a twist.
Everything David Moyes says to the press is to be taken with a large pinch of salt.
O'Brien wants to play more, and at centre half. Branthwaite & Tarkowski are our first choice centre halves so O'Brien won't get a game there. Thus, he wants to leave. Moyes is stuck between a rock & a hard place.
Lots of transfer activity usually happens on the last day, or thereabouts so I'll wait till then before I get my knickers in a twist.
Everything David Moyes says to the press is to be taken with a large pinch of salt.
John Collins
51 Posted 27/08/2026 at 21:07:18
51 Posted 27/08/2026 at 21:07:18
Keep it going Davey,the contract renewal looks far away at the moment.
I'm hoping for a parting of the ways around Christmas time.
I'm hoping for a parting of the ways around Christmas time.
Brendan McLaughlin
52 Posted 27/08/2026 at 21:25:19
52 Posted 27/08/2026 at 21:25:19
John #51
The only way there will be a parting of the ways at Christmas is if Everton ain't doing well.
You hoping for that?
The only way there will be a parting of the ways at Christmas is if Everton ain't doing well.
You hoping for that?
John Collins
53 Posted 27/08/2026 at 21:27:02
53 Posted 27/08/2026 at 21:27:02
No, but I'd take it if it made it happen Brendan
Annika Herbert
54 Posted 27/08/2026 at 21:53:05
54 Posted 27/08/2026 at 21:53:05
Kevin @ 47, are you suggesting Moyes wouldn't have played Keane, Tarkowski and O'Brien?
If so, on what are you basing your assumption? Against Preston he selected the older player in Keane,ahead of O'Brien.
The leopard doesn't change his spots just because he has new toys to play with.
If so, on what are you basing your assumption? Against Preston he selected the older player in Keane,ahead of O'Brien.
The leopard doesn't change his spots just because he has new toys to play with.
Dave Abrahams
55 Posted 27/08/2026 at 22:13:17
55 Posted 27/08/2026 at 22:13:17
Michael (44)
I read that link and I think it would be a logical question to ask Moyes— Wasn’t he disappointed and embarrassed by Everton only getting 3 points from the last seven games when a couple of wins would have got Everton a European place never mind him saying nobody at Everton was saying it was vital to get a European place he should have automatically been urging the players to fight for one in every game.
I read that link and I think it would be a logical question to ask Moyes— Wasn’t he disappointed and embarrassed by Everton only getting 3 points from the last seven games when a couple of wins would have got Everton a European place never mind him saying nobody at Everton was saying it was vital to get a European place he should have automatically been urging the players to fight for one in every game.
Si Cooper
56 Posted 27/08/2026 at 22:33:28
56 Posted 27/08/2026 at 22:33:28
James (50), but what makes Tarkowski either ‘first choice’ or effectively undroppable?
The simple answer is the manager, who is exceptionally risk averse and has not been prepared to give O’Brien a run of games to establish himself.
Moyes is either the rock or the hard place.
The simple answer is the manager, who is exceptionally risk averse and has not been prepared to give O’Brien a run of games to establish himself.
Moyes is either the rock or the hard place.
Eric Myles
57 Posted 28/08/2026 at 02:08:14
57 Posted 28/08/2026 at 02:08:14
Tony #20, I don't think that they've been aligned since Day One.
Do you remember when Moyes signed he said something about 'whoever is responsible for recruiting a player should carry the can for their failure'?
He knew then that the data bods and Kinnear would be bringing in players that fit certain metrics that were not aligned with his own. Does Dibling really look like a Moyes player to you? And for £35+ million at that?
Do you remember when Moyes signed he said something about 'whoever is responsible for recruiting a player should carry the can for their failure'?
He knew then that the data bods and Kinnear would be bringing in players that fit certain metrics that were not aligned with his own. Does Dibling really look like a Moyes player to you? And for £35+ million at that?
Paul Griffiths
58 Posted 28/08/2026 at 03:34:19
58 Posted 28/08/2026 at 03:34:19
Mike Gaynes 29: 'Just pointing out that this is an annual summer complaint from Moyes. He said the same thing last summer about inadequate squad depth, and he openly warred with Steidten at West Ham about recruitment there. .... He's never happy'.
Mike, Moyes was absolutely correct this time last year when he said that we had 'inadequate squad depth'. Absolutely spot on. The proof of that if it is needed is in those last half-dozen games. If he was 'unhappy', then he had solid reasons to be uncheerful.
And then we have these figures about Moyes last season:
Minutes by players aged 21 or under: 1,088: PL ranking 17th
Players used: 22: PL ranking 20th
Subs made: 128: PL ranking 20th
Minutes by subs: 1853: PL ranking 20th
Some say that this is the consequence of Moyes liking to work with small squads. I'm not for one second saying that there is not truth in this, but I'm also thinking that one other consideration in these somewhat shocking figures is that we had ' 'inadequate squad depth'.
