David Moyes Revives Everton’s European Dreams Ahead of Merseyside Derby

When David Moyes returned to Everton 11-and-a-half years after leaving, the club looked a long way from its former heights. The Toffees were one point above the relegation zone on his arrival and had faced a points deduction less than 18 months earlier.

Since then the team moved into a new stadium. They now prepare for the first Merseyside derby at Hill Dickinson Stadium. David Moyes has helped revive Everton’s European dreams as the club eyes a late push.

League progress under Moyes

In the Premier League since his return, Everton sit seventh. That places them above Manchester United, Newcastle and Tottenham in the form table.

A win over Liverpool would put Everton two points shy of fifth. Fifth place would bring Champions League qualification.

Moyes also has recent continental pedigree. He led West Ham to their only European title and previously guided Everton to the continent’s elite two decades ago.

Transformed away form

The clearest change has been Everton’s away record. Only Arsenal and Manchester City have taken more points on the road this season.

Everton average 1.68 points per away match. That improvement has produced results at places such as Old Trafford, St James’ Park and Villa Park.

Goals have not flowed freely. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall leads the scoring with seven league goals this campaign.

Home form and tactical differences

At home, Everton have managed just six Premier League wins. That record leaves them 14th in the home standings.

The new Hill Dickinson Stadium has altered their play. Moyes has noted that teams often struggle after stadium moves.

Statistically the side is more direct away from home. They attempt 107 more long passes on the road than at home.

Possession averages differ too. Everton register 39.7 percent possession away, compared to 47.6 percent at Hill Dickinson.

Goal numbers show a curious balance. At home they have 21 goals with an xG of 20.46. Away they have 19 goals from an xG of 22.82.

Defensively, the indicators and raw goals diverge. Everton have conceded one more goal at home, but their expected goals conceded is almost four goals worse at Hill Dickinson.

What it means for the derby

The Merseyside derby on Sunday 19 April is pivotal. Kick-off is scheduled for around 1pm, with coverage on Sky Sports Main Event.

For Moyes’ side, treating each match like an away fixture might be the clearest tactical instruction. Doing so could keep their European challenge alive this season.

Filmogaz.com will monitor the outcome and the implications for Everton’s late-season ambitions.