Alious
David Moyes could yet spring an unexpected twist as Everton’s bid for European qualification gathers pace, with one previously sidelined player now back in the frame at Goodison Park.
The Toffees took another big step forward on Saturday with a hard-fought 2-1 victory away at Fulham, a result that lifted them up to eighth place in the Premier League table. Everton were forced to respond after Vitalii Mykolenko’s unfortunate own goal handed the hosts an early advantage, but they showed resilience and composure to turn the game around.
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall drew the visitors level, with Mykolenko making amends by providing the assist. Everton then completed the comeback late on when Bernd Leno failed to deal with a Dewsbury-Hall corner, punching the ball into his own net with less than ten minutes remaining.
While attention has been on Everton’s impressive form, Moyes may also be preparing to reshuffle his options behind the scenes. Dwight McNeil, who appeared destined to leave the club during the final hours of the January transfer window, could yet play a role in the run-in.
McNeil was close to sealing a move to Crystal Palace on deadline day, but the deal collapsed at the last moment, forcing the winger to remain on Merseyside. Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future, reports suggest he remains well-liked within the club.
According to *The Athletic*, McNeil is a popular presence at Hill Dickinson Stadium and is expected to be brought back into the fold. Journalist Patrick Boyland has even suggested supporters should “not be surprised” if Moyes leans on the winger more heavily between now and the end of the season.
The 25-year-old has found opportunities hard to come by this campaign, starting just seven league matches so far. Even so, his experience could yet prove valuable as Everton attempt to maintain their push towards the European places. Moyes has often shown a preference for trusted, battle-hardened options, and has at times selected McNeil ahead of younger alternatives such as Tyler Dibling.
There is no denying McNeil has struggled for rhythm and confidence recently, which has limited his impact. For a wide player, those attributes are crucial. However, his track record suggests he can still make a difference when firing on all cylinders.
Since arriving from Burnley in 2022, McNeil has been directly involved in 33 goals for Everton, underlining his potential influence. He missed out on the matchday squad for the win at Craven Cottage, but a return could be on the cards when Bournemouth visit on Tuesday night.
During his first season at the club under Sean Dyche, McNeil produced some of the best football of his career, scoring seven Premier League goals and providing three assists. If Moyes does hand him another chance, the winger will be desperate to rediscover that form and prove he can still be a key contributor in Everton’s European charge.
Alious
