It’s time for Everton’s season to really kick into life

There was real optimism around Everton this summer. The club spent over £130m in a bid to push for a top-four place.

Things haven’t quite gone to plan for Ronald Koeman’s team so far though. Sunday’s 4-0 defeat to Manchester United means they’re in 18^th place with just four points from five league games.

The Toffees were dismal in their first Europa League group game too. They lost 3-0 against Atalanta.

It’s true that Everton didn’t bring in a proven striker to replace Romelu Lukaku. There’s also a lack of pace in the team.

However, there are reasons for the Goodison Park faithful to be feeling optimistic…

Tough Games

Everton’s biggest problem may have been the fixture list.

As well as United, they’ve faced Manchester City away, Chelsea away and Tottenham Hotspur at home in the league so far.

One point, 10 goals conceded and just one goal from those games is still a poor showing. Although in fairness, most teams would struggle with that schedule.

It’s even harder for a team that’s trying to integrate nine new players.

Koeman is now favourite to be the next Premier League manager to leave at 15/8. But his side can get back on track now they have a more favourable run of games coming up.

Imminent Improvement?

Everton are at home to Sunderland in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday. Then their next three league games are against Bournemouth, Burnley and Brighton & Hove Albion.

They could rack up four wins on the bounce before facing Arsenal on 22^nd October.

Yannick Bolasie and Seamus Coleman will add much-needed speed in wide areas when they return from injury.

Everton fans are understandably disappointed with how the season has begun. This is where they should start to see an improvement.

All Odds and Markets correct as of date of publication