Sean Dyche on alert as Everton face struggling Manchester City | Football News

Everton manager Sean Dyche emphasizes that his team won’t underestimate Manchester City, despite the reigning champions’ recent struggles.
Everton’s form has improved significantly. They’ve lost only twice in their last 12 matches after a difficult start to the season.
Manchester City, accustomed to success, has experienced a dip in form. The four-time consecutive Premier League winners have lost nine of their last 12 games leading into the Boxing Day match against Everton.
“They (City) have enjoyed so much success under Pep (Guardiola) over the years that everybody seems to be under this impression that it’s when, not if, it turns back,” said Dyche.
Dyche acknowledges City’s dominance under Pep Guardiola and the expectation of their eventual return to form. He also recognizes the rarity of such a challenging period for a manager like Guardiola.
“I don’t know all of Pep’s history, but I think it’s unlikely he’s had too many spells like this.”
Dyche acknowledges Guardiola’s exceptional track record, labelling him “arguably one of the best ever.” The Everton manager views City’s current struggles as a testament to the Premier League’s competitiveness.
“You’d think at some point it happens, even to the best, and he is arguably one of the best ever, but for him to have a testing period actually shows how tough the game is even for the top sides.”
Dyche points out that even the best teams are susceptible to difficulties if they don’t maintain attention to detail. He emphasizes that Everton are also working on improving their performance.
“The details, even for the top teams, if you don’t get them right, then things don’t work out for you. They’ll be trying to correct that.”
Everton, while improving, still aims to increase their win count and goal tally. Dyche stresses the importance of a strong performance against City. He dismisses the notion of an easy win simply due to City’s current form.
“We’re in the process of correcting somewhat what we were doing. We still need to win more games, obviously, and score more goals.”
Dyche emphasizes the need for a determined and robust performance from his side. He acknowledges the quality of City’s players and manager despite their recent struggles.
“It’s not like you go there and think, ‘We’re going to win just because’. We’ve got to go and deliver a performance. We’ve got to play hard, we’ve got to play strong.”
Dyche dismisses the idea that City’s players have suddenly become less skilled or that Guardiola’s managerial abilities have diminished.
“They haven’t all become terrible players overnight. He (Guardiola) certainly is not a terrible manager.”
Everton will be missing Ashley Young due to suspension after accumulating five yellow cards. This absence creates an opportunity for club captain Seamus Coleman to return to the starting lineup.
Coleman’s return marks his first start since late August, following an injury-ridden season. Dyche commends Coleman’s resilience and commitment despite the setbacks.
“He’s been very unlucky this season.”
Dyche reveals a conversation with Coleman about his future, where the captain expressed his unwavering desire to continue playing.
“When he came back for pre-season, super fit, we spoke about his other options and he said, ‘No, no, I’m clear-minded. I’m going to continue playing’.”
Dyche highlights Coleman’s dedication to the club, noting that he fulfilled his commitment by signing a new contract.
“He signed another contract and he held his end of the bargain without a shadow of a doubt.”