Everton may have disappointed while collecting a point at Anfield, but they will surely play a rather more expansive brand of football in the coming weeks.
It is not hard to see why Everton’s performance at Liverpool was criticised on Sunday, even if they claimed a point from the Merseyside derby.
The Toffees were completely outplayed at Anfield, earning a draw only due to Dejan Lovren’s foolish challenge on Dominic Calvert-Lewin that allowed Wayne Rooney to convert a penalty.
The instant response may be to assume that this rugged, unambitious style will be Everton’s way of playing under new manager Sam Allardyce, who is renowned for a defensive approach.
But perhaps it is a little unfair to judge the former England boss after a trip to one of the best sides in the country.
While it was not a display synonymous with Everton’s presumed pre-season target of a top-six finish, to come away with a point after playing poorly already shows improvement from earlier in the season.
And so Allardyce’s next three away tests may well provide a better opportunity to assess his side.
Strugglers Newcastle United, West Bromwich Albion and Bournemouth represent Everton’s next three games on their travels – and each provide a reasonable opportunity to collect all three points.
If Allardyce sets up the Toffees to battle out draws in those matches, criticism would be just.
However, this is a manager capable of inspiring exciting away wins as well as dour stalemates and there could be a few eating their words if Everton cruise through the festive period.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
