Everton’s start to 2026 has been nothing short of a disaster.
David Moyes remains in search of his first win of the year following two defeats and one draw across the Premier League and FA Cup.
It was such a promising start to the campaign for Everton, but the last month or so have really seen the hopes of European qualification take a hit.
There are a number of reasons that can be blamed for the recent dip in form, with injuries and suspensions playing a big part.
Gary Lineker says Jack Grealish is still looking to improve at Everton as he has struggled to really nail down any consistency this season.
However, Lineker now thinks the Blues are set for a huge boost that could see their season back on track.
Gary Lineker shares big Everton boost that’ll delight David Moyes
As the squad has been decimated since the start of December, Everton will welcome back Iliman Ndiaye and Idrissa Gana Gueye next week.
The duo will offer a big boost to Moyes’ squad having missed around a month’s worth of action.
Speaking on The Rest is Football podcast, Lineker has shared just how big of a boost Ndiaye’s return will be for the 62-year-old manager.
What concerns do you have about Iliman Ndiaye leaving Everton in the summer?😫
Surely Everton must hand him a new contract!
“They get Ndiaye back from the Africa Cup of Nations, as well. I really like him! I think he’s a real talent,” said Lineker.
“Yeah, he’s a quality player,” Micah Richards responded.
Ndiaye has shared his stance over his Everton future amid the speculation surrounding potential interest ahead of the summer.
Having a player of his quality back available will be an instant upgrade for Moyes, with the Senegal international still the club’s top scorer this season.
Tyler Dibling failed to capitalise on Everton opportunity
During Ndiaye’s absence, a huge opportunity opened up for Tyler Dibling in the starting XI following his own summer move.
A lot of Everton fans were left underwhelmed with Dibling, who picked up considerably more minutes over the last month.
What are your thoughts on this statement? 🫣
He's still got a lot to show if he's going to be a success on Merseyside 😫
The youngster simply has not shown enough for Moyes to even consider keeping him in the starting XI when Ndiaye does return.
It undoubtedly marks a massive missed opportunity for the 19-year-old to lay down a marker to his manager.
Dibling is said to be working hard at Finch Farm, but he needs to translate that onto the pitch, and he’s just not been able to do that.
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