Everton are currently have the lowest goal tally in the Premier League, scoring just 18 goals in 24 Premier League games. The lack of goals is a problem highlighted in bold every week and there has been little comforting news around the matter.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin has been out with a hamstring problem and Sean Dyche has not provided any time frame for his return to action. In the last three games, Dyche has used Neal Maupay and Ellis Simms in the forward role but neither have done provided assurance up top.
Maupay has now gone without scoring in 17 games as Everton look for a lethal forward that can bury the chances and create a threat upfront. Simms has shown some promise but at the moment he is inexperienced in leading a frontline all by himself.
Goalscoring is a collective responsibility says Everton manager Sean Dyche
Against Aston Villa, Everton failed to score despite creating multiple clear cut goalscoring chances. Dwight McNeil was unstoppable from the left flank as he whipped crosses and made darting runs forward. The Toffees surely had an increased presence in the opposition box but they were missing that sting, the final touch.
Ahead of the game against Arsenal, Dyche spoke to the media, giving an injury update on Calvert-Lewin and also addressing the lack of goals. The former Burnley man revealed what he has told players regarding the goalscoring issues.
"That’s been the theme of the season [lack of goals]. Lots of work to be done. The team mentality must be that ‘we are all allowed to score’ and it’s not just one player. I asked them of that defensively, keep clean sheets and it starts from the front, with front players working hard for the team. Therefore it’s only fair to ask the other way around and the players have got to take responsibility in making chances and taking chances.Since we have been here, the stats have been better for getting bodies in the box. We are looking to increase the quality of chances but its fair to say we have been more productive in that area but clinical moment is the truth of the matter. Sometimes, a scruffy goal releases the pressure.The other thing I said to the players is don’t forget the noise of you not scoring as that only increases your chances statistically of scoring. You look at any team, they have spells when they score goals and if it’s dried up for a while then every game that goes by increases your chances and you do start scoring. Stats and facts are football. It’s an important factor to remember. (via club’s official website)"
Historically, the Emirates Stadium is not a ground where Everton have enjoyed much success but Dyche’s men will go into the game with a tough mentality.
Will EFC get a positive result against the Gunners?