4 things we learned: Liverpool are as good as anyone in the Premier League

Everton continue to improve as the Sam Allardyce era begins

After flirting with the relegation zone, Everton are in the top half of the table following a string of wins in the post-Koeman era. Their latest win came at home against Huddersfield in Sam Allardyce’s debut. Performance-wise, the Toffees didn’t dazzle. There have been minor tweaks and improvements worth noting, improvements that have made the difference between winning and losing.

For one thing, Everton seem to be much more certain of themselves in defense, using a no-nonsense safety-first approach. They have back-to-back shutouts and seem to be reverting back to a (shall we say) English approach to the game. Under Koeman, Everton tried to play a more possession-oriented style but failed miserably. Perhaps the roster wasn’t exactly built for Koeman’s supposedly advanced tactics. What’s certain is that this group has enough quality to get it done using a more basic approach. Fret not, Everton fans, Big Sam isn’t known as a tactical innovator or one to challenge the tried and true ways of the Premier League.

After languishing in the relegation zone, this type of approach is a welcome change for the Goodison Park faithful. Allardyce’s approach may not have a very high ceiling but given the quality of the Everton squad, it’s extremely unlikely Everton will be anywhere near that dreadful bottom of the table as long as they continue to master the basics and not shoot themselves in the foot. Big Sam’s tactics may not be revolutionary but they’re good enough for mid-table comfort.