Real Football Man All of the Football, All of the time
It’s the first game in the post Roberto Martinez Everton era after his sacking on Thursday and Caretaker Manager David Unsworth is going to have to pick his side up after what has been a run of miserable performances as of late. Although one positive he may have is at least there won’t be the wave of fan protests at where witnessed at Goodison Park after their victory over Bournemouth a fortnight ago.
Even in victory Everton fans weren’t happy with the perception that Roberto Martinez was taking the club backwards, once you’ve lost the fans more often than not it means the exit door is just around the corner. That certainly wouldn’t have helped Martinez but the manner in which they lost to Liverpool, Leicester and Sunderland would have been the death knell for the ex Wigan and now ex Everton boss.
Another positive is that they play host to a Norwich side who have already been relegated so with their opposition having nothing to play for it could be the ideal opportunity for a bit of confidence to be restored at Goodison in what has proved to be a difficult place for Everton to perform this season.
Their opponents Norwich had their feat sealed thanks in some part to Everton’s defeat on Wednesday. Even though Alex Neil’s side beat Watford 4-2 at Carrow Road it wasn’t enough as they needed Sunderland not to win at The Stadium of Light. So for all their efforts on Wednesday it was all in vein. A case of too little too late for the East Anglia club.
They only have pride to play for Today as their spell in the Premier League comes to an end. This campaign has been a season of under performing in every area by a small percentage but when you total it up then it makes a massive difference come the end. Defensive lapses have certainly been their downfall with defeat to Manchester United last weekend being proof positive of that.
As for Everton is this the last time they will see Romelu Lukaku, John Stones and Ross Barkley in an Everton shirt. I can see one of them leaving this Summer for sure but don’t be too surprised if all three were to depart after the European Championships this Summer. For that reason they are obviously going to want to win what could be their last games in front of the Everton fans.
Not just for that reason but I think Everton should have enough to beat Norwich. A new manager bounce even for just one game will give The Toffees a spring in their step and it should be a nicer atmosphere for the home side to perform in Today. Norwich won’t bow out on a high. I’ll go for a home win.
Papa Johns – If your team scores twice then it’s half price
