David Moyes can't let Thierno Barry heroics cloud his judgment in Crystal Palace vs Everton
David Moyes has a key decision to make between Thierno Barry and Beto as Everton prepare to face Crystal Palace.
The 2025-26 campaign has made the Toffees' centre-forward situation no clearer, despite the team's European ambitions via a high finish in the Premier League table.
Romelu Lukaku was leading the line a decade ago when an Everton striker last reached 20 goals in the Premier League. This term, Beto, Barry and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall are all tied on eight.
Barry came on as a substitute during Everton's thrilling 3-3 draw with Man City on Monday, 4 May, scoring a second-half brace to nearly secure an unexpected win. It might have been a red herring, though.
Thierno Barry must not start against Crystal Palace
Moyes could be easily swayed to give Barry the nod against Palace on Sunday, 10 May, but he may have to be reminded of the striker's performance on Merseyside the last time the teams met.
The 23-year-old had to be hooked at the half-time break, one of two changes made by the manager at that point, following an underwhelming first 45 minutes at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
It clearly worked, with Iliman Ndiaye and Jack Grealish both netting in the second half to secure three points, but Moyes will want to avoid a repeat at Selhurst Park this weekend.
| Thierno Barry | Vs Man City, 4 May 2026 | Vs Crystal Palace, 5 October 2025 |
| Minutes played | 26 | 45 |
| Touches | 15 | 19 |
| Passing accuracy | 0% | 50% (4/8) |
| Chances created | 0 | 1 |
| Successful dribbles | 0% (0/1) | 0% (0/2) |
| Ground duels won | 50% (3/6) | 0% (0/4) |
| Aerial duels won | 50% (1/2) | 50% (3/6) |
| Fouls committed | 1 | 1 |
Although Barry was on the scoresheet twice against Man City, his overall performance was pretty disappointing. To not even complete a single pass is quite impressive, but for all the wrong reasons.
Everton already have a plan for Barry's future
At just 23 years of age, Barry has a lot of time to improve and develop, but as the club moves forward under The Friedkin Group, he could quickly be replaced by a superior striker.
However, Keith Wyness has already revealed to Football Insider via his sources that Everton are pleased with Barry's progression so far, given that he's only in his first season in England.
Moyes desperately needs new firepower through the middle, though. The Toffees continue to be linked with big-money signings, but none have come to fruition since the new owners' takeover.
If European football is secured this season, that should be the number one priority, as should a new centre-back and full-back, and supporters will be expecting funds to be added to the pot.