Tim Howard criticises Everton striker Beto

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Former Everton goalkeeper Tim Howard wants to see more from Beto.

Everton signed striker Beto from Udinese in the recent summer transfer window in a deal worth £25 million. 

Beto scored his first goal for the Toffees in an EFL Cup clash with Doncaster Rovers. However, he is yet to get off the mark in the Premier League. Despite this, the 6’4” forward has impressed with his physicality, work rate, and hold up play.

He played a key role for Sean Dyche’s side as they recored their first Premier League win of the season so far with a 3-1 victory against Brentford last time out. The 25-year-old had chances of his own to score against the Bees, though, but wasn’t able to capitalise. 

Tim Howard wants to see Beto become more reliable in front of goal. Speaking on NBC Sports (23/09/2023, 18:26), the ex-Everton shot-stopper highlighted the aspects of Beto’s game that he feels are lacking, saying, “it’s the clinical nature or lack of awareness in front of goal. He gets himself in good positions. He’s good in the air in terms of clicking it on. Calvert-Lewin is a good runner, he is more clinical. Can they play together? We’ll see.”

Beto can shine for Everton given time

Dyche has previously raised the notion of playing Beto and Dominic Calvert-Lewin alongside one another up front. He has a preference for playing two strikers. 

As things stand, though, the manager is sticking with a system that calls for a lone striker. Beto seems to have the attributes required to excel in the role. He is an effective target man who can bully opposition defenders and drag his side up the pitch.

However, there will be pressure on him to score regularly in this position. In his time at Udinese he never scored more than eleven goals in a single season. The Toffees may need more than that from Beto if they’re to retain their top flight status this season. 

However, it is still very early to judge Beto. Given time to adjust to life at the Merseyside club and the demands of the Premier League he may well find his goalscoring touch.