‘Everton to let Doucoure leave’ – Fans rage after ‘dreadful’ Liverpool latest
Everton fans have heavily criticised midfielder Abdoulaye Doucoure after his “dreadful” error during the Merseyside derby against Liverpool in the Premier League.
Everton took the lead against their rivals early, with Beto beating the offside trap to score inside the first 11 minutes. However, the lead lasted just five minutes, as Alexis Mac Allister scored a delicate header to bring Liverpool level.
The goal came as a result of Doucoure losing possession in a situation where he could have launched a counter-attack for Everton. Instead, after the turnover, Mohamed Salah received the ball and quickly crossed and assisted Mac Allister for the equaliser.
This error added to the growing frustration among fans. Everton supporters previously criticised captain James Tarkowski after his poor performance in the FA Cup defeat to Bournemouth. Once again, they’ve left unhappy with an experienced player and Doucoure is now the target of their discontent.
Salah would go on to score before James Tarkowski slammed in an equaliser at the death in the final ever Merseyside derby at Goodison Park.
Doucoure was then central to angry scenes after the final whistle as he clashed with Curtis Jones when celebrating in front of the away fans, with both sent off by Michael Oliver.
David Moyes could have replaced Abdoulaye Doucoure
The Toffees have enjoyed an upturn in form recently, winning three consecutive games before facing Andoni Iraola’s side on 8 February.
The Merseyside derby against Liverpool was the final one to be held at Goodison Park for the season.
Everton had four potential signings lined up on deadline day, but they only managed to secure Carlos Alcaraz. However, this hasn’t disrupted their recent league performances.
One of the signings could have been a central midfielder, which would have meant Doucoure would not have featured as he has this season. But with no signing made, Moyes has been left with no choice but to continue trusting the 32-year-old.
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall was linked with a move to Everton, but a deal never materialised for the central midfielder.
Everton fans express frustration with Abdoulaye Doucoure
Doucoure has been a regular starter for both David Moyes and former manager Sean Dyche this season, making 24 appearances for the club.
He’s scored twice and started 20 Premier League games, even captaining the side during their Carabao Cup defeat to Southampton in September.
However, his mistake in the first half against Liverpool proved to be too much for some Everton fans. One supporter questioned, “How Doucoure keeps starting is ridiculous” while another said, “That’s why we need to let him go” referring to his costly error.