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Everton manager Marco Silva’s position at Goodison Park is under threat following his side’s dismal recent run of form. The Toffees have lost four of their last five Premier League games - including falling to defeat against Silva’s former club, Watford, last time out.

The Portuguese coach must identify the cause for his team’s woes and rectify it before it’s too late.

Identifying the problem

Everton have struggled so much in recent weeks as they’ve been far too easy for opponents to pressurise and bully. Everton undeniably possess considerable talent amongst their ranks, including the likes of Gylfi Sigurdsson, Andre Gomes and Bernard.

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However, the aforementioned trio, amongst others in Silva’s squad, are all guilty of being careless in possession at times, and failing to adequately protect the ball when they have it.

According to WhoScored’s stats, Everton have averaged 18.4 unsuccessful touches per league match this season - more that any other team in the division. On top of that, their record of being dispossessed 12.7 times per game is only better than Crystal Palace’s average.

Finding the solution

Until Everton are able to better protect the ball they’ll continue to struggle to accrue positive results. Needlessly gifting possession to the opposition so regularly causes avoidable pressure to build on Everton’s defence.

In terms of technical quality, Silva’s squad have the ability to take greater care of the ball than this. However, it could be a mentality issue. The manager has to find a way to inspire greater levels of endeavour out of this group.

Additionally, the Toffees lack steel. Idrissa Gueye is the only regular starter on Merseyside capable of physically competing with anyone in the middle of park. If they want to stop being pushovers, Everton must rediscover their bite.