talkSPORT pundit claims players ‘not good enough’ in Everton and Dyche debate

Former England defender Danny Mills discussed Everton’s style of play with a caller on talkSPORT [8 October, 21:05].

The caller mentioned Sean Dyche’s more direct and traditional playing approach, to which Mills responded by emphasizing its effectiveness and practicality.

“You can play good football in the opposition’s half, de-risk it,” Mills stated.

“If your players aren’t skilled enough to play out from the back, play good football away from your goal. Don’t take unnecessary risks – that’s just sensible.”

Mills highlighted that Everton should resist any pressure to adopt the “play out from the back” approach, a style credited to European coaches and often praised for improving the Premier League.

However, this strategy doesn’t always guarantee success.

While it works for Manchester City, who can rely on their world-class squad, other teams have struggled.

Burnley, for instance, stuck to a modern style but were relegated, and Southampton faces a similar fate this season.

In the lower leagues, this tactic is frequently seen, with players often giving the ball away in their defensive third, leading to costly goals.

Coaches are sometimes applauded for trying this method, while those employing a more traditional, result-driven approach are criticized.

Dyche deserves respect for not yielding to external pressures and sticking to a method that suits his team.

Everton’s poor start to the season was due to other factors, not their refusal to pass out from the back.

Dyche identified a pragmatic approach that worked well for Everton at the end of last season and should aim to rediscover it.

Any tactical adjustments should play to the squad’s strengths rather than compromise them.

Burnley’s missteps in this regard offer a clear warning, and Southampton may be headed down the same path.

Everton, however, cannot afford to fall into that trap if they wish to avoid relegation.