Michael Ball suggests Everton need a new transfer strategy
Michael Ball has suggested that Everton need to chalk out a new transfer strategy during the January window.
After making an impressive start to the season under Rafael Benitez, they have seen a slump in form with the Toffees losing in three consecutive Premier League games.
They lost against West Ham and Watford at home and suffered a 2-1 defeat against Wolves at Molineux.
Ball has suggested that Marcel Brands needs a fresh transfer strategy in January and the club should bring in “hungry” players who are keen to improve.
The former Toffees star was particularly unimpressed with the performance of Jean-Philippe Gbamin.
The 26-year-old has been really unfortunate with his injuries at the club, but Ball feels he must prove his worth now. He made his first start of the season against Wolves, but could only last for 45 minutes.
“One of the midfield pair was Jean-Philippe Gbamin who has come in for a lot of money and has had a difficult time with injuries to say the least,” wrote Ball for Liverpool Echo.
“I know what that’s like. It’s tough both mentally and physically.
“He looked very slow and off the pace so it was no surprise that he got taken off after 45 minutes.
“If he wants to make a name for himself he’s got to show a lot more.”
Change in approach?
During the summer, Benitez operated on a tight transfer budget. While he is under pressure at the moment, it is important for the club to stick with him, and give him time to turn it around.
The Spaniard should be backed by funds in the market, and allow him to bring players of his choice.
What Ball is trying to point out is that Benitez needs to bring in players like Demarai Gray or Andros Townsend who are trying to prove a point and are hungry to do well.
At the same time, the club must try to sign genuine quality players who would improve the side. Also, it will be interesting to see whether Benitez will try to sign more experienced players or spend money of young talents who are hitherto unknown but can be a long-term asset.
All this boils down to one point – a consistency in approach is needed. A new manager should be given time, like what Liverpool did with Jurgen Klopp. It’s hard to expect results overnight, but after a dismal run of results, it won’t be a big shock if Everton part way with their manager if the result does not improve.
In other Everton news, the Toffees are the joint-favourites to sign a ‘Fantastic’ int’l midfielder with January move on the cards