David Moyes faces Tim Iroegbunam dilemma at Everton, the numbers show why
David Moyes has rarely utilised Tim Iroegbunam at Everton.
Everton are having a solid yet unspectacular season so far, with 11 points picked up from their first nine games of the campaign.
The lies of Jack Grealish and Iliman Ndiaye have earned plaudits for their performances, while several others have not had as much attention as they have perhaps deserved.
Iroegbunam is one of them, and one stat in particular showcases why Moyes will have a selection headache to contend with.
Tim Iroegbunam should be starting for Everton
Iroegbunam isn’t the flashiest of players, and on paper, he certainly isn’t the best midfielder that Moyes has at his disposal at Everton.
However, he is an effective one, especially defensively.
No Everton player averages more interceptions per 90 than the 22-year-old, who records an impressive two per game, which is only 0.4 less than Moises Caicedo, who tops the Premier League for that statistic.
Added to that, the Englishman statistically outperforms Idrissa Gana Gueye in every defensive statistic, though it is the latter who gets the nod more often than not.
Out of the midfield options at Everton, Iroegbunam is by far the weakest when it comes to pass completion, but he excels in every other area.
His defensive output is superb, and it is something that Moyes needs to find a way to integrate into his starting 11 more often.
At the time of writing, the 23-year-old has started just three Premier League games so far this season, and that is something that needs to change.
- Read more: Everton learn Boxing Day fixture fate vs Burnley as Premier League make controversial move
Tim Iroegbunam could leave Everton on loan if playing time doesn’t increase
Iroegbunam was linked with a move to Sheffield United in January, though a deal failed to materialise and he remained on Merseyside.
Ultimately, he wanted to fight for his place with the Toffees, and it will no doubt still be the same.
- Iroegbunam joined from Aston Villa in 2024
- Made 21 appearances in all competitions last season
- Has managed just eight appearances so far this season, with three Premier League starts
However, at 23 years old, he needs to be playing regular football, and if Moyes isn’t going to give it to him now, it begs the question as to when he will.
These next few months are likely to be crucial in regard to his future at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, with sides around Europe already planning for the January transfer window.
Enjoyed this article? Stay connected with all the latest news, updates, and behind-the-scenes content by following us on our new Instagram account – @goodisonnews