Everton Blogs

£7m worth of reasons why Everton should move for midfielder

Freddie Myers — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 16:33:40 +0100

Football FanCast reporter Freddie Myers mulls over the latest rumours and rumblings

I don't think that there are many football fans who don't share some admiration for the way David Moyes has transformed Everton football club. He has awoken one of the games great Bastions, turned them into a force to be reckoned with and one that you feel is very much on the brink of success.

Moyes has worked tirelessly in the past years, under relative constraints and you can't help but feel that this is the summer that Everton need to crank up a gear and add some genuine quality that is going to ensure that the club don't fall short next season. Over the passing weeks they have been linked with pretty much every available midfielder in Europe, all good players it must be said, but it's vital that Moyes brings in the right player that possesses good character and who isn't going to unsettle the team; Everton need to bring in an Piennar's of this world oppose to an Andy van der Meyde's.

The latest name to be linked to the football club this morning is Argentinean Pablo Aimar; the highly talented Zaragoza midfielder who joins Milito and Garcia as one of high profile names that is certain to leave this summer following the clubs relegation from La Liga - he is certainly the type of playmaker Everton need and at £7m, would represent an absolute steal.

So is Pablo Aimar the type of player you can see fitting in at Goodison Park? Does he represent the type of quality that can take Everton up the desire level? Should Everton be focusing their attentions elsewhere?

Are Everton doing enough to maintain their identity?

Joe Jennings — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 12:51:31 +0100

Football FanCast columnist Joe Jennings wonders if Everton are doing enough to maintain their identity within the City.

The commencement of the much awaited Liverpool One shopping development last week raised a few eyebrows among Evertonians, resulting in gripes towards the reputedly inadequate club we love and cherish.

For me personally, it made me think about our stature and presence in the City of Liverpool, or as I concluded, our complete lack of it. As the tape was cut, hordes of eager and self proclaimed "abiding" Liverpool fans surged into their new shiny club shop as Evertonians looked on not only with envy but sheer disgust.

Liverpool is proving a tourist honey pot, with the masses flocking to the city of culture to sample a taste of Scouse life. What are Everton doing to exploit this? Barring closing the club shop within the city centre and saddling the equally contemptible JJB with our merchandise.

Why is it that we as a club find it unthinkable to market ourselves off the pitch, is it really that laborious? I find it absolutely baffling, I simply cannot grasp the reasoning behind not opening a club shop in a thriving city that is literally saturated with tourism and in turn money. Going to the club shop to purchase Everton related merchandise is all well and good, but in reality, it is unpractical and unfitting of the marketing developments within football in general.

Walking along Church Street, only a few weeks ago was astounding. Admittedly, it was a relatively hot day but it pained me to view a sea of red in front of me. In my opinion, for every ten Liverpool jerseys that were donned, only one or possibly two Everton replica shirts were spotted. Now maybe this is irrelevant, maybe it is a mere coincidence but in my opinion this is a sad reminder of the reality of our predicament; we are living in the shadow, literally.

But this can be halted, which is the most frustrating aspect of the whole scenario. We're finally getting things right on the pitch with Moyes and a respectable, well-equipped squad, which is what we all desire, but in years to come who'll be there to watch us, what legacy will we have?

Sadly, at the current rate, not only will young Evertonians continue to diminish frequently but the visitors to Liverpool city centre will result in the dramatic upturn in fortunes of the beloved neighbours. What connection will we have with Liverpool if the proposed ground move reaches fruition, what will prevent the "One City- One Love- One Liverpool" media tool being spun?

The slackness of the marketing department at Everton Football Club is not only astounding, but evidently inadequate and ill-equipped to the task of managing a top-five Premiership club. How can a club of our size be so anonymous to hundreds of thousands of people? I recently travelled abroad, I spoke to a fair few football fans, mainly under the age of 16, who for the life of them, couldn't grasp the concept behind me supporting Everton if I lived in Liverpool, it was as if we didn't exist.

