Credit: Imago

Josh Edwards

Fri 15 May 2026 11:10, UK

David Moyes has a big decision to make in regard to Merlin Rohl ahead of Everton‘s clash with Sunderland.

The Toffees head into Sunday’s game winless in their last five, showcasing just how far their form has dropped off in recent weeks.

But despite that, Everton are still in with a chance of qualifying for Europe, with just two points separating them from eighth.

However, if that is to happen this season, the Toffees have no margin for error ahead of the final two games of the season.

And with a home clash with Sunderland on the horizon, Moyes can boost their chances of victory before a ball is even kicked.

Merlin Rohl experiment must be ended

Rohl’s debut season with Everton has certainly not gone to plan, though the German has been handed several opportunities recently.

But the issue comes with where those opportunities have emerged, with Moyes opting to utilise him on the wing.

Given the fact that the German is a defensive midfielder by trade, it would come as no surprise to see that he has failed to have any real impact there.

Everton are certainly lacking the desired quality in that area of the pitch, but if the Toffees are to take their European ambitions to the last game of the season, Moyes simply has to drop Rohl from the starting 11.

Who could replace Rohl for Everton?

Everton have lacked the attacking quality needed recently, and while Tyler Dibling has failed to offer it as of yet, he may deserve the chance to change that this weekend.

The former Saints star certainly has a point to prove, and the last home game of the season would be the perfect chance for him to do so.

Dwight McNeil is another option for Moyes to look at this weekend, and while neither have had the impact when utilised, they are both far more suited to the role on the right flank.

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