Thierno Barry
Everton is at a crossroads regarding their striker options, following a season where Beto and Thierno Barry shared the responsibility of leading the attack. Despite both players contributing to the team’s efforts, questions remain about whether the club should seek an upgrade to bolster their offensive capabilities.
Alan Smith said: “They came in with a few goals towards the end. With Beto, I think he’s knocked off a few rough edges. But yeah, he’s still a little bit raw. It all depends on whether the manager feels he can develop the likes of Thierno Barry or whether he feels he should go in the market. But I think Everton are in the market for players like Barry, of some potential that you can bring in, rather than ready-made, because that is a lot of money.”
Alan Smith said: “Of course, David Moyes be disappointed with that finish. But the fact that they were pushing for European places is such an amazing achievement, given how they’ve been struggling at the bottom for several years.”
Beto, who was signed from Udinese for approximately £27 million, played 40 out of Everton’s 41 games this season, scoring 10 goals in 1759 minutes. Meanwhile, Barry, who also cost around £27 million, was one of the only players, alongside James Garner, to feature in all 41 matches, netting eight goals in 2066 minutes. The combined total of 18 goals from the duo is a respectable return, yet Smith suggests that Everton might need to consider enhancing their attacking options.
The club’s move to the new Hill Dickinson Stadium, with a capacity of 52,769, has been seen as a positive step forward. Smith emphasized the importance of this transition, noting the potential for Everton to build on their recent push for European qualification. Under the guidance of manager David Moyes, the team has shown significant improvement, moving away from previous struggles at the lower end of the table.
As Everton looks to the future, the decision on whether to develop their current strikers or invest in new talent will be crucial. The club’s strategy in the transfer market will likely focus on acquiring players with potential, as opposed to ready-made stars, due to financial considerations. This approach aligns with Moyes’ vision of continuing the club’s upward trajectory and competing at higher levels.
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