Angry Everton fans decide player is bench option at best after shocking display vs Burnley

Everton Fans Vent Frustration at Dwight McNeil After Dull Burnley Stalemate Everton’s Boxing Day trip to Turf Moor ended in a frustrating 0-0 draw against Burnley, extending the Toffees’ winless run and leaving supporters increasingly irritated with certain players. The match saw little quality in the final third, with Everton failing to seriously test the Burnley goalkeeper despite occasional spells of possession. The result leaves David Moyes’ side stuck in mid-table, a long way from the European push many had hoped for after a busy summer.

While the team’s overall lack of cutting edge drew criticism, much of the anger from the travelling support – and online – has focused squarely on winger Dwight McNeil. The former Burnley player, returning to his old ground, struggled to make a meaningful impact. He was described by many observers as steady but uninspiring, offering little in the way of pace, trickery, or end product.

Fans were particularly unimpressed given the lively cameo from teenage summer signing Tyler Dibling, who looked far more dangerous with his direct running and willingness to take on defenders. Supporters quickly took to social media and forums to voice their disappointment. One fan wrote: “What does Moyes see in McNeil that he keeps picking him ahead of Dibling? Genuinely baffled.” Another added: “If McNeil starts over Dibling again, I’ll lose the plot. We need someone who can actually beat a man.”

Others pointed to McNeil’s predictability, with several supporters noting he rarely uses his right foot and tends to hug the touchline without creating real danger. The contrast with Dibling’s energy and fearlessness has only sharpened the criticism, with growing calls for the youngster to be handed a regular starting spot.

Moyes defended his team selection after the game and admitted the squad needs more quality and depth in attacking areas when the January window opens. Despite polite applause from the away end at full-time, the draw felt like two points dropped in what remains a tight battle to stay comfortably clear of trouble.For Evertonians, patience with underperforming players is wearing thin. McNeil now faces mounting pressure to improve or risk being overtaken by the exciting new talent breaking through at Goodison Park.