Shocking: Dyche’s Direct Message Ahead of Manchester United Match is Extraordinary

 

We were all stunned – the Club, Evertonians, and, I believe, the entire football world – by the decision to dock us 10 points in the Premier League during the international break.

As you know, we immediately declared our intention to appeal that decision, and there is nothing else we can do until that process is completed.

Meanwhile, we can influence how everyone who feels profoundly about Everton Football Club comes together again – as players, staff, and supporters.

I mentioned the importance of that when I first arrived here. We have seen how impactful that energy can be and now is a time to reinforce that collective attitude, align ourselves and look after Everton FC, both on and off the pitch.

It is the fabric of what makes this club special.

Since I walked through the door, I have seen a group of players and a fanbase who have given everything for the benefit of Everton. I can’t thank you enough for that and we will need more of the same to face the obvious challenges that lie ahead of us. Together, we can move forward and get to where we want to be.

Our form is encouraging and the feelings of our recent performances have been good, backed incredibly by your support both home and away. We are locking in a strong mentality and the challenge for us now is to continue building the positive momentum.

The goal for us doesn’t change. We have to win football matches.

I said when I became manager that we have to learn to win and do so in different ways. Our 3-2 victory at Crystal Palace last time out was a brilliant example of that. I know we can play better than we did at Selhurst Park. We can deal with the ball better, particularly looking at the second half, but the resilience and teamsmanship is growing all the time. 

Ultimately, you have to win, even when you’re not at your best. We weren’t at our best at Palace but still found the necessary grit, determination and organisation to come away with three points. That’s really pleasing, especially when you mix in the many games this season where we have played well and haven’t got our rewards.

Erik ten Hag, his staff, players, and everyone associated with Manchester United are all here today.

They come to us with good Premier League form and a high-calibre squad that was substantially invested in over the summer to increase the quality choices available to them.

We’re up for the challenge.

We enter the game having won three of our previous four games, and I can sense a sense of resolve amongst all of us to come together and demonstrate what Everton is all about – as a team of players, supporters, and a football club.