Micah Richards has shared what he hopes is going to happen for Everton manager Sean Dyche during the summer.
Despite a positive end to the 2023/24 campaign, off-the-field issues and talk of high-profile exits have clouded any optimism heading into the off season.
John Textor is the latest name to be linked with a takeover as 777 Partners’ protracted purchase of Everton descends into chaos.
On the transfer front, Dominic Calvert-Lewin has been linked with Newcastle United, Jordan Pickford with Chelsea, and Jarrad Branthwaite to Manchester United.
Micah Richards drops ‘bleak’ verdict on Everton this summer
Speaking on the Rest is Football Podcast, Richards has admitted he feels a little bit sorry for Dyche, who has had to handle an unprecedented situation this season.
He explained: “I feel a little bit sorry for Dyche, though, because obviously, the budget wasn’t that great at Burnley; he goes to Everton, a massive club, and changes the way they play, but he’s had to sort of change the way he really wants to play a little bit.”
The former Manchester City defender also claimed the former Burnley boss has had to be ultra-pragmatic with his approach.
Richards added: “We know he’s a pragmatic coach anyway, but we thought with Everton, he would take them forward a little bit. But, because of the resources and injuries he’s had, he’s had to go back to what he knows best and being a little bit more defensive.”
Finally, speaking about the upcoming summer, Richards admitted he’s hopeful that the Toffees will be active in the transfer market.
“I agree with Alan; he is definitely up there for manager of the season,” he said. “I just hope he can get the players in next season because it’s looking a bit bleak.”
Everton transfer work appears to be underway
It’s hard to really know what can and can’t be done at Goodison Park, considering the current off-the-field problems engulfing the club.
However, ownership issues haven’t prevented the Toffees from being linked with numerous players already.
Burnley central defender Maxime Esteve has reportedly emerged as a target, with Everton already holding preliminary discussions to try to sign the Frenchman.
Another French media outlet, Foot Mercato, has linked the Blues to Leicester City midfielder Wilfred Ndidi, who is out of contract at the King Power.
With the uncertainty of what finances are available, it can only be positive to see Everton linked with players in the early stages of the summer.