{"remix_data":[],"remix_entry_point":"challenges","source_tags":["local"],"origin":"unknown","total_draw_time":0,"total_draw_actions":0,"layers_used":0,"brushes_used":0,"photos_added":0,"total_editor_actions":{},"tools_used":{},"is_sticker":false,"edited_since_last_sticker_save":false,"containsFTESticker":false}
“I think”- Sean Dyche’s honest response when asked if Beto will start for Everton against West Ham
Sean Dyche held his weekly press conference at Finch Farm on Thursday afternoon ahead of Everton’s upcoming match against West Ham United this weekend.
With both teams struggling this season, Dyche is under increasing pressure to secure a positive result against West Ham. If the Hammers lose, manager Julen Lopetegui’s position could be in jeopardy, with Maurizio Sarri and others already being considered as potential replacements.
On the other hand, the Friedkin Group, West Ham’s owners, are expected to show more patience with Lopetegui, acknowledging that a managerial change might not come until the summer when they plan to search for a long-term successor.
As for Dyche, he seems likely to retain his position for now, though Everton supporters are hoping he will opt to start Beto ahead of Dominic Calvert-Lewin on Saturday.
Dyche, however, remained tight-lipped when asked whether Beto should start over Calvert-Lewin but did acknowledge that the margins are getting narrower between the two.
“We try to trust players to deliver performances, even if fans don’t always see the full picture,” Dyche said. “With strikers, it always comes down to their stats and goals, and we’re no different in that regard. But we also look at the broader impact a striker is having on the game. Striker is the hardest position on the pitch, I know, because I was a centre-half, so I’m more tolerant when a striker is having a quieter period – it’s just a tough role.
“Beto’s progressing well, and he knows he hasn’t always played to his potential, but he’s learning, and we’re working with him. That said, the margins are getting tighter. He’s been coming on and influencing games, while Dom has had chances but hasn’t scored consistently, so the competition is growing.”
It seems likely that Calvert-Lewin will retain his spot in the starting lineup for the West Ham game, as Dyche emphasized Beto is still learning and not quite at the same level as the English striker in terms of overall play, not just goal-scoring. However, Dyche acknowledged that the competition is intensifying, and it appears the West Ham match could be a crucial opportunity for Calvert-Lewin to find his form. If he doesn’t make an impact or get on the scoresheet, he may face being dropped after the international break.
