Joe Hart slams Everton player who ‘didn’t stand a chance’ vs Crystal Palace despite win
Everton’s victory against Crystal Palace on Sunday saw the latest instalment of the debate between Beto and Thierno Barry.
Jack Grealish‘s late goal saw Everton beat Crystal Palace 2-1 at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, after the Toffees had fought back from behind on 5 October.
Barry had started but was substituted at half-time, with David Moyes turning to his other striker in the hopes of turning the tide.
Beto was slammed for his performance against West Ham, with the 27-year-old failing to leave any impression on the contest.
But Beto was exactly what Everton needed against Crystal Palace, and played a direct role in Grealish’s last-gasp winner.
Joe Hart slams Thierno Barry, praises Beto
Everton will have to be patient with Barry, as the striker adapts to the Premier League following his summer move from Villarreal.
Moyes has looked to give the Frenchman a chance, however, and started him against Crystal Palace on Sunday.
But in his 45 minutes on the pitch, Barry struggled to leave any impression on the opposing defenders.
| Thierno Barry | Stats vs Crystal Palace (H) | Beto |
| 45 | Minutes played | 45 |
| 4/8 | Accurate passes | 6/6 |
| 1 | Chances created | 1 |
| 0 | Shots | 2 |
| 0/2 | Successful dribbles | 2/4 |
| 3/10 | Duels won | 4/16 |
The 22-year-old completed just four passes, failed to complete a single dribble, and lost all of his ground duels against the Crystal Palace back three.
So Moyes turned to Beto, and the difference was instantaneous. The striker was far more active, and it was his header that led to the Everton winner.
Speaking on BBC Match of the Day on Sunday, Joe Hart said: “Barry starting up front, just not quite the presence that David Moyes was looking for.
“Crystal Palace were excellent in the first half, excellent, and they got very few chances. Barry trying to link up there, just couldn’t give an option, ended up hiding behind Palace’s back three.”
“Barry didn’t really stand a chance,” the former Manchester City goalkeeper added. “And fair play to David Moyes, he took him out of the team, but he’s realised at half-time, I need Beto in my team.
“I need him pushing, making as many problems as he possibly can.”
Barry’s chance goes begging
Everton’s striking situation is likely one that will rage on throughout the season.
Neither player looks likely to lock down the position, and in the first event, Moyes will surely default to his more experienced option.
Barry, whilst certainly having potential, is young and raw. His time will come, but the Frenchman will not be able to pass up many more chances if he is to establish himself in the Premier League.
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