Koeman: Everton in a bad place
Everton manager Ronald Koeman has admitted that his side are going through a difficult period after they beat Sunderland 3-0 in the Carabao Cup.
Two goals from youngster Dominic Calvert-Lewin and one from substitute Oumar Niasse was enough for the 'Toffees' to cruise to victory over Sunderland, who have their own problems as they sit in 21st place in the Championship having only won once so far this term.
The win ended Everton's dire run of form, with Koeman's side having previously lost four straight games without scoring a goal in all competitions.
In general, the Dutcham was happy with the win, with the former Barcelona man pointing out just how significant a victory was in light of his side's recent struggles.
"Overall positive," said Koeman after the game. "If we can rest some players for the weekend even against a Championship club we know every game in every competition can be a difficult one. We worked hard, the boys did well and we scored three goals It was a good game. maybe we had chances to score more goals.
"Everybody knows we're in a difficult moment and scoring goals and winning games is the best medicine to get our confidence back. Let's hope it is a boost for the coming Saturday."
Calvert-Lewin was picked out for praise by the Everton boss, with his opener key in allowing Everton to settle and control the game.
"He (Calvert-Lewin) did well. He's strong, he's fast. I think the first goal was really important. We were by far the better team but you have to make the difference by scoring," Koeman pointed out.
Koeman also said that Simon Grayson's tactics came as no surprise to him but that the main thing as far as he is concerned was the win.
"We knew they would drop back and defend in a small space. I think we didn't bring enough tempo in the game and we were too slow from the back and it was difficult. It's all about going through to the next round," he concluded.