Beto became the hero for Everton on Saturday, grabbing a late goal to earn his team a dramatic point. Everton did not look sharp at all during their trip to Brighton on the south coast.
Beto became the hero for Everton on Saturday, grabbing a late goal to earn his team a dramatic point.
Everton did not look sharp at all during their trip to Brighton on the south coast.
David Moyes’ team did improve after the break, though that was not saying much considering how poor they were in the first half.
The Everton XI had some changes too. Vitaliy Mykolenko was out of action due to an injury picked up in training.
Up top, Thierno Barry started the match but was later replaced by Beto, who would go on to make the difference.
Beto’s post-match celebration sends a clear message
Clubs around Europe are reportedly keeping an eye on Beto as the transfer deadline approaches on Monday night.
But unless they have a suitable replacement lined up, it is hard to see Everton considering any offers for the 28-year-old before the window closes.
After the final whistle, Beto took a moment to soak in the atmosphere, with Everton supporters singing his name.
The club even shared a clip of his celebrations on social media, showing him acknowledging the fans and tapping his shirt badge.
In football, things can change quickly, but that did not look like a player preparing to leave any time soon.
Moyes did hint that there could still be some movement out of Everton before the window shuts, especially with Adam Aznou being left out of Saturday’s squad.
But with just two strikers in the squad right now and Beto coming off such an impactful performance from the bench at Brighton, Everton would be taking a huge risk letting him go without proper cover in place.
Beto still has an important role to play at Everton
Beto can still play an important part in what remains of Everton’s season, even if it means coming off the bench more often than not.
He has not managed to move ahead of Barry in the pecking order yet, but Saturday’s goal could end up being crucial for how things shape up later on.
With time running out for additions, there is a sense of urgency within the recruitment staff at Finch Farm to sign another striker.
Beto arguably should have been introduced sooner, given that Barry’s performance against Brighton was below par.
The presence of a competitor to challenge Barry could be a major benefit for Moyes as the season progresses.
Category: General Sports
