David Moyes deserves credit as ‘brilliant platform’ has made Everton ‘tough nut to crack’

Former England striker Alan Smith stated that David Moyes deserves credit for Everton's seven-match unbeaten start across all competitions in the 2026/27 campaign. Speaking to the Liverpool Echo, Smith praised the defensive partnership of James Tarkowski and Jarrad Branthwaite for creating a strong platform that has made Everton a tough opponent to beat.

Everton entered the international break having secured wins over Crystal Palace and Ipswich Town alongside draws against Bournemouth, Manchester United, and Tottenham Hotspur, plus two Carabao Cup victories. This successful run followed a chaotic transfer window that saw key departures bringing in over £100 million and left Moyes with an 18-man senior squad.