Sean Dyche says he is happy with the balance of his Everton team thus far in the current campaign, but he also stresses that in order to maintain winning momentum, his players must remain adaptable in their approach to various opponents.
On Saturday at 3 p.m. GMT, the Blues travel to Selhurst Park at Crystal Palace in an attempt to continue their remarkable winning streak that has spanned eight games with five victories and just two losses.
Manager Dyche discussed the merits of a strong team effort during last weekend’s 1-1 home draw with Brighton & Hove Albion during his pre-match press conference prior to the trip to the capital. Although giving up the majority of possession to the visitors, only Kaoru Mitoma’s cruelly-deflected cross could separate the teams.
When questioned about the significance of possession statistics, Dyche responded, “I don’t think [possession-based football] is overrated.” “I believe that some games call for specific gameplay styles. I must say that our goal with the ball is to perform better.
“We counteratacked when we were in a lot of advantageous positions, and the defence was excellent and pleasing. I respect the side’s vigour and dedication to keeping them [Brighton] from making too many changes.
They are a very good side when they get a lucky break, which does happen occasionally. This season, I believe we’ve seen a balance in our abilities. There have been instances where we have dominated the ball and the metrics. As I mentioned earlier in the season, xG, etc.
“However, I find it enjoyable to observe various approaches to impact Premier League games throughout the season; I have a fair amount of experience with it, unless you’re one of the superpowers, like Manchester City. I’ve discovered that you have to adapt and change, and we are capable of doing so.”
Everton’s clash with Palace sees Dyche come up against long-term friend Roy Hodgson and his former Watford manager Ray Lewington – Eagles’ First-Team Coach – in the dugout.
Dyche, who has recorded three wins and two draws from nine meetings with Hodgson-managed sides during the course of his career, added: “I tell him every time I see him and I’ll tell him again this week… ‘What are you doing? What are you doing this for?!’… In a lovely way!
“He’s a terrific fella and he’s always been terrific with me when I was younger coming through and I came across him. I’ve known through some other work I’ve done, like Leaders in Sport, as well. He’s always at those events and speaks very wisely.
“Plus Ray Lewington, my Watford manager.” Ray and I have always gotten along so well, and he was an excellent gaffer as well.
“I find a lot of what they do and who they are appealing. I sincerely admire them, but as both I and they are aware, that all evaporates for however long the referee is in the game. Hopefully, I’ll get to speak with them afterward.
