Everton outcast Neal Maupay may be favourite to start Premier League clash v Fulham
Everton outcast Neal Maupay may now be the favourite to start up front for the opening day fixture against Fulham on 12 August, according to the Liverpool Echo.
The news outlet shared that, due to Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s injury issues as he continues to recover, and Demarai Gray’s imminent move away from the club, Maupay could find himself starting upfront despite transfer interest from elsewhere.
There is also the suggestion that should he arrive at the club in the coming days, Sean Dyche could start Youssef Chermiti for his Toffees debut if he would be comfortable handing him an immediate start.
Not an ideal situation
Should Maupay be needed as the main forward for Dyche’s side on Saturday 12 August despite rumours linking him to a move away from Goodison Park, it exposes a flaw in Everton’s summer transfer business.
The club were aware they needed to bring at least one striker to the club, yet the man they have touted for an exit [Football Insider, 23 March] could be set to begin the Premier League season as the main man.
Albeit that Calvert-Lewin and Chermiti should both be able to step up as soon as they are ready, it points to a lack of preparation from the transfer committee at Everton, and the team could suffer as a result.
For Maupay to be the starting striker in a Premier League side, should point to issues in that side. His pitiful tally of one goal from 27 appearances last season should tell you everything you need to know about the profligate striker.
Everton are reportedly pursuing deals for more strikers following the addition of Chermiti to their squad, and the board may need to act sooner rather than later to push a possible deal over the line.
In other Everton news, Sean Dyche has given an injury update following the friendly game.