‘Brilliant’ 23-year-old who can’t stop scoring shows Everton made £3.5m mistake in 2023

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Everton have clearly struggled for goals during the 2023/24 season, with Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Beto evidently out of form.

The duo haven’t been clinical enough when given a chance by Sean Dyche in what is becoming a real issue for the 52-year-old.

Here are Calvert-Lewin’s numbers thus far:

• 3 goals
• 1 assist
• 19 starts
• 0.17 goals per 90
• 0.52 xG per 90

The Everton boss must find a way of getting the best out of his forwards ahead of the run-in. With Luton putting up a fight, Forest’s PSR appeal and another punishment likely on the way, the need for points and goals cannot be understated.

And now, looking at what one of Everton’s former players is doing will frustrate Dyche.

Everton could rue transfer mistake in 2023

In the summer of 2023, Everton opted to sell one of their underused forwards, which now looks rather foolish.

Ellis Simms struggled after initially moving to Coventry City in the summer, with Sky Blues’ fans questioning the transfer.

Simms’ 2024 record:

• 13 goals
• 10 goals in his last six matches
• 2 hat tricks

Since the turn of the year, the 23-year-old has been on fire for Mark Robins’ side, netting eight Championship goals.

Furthermore, in all competitions, Simms has netted ten goals in his last six games, making him one of the most in-form forwards in England at the moment.

Considering the price Everton reportedly sold Simms for, this is looking more and more like a transfer blunder from the Goodison Park decision-makers.

How much did Everton sell Ellis Simms for?

According to iNews, the Toffees sanctioned Simms’ exit for £3.5 million, a fee that could rise to £8million if stipulations are met; presumably, Coventry being promoted is a factor to consider.

Of course, £8million for a player who failed to make an impact would be good business for all concerned; however, considering the 23-year-old’s ‘brilliant’ form, the initial £3.5million looks a little low.

Furthermore, Everton’s £15million swoop for Youssef Chermiti makes the decision to sell to Coventry look slightly foolish. The 19-year-old has yet to prove he can do anything that Simms couldn’t at Goodison Park.