Moyes refuses to talk Europe as Everton keep unbeaten run
September 19, 2026 23:30
WHAT HAPPENED
Everton sit fifth after five top-flight matches, collecting two wins and three draws for nine points. Their 1-0 victory over Ipswich relied on an 11th-minute goal from Thierno Barry — his fifth of the season — and left the Toffees unbeaten in the league. The side have also won two Carabao Cup ties and progressed to a home last-16 tie against Newcastle in October.
Moyes was blunt after the Ipswich win: "We are not using those words this year." He added that he would not publicly challenge his players over European qualification: "Not [saying] in front of you people [the media], that's for sure, because we're still preparing ourselves and make sure we can do the best we can." He also highlighted his frustration with Everton's finishing: "I'm actually more disappointed that we aren't scoring more goals."
KEY CONTEXT
Everton's start has been built on defensive solidity; they have kept five clean sheets in seven matches overall. Yet Moyes pointed to offensive shortcomings — for example, his side had 21 shots against Ipswich but only two were on target.
The squad has reshaped since Moyes returned in January 2025, when Everton were 16th and one point clear of the relegation zone. Last season's late collapse — no wins in the final seven games after a March high that left them eighth and briefly dreaming of European football — remains fresh. Everton ultimately finished 13th, missing out on Conference League and Europa League places by a few points.
SQUAD NOTES
Thierno Barry has two Premier League goals this season and scored a hat-trick in the Carabao Cup win at Preston, contributing to his five goals in all competitions so far. Everton are operating with Barry as their only recognised striker after Beto moved to Fiorentina on transfer deadline day; attacking midfielder Iliman Ndiaye also left for Manchester City on the same day.
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT
Everton will host Newcastle in the Carabao Cup last-16 in October. Moyes and his players will also look to build on their early Premier League form while addressing the manager's concerns over creating and converting chances.