Lille, Wolfsburg and Krasnodar (Russia) Not as easy as it come have been that...... Fancy the Russia trip tbh
Now that the Europa League winner gets a CL spot, do you think you and Spurs will both have a real push at winning it?
Really depends on how we are doing In the league as well but I have a feeling we will go for It all the same...
I hope that Everton progress, but that we don't end up playing each other in the later rounds. Martinez has turned Moyes' efficient Everton side into one that's retained it's toughness, but is far more enjoyable to watch. Still bringing through youngsters and not spending that much, but staying at the right end of the table. The Europa League might be a bit of a drain on the squad, though. Adding Eto'o will help with that, but do you think that you need any more additions? There are a few players that could probably do with getting a run out, but the strength of the group probably restricts how much you can experiment. Anyone that non-Evertonians should look out for?
Our squad is stronger than you probably realise mate. We've brought in Besic, Lukaku, Eto'o, Atsu, Galloway and Barry this summer. Our current best first XI would exclude; Gibson, Besic, Osman, Atsu, Mcgeady, Eto'o, Kone, Stones, Alcaraz, Naismith and Oviedo - all of whom are current or former Internationals In addition we got some cracking youngsters that you'll see this season - Garbutt - a future England LB, Galloway - a young CB, Ledson - CM and young George Green a potential diamond if he keeps his head down. We'll do alright I reckon
Naismith's ****e! Sorry, I know that's heresy to Everton fans. 2nd XI would be, what then? Robles; Naismith, Stones, Alcaraz, Oviedo; Gibson, Besic; McGeady, Osman, Atsu; Eto'o? It'll be interesting to see how Martinez approaches Europe. The game against Krasnodar away is sandwiched between Liverpool and Man Utd away. He'd do well to send the 2nd XI out to that one, I think. Tough run of games, either way, but travelling all that way's an absolute killer.
Naismith Is not a worldy by any stretch but If you think he's ****e I would doubt the rest of you're football knowledge tbh mate
Hopefully it'll be a dead rubber as we'll have already qualified and he can send the kids if he wants to Oh and if you think Naismith is ****e, you've not got a scoob lad.
Naismith is about 2 divisions below Coleman, who's excellent. He may give 100% when he's selected, but he's just not a Premier League fullback. Compare him to either of your current first choice players in the position and I'm sure you'll admit that he's miles behind. Not good enough for Everton any more, though I understand your affection for him.
It's your second game, unfortunately. Not worth risking the first XI over, in my opinion. Might even be an idea to give some of them a game against Swansea in the League Cup to prepare for it, though I can understand if Martinez targets that trophy. Always good to win silverware, even if some people don't rate it as a tournament.
Reading between the lines I think the players name you're after Is Hibbert you silly tart (Unless I have forgotten another Naismith we have???) Steven Naismith Is a striker Tony Hibbert Is our stiff right back....
You're completely correct, JOTL! I was just talking about Naismith's willingness to fight and high workrate against Arsenal the other day, too! Hibbert is the player I meant, of course. So bad that I blocked his name out...
Hibbert has been a great servant over the years but I must admit I was surprised when he was handed a new deal not so long back as I cant see him playing at all tbh we tend to move Stones out there when needed so he's a last resort 3rd choice RB really
I would be wary of the Russian trip Tobes. You could end up conscripted and find yourself in the Ukraine with only a kalashnikov for company
He's probably being moved into coaching. His experience is invaluable for the youngsters at the club and his loyalty sets a great example. I can see why you keep him on and I doubt he's costing you much.
