Rafael Benitez ‘100% convinced’ Everton will do well this season
Everton manager Rafael Benitez has insisted that he maintains belief in his squad’s capabilities, and is convinced that they can do well this campaign.
The Toffees got off to a great start to the season, leading many to believe that they could be in with a shout of European qualification come May. With a spout of injuries, however, has come a decline in form.
Since picking up 13 points in their first six league games, Benitez’s men have drawn once and lost each of their previous three. Now on 14 points after ten Premier League fixtures, the Toffees sit 11th with a worrying sequence of results behind them.
Benitez, however, confirmed to BBC Sport Merseyside that he still has confidence in the club’s journey this season.
“Nobody wants to lose any game, especially three in a row. But I think the fans understand the context,” he said.
“It’s something we need to analyse carefully; the context of where we were and where we are, what happened during the summer, players that (were) injured and then we need to bring them back,” he explained.
“And then when you put everything together you have great performances of the team (like) at the beginning of the season. I remember when everybody was talking about the best football that they’ve seen for a while and, then, now we have this issue with the last three games,” remarked.
Benitez went on to reassure people that he is firmly confident that the Toffees season will get back on track.
“I have the belief, 100%, that (we) will do well during the season. I am 100% convinced, and not because I have to say that in an interview, but because I can see the commitment of the players, I can see (what) we are trying to change little by little, and I’m sure we will do it well,” he concluded.
Much-needed change
Of course, Benitez does have to say that in an interview, although it’s easier to believe that he really does believe it.
Whatever the reality, his efforts need to bear fruit sooner rather than later. After picking one point up from their previous four Premier League fixtures, it’s no overstatement to say that teams will relish taking Everton on.
With Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Abdoulaye Doucoure out of contention, there seem to be real issues at the core of the side – issues that need to be resolved quickly.
There looked to be a slight improvement in the second half of their last outing at Wolves, although not enough to avoid falling to a 2-1 defeat.
The lack of strength in performance and collective discipline in recent weeks has been frightening. And, starting with the visit of Tottenham – who are bound to embark on a resurgence under Antonio Conte – those traits to be eradicated.
Three defeats on the trot is simply not acceptable and, surrounded by the quality there is in England’s top flight, that form can soon drag you into unwanted territory.
Benitez is wholly convinced of his side’s capabilities. Well, the fans will likely rest easier after some winter investment in the squad, but the gaffer’s assurance must be translated into tangible results on the field.
In other Everton news, Stan Collymore has given his prediction for Everton v Tottenham.