Everton’s well-documented profligacy in front of goal has been evident again in their recent warm-up matches.
In games against Stade Nyonnais, Wigan Athletic and Bolton Wanderers, the Toffees have scored just three goals – one of which was a penalty.
Their quiet transfer window means the often-criticised Neal Maupay has started all three friendlies so far, given Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s continued absence.
Despite another clean sheet at Bolton on Tuesday, Everton were fortunate not to concede and had stand-in goalkeeper Joao Virginia to thank for some fine stops.
Ashley Young and Arnaut Danjuma have been Everton’s only additions so far this summer – neither of whom warranted a transfer fee – and no central defenders have been added despite the departures of Yerry Mina and Conor Coady.
Everton’s lingering issues up top remain glaring too, despite Danjuma’s experience at playing as a central striker.
Calvert-Lewin cannot stay fit, Maupay is heavily castigated by the Everton fanbase, and Ellis Simms has been moved on, so it makes the news that El Bilal Toure has agreed terms with Atalanta even more tough to take.
For Stoke, this is their final game in preparation for the new season, with the EFL starting a week earlier than the Premier League.
Links >> Stream 1 HD Stream 2 HD Stream 3 HD Stream 4 HD
Rotherham United await Alex Neil’s side in the season opener next weekend, and the Potters will hope for a huge improvement on last season.
Two points from their final seven games saw Stoke slump to a 16th-placed finish, so Neil will need a positive response.
Pre-season has not gone too well though, despite a 1-0 win at Burton Albion in midweek.Stoke were thrashed at Derby County the week prior, and they were also held to a draw by Levante
