In the current Premier League season, set pieces have become an increasingly discussed topic. Debates about their importance and influence on match results appear across sports programs and media. The number of goals scored from set pieces is rising, and clubs are dedicating more attention to them.
Everton had long avoided this trend. Until the match against Tottenham Hotspur, it was the only team in the league that had not conceded a goal from a set piece. That changed after two goals were scored from the opponent’s corner kicks. This ended their run of clean sheets and revealed that even the Toffees’ defense is not flawless.
At the other end of the pitch, Everton has struggled to capitalize on its own opportunities. So far, it has scored only two goals from set pieces, fewer than most rivals. The squad includes several tall players who should provide an advantage in these situations, yet this strength has not translated onto the field.
Last season, goals from set pieces accounted for nearly one third of all Everton’s goals. Now that share has declined, and the club is struggling with execution as well. Interestingly, the team no longer has a set-piece specialist since no replacement was hired after Charlie Adam’s departure. This may be one reason why efficiency in this area has decreased.
Coach David Moyes now faces a decision on whether to revisit this issue and strengthen his staff with a set-piece expert. At a time when most opponents focus heavily on these moments, such a move could be key to improved results and greater stability in both defense and attack.
