Everton are set to face a familiar face in David Moyes as Sean Dyche’s side travel to West Ham on Sunday, and the former Toffees boss has now praised the current one.
Moyes managed Everton for over 10 years before departing in 2013, and after a difficult few years, has found success with West Ham.
Dyche meanwhile, joined midway through last season, and helped Everton stay up by the skin of their teeth. Whilst he has received some criticism, the club are currently suffering from other problems off the pitch, and the former Burnley manager has now been praised for the job he has done since joining.
David Moyes praises Sean Dyche
Speaking in his pre-match press conference ahead of Sunday’s clash between the two sides, Moyes pointed out that Dyche keeping Everton up was an excellent achievement, given the difficult task he faced.
“I think Sean has done a brilliant job, more importantly last season in keeping them in the Premier League,” Moyes stated.
“Last year was probably the toughest I can remember in the Premier League regarding the relegation side of the league. We were involved in that for long periods as well.
“Dychey went right to the end and kept his team up, so congratulations to him. It looks as it might be a difficult period for Everton right now with the financial situation, so he’s having to steer them through that.”
Is criticism of Dyche fair?
Although results have not been the best for Everton so far this season, there is a case to be made that they are suffering from poor luck.
Underlying stats have shown that Everton are underperforming, in terms of results compared to performance levels, and they have the potential to start winning a lot more games given the amount they are creating.
Everton are also in turmoil off the pitch, as they potentially face a points deduction, whilst there is still uncertainty over the ownership situation.
At times, Everton have performed well, but circumstances such as the controversial refereeing decisions made in the Merseyside Derby defeat have meant that Dyche has come away frustrated with results.
Although some fans may not enjoy the style of football employed under Dyche, he has made Everton more difficult to beat, with a physically robust midfield, and after keeping them up last season, he may be well equipped to do it again, even if the campaign turns into a struggle towards the second half of the season.
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