Everton struggles: seven right-backs and no points this season

Everton's current season has been marked by a series of disappointing performances, leading to a potential record low start. The team has struggled to maintain leads, with manager Sean Dyche's reputation for defensive solidity being called into question. The club's early exit from the Carabao Cup against Southampton highlighted their inability to capitalize on advantageous positions, as they conceded goals from set pieces. The right-back position has been particularly problematic, with seven players filling the role due to injuries and poor performances, starting with Young's red card on the opening day against Brighton. The team's lack of possession and poor passing accuracy have contributed to their struggles, with Dyche's squad averaging the lowest possession and pass completion rates in the league. This has made it difficult for them to control matches and create scoring opportunities. Additionally, Dyche's reluctance to utilize substitutes effectively has further hampered their attacking potential, as evidenced by the fact that substitutes have scored three goals against them this season without contributing any for Everton. As they prepare for a crucial match against Leicester, the stakes are high, with the potential for relegation looming. The previous encounter with Leicester in May 2023 serves as a reminder of their precarious position, where a penalty save by Pickford prevented a loss. The upcoming match is seen as a critical moment in their fight to avoid relegation, with the need for at least one point becoming increasingly urgent. In summary, Everton's season has been characterized by defensive failures, ineffective substitutions, and a lack of attacking threat, all of which have left them without points and in a precarious position as they face a pivotal match against Leicester.