David Moyes' return to Everton over 11 years after his initial departure was met with skepticism. At the time, the move seemed like a desperate attempt to generate short-term positivity and stave off relegation.
However, Moyes has defied expectations, transforming the team into a force to be reckoned with in the Premier League. As Everton prepares to face Liverpool in the first Hill Dickinson Merseyside derby, they find themselves in contention for a Champions League spot, a prospect that would have been laughed at when Moyes first returned to the club. A win over their arch-rivals on Sunday would leave them just two points shy of fifth place, a position that guarantees a Champions League return.
Since Moyes' return, Everton has been impressive, sitting seventh in the Premier League table and above Manchester United, Newcastle, and Tottenham, all of whom have played in the Champions League or currently occupy a Champions League spot. Notably, these teams have outspent Everton in the last two transfer windows, yet Moyes has made the most of his resources, turning the team from relegation candidates to European hopefuls. The key to this transformation has been Everton's away form, which has long been a weakness for Moyes. However, since his return to Everton, the team has become one of the best performing teams on the road, with only Arsenal and Manchester City picking up more points away from home.
Moyes has made his side tough to break down, and they have taken points from big stadiums like Old Trafford, St James' Park, and Villa Park. Despite their impressive away form, Everton's home form has been a concern, with only six Premier League wins in front of their supporters.
This leaves them 14th in the home standings. The team's new home base, Hill Dickinson Stadium, may have contributed to their struggles, as the atmosphere and pitch may feel less intimidating for opposition players.
The stats suggest that Everton plays differently in front of their own supporters, adopting a more direct approach away from home and attempting more long passes. However, when they play with more possession at home, they leave themselves more susceptible defensively. To achieve their European ambitions, Moyes and Everton must address their home form, starting with the derby against Liverpool on Sunday. By treating every game like an away match, they may be able to bring European football back to the blue half of Merseyside.