If only we had somebody within the club who had a shred of knowledge of how not only to gain publicity, but maintain it. Why can't we adopt the approach of many others, literally bobbing up and down in front of the cameras like an annoying rabble that to refuse settle for limited exposure? Last week, the world's spotlight was on the city of Liverpool, we missed out, big time.

I look on with great fear and agitation as the countdown to the Kirkby bomb reaches nearer, hopefully it will self destruct and the haunted tunnel will grind to a halt. But one thing will prove absolutely crucial, David Moyes and his Everton squad must win a trophy before it's too late, we can no longer continue to produce such die-hard schoolboy blues with a glittering history from the ‘80s. We must embrace ourselves for the darkest possible predicament, winning a trophy gives the young fans something to think about, something to feel proud about, and now more than ever, those are the fans we need to capture and in turn nurture.

NB - Joe Jennings is competing in our Bloggers Euro Championship so if you can give his article a rating in the voting box, it would be greatly appreciated.

Semi Final Germany vs. Turkey. 19.45

What it means to be an Evertonian and why you are born to be blue!

Joe Jennings — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 12:43:06 +0100

Football FanCast columnist Joe Jennings feels that Evertonians are a special breed of people.

Admittedly, supporting Everton is not something you can switch off, it proves eternal. Yet unfortunately, I and many others will find it impossible to gracefully accept a ground move that not only has no place in our hearts but in our wallets.

Crazily, I somehow feel closer to the club when times are rough, Everton often reflect my own feelings. When we lose, many face the consequences; I'm inconsolable, for a few hours at least.

The emotions that Everton can evoke are not only visibly painful but truly mesmerising. A REAL Evertonian is not somebody who goes home away and abroad, but one that is emotionally affected not only by results but all things related to the club. It doesn't matter if you're a stone's throw away from the Liver Birds or located in the Amazon Rainforest, if you walk on air when we win, bursting with sheer pride, you're a blue.

You cannot dip in and out when Everton are winning or losing, you cannot choose the path to follow. In my opinion, nothing beyond supporting Everton with all of your heart qualifies you as an Evertonian. Passion is passion, irrespective of locality.

Everton is a club like no other; Evertonians are a breed like no other. Evertonians are different, Everton are different, we are not a team who have dominated for prolonged periods, but just about every decade we come from relative periphery to glory, this leaves generations of blues with totally varying perspectives of the club we all love.

The sensitive Blues need to comprehend not only the outpourings of heartfelt passion, but the reasoning behind it. The thing I find most difficult to stomach is the divide the club has caused among its huge, dedicated band of supporters, it's heartbreaking.

Everton not only bring emotional extremes, but optimism, hope and grandeur. Will this be the same in Knowsley? Sadly I fear not. We all not only share and endure the tears, joy and frustration of being a supporter of Everton, but sadly the negative connotations that are associated with the ride, namely the Kirkby conundrum.

Only the "Insiders" can comprehend the range of emotions involved in backing the Blues. You simply cannot grasp, nor fully understand the evident implications of supporting Everton unless you do, loving and cherishing them with every inch of your heart. I love Everton not because we have a glittering history and a seemingly bright future but because I was chosen to be part of such an elite group of people.

When we were chosen, we signed on for life; we didn't have to. We could have supported a whole host of other sides, but we didn't. Branding myself an Evertonian not only means something to me personally, but offers me an identity that I hope to never relinquish. For better or for worse, I will always be Blue.

Champions League or relegation fodder, Goodison or Kirkby we're all devoted disciples and just being able to call myself a supporter of Everton is good enough for me, whatever the outcome. You do not become a Blue; you're born to be Blue.

Are Everton facing up to a defining season?

Joe Jennings — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 12:26:53 +0100

Football FanCast columnist Joe Jennings feels that next season is a defining one for Everton football club.

Liverpool is a passionate footballing city at the best of the times, but when your success is measured up against that of your bitterest red rivals, anguish, passion and perceivable levels of intensity are inevitable.

