Ray Parlour Shares Everton Verdict After Goodison Park Victory

Ray Parlour believes Everton’s 2-1 victory over Crystal Palace was crucial for the team after a disappointing start to the season.

Dwight McNeil’s two goals on 28 September gave the Toffees their first Premier League win of the season at Goodison Park. Manager Sean Dyche looked visibly relieved at the final whistle, with Newcastle United next up on 5 October.

Speaking live on talkSPORT (2 October, 08:29 am), Parlour offered his thoughts on Everton’s performance:
“Everton had a great result last week, didn’t they?” he said. “They needed that.”

Everton Could Upset Newcastle United

While Everton’s season has not met their expectations so far, the win against Crystal Palace demonstrated their ability to get positive results.

There had been speculation about Dyche’s future since the start of the 2024/25 campaign, but despite the Friedkin group’s decision to pull out of buying the club, Dyche appears secure in his position for now【Bloomberg, 23 September】.

Everton focused on improving their attacking options during the summer transfer window, but defensive frailties plagued the team before Jarrad Branthwaite’s return. Iliman Ndiaye and Tim Iroegbunam have both been standout performers this season, and if Everton can replicate their form from the Palace match, they stand a chance against Newcastle.

If McNeil continues to be deployed centrally, his ability to create chances will be a significant asset for the team moving forward.