Analysis: Moyes needs urgent reinforcements
- Published
Everton manager David Moyes cut a frustrated figure throughout a difficult evening for his side at Elland Road, often seen with his head in his hands as the Blues conceded possession frequently and adopted a passive approach.
It took Everton 53 minutes to have a shot, a wild effort off target from Idrissa Gueye, and it was a tough assignment to ask substitute Jack Grealish to breathe life into this dismal display in 20 minutes.
Moyes has expressed his concerns about the lack of signings this summer and the mediocre, undercooked fare served up at Elland Road could be used as exhibit A to support his argument.
Everton barely mustered an attack worthy of the name and there will surely be renewed urgency to strengthen a squad which desperately needs a new right-back, a wide-right player and another defensive midfielder - just for starters.
An opening game against a newly promoted club is always hazardous, especially if that club is Leeds United at Elland Road, but Everton did not help themselves with such a conservative strategy.
Moyes was complaining to referee Chris Kavanagh after the final whistle - but he can have no complaints about leaving empty-handed.
Did you know?
Everton failed to have a shot in the first half of a Premier League match for the first time since February 2024 against Brighton.
The Toffees have lost their opening league game in four consecutive seasons, having been unbeaten on matchday one in the 10 previous campaigns.