Next season will prove fundamental in shaping our future, of that I have no doubt. Irrefutably we have the core of an excellent team, but unless depth is added to a depleted rank then I fear we will hit a plateau of development, with Moyes potentially becoming confounded by a lack of cash injection.

The problem, previously, tended to be the perceptible yoyo effect the club had begrudgingly adopted, however David Moyes has now built a squad of players not only with the right attributes; both mentally and physically, but a squad that possesses genuine quality.

The football is improving, the fans are expecting and most importantly, the mentality and mindset of the players would appear to have altered. Gone are the days of merely hoping for supremacy, the players and fans alike now not only demand victory, but expect it.

Last season, whether through sheer bad luck or otherwise, we didn't produce against the "Big 4"- fact. Yes there was no shortage of commitment, effort and endeavour but the lack of penetration and conciseness in our attacks proved inadequate to the task.

This must change if we are to become a force, we can dispute all day long whether certain circumstances had been different, the statistics don't deceive, we picked up one point from a possible twenty four. I don't want to be known, collectively as a fan base, as "if-but" merchants, we're better than that.

We need to make our own luck, the future success of Everton will depend entirely on the club itself, nobody else matters. What we achieve is down to our own efforts, remember that. We get knocked down, we must get up again; there is no other option. Why? Because that is what the best do, they are relentless in the pursuit of success, perseverance is crucial.

I'm not going to divulge into whether we sign this player or that, I trust our Glaswegian to get that right but he needs help; considerable financial assistance to ensure the future development of Everton, the almost phoenix from the flames, remains sustainable. The mismanagement of Everton Football Club can simply not continue, it is no longer acceptable nor a rightful reflection of our aspirations.

Hopes of replicating the achievements of those halogen days may yet prove unfounded and possibly out of our reach but with Moyes at the helm, combined with sufficient financial backing and a vociferous Goodison faithful, everything is achievable. In my opinion, progress is proving tangible; not only among Evertonians and the Merseyside region, but throughout the country. Relinquishing the mantle of the mightiest has already occurred; it's up to Everton as a club, now more than ever to regain our place at the forefront.

Quarter Final Portugal vs. Germany. 19.45

Time for Everton star to show loyalty to the club that made him what he is?

Joe Jennings — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 12:55:41 +0100

Football FanCast columnist Joe Jennings is disappointed about the rumblings that surround Mikel Arteta and feels that the player should show some loyalty, to the club that made him what he is.

The conventional wisdom among football fans, Evertonians in particular, is that every supporter is unstintingly loyal to their beloved club. We expect the same from the players that we love to adore, worship and at times, berate.

The rumours surrounding Mikel Arteta simply refuse to decelerate, in fact neutrals couldn't be blamed for assuming they not only contained substance, but genuine validity.

Whether it will prove merely paper talk, or genuinely possess substance, one thing in my mind should prove a formality, Arteta owes Everton for not only what they have provided him; namely a place to call home, but he owes the bountiful amounts of Evertonians that literally, despite a distinct downturn in fortunes, worship the ground he strolls on.

There is no disputing one thing, before signing for Everton, Mikel Arteta was in footballing no man's land and desperately needed stability and nurturing. Everton not only provided this, but offered love, endearment and a place to showcase undoubted talents. David Moyes had faith; both he and the club have grown, immensely in my opinion, since the Spaniard's arrival. There have been moments of magic, frequent flashes of skill and even straight men nursing peculiar obsessions with the silky Spaniard.

Yet last season, whether injured or otherwise, Arteta's performance was unworthy, unwarranted and frankly unacceptable. Previously, without Arteta, Everton were a team not only lacking imagination, but creativity, skill and ability. We were devoid of ideas, Arteta proved not only a catalyst for change, but acted as a remedy for a felt grievance.

The constant speculation linking Arteta with moves ranging from Madrid to the Sahara Desert refuse to diminish and I feel now is the time not only for a declaration of loyalty, but a passionate reaction from a man who for most parts of last season not only looked disoriented with his surroundings, but evidently uninterested.

