Keith Smith

At the very least, Everton owe their frustrated fans some form of explanation for that chaotic, embarrassing and deeply disappointing transfer window. Yes, Jack’s back and Maitland-Niles is in (and earlier Hackney+). But The Friedkin Group, the club’s CEO Angus Kinnear and the recruitment committee owe it to fans - the lifeblood of the club - to justify/clarify/apologise for a situation which saw Balogun not sign, a star like Ndiaye leave, Beto go, Armstrong almost sold, and failed late attempts for Kirkzee, Abraham and Tete (nb also reluctance from their clubs). Were they hoping for the Armstrong money to get players in? Or was it simply poor organisation, leaving things late? Everton look incredibly short of quality and numbers in attack and at full-back. So much to admire about Everton - manager, fanbase, stadium, academy, players like Pickford, Branthwaite, Garner, Dewsbury-Hall, Armstrong etc. But that was a poorly-handled transfer window and Everton fans have every right to be frustrated. #EFC