“Paul Merson reveals who Everton should have appointed for long-term success instead of David Moyes.”

The England Under-21s coach, Lee Carsley, was among the names linked with a move to Goodison Park as pressure mounted on Sean Dyche.

Reports suggested Carsley was interested in holding talks with The Friedkin Group (TEAMtalk).

However, TFG opted for a more experienced candidate, appointing former West Ham boss David Moyes, who returns to Everton after an 11-year absence.

Speaking on Sky Sports News (11 January, 12:08 pm), Paul Merson said, “If he [Carsley] wanted it…

I’m looking at the all-round future, not just the next three or four months. I would have explored the possibility of Lee Carsley taking over at Everton.”

Would Carsley have been a better choice?

Moyes’ return has received a mixed response, leaving some to wonder how fans would have reacted if Carsley had been appointed instead.

The 50-year-old briefly managed the England senior team before happily resuming his role with the Under-21s.

Carsley has a passion for nurturing young talent, focusing on creating pathways for players to transition to the senior squad—something that might not have been as feasible if he had moved to the Premier League.

Currently, Everton sits just one point above the Premier League relegation zone, struggling for wins and goals under Dyche.

This precarious position makes it an unideal time to experiment with youth.

While Everton boasts a wealth of young talent, entrusting the team to a coach who relies heavily on youth would be a significant gamble.

Moyes’ immediate objective is clear: steer the Toffees away from relegation.

Given injuries to key players like Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Abdoulaye Doucouré, the energy and fearlessness of younger players could still provide a spark.

However, Moyes’ experience and focus on survival make him the safer choice for Everton at this critical juncture.