To Arteta, football is a job - it pays his exorbitant salary and it brings money home to his family. Granted, the figures are astronomical but it's ultimately a job. As with any other job, you move for pretty much the same reason as the average Joe does - better pay, better environment etc. The difference of course that in football, glory and titles is at stake.

Is it so much to ask for brand loyalty, don't the fans count for anything? Arteta will never become a fully fledged legend at any other club, of that I have no doubt. At Everton he has that chance; he has the ultimate opportunity to cement himself in the Goodison Gods. Surely this should be held not only with high prestige, but high regard by Arteta himself.

I want to see the spark in Arteta, I urge for him to take the game by the scruff of the neck, you only have to look at the Fiorentina fixture, the capabilities are present, but is the desire to give everything for that Blue shirt? Loyalty is something which I hold dear in everyday life, not just when it's sport related, it's who I am and what I represent.

If rumours are true (and the romantic in me is desperately seeking to extinguish the possibility from my mind) and Arteta is actively seeking a move away from Goodison Park then does that explain the somewhat unconcern for the Blue jersey? Where would the loyalty lie with Moyes, a man who in my opinion, not only rescued Arteta from footballing periphery but polished the Spaniard into one of the best midfielders in the Premier League.

Loyalty to a team, one which is held so dearly by so many people, it would appear; has been replaced by the will for money. Should we expect anything less in a materialistic, one dimensional, self-serving world? What saddens me greatly is that our heroes revel in cash flow rather than fan endearment, approval and love.

No player is bigger than Everton Football Club, not even Arteta, and a man who has undoubtedly re-injected tinges of the School of Science back into the Goodison turf. Not only does Arteta owe Everton a season of consistency, dedication and precision but one of sheer loyalty and commitment to the cause.

Footballers are admittedly self-absorbed. If Arteta craves a legacy when he eventually hangs up his boots, abiding by Everton in my opinion should prove an imperative. The next Everton team that gets grip on any inch of silverware will be idolised for eternity, of that I have no doubt. We've sang his name through the good, the bad and the downright ugly, now it's up to Arteta to not only prove his love for the club and the fans, but the time has arrived for the Spaniard to plunge into the undoubted ocean of opportunity of becoming a true Everton legend. Over to you, Mikel.

NB - Joe Jennings is competing in our Bloggers Euro Championship so if you can give his article a rating in the voting box, it would be greatly appreciated.

Grp D Greece vs. Spain. 19.45

Grp D Russia vs. Sweden. 19:45

Or for some alternative entertainment from Rambo...

Why Everton would be wise to go Dutch this time?

Freddie Myers — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 12:54:15 +0100

Football FanCast reporter Freddie Myers mulls over the latest rumours and rumblings

Ever since Lee Carsley moved on to pastures new, there seems to have been an endless list of targets, which are being lined up with a move to Goodison Park. Whether it Tom Huddlestone, Michael Bradley or a third move for Manuel Fernandes, the press seem unable to resist linking Everton to every available midfielder in Europe.

You can't blame them I guess. Everton fans have made it clear on many a website and forum that they felt the midfield needed a facelift - an injection of flair and add vibrancy to a midfield that was sometimes lacking; given the patchy form of Arteta last season.

There is no question that the likes of Huddlestone or Bradley would enhance an Everton midfield and provide the creative edge; however I was intrigued to see Everton linked this morning (Daily Mirror) with one of the most underrated talents in Dutch football and for me would be the perfect solution to fill that midfield berth - Someone who can add that combative edge and who doesn't shirk his defensive responsibilities.

Orlando Engelaar is a fantastic talent and is finally getting the recognition he deserves in the full national side. He has bags of ability and a real driving force in the centre of midfield. If David Moyes can secure his signature, then it will be an excellent coup and you feel the perfect complement within the current side.

What are Everton fans views on the player? Would you rather the club made a move for a Huddlestone or Bradley? Should Moyes take a punt on the big Dutchman?

Everton set to get off to a flyer!

