David Moyes faces a decision at right-back after Ainsley Maitland-Niles was at fault for Chelsea's opening goal in Everton's 2-0 Premier League defeat at Hill Dickinson Stadium on Saturday. The 29-year-old, who had impressed since joining from Lyon on deadline day, has now made costly errors in consecutive matches.
Maitland-Niles was beaten too easily by Josh Acheampong, whose pull-back was finished by Pedro Neto. Moyes responded by substituting the full-back immediately, with Tyrique George brought on as the ball hit the net. Merlin Rohl moved to right-back, while Jake O'Brien remained on the bench.
Defensive frailties exposed
Maitland-Niles was also at fault for both of Hull City's goals last Sunday. The former Arsenal man had made an instant impact against Manchester United, scoring a stoppage-time equaliser, and followed that with solid displays against Tottenham Hotspur and Ipswich Town. But his recent form has alarmed supporters.
For his own sake, Maitland-Niles needs to be taken out of the team now. He is costing his side goals, and with Everton lacking firepower, they cannot afford to gift teams goals. The only decision Moyes has to make is whether to start O'Brien or Rohl at right-back next weekend.
Pickford under scrutiny
Jordan Pickford also faces questions after conceding goals similar to Hull's second last weekend. The England international got a hand to both efforts but could not keep them out. While Pickford has been one of Everton's best players in recent seasons, his distribution has also been erratic at times.
James Trafford has made clear he is coming for Pickford's No.1 England spot, but no-one is suggesting the Everton keeper should be replaced by Mark Travers. Still, supporters are right to expect more from their star man.
Referee decisions criticised
Harrison Armstrong was booked for a firm but fair tackle on Acheampong, a decision Moyes questioned. "I thought it looked a half-decent tackle," he said. "Maybe somebody might tell me something different. I thought it was the wrong decision at the time."
Morgan Rogers was lucky to stay on the pitch after challenging James Garner, as was Cole Palmer, who had already been booked when he took out Jarrad Branthwaite. Moyes added: "I've had a wee look at the Morgan Rogers tackle on Jimmy (James Garner), which some might've said something different."
Norgaard debut to forget
Christian Norgaard made his Everton debut as a substitute but looked nowhere near fit. He struggled to track back and was booked for holding Palmer, leading to Chelsea's second goal. Moyes must accept the gamble was one he got wrong.
