Opinion: Everton star can break the pattern against Man Utd as key weakness is highlighted
Beto poised to make a key impact for Everton in Sunday’s showdown with Manchester United despite limited opportunities at Goodison Park.
The 26-year-old faces an uncertain future at Merseyside, with Juventus reportedly considering a January transfer move, according to Corriere dello Sport.
In the meantime, Beto still has a chance to play a key role for Everton.
The upcoming match at Goodison Park on Sunday could influence his trajectory and help him challenge a troubling Everton statistic highlighted by Tony Cascarino on talkSPORT (1 December, 08:29am).
Cascarino remarked: “The fact is that you can say Everton are the lowest scorers in the Premier League, they’re not a team that takes it to you.”
Beto deserves a starting spot over Dominic Calvert-Lewin for Everton’s clash against Manchester United.
Although currently second choice behind Calvert-Lewin, Beto has arguably been more influential for Everton this season.
The Guinea international made a significant impact as a substitute against Fulham, scoring a crucial injury-time equalizer in their 1-1 draw.
Beto also came close to scoring in the narrow 1-0 loss to Southampton, though his late goal was disallowed for offside after a VAR review.
Despite these contributions, he has grown frustrated with limited opportunities, especially given Calvert-Lewin’s underwhelming performances.
Calvert-Lewin has managed just two goals in 12 Premier League appearances this season and has failed to justify his continued inclusion in the starting lineup.
Everton’s attacking struggles are glaring. The team has scored only once in their last four league games and failed to find the net in the last three matches against lower-tier opposition.
With this lack of firepower, they are likely to struggle against Manchester United unless manager Sean Dyche takes action.
The team urgently needs a reliable focal point in attack. While Armando Broja may provide a long-term solution once he returns from injury, Dyche must address the issue immediately as Everton faces a challenging run of fixtures leading into the New Year.
Calvert-Lewin, whose contract is nearing its end without any signs of renewal, seems to be on his way out of Goodison Park. Given his poor form and uncertain future, continuing to start him makes little sense.
Beto’s physical presence and determination could trouble Manchester United’s defense, even if he does not score.
Starting him in such a crucial game is a calculated risk that Everton should take, as it offers a chance to reshape their faltering attack and boost their chances.