Freddie Myers — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 12:26:59 +0100

Football FanCast reporter Freddie Myers mulls over the new fixture lists

There is no question that the first game of the season is the most comforting day in every football fans calendar. Everyone is equal, a ball yet to be kicked in anger and we all take delight in seeing how our new signings are set to perform.

It is normally a day of high drama, where a new striker will bag a hat trick, a young prodigy steals the show or one of the promoted sides turn over a big gun - there is an overwhelming sense among supporters that this is going to be our year and all our failings were a thing of the past. It normally only takes a week for the reality to set in and after weeks of preparation and hype, you get the sense of realism that nothing is going to change.

Everton once again last year made tremendous progress and have more than cemented themselves among the Premier League elite. A combination of poor officiating, crippling injuries all conspired to prevent David Moyes in claiming 4^th spot which you felt they rightly deserved. It is vital that Everton get off to a strong start to the season and get plenty of points on the board and judging by the first six games of the season, you have to fancy the toffees being in amongst the top 4 come the start of October.

Aug 16^th - Blackburn (h)

Aug 23^rd - West Brom (a)

Aug 30^th - Portsmouth (h)

Sep 13^th- Stoke (a)

Sep 20^{th - Hull (a)}

Sep 27^th - Liverpool (h)

How do Evertonians feel about the start of the season? Has David Moyes every reason to feel confident? How many points will you expect to have in the coffers come October 1^st?

Grp B Poland vs. Croatia. 19.45

Grp B Austria vs. Germany. 19:45

Or for some alternative entertainment from Rambo...

Has starlet made a grave mistake in turning down Everton?

Vinny Banks — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 12:52:56 +0100

Football FanCast columnist Vinny Banks feels that Aaron Ramsey's development would have been far greater, had he shun the bright lights of London and moved to Goodison Park.

As Aaron Ramsey prepares his new life and career in North London, I can't help feel the player may have made a faux pas. His move to Arsenal, away from all the spotlight and fame will, undoubtedly give him a chance of silverware and Champions League football. But with this may come, a lack of first team opportunity week in week out.

Granted, he will be picking his wits among Europe's elite in the shape of Cesc Fabregas and alike, and he will undoubtedly learn more than a trick or two on the training ground. But for a young lad, applying his trade early in his career, first team football is what he wants and more importantly needs and that is why I believe the player made a big mistake in not moving to Goodison Park.

Everton are one of two clubs that have the ability to break the top four in seasons to come. Along with Aston Villa they have a strong set up with a blend of home grown talent, European flair and astute tactics which make them an exciting team to watch. In David Moyes they have a manager who is not afraid to delve in the lower leagues and take a chance on certain players.

Joleon Lescott and Phil Jagielka are the perfect examples. Two excellent Championship players they were and now have moved onto the international arena. Moyes took a chance on Tim Cahill, when he brought him in from lowly Millwall. The Scot is simply one of the few managers in the game who is prepared to take a chance and give talent from the lower leagues a chance to prove their worth among the big boys in the Premier League.

Compare this to wonder kid Theo Walcott, who I am a big fan of. His lack of first team football at Arsenal has installed him with a lack of confidence and self belief. His talent is there to see when he plays but he would be much better suited at a club where he could play every week.

Since his move to North London, he has found himself on the bench or out of the squad too often, and I can see this happening to Ramsey now he has made the switch. Another example is Shaun Wright Phillips. Playing at Chelsea is never going to be a stroll in the park whoever you are, but the Chelsea faithful and fans nationwide have only seen glimpses of the form he found up at Eastlands.

Why I can fully understand Aaron Ramsey's decision to go to Arsenal, with the lure of Champions League football and the chance to challenge for the title, I believe the lad should have chosen the Merseysiders. David Moyes has a prolific record on bringing players from the lower leagues and moving them up a level. His man management techniques would have produced a steeper incline on his developments as a player and on his international career.

NB - Vinny Banks is competing in our Bloggers Euro Championship so if you can give his article a rating in the voting box, it would be greatly appreciated.

Grp C Italy vs. Romania. 17.00

Grp C Netherlands vs. France. 19:45

Or for some alternative entertainment from Rambo...