Credit: Breaking Media/Manh Tung

Scott Mason

Fri 17 April 2026 17:10, UK

Everton’s midfield has been sensational this season, and it might be the defining factor behind their push for Europe.

David Moyes has often turned to a trio of James Garner, Idrissa Gueye and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall.

It is not the most glamourous of names, but they certainly get the job done. Any Everton fan will point to those three and state how influential they have been in midfield this season.

However, their true role in Everton’s rise this campaign might have finally emerged.

As Everton gear up for the Merseyside derby, they may be entering the match with one of the best midfields in England.

How Everton’s midfield has been key to European push

According to The Athletic, only Leeds (14) have generated fewer shots from sequences beginning in the defensive third and lasting five or fewer passes than Everton’s 17.

It shows that the Toffees, when on the ball in their own half, are not quick to try to get the ball up the pitch. Instead, they look to recycle the ball and build up to create their chances.

It allows the Blues to remain much more rigid at the back, as seen by their excellent defensive record this season as well.

In the Premier League, only Sunderland, Arsenal and Manchester City have fewer goals conceded per game.

The influence of Garner, Gueye and Dewsbury-Hall is clear. While these players no doubt have the ability to start quick counters on the transition, it is evident through the stat mentioned before that the midfield is intentionally being patient and composed.

Overall, it might have gone under the radar, but Moyes may have one of the most effective midfields in the Premier League.

And Dewsbury-Hall could be in line to further show his strength against Liverpool.

Everton may have to go against the grain vs Liverpool

While composure and patience have been key for Everton this season, against Liverpool they might need to change their tactics.

In this campaign, the Reds have often maintained plenty of possession, and the goals they concede frequently come from transitions.

If Moyes wants to hurt Liverpool, turning his side into a counter-attacking outfit for this one game may be the key.

With European football on the line, the Everton manager must attack any obvious weakness he can find in the opposition.

Everton could set a 62-year record if they show bravery at Hill Dickinson.

Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the heart of Goodison Park.