Everton fans shock as Goodison a ‘library’ for David Moyes return v Aston Villa
Goodison Park was like a “library” in the opening stages as David Moyes made his return as Everton manager against Aston Villa, causing disbelief on Sky Sports.
Following the sacking of Sean Dyche the previous week, Moyes’ return as the Toffees’ manager after 11 years away was confirmed on Saturday (11 January).
That went down well with some with history at the club, although the atmosphere was not as buoyant as Moyes took charge for the first time in his second spell on Wednesday (15 January) against Villa.
With the visitors enjoying the better of the early exchanges, but Clinton Morrison was surprised not to hear more from the Everton support at Goodison, given the anticipation around the Moyes’ return.
Speaking on Sky Sports about the atmosphere inside the ground in the opening moments of the game, the former Crystal Palace and Birmingham striker said (7:40pm): “This place, it’s like a library this is at Goodison. It is so quiet.”
After Michael Dawson responded with a “wow”, Morrison continued: “I can hear everything the fans are [saying]… It’s like a library and I thought it’d be a better atmosphere with Moyes’ first game. But the players have to give something for the fans to cheer about.”
Moments later though the former Ireland international did clarify those comments as the hosts began to grow into the game, adding (7:45pm): “It’s livened up now, I can hear that. Listen I’m going to Goodison soon and it’s not a library. Brilliant. Brilliant fans.”
David Moyes will need Goodison Park backing to keep Everton up
Football Insider Verdict
The immediate priority for Moyes in the first few months after his return to the club will be keeping them in the Premier League.
That has already been the case for Everton in recent seasons under the likes of Dyche, where home form has proved key to that survival.
As a result Moyes will want to keep the crowd behind him at Goodison following his return, so that can be of use to them again.
Picking up points will be crucial in terms of giving the fans something to shout about, and signings to show intent will be important as well.
With Everton showing more attacking intent as the first half went on to, the atmosphere inside the ground did become louder as the fans began to feel they had something to cheer.
Moyes should therefore have hope that if he can show signs of promise it will not take long for him to ensure he has the fans onside once again.
In other news, David Moyes has been told what his first task will be after returning to Everton.
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