David Moyes will have to go out and sign “major players” at Everton during the transfer window to avoid another relegation battle, warns Michael Dawson.
The Toffees welcomed back the former manager, replacing Sean Dyche with the Scot on 11 January.
However, Moyes faces a challenging task ahead, as the club sit 16th in the Premier League, just one point above the relegation zone.
Former Premier League defender Dawson shared his concerns about Everton’s future during Sky Sports Soccer Saturday.
He said (12:19pm): “I’ve never really feared for Everton getting relegated because I’ve always felt they can win a game, but I’m starting to get concerned now.
“I think the owners have done that. The new ownership have come in and thought ‘we need to make a change’.
MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES
“[But] I don’t see them playing in a different way or getting any major results changing, unless they go out into this transfer market and sign some major players.
“They’ve scored 15 Premier League goals, there’s only Southampton who have done worse. But you’ve got to remember last year they stayed up and there was only Sheffield United who’d scored less goals than them.”
Everton need a resurgence with David Moyes at the helm
Football Insider opinion
Moyes’ return to Everton offers a glimmer of hope for fans during what has been a dismal season. He has been out of work since leaving West Ham at the end of last season but takes charge at a critical time.
Fans had initially speculated that new owners, The Friedkin Group (TFG), were preparing to appoint Jose Mourinho after betting odds on his arrival were dramatically slashed. However, the club ultimately chose Moyes, a familiar figure fondly remembered by many supporters.
Dawson has pointed out the significant challenges ahead for Moyes, particularly highlighting the team’s poor attacking output. The team has failed to score in seven of their last ten matches, emphasising the urgent need for reinforcements.
However, his side face restrictions in strengthening their squad. Having already reached their domestic loan limit for the season, their options in the current transfer window are limited.
Additionally, several players are out of contract this summer, setting the stage for a major rebuild during the summer. For now, though, immediate problems remain.
After their FA Cup win over Peterborough, Everton will turn their attention back to the league as they face Aston Villa on 15 January, marking Moyes’ return to Goodison Park.
