David Unsworth: Everton facing ‘massive week’ after Southampton thrashing
Up next for the Toffees is old boss David Moyes who brings West Ham to Goodison on Wednesday. Then come Huddersfield
EVERTON caretaker-manager David Unsworth is doing his best to prepare the struggling Toffees for a "massive week".
He is hoping for six points from two home games - including victory over former Goodison boss who returns as the new boss of West Ham on Wednesday.
Everton also host Huddersfield Town on Saturday and neither game will be easy for a side that is stuck in 16th place in the Premier League after defeat at Southampton.
Unsworth's side were poor in a 4-1 drubbing at St Mary's, while the Hammers showed improved form in a 1-1 draw against Leicester City and the Terriers almost held Manchester City.
Meanwhile, the Toffees appear to be nowhere near to finding the man to succeed Ronald Koeman, sacked over a month ago.
says that “big decisions” have to be made both on a new manager and the current squad if the club are to punch their weight in the Premier League.
Everton Transfer Stories
Asked if he felt Everton were now in a relegation fight, Unsworth said:
“I wouldn't go that far so early, I think we're in a tough moment and I think we have a massive week ahead of us.
BONG HIT Manchester United ace could face ban after appearing to kick Brighton defender in the nuts
“If you ask me that question this time next week I'll probably be able to give you a more honest view.
“We're in a tough moment and we're desperate to get back to some home comforts and play in front of our home fans.
Frustrated Unsworth is calling for a big improvement in front of Goodison Park fans
"I've never known a team that needs their fans more than our team does at the moment.”
Two goals in seven second-half minutes from Charlie Austin put the Saints in a commanding position after Gylfi's brilliant equaliser for Everton.
“The second and third goals were really poor,” Unsworth added.
“Teams, at the moment, are not having to work very hard to score against us.
"Whether we play two centre-backs, three centre-backs, a back five, a back four it really doesn't matter at the moment because individuals are under-performing and we're conceding far too many goals.
💰How to claim your FREE £30 bet💰
1
2 Bet £10 or more
3 Sun Bets will stick a £30 bet in your account
“If they didn't know they were in a tough situation, they must do now, they must do, it's evident. It's a massive week for the club.
MOST READ IN FOOTBALL
“If it needs the players who are injured to come back into the team, if it needs January for us to go and get new players, something has to change.
"Because this group of players is under-performing and whether it's Ronald in charge, whether it's myself in charge it doesn't seem to be working so big decisions have to be made.
“Not just on the manager but on personnel as well.”