Mike, Moyes was absolutely correct this time last year when he said that we had 'inadequate squad depth'. Absolutely spot on. The proof of that if it is needed is in those last half-dozen games. If he was 'unhappy', then he had solid reasons to be uncheerful.
And then we have these figures about Moyes last season:
Minutes by players aged 21 or under: 1,088: PL ranking 17th
Players used: 22: PL ranking 20th
Subs made: 128: PL ranking 20th
Minutes by subs: 1853: PL ranking 20th
Some say that this is the consequence of Moyes liking to work with small squads. I'm not for one second saying that there is not truth in this, but I'm also thinking that one other consideration in these somewhat shocking figures is that we had ' 'inadequate squad depth'.
Mike Gaynes
59 Posted 28/08/2026 at 04:09:38
59 Posted 28/08/2026 at 04:09:38
PG #58, no question, and looking down Moyes' bench in those final few games, I'd have hesitated to use some of those subs myself.
But it's also true that even at ManUtd he complained. Nobody has ever heard him make happy noises about a transfer window.
But it's also true that even at ManUtd he complained. Nobody has ever heard him make happy noises about a transfer window.
Paul Griffiths
60 Posted 28/08/2026 at 05:41:41
60 Posted 28/08/2026 at 05:41:41
Does he actually make 'happy noises' anytime anywhere MG?
Benjamin Dyke
61 Posted 28/08/2026 at 06:13:08
61 Posted 28/08/2026 at 06:13:08
It's strange for us to witness Moyes's defensiveness and perceived dourness but we have no idea what goes on behind the scenes and no idea of his inner thoughts and feelings.
I was watching the Rooney podcast the other day with Moyes and Rooney and I thought the way they related now and talked about the transfer to Man Utd showed them both in a different light.
Moyes measures himself against managers like Ferguson and Guardiola who, as he says, are 'serial winners', and so I think we will never, ever see a care-free, non-defensive Moyes, even if he were to win a trophy in his second spell with us!
I was watching the Rooney podcast the other day with Moyes and Rooney and I thought the way they related now and talked about the transfer to Man Utd showed them both in a different light.
Moyes measures himself against managers like Ferguson and Guardiola who, as he says, are 'serial winners', and so I think we will never, ever see a care-free, non-defensive Moyes, even if he were to win a trophy in his second spell with us!
Mike Gaynes
62 Posted 28/08/2026 at 06:23:52
62 Posted 28/08/2026 at 06:23:52
Only his wife will know, Paul.
Paul Griffiths
63 Posted 28/08/2026 at 06:59:45
63 Posted 28/08/2026 at 06:59:45
That did cross my mind, Mike, but my hunch is that it will be formulaic and methodical with the same set-up, no changes, and no subs.
Daniel A Johnson
64 Posted 28/08/2026 at 13:04:50
64 Posted 28/08/2026 at 13:04:50
Isn't it fantastic that a light is being shone on Moyes.
Mr Mediocrity can't hide no more.
Mr Mediocrity can't hide no more.
Mike Allison
65 Posted 28/08/2026 at 13:08:54
65 Posted 28/08/2026 at 13:08:54
It's not that hard. Just play O'Brien and Branthwaite together. It won't take that long before they would be one of the best pairings in the Premier League.
Moyes makes most of his own problems by picking the wrong players and failing to use substitutes and squad players at all. Our squad simply isn't that small, he just refuses to play some of the players.
If we signed no-one (except a right back), we'd have a reasonable squad capable of winning more games than it loses. Our problem is Moyes' use of the resources we've got, not a lack of resources.
That's not the same as saying we don't need additions, but they need to be high quality and better than we've got. We certainly don't need numbers in for the sake of it, we've got good players going to waste and regressing as it is.
Moyes makes most of his own problems by picking the wrong players and failing to use substitutes and squad players at all. Our squad simply isn't that small, he just refuses to play some of the players.
If we signed no-one (except a right back), we'd have a reasonable squad capable of winning more games than it loses. Our problem is Moyes' use of the resources we've got, not a lack of resources.
That's not the same as saying we don't need additions, but they need to be high quality and better than we've got. We certainly don't need numbers in for the sake of it, we've got good players going to waste and regressing as it is.
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1 Posted 27/08/2026 at 12:02:21
However. . .
There is no evidence that the top of the club are not aligned. This is pure fabrication and speculation.
All CEO, DM and the rest of the recruitment team are 100% aligned that we need more additions.
DM also said in your piece that “ it won't be for the want of trying”
Let's be data point driven not motivated continually to fabricate division.
It is becoming tiresome if not depressing.
Here is a nicely balanced interview last night after the game on performance and focus on improving every part of the team.
https://www.evertonfc.com/videos/328a43c8-dd31-486c-bcad-20418fb90c10