BREAKING NED: Sean Dyche gets Demarai Gray call right as two big positives emerge for Everton

Our regular Everton fan jury talk at length about the issues of the week at Goodison Park

Luke Davies – He sprinkles that bit of magic

Last week’s game at Bramall Lane was an interesting one, and one you could argue that Everton came out unlucky or not clinical enough in!

However, on a positive note, we actually scored a league goal, not just one. The performance was a lot more attacking and clinical (kind of) than what we’ve seen so far this season, giving Sean Dyche at least something to build upon.

One highlight was Arnaut Danjuma. I’ve been impressed with the Dutchman since his arrival, and I just find that he sprinkles that bit of magic that every team needs. To go alongside Danjuma, Beto was once again a strong, powerful figure up top, linking the play at every opportunity.

The team just looked more fluid in general, with the focal point of a striker to actually aim for. I feel a lot better after the point, even though we should’ve really taken all three. However, the signs are there, at least.

Staying on the train of positivity, Sean Dyche’s interview this week has gone down well with most fans, adding to the support for the manager, in my opinion. Dyche has handled the Demarai Grey situation impeccably, in my opinion, reminding the squad that no one is bigger than the football club as long as he’s the ‘custodian’.

Alex McMonnies – I’m on Dyche’s side

There were plenty of talking points from Everton’s 2-2 draw at Sheffield United, and the significance of such a result might not become apparent until much later in the season.

At this moment in time, it does feel like a missed opportunity for the Toffees to get their first win on the board, and I feel justified in believing that Sean Dyche’s side did enough to return from South Yorkshire with all three points. We finally scored our first league goals of the season, with Arnaut Danjuma finishing off a well-worked move to level things up early in the second half. It’s pleasing to see the Dutchman starting to get his name on the scoresheet more regularly.

Jarrad Branthwaite’s performance at Bramall Lane particularly stood out for me, winning everything in the air and showing a maturity beyond his years with a really impressive defensive display. He has now withdrawn from the England under-21s squad to undergo treatment on a groin injury but should still be available for the Arsenal match, which is a massive relief.

Beto was also excellent once again, bullying the Blades’ centre-backs all game and linking up play incredibly well. It is so reassuring to believe this team always has a goal in them, and while the Portuguese forward is on the pitch, that will be the case for me. I also thought Amadou Onana had a good game, and he appears to be getting more involved in matches again, which can only be a good thing.

Since the game at the weekend, the Demarai Gray saga has been the main talking point on L4 and has divided opinions. Personally, I’m on Dyche’s side on this one and think the player has conducted himself really poorly. It’s not an ideal situation, as we are obviously short on options, but I think selling the winger is the best possible outcome.

I was very impressed with the manager’s interview on Everton socials, which clarified the whole situation and discussed other on-pitch matters. Say it quietly, but things do slowly seem to be heading in the right direction.