Everton are struggling both at home and in Europe, but under-pressure Ronald Koeman just needs one big win to kick-start the campaign.
For Ronald Koeman, as Everton continue to struggle in the Premier League, it would be easy to write off Thursday’s clash with Lyon.
The Toffees have taken just one point from their first two Europa League group games, while their domestic form is equally miserable.
After a draw at Brighton and Hove Albion on Sunday, Koeman’s men – who, of course, spent heavily in the summer – lie 16th in the league table.
Given Everton’s tough European pool and the need to hit form in domestic action – they face Arsenal on Sunday – there may be an assumption that the side’s continental campaign is all but over.
However, Koeman’s situation is so dire that he cannot afford to pass up opportunities to build momentum this week, both in preparation for the game against the French side and on Thursday night at Goodison Park.
Against a good side like Lyon, Everton could take confidence from a win. While they cannot buy three points against the likes of Burnley and Brighton, they would be foolish not to attack this game.
Everton cannot realistically hope to finish in the top four this season – and the top six is unlikely too – meaning to overly focus on league action makes little sense.
Koeman cannot afford to let the Toffees be dragged into a relegation battle, but they should be able to juggle a middling domestic season with a European campaign.
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