Tarkowski returns, youngster shines – Three positives in Everton loss v West Ham
Everton’s concerning pre-season continued on Wednesday as the Toffees suffered yet another defeat.
West Ham beat Everton 2-1 as David Moyes’ concerns this summer grew.
The Toffees are yet to win a match this pre-season, which has put pressure on the Merseyside club to get more signings over the line.
As it stands, Everton look extremely weak heading into the new Premier League season, and fears of relegation have once again risen.
However, there were positives to take from the game, with Goodison News highlighting three.
James Tarkowski returns in Everton v West Ham
James Tarkowski missed the end of the 2024/25 campaign through injury.
This was a massive blow for Moyes and exposed the Toffees’ lack of depth at the back.
Jarrad Branthwaite’s knock this summer was heightened this concern, with Michael Keane and Jake O’Brien once again forced to start against the Hammers.
However, Tarkowski made his return against West Ham, coming on as a second-half substitute.
While he is unlikely to be full match fit for the opening day, his availably is a big boost for Moyes amid growing concerns at the back.
Harrison Armstrong impresses once again for Everton
Another growing positive of pre-season has been Harrison Armstrong.
Despite the poor performances of many of the squad, the 18-year-old has impressed.
The centre-midfielder started once again on Wednesday night and played a crucial part in the Toffees’ goal.
Armstrong made an excellent interception charging up the pitch before laying the ball off to Idrissa Gueye for the goal.
With Everton yet to replace Abdoulaye Doucoure, the youngster is certainly proving that he could be the answer to Moyes’ problems.
Idrissa Gueye proves he still a Premier League player
On top of Armstrong, another player who impressed was Gueye.
The midfielder got the only goal of the match for Everton, with a cool finish into the bottom corner.
- Gueye signed a new contract this summer after being linked away
- The midfielder is entering into his seventh season at Everton
- Gueye was the captain of Everton v West Ham
While many senior players underperformed, the 35-year-old led by example as captain and put in a solid display.
Despite his age, Gueye once again proved he is still a Premier League player, and Moyes will be pleased with his midfielder’s performance.
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