Paul Merson tears Everton defence to shreds for ’embarrassing’ moment in 4-1 loss v Newcastle
Paul Merson has torn the Everton defence to shreds for their “embarrassing’ efforts to deny Alekander Isak from setting up Newcastle’s fourth goal in the defeat at Goodison Park.
Sean Dyche’s side capitulated to a 4-1 defeat on Thursday night (27 April), but the defending for the final goal of the night has raised eyebrows.
Newcastle striker Isak was allowed to dance through numerous Everton defenders with alarming ease before passing the ball across the goal for an unmarked Jacob Murphy to tap home.
Speaking live on Sky Sports Soccer Saturday (29 April), and as shared by Football Daily, Merson slammed the Toffees’ defence for their lacklustre efforts.
“It’s embarrassing,” he said.
“It’s a great run from Isak, and you know what I like more than anything, at the end he picks out a player, I love that. He’s done all that and he gets his head up.
“That defending sums Everton up, that goal sums them up to a T.”
Terrible defending
Everton were dealt an absolute drubbing by the Magpies on Thursday, and this piece of calamitous defending was enough for portions of the Goodison Park faithful to walk out of the ground.
Ben Godfrey, who was fielded at right-back following the injury to Seamus Coleman and suspension of Mason Holgate, was passed with ease before three more defenders were jinxed past by the lightning feet of Isak.
The Newcastle forward does deserve great credit for his piece of individual brilliance, but it was far too easy from an Everton perspective.
What is possibly more worrying is that this lack of defensive organisation has come under a coach in Sean Dyche, who is renowned for always forming a team who are solid at the back.
The seven goals conceded in their last two home games is an extremely worrying statistic as the relegation battle reaches its crucial juncture.
Moments such as this can’t continue, otherwise, there is no doubt Everton will be playing Championship football next season.