Everton’s pre-season steps up next week as the club prepares for its first friendly of the summer. The first group of players returned from their off-season breaks on Friday and underwent testing at Finch Farm. Those involved in the World Cup will have a staggered return, but others, such as Jake O’Brien, are expected back in the coming days.
With three signings already secured and more expected, several players may feel they have a point to prove to manager David Moyes as they compete for opportunities through pre-season.
Tyler Dibling: Seeking a reset after a tough debut season
The most obvious candidate is Tyler Dibling. The attacking midfielder was Everton's most expensive arrival last summer but failed to live up to the reputation he built at Southampton, where he emerged as one of English football's hottest talents. His youth, the challenge of settling far from home, and the situation at Everton all contributed to his struggles. Jack Grealish and Iliman Ndiaye started the season on the wings in fine form, limiting Dibling's chances. When he did play, it was often late in games or with a makeshift side. Everton rarely used a specialist right-back last season, both strikers struggled in the first half of the campaign, and Dibling's first six starts came alongside five different attacking midfielders.
The England Under-21 international failed to make an impact, and the longer that went on, the harder it became. This summer offers a reset. He now knows the club and the area, and Tyrique George's return provides a friend to share the experience. Moyes' comments last season fluctuated between praise and calls for harder work, but hopefully he will find the most effective way to tap into Dibling's talent. Pressure-free minutes in pre-season will help. Everton need a right winger, and Dibling has the talent – now is the time to silence doubters.
Adam Aznou: A complicated case for left-back cover
Adam Aznou's situation is complicated. He struggled when replacing the injured Vitalii Mykolenko in the final pre-season friendly against Roma, which made it understandable for Moyes to start the season with James Garner and Seamus Coleman in that slot. However, the continued failure to introduce him to the first team was peculiar, especially as Mykolenko was often tasked with stepping out of his comfort zone upon return. Defensive and physical concerns may have been legitimate, but Aznou offered far more going forward, as seen when he earned a penalty in the FA Cup third-round tie against Sunderland, forcing extra time. That he played no further role last season added to the mystery over why he was signed.
Everton need competition and cover for Mykolenko. A loan move may be the most likely outcome for Aznou this summer, but he could solve a problem if he convinces Moyes to give him a chance.
Carlos Alcaraz: Talent in a crowded midfield
Carlos Alcaraz's handling also sparked questions. The attacking midfielder fell behind Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall after the latter's arrival from Chelsea, and Dewsbury-Hall's form made it tough for Alcaraz to get a look-in after his loan move from Flamengo was made permanent. His own injury problems coincided with Dewsbury-Hall's hamstring setback, but given Alcaraz's match-winning performances in the final months of the previous campaign, his limited use was unexpected. His contract is already in its final 12 months, though the club has an option to extend by a year.
Everton's midfield is suddenly crowded, which may spell further problems for Alcaraz. But the talent is there, as is the goodwill from supporters who connected with him upon his arrival.
Thierno Barry: Need for ruthlessness and fan reconciliation
Thierno Barry emerged from last season with eight Premier League goals – a commendable return from his first season in English football. However, he took an age to get off the mark and regularly spurned good chances. Some of his goals came from tougher opportunities, and the feeling at Everton by the end of the season was that Moyes was open to improving his strike force but had something to work with if the market did not provide alternatives. Interest from RB Leipzig has enhanced that view, with Blues chiefs seeing it as vindication of their positive conclusion about his potential.
Barry must now show he can lead the line effectively, become more ruthless, and build bridges with a fanbase he upset with his online activity after the Arsenal match.
