If you’re trying to find out why Everton have been struggling to find positive results this season, one statistic in particular tells the story.
The 2016/17 campaign was a good one for the Everton defence. By the end, they had conceded 44 goals, good enough to be tied for sixth-best in the Premier League.
This season, the Blues were predicted to be even more solid at the back. This made sense, given the summer signings of Jordan Pickford and Michael Keane.
Things started off well enough, as Everton conceded just two goals in their opening six competitive fixtures. Even a 2-0 defeat away to Chelsea in the next game didn’t seem to bad, given the Toffees lost 5-0 in the corresponding fixture last season.
However, since then it has all fallen apart, with the Blues allowing 14 goals in the last seven games. The only clean sheet in this run, was against a Sunderland side from the division below, in the League Cup.
So what gives, especially considering the fact Pickford and Keane have — for the most part — performed well. Part of the problem comes down to a lack of goals at the other end of the pitch, to take some of the pressure off the defence and the team as a whole.
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This has been particularly significant in league play. After seven games, Everton are tied for the third-fewest goals in the Premier League.
As a result of all this, it comes as no surprise the Blues often find themselves trailing in games. However, what is shocking, is the amount of time Everton spend trying to play catchup.
As reported by Ian Doyle of the Daily Post, the Toffees have been behind for a total of 308 minutes during their opening seven league games. This equates to virtually half of the time, or 48.9 percent to be more exact.
To give you some idea of how bad this is, consider that only Crystal Palace have spent more time trailing this season. And, as Doyle points out, the Eagles are the only Premier League side without a single point.
On the flip side, Everton have led for a total of 100 minutes so far this season, which is sixth-worst in the top flight. By comparison, Doyle notes Manchester United are first, with a total of 388 minutes in front.
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What do you believe it will take for Everton to turn around recent results? Are you confident in their ability to get the season back on track? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.