Everton star overjoyed despite Tottenham loss
Everton’s unbeaten streak at their new stadium came to an abrupt end after a heavy 3-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur, with Micky van de Ven scoring twice and Pape Matar Sarr adding a late third. The match was marked by frustration for the home crowd, particularly when a potential equalizer from Jake O’Brien was disallowed following a VAR intervention by referee Craig Pawson.
Despite the result, which left Everton with only one Premier League win since late August, there was a noticeable bright spot for the club. Merlin Rohl, a recent loan signing from SC Freiburg, made a late substitute appearance. Although unable to impact the result, Rohl’s involvement was a personal milestone after injury had limited him to just three appearances so far.
Rohl expressed his satisfaction after the match, telling Alan Myers for Everton News, “I’m delighted to get a few more minutes on the pitch, it’s good that the coach is trusting me. I want to keep improving.” This optimism was echoed by Myers, who considers Rohl a promising addition to the squad and expects him to make a bigger impact as he settles in.
The conditions for Rohl’s permanent transfer are believed to be straightforward, reportedly dependent on Everton maintaining their Premier League status. This suggests the club has long-term plans for the 23-year-old German midfielder, even if his development has been hampered by injuries and slow progress in the early stages.
Everton’s midfield has been strengthened not only by Rohl’s arrival but also by signings like Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall from Chelsea and the high-profile loan of Jack Grealish from Manchester City. These acquisitions have given the squad a more robust midfield presence, which some believe rivals the club’s best lineups in recent years.
However, concerns persist in the attacking department. With the departures of Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Youssef Chermiti, Everton’s forward options have diminished. Promising signs from Beto after the New Year have not translated into consistent performances this season, and Thierno Barry’s big-money move has yet to yield results.
As Everton’s struggles in front of goal continue, manager David Moyes faces pressure to find solutions up front. Without a more clinical edge in attack, the club may have to settle for a mid-table finish despite improvements elsewhere on the pitch.
