Everton star reveals what was said in behind-the-scenes ‘meeting’ after deduction

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Everton’s form in the last month has been revolutionary, and were it not for their points deduction it would have marked a welcome change to be looking up for results rather than down.

As it happens, they were docked ten points, and once again fans are forced to keep an eye out for their relegation rivals and pray on their downfall.

It never ceases to bring an Evertonian crashing back down to earth than having to quietly celebrate Declan Rice’s late winner against Luton Town.

However, there is still plenty to be excited about, with admittedly little chance of relegation should Sean Dyche manage to maintain their current trajectory. His conduct in the face of such unimaginable frustration has been exemplary.

Dwight McNeil, speaking after his stunner saw them claim three points against Nottingham Forest, would outline one particular meeting in which the deduction was discussed at length.

He told Everton’s official website: ‘We had a meeting about it as a group on what’s gone on and what we were going to do about it, and we all decided to not let it affect us.

‘If anything, it’s fuelled us more. We know we have minus-10 points, but we’ve just taken it on – especially on Saturday because that’s a massive three points away from home.

‘We have to keep going and forget about it, and just concentrate on us, taking it a game at a time. We know this period of the season is vital. There are a lot of games around Christmas so we have to keep going as a team.’

How good has Dwight McNeil been for Everton?

Although he has hardly been on fire this campaign, his first goal of the season did come at an opportune moment to fire Everton ahead in a tight affair.

And yet, despite his failures in front of goal, Dyche has remained faithful to the right winger, relying on him for his defensive work rate more than anything.

After all, when compared to other wingers across Europe, the 24-year-old ranks in the top 14% for tackles per 90, the top 4% for interceptions per 90 and the top 1% for blocks and clearances per 90, via FBref.

Last season saw him blend those figures with a further seven goals and three assists in the Premier League, with his wand of a left foot proving pivotal in their eventual survival and earning comical praise from Abdoulaye Doucoure.

Few can fault his relentless running, even if the quality may sometimes be lacking, and fans will now be hoping that this finish can spur him on to enjoy another fine season in front of goal.