Everton fans need to be patient: success will come

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Just when Everton fans started to dream a little, recent performances have brought everyone back to reality.

Everyone last weekend would have expected Everton to triumph against Burnley, but despite dominating possession the Blues conceded a last-minute goal which resulted in a 2-1 defeat.

A sense of frustration again mounts upon a group of players who should be playing better. Everton heavily under-performed during the last two seasons. When Ronald Koeman took charge in the summer, it looked as if that was about to change.

The start of the season had people talking about the possibility of Everton being title contenders, although Koeman was quick to respond by labelling it “crazy” to consider the Blues as potential champions after a few games.

The Dutchman was right. A defeat to Norwich in the EFL Cup followed and the Blues have failed to win a game since – Everton are currently without a win in five games in all competitions.

The Burnley game was an eye-opener that some players are just not consistent enough. Phil Jagielka has had a bad few weeks and showing signs that he should not be playing every week, while Bryan Oviedo is simply not good enough.

Another problem lies in the attacking players who are supposed to be supporting Romelu Lukaku. Kevin Mirallas, Gerard Deulofeu and Ross Barkley have brought nothing to the team. In fact, you would not have noticed that the trio have been on the pitch this season.

However, similar to Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool, Koeman needs time to work on his team. The Blues should target a realistic top-half finish this season.

Koeman has made small changes that are paying off already, such as the new and improved defence. Fans should not expect big things this season as it will take time.

The future is bright at Everton, but a full summer of changes needs to happen. The Dutchman will have the opportunity to build a squad of his choice whist saying goodbye to those who are simply not performing.

Everton will host West Ham on Sunday, in a vital game for the Toffees who must get back to winning ways.

On paper the Blues have a team who should be qualifying for Europe. However, the recent defeat to Burnley is evidence that Koeman has got a lot of work to do to ensure that all players are performing to the levels that are expected from them.