Opinion

One Everton star desperately needs the Thierno Barry treatment from David Moyes

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Everton fans have been pleased to see Thierno Barry start to hit his stride in English football.

After a difficult start, the Frenchman is now in the goals, having scored four in his last five games.

Barry has suggested the league’s physicality has seen him struggle, but seemingly the 23-year-old is now becoming more comfortable with the rigours of the English top-flight.

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Everton striker Thierno Barry.

There is still so much for him to work on. But Barry can be pleased with his progression, and haul of goals despite a lack of service at times.

Barry has essentially benefitted from a show of faith from Moyes, who earlier in the season would alternate between him and Beto.

Allowing him a proper chance has led to this run of form – and now, Moyes must do the same with Tyler Dibling.

Tyler Dibling must play ahead of Dwight McNeil

Tyler Dibling on the ball for Everton.
Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images

The Tyler Dibling vs Dwight McNeil battle is somewhat reminiscent of Barry vs Beto.

Neither Barry nor Beto were impressing early in the season, and this was perhaps down to Moyes not sticking with one.

In the end, Barry won the battle and is now the number one striker.

Everton are benefitting from Barry having had the show of faith – and there could be a similar outcome if Moyes backs Dibling.

We obviously don’t see what goes on in training. But McNeil’s continued selection over Dibling has been tricky to pin down.

Against Leeds, McNeil put in a dreadful performance for Everton and was hooked at half-time.

Thierno Barry celebrates scoring for Everton.
Photo by Chris Brunskill/Fantasista/Getty Images

Dibling got around 20 minutes of the second-half. But simply put, he needs more than mere cameos to build momentum.

Moyes persisted with Barry and the signs are now looking promising.

The manager should do the same with Dibling, especially since his rival McNeil is continuing to disappoint, just like Beto was as he was battling with Barry for the shirt.

Dibling position change may help him

There is an argument for changing Dibling’s position at Everton.

Many have noted that Dibling lacks pace and struggles to really beat his man, often cutting back and recycling the ball a bit like Jack Grealish.

There have also been instances of players doubling up on Dibling, which was the case against Leeds.

Tyler Dibling warming up for Everton.
Photo by MB Media/Getty Images

So perhaps a central role might be better for the teenager.

Naturally, playing in the middle gives more freedom, with a player able to spread the play to either side.

With Dibling being technically strong, Moyes might be able to get more out of him in this position.