Everton failed to get the better of Southampton in what was an embarrassing afternoon of football, and fans aren’t too happy with one decision Sean Dyche made.
Sean Dyche is undoing all of the hard work he’s put in over the last month by reverting to a boring type of football that sees the opposition completely dominate.
Southampton were bottom in the Premier League coming into this one, yet they still managed to have 66% of the possession, which is unforgivable.
Ray Parlour and Alan Brazil couldn’t believe one Everton fan was predicting relegation prior to today’s game, but if these type of performances keep creeping in then it could become a reality.
One decision from Sean Dyche certainly didn’t please the Everton fans, and they were sure to let him know about it on social media after the game.
READ MORE: Sean Dyche hails two Everton players as ‘excellent’ against Southampton despite the loss
The Sean Dyche selection decision that proved costly
Sean Dyche opted to go with James Tarkowski and Michael Keane at the heart of the defence, despite looking vulnerable at times last time out against Fulham.
Tarkowski looked out of sorts at times, throwing himself into a challenge in the first half and drifting into positions he shouldn’t even be in.
It seems like the only reason Dyche plays Michael Keane nowadays is so that he can chuck him up front as a striker for the last 10 minutes when chasing games.
Jarrad Branthwaite was given barely any minutes once again, which is just crazy to think about when you look at how vulnerable we looked at times.
He started one game this season and Everton happened to pick up all three points in what was an accomplished display, but ever since returning from injury it’s as if Dyche is scared to use him.
Everton fans fume at Jarrad Branthwaite decision
These Everton fans, when speaking on X, all voiced their frustrations at Branthwaite sitting on the substitutes’ bench.
“Leaving Branthwaite on the bench to facilitate the woeful Tarkowski is bordering on criminal. To then bring him on in the 88th minute at the expense of a wideman so that a centre half can go forward really is a joke. He’s out of his depth.”, @terrifyinglogic said.
@EllBretland wasn’t happy: “What’s ridiculous about not starting Branthwaite is that, not only did the team concede 13 goals in the opening four games when he wasn’t available but he also formed a key part of one of the most solid defences in the Premier League last season with Tarkowski and Pickford.”
@LookerGerry stated: “Speaks for itself, and to add the Fulham set-up was appallingly negative even by Dyche standards, extremely lucky to get the point with a mind-numbing football striker. To keep your outstanding centre half on the bench twice is unforgivable.”
@Sheedysleftpeg1 mentioned: “Dyche needs sacking. His selections and tactics this year have been awful. No other side in the league has Branthwaite on the bench. Has favourites and is a hypocrite.”
“What makes it more bizarre is that Dyche was a centre back himself. The fact he doesn’t recognise the brilliance of Branthwaite is negligence.”, @ElBeck77 is at the end of his tether.
@Ryan_EFC1878 commented: “Wonder how Branthwaite feels, coming on as sub twice the past 2 games at 80min, both 1-0 down, so Dyche can put his son Michael Keane, who’s keeping him out the team, as emergency striker. Embarrassing.”
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