ThewolfSean Dyche admitted he was “surprised” that Southampton defender Jan Bednarek wasn’t sent off for his foul on Everton talisman Beto in their Premier League game on Saturday.
The former Udinese striker was brought down by the defender while he was in his stride and making a run towards the goal during the 1-0 defeat at St Mary’s Stadium on Saturday (2 November).
Bednarek was awarded a yellow card but as VAR didn’t deem Beto’s chance to be a denial of a goalscoring opportunity, it wasn’t upgraded.
Speaking to BBC Sport after the clash (2 November), Dyche shared what worried him about the decision that was made.
“The key decision in the game went against us. The sending-off, I’m surprised by that [it was not given],” he said.
“Beto is in his stride and he’s breaking across. The thing that worries me is that players who don’t roll around don’t get decisions.
“Beto is trying to stay on his feet and nothing gets given but just a yellow card, the defender is a long way off.”
Everton may have to start Beto over Dominic Calvert-Lewin
The 2024/25 season has been one full of ups and downs for Dyche and his men. They currently sit 16th in the table and are just four points clear of the relegation zone.
The Toffees were on a five-match unbeaten run in the top flight prior to the disappointing reverse at Southampton, which has derailed the momentum.
While one game obviously isn’t the be-all and end-all of a season, it showed that Everton still have a lot of work to do in order to be consistent.
One way for them to try and start doing this could be to drop Dominic Calvert-Lewin for Beto.
In Beto’s last two games when he’s been brought on, he’s changed the dynamic of the game and offered a lot more than what the 27-year-old Englishman has.
His effort in the 1-1 draw at Fulham last week displayed his eagerness to make a point and his integration into Dyche’s starting XI could help turn the tides in Everton’s favour.
BadboyMusty
Thewolf
