TalkSport pundit and former footballer Tony Cascarino believes Everton are ‘screaming out for a centre-forward’ following the Toffees’ narrow 1-0 loss at the weekend.
Frank Lampard’s side were left frustrated after conceding a decisive penalty just before half-time. Up until what eventually proved to be the winning goal, Everton were in with every chance of claiming some points, however, making the spot-kick all the more regretful.
Cascarino delivered an honest assessment on the Everton squad following the game, saying on TalkSport: “I mean, Everton, if ever a team were screaming out for a centre-forward, it was Everton.
“Obviously, Calvert-Lewin being injured is a massive issue for them. Even with that, selling Richarlison and not having a replacement to come in – even if Calvert-Lewin was fit – you could see that Everton are so short up front in that position – which they paid a price for yesterday.”
The Toffees were once again without Dominic Calvert-Lewin at Goodison Park and it showed, as they failed to convert any of their eight shots, four of which were on target. Given the fact that the striker is reportedly set to miss six weeks, Everton will be left without their main talisman for the opening stages of the season and without a proven alternative at present.
TIF Thoughts on Everton…
Having sold Richarlison to Tottenham Hotspur this summer, the last thing Everton needed was an injury to Calvert-Lewin. Lo and behold, however, that is exactly what has happened. And now, as highlighted for all to see against Chelsea, they lack that crucial finisher leading the line.
We’ve still got a few weeks left until the summer transfer window slams shut, which could see the Merseyside club make a move for a forward. But, for now, Lampard’s attacking options remain limited when it comes to those capable of spearheading the Toffees attack.
Up next for Everton is a trip to Aston Villa, where Lampard will hope to see at least one of his players find their goalscoring touch.