Everton are back in action today as their pre-season schedule begins at Dundee FC, eight weeks after their final-day defeat at Tottenham Hotspur. The Blues will step out in their new white, pin-striped away kit, and the ECHO will be in attendance at Dens Park to see how David Moyes’ side starts shaping up.
What can we expect from this pre-season?
Pre-season is always a tricky read, but there’s a clear difference this summer compared to last. Twelve months ago, Moyes faced August with a threadbare squad and little room for manoeuvre. This year, most of his key names are already in place - Jarrad Branthwaite is training with the first team, while summer signings Hayden Hackney, Tyrique George and Merlin Rohl have settled in. Save for his World Cup stars, Moyes can field close to his strongest XI.
With that depth, the hope is for a tactical identity to emerge over the coming weeks. Last season often felt reactive, with Everton adapting to situations rather than dictating them. This summer, with Finch Farm’s leadership team having had over 10 months to prepare, there’s a chance to see a clear approach take shape.
Why Tyler Dibling’s summer matters
Tyler Dibling’s future at Everton hangs in the balance. With Iliman Ndiaye yet to return and Jack Grealish back at Manchester City, Moyes has a golden chance to give Dibling a proper run. Last season’s struggles weren’t insurmountable - a full pre-season could be the reset he needs.
Moyes has often shoehorned players into unfamiliar roles, with Dwight McNeil even deployed on the right despite his strength on the left. This summer, Dibling and Tyrique George deserve the freedom to express themselves. If they click, Everton’s attack could look far more dangerous.
Braiden Graham’s next step
Braiden Graham is the most likely to leave on loan this summer, but the teenager has impressed at every level since joining from Linfield. At just 15, he made his first-team debut for his boyhood club, and his progress at Everton has continued apace. A senior loan would be the next logical step, and Graham’s development will be one to track closely.
Everton’s pre-season starts today with a trip to Dundee FC, and the early signs are promising. With a clearer tactical plan and key players given time to bed in, Moyes has the pieces to build something competitive before the Premier League curtain-raiser against Crystal Palace.
League standing: 13th in Premier League, 49 pts, 13W-10D-15L from 38 games, recent form LLDDL.
