Everton’s second-half climax and line-up analysis after Leeds win

Branthwaite’s return and substitution proved decisive as Everton found a rhythm in the closing stages against Leeds, underscoring the importance of quality in depth.

After rewatching Everton’s game against Leeds, it was clear that we didn’t play particularly well in the second half until the final 20 minutes. The tide of the game turned in our favor in large part because we brought in two quality substitute players who made the difference when it mattered most.

Game-changing substitutions

Branthwaite’s ability to keep the ball, find the blue jersey and provide the option to recycle possession has been absolutely key to our performance. Meanwhile, KDH’s movement in tight spaces around midfield helped tie things together in a way that had been missing earlier in the game. These two changes transformed our entire approach and gave us the platform we needed to drive results.

While Pickford is still a good keeper and walks enough for us every week, he does need to address his tendency to shoot the ball down the field every time he catches it. It rarely got close to one of our players and we gave possession back to our opponents unnecessarily. These are the small details in the team’s game that Moyes and his coaching staff should work on.

Branthwaite’s importance cannot be overstated

Seeing Branthwaite back gives me confidence for the future. Now that he’s had surgery and is getting some proper rest, hopefully that particular injury nightmare is behind him. It probably won’t help his physical development due to his height and being a young guy, but his body seems to have adapted and he can really go from here.

He is by far our best defender but what he brings with the ball at his feet is absolutely priceless. He’s very good with his feet, opens up more passing angles, and isn’t afraid to put the ball through the defense to keep us attacking. His lovely pass to KDH, another along the baseline to Mykolenko, and that pass to Idrissa is what we missed. If Moyes had any sense he would move Ndiaye back to his favored flank so he could finish off these types of passes and do some real damage.

personal performance and development

To be fair to Barry’s shooting record in recent weeks – his last two attempts were anything but easy chances. However, he desperately needed to hit the gym. His offensive ability with the ball is very weak, and he can definitely improve on that through focused work.

Diblin looked smart when he came on, and hopefully he can build some confidence from those moments. He should be working hard all week to hit the touchline and cross with his right foot. Like Grelish, he prefers to check on his stronger feet, which is predictable. The difference is that Grealey is a complete package rather than looking like a young lad who is still fleshing out. With Grealish currently out, Moyes needs to give Dieblin proper playing time alongside our better players. Playing with KDH and Ndiaye will give him a better chance to build momentum.

Team reconstruction and future direction

I sincerely hope this is the last time we see McNeil start a game for us. I’m tired of seeing players who contribute nothing to the development of the team. We have almost cleared out the relegation squad and replaced them with capable footballers. It’s time for Mykolenko, McNeil and Berto to really move forward. There’s no reason why this can’t be done within the current window, unless we’re still careful to comply with PSR regulations.

Finally, Jimmy Garner continues to perform well for the club. He didn’t have his best game against Leeds, but you can never fault the lad’s effort and commitment. He was never seen jogging, always trying to get back into position or win the ball back. The news that we have managed to secure him a new contract is absolutely fantastic and shows the club’s commitment to developing around the right role.

Written by BlueNose1878 January 28, 2026 13:58:14

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