David Moyes' return to Everton, 11 years after his initial departure, was met with skepticism. At the time, the club was struggling financially and barely avoiding relegation. However, under Moyes' guidance, the team has undergone a remarkable transformation, now finding themselves in contention for a European spot. The upcoming Hill Dickinson Merseyside derby against Liverpool could be a pivotal moment in their campaign.
A win would leave Everton just two points shy of the fifth-placed spot, which guarantees a Champions League berth. Since Moyes' return, the team has performed impressively away from home, with only Arsenal and Manchester City accumulating more points on the road. This turnaround is even more notable considering Everton's limited expenditure compared to other top-tier clubs.
Moyes has successfully addressed a long-standing weakness in his managerial approach - away form - and has made his team difficult to break down, earning points from tough away fixtures. Nevertheless, their home form remains a concern, with the team managing only six Premier League wins at their new stadium.
To sustain their European push, Everton must improve their home performances, starting with the derby against Liverpool. By adopting a more direct approach, similar to their away games, they may be able to capitalize on their chances and bring European football back to Merseyside.