Sean Dyche talk masked big Everton talking point that new boss must now consider
Amid all the talk about Sean Dyche, his future and then his sacking, there has been another big story unfolding in the background at Goodison Park. Beto’s future continues to be the subject of constant speculation. A return to Italy has long been spoken about.
Torino are the latest club to be linked with a move for the 26-year-old. Speculation increased after images emerged of him at Manchester Airport on Sunday.
But even amid his side’s struggles in front of goal this season, Dyche often opted against turning to the former Udinese Calcio man. His snubs often spoke volumes.
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Even when Dyche did turn to the 26-year-old, he was often thrown in at the deep end, like away at Manchester United last month. You can’t knock Beto’s commitment and effort, but he is just lacking that bit of quality required at the top level.
The hope was that he would develop and become a Premier League forward. The reality has been very different.
Which is why it has been no surprise to see him linked with a move away. He clearly wants to play football, and you can’t knock him for that.
But here against Peterborough, he was handed a rare start. However, it looked like it was going to be another one of those nights.
He had already fluffed two chances before his big moment arrived. But on this occasion Beto showed the type of composure that has long been missing from his game.
After collecting Harrison Armstrong’s pass, he went round Nicholas Bilokapic before finishing into the empty net to give his side the lead. The goal would send Everton on their way to a 2-0 victory after Iliman Ndiaye scored a penalty in stoppage time.
There is no denying that Beto was frustrated for large parts of the second-half, but what happened next would have certainly made David Moyes, the man expected to replace Dyche, sit up and take notice.
After being replaced by Armando Broja, just over 10 minutes later, the on-loan Chelsea man left the pitch on a stretcher. He looked to have gone over on his ankle following a challenge by Emmanuel Fernandez.
The Blues are not blessed with attacking options, and Broja has only just returned from a long-term injury. Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s future remains uncertain, while Youssef Chermiti is already sidelined.
Should Moyes return to the club then he will naturally have a number of big decisions to make. However, one of the biggest could be what to do with Beto.
Does he look to move him on and try and bring someone else in? Or does he stick by the current Blues No.14? It is a huge call, but one we should find out the answer to very soon.
