Everton’s transformation under David Moyes is gathering momentum, and at the heart of it all stands Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, a summer signing whose impact has been as immediate as it is profound. As the Toffees prepare for their next Premier League clash, the narrative swirling around Goodison Park is one of tactical evolution, youthful energy, and tantalizing partnerships—none more so than the burgeoning connection between