'Nothing ever seems to vary'

The international break has come at precisely the right time for Everton.

Another uninspiring showing at London Stadium on Saturday highlighted further how our one-dimensional approach is becoming a hindrance.

West Ham, and more specifically Julen Lopetegui, appeared to be under increasing pressure. A match seemingly not made in heaven, Everton had a great opportunity to go there and snaffle three much-needed points.

What we have seen so often this season presented itself again, albeit at a slightly elevated level than we had seen at St Mary's the previous week.

The game had a distinct feeling of two managers who dare not lose. Two sides cancelling each other out at every turn.

This is where the frustration within the Everton fanbase derives from. The approach to each and every game never seems to vary.

We long for the day when we become competitive once more and play with a freedom that our rigid setup currently prohibits.

An argument can clearly be made that this style just does not quite cut it. Seven wins in 2024 simply is not good enough, even considering last season's caveats of points deductions and off-field dramatics.

Opta rated Everton's first 10 fixtures, external as the easiest in the Premier League. Our current points return is somewhat unacceptable on that basis.

Poor performances simply cannot be accepted week in, week out. It should not be the norm to approach every game as if we are facing Manchester City.

The two-week break offers a time for the club to refocus before a difficult December. The pause button at the club needs to be unpressed sooner rather than later.

Currently, there is a distinct lack of direction. It feels that the beginning of the Friedkin Group's reign is the possible remedy to the malaise.

Find more from Mike Richards at Unholy Trinity, external