Everton have managed to turn their fortunes around in the last two games as they’ve picked up back-to-back wins.
Everton beat Manchester United 1-0 on Monday night, and they defeated Fulham at the Hill Dickinson Stadium just before the international break.
David Moyes’ side are now looking up towards the European spots, as they reside just three points adrift from fourth-placed Aston Villa.
Moyes has made a change in the last few games that’s actually gone completely under the radar, as Thierno Barry has seemingly become the first-choice number nine.
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Barry has now started three games in a row, and the feat he achieved against Man United has given Moyes no choice but to start him against Newcastle United this weekend.
Thierno Barry has cemented himself as Everton’s first choice striker
Once Everton went down to 10 men at Old Trafford, it became clear Barry would be reduced to very little in the way of chances.
He was going to be judged for his hold-up play, and he certainly impressed in that regard, as he set a new 2025/26 Premier League record.
Barry won 14 aerial duels against Ruben Amorim’s side, which is two more than any other player has managed in a single game this season.
Thierno Barry set a new Premier League record with 14 aerial duels in one match, the tide is turning…
That makes Moyes’ decision to start him against Newcastle very easy, with Beto the clear second choice striker now.
Barry posted on his Instagram after the game stating that a goal is coming soon.
“Great performance from the team today, we keep working, we’re on the right track, really looking forward to scoring that first goal, it’s coming soon, I promise,” the Frenchman said.
Beto is actually a much better option from the bench
Beto has now be reduced to the role of an impact substitute, but that actually suits his game a lot better than starting.
Beto is a powerful runner and can use his speed against tiring defences to cause serious problems in transitions.
It has been reported that Everton could sell Beto in January, with Leeds United a potential option given their fierce interest in the summer.
That sale would then allow Moyes to reinvest that money into Troy Parrott, who can’t stop scoring for AZ Alkmaar and the Republic of Ireland.
Everton scouts watched Parrott during the international break earlier this month.
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