David Moyes' return to Everton 11 years after his initial departure was met with skepticism. On the surface, it seemed like a desperate attempt to revive the team's fortunes by leveraging nostalgia.
However, the reality is that Moyes has successfully transformed the team, which was on the brink of relegation, into a legitimate contender for European football. Everton's new home and renewed ambitions are a testament to Moyes' managerial prowess.
A win against Liverpool on Sunday would bring them within two points of a Champions League spot. Since Moyes' return, Everton has been one of the top-performing teams away from home, with only Arsenal and Manchester City accumulating more points on the road. Moyes has addressed his historical weakness in away form, and his team has become tough to break down, taking points from prominent stadiums like Old Trafford and Villa Park.
Nevertheless, their home form is a concern, with only six Premier League wins in front of their supporters, leaving them 14th in the home standings. The team's playing style differs significantly between home and away games, with a more direct approach on the road and a possession-based game at home. This discrepancy has left them more vulnerable defensively at home, despite similar goal-scoring records. To achieve their European ambitions, Everton must adopt a more consistent approach, treating every game like an away match, starting with the upcoming derby against Liverpool.