SET-PIECE SHAMBLES SHOULD ANGER EVERTON’S DEFENDERS

FOR all their endeavour against Manchester City, Everton were yet again undone by a set-piece. They have now conceded 12 goals from set-plays — more than any team in the Premier League. That statistic should offend every Everton defender. Where is the leadership? As a centre back defending a corner or free-kick, it is not enough to just make sure you are in the right position. You have to make sure that everyone is doing their job as well. Too often, players will trot back for a corner and treat it as a breather. It is up to the defenders to get them organised quickly. The best way to practise set-pieces is to whip balls in on the training ground and defend them in a full-blooded manner. I wanted to head the ball as much as I could in the week so that come Saturday my timing was spot-on. Marco Silva needs to drill his squad but that is only part of the solution. The players need to show the desire to defend — starting at Watford.