Tim Howard delivers scathing Beto verdict as Everton forward lacks ‘clinical nature’
On current form, Beto is not a clinical finisher for Everton and his lack of awareness makes him ineffective, according to Tim Howard.
Speaking live on NBC Sports (23 September, 18:26), the ex-Everton shot-stopper did not hold back in his criticism of the £26million summer signing during the 3-1 win over Brentford.
Howard admits the 25-year-old is good aerially and “would love” to see him and Dominic Calvert-Lewin form a partnership in the attack.
Howard said: “Well, at the moment, no. It’s the clinical nature or lack of awareness in front of goal. He gets himself in good positions.
“[I] would love to see what he looks like with Dominic Calvert-Lewin. He’s good in the air in terms of clicking it on. Calvert-Lewin is a good runner, he is more clinical. Can they play together? We’ll see.”
Brutal
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As Beto trudged off the pitch in the 63rd minute of Everton’s Premier League clash against Brentford, he must have been wondering where his goals will come from.
Howard did not get his wish, with Beto being replaced by Calvert-Lewin, meaning Toffees fans will have to wait to see the pair up top together. With the Englishman coming off the bench to put the Toffees 3-1 up against the Bees, Beto could soon find himself firmly as second-choice for Sean Dyche.
Many have wondered if the duo could play well together – something Dyche himself has discussed. He said, as quoted by the Liverpool Echo: “I’ve always liked to play with two strikers when possible but it’s got to suit the rest of the team as well. It’s still early for that combination to find its feet.”
The big man/little man combination has been a recipe for success in the past, but Dyche may opt for a big man/big man partnership up top to help fire the Toffees up the table.
It’s clearly an option that could be on the cards at some point given Dyche’s utilisation of two strikers at Burnley. If Beto continues to struggle alone up top, perhaps this would offer him a way for the multi-million-pound man to remain in the starting XI.
However, as Howard makes brutally clear, more is needed from Beto, who will be very eager to prove his doubters wrong.
In other Everton news, the Toffees are locked in a Premier League battle to sign one of the hottest teenage footballing talents in Brazil with a January exit now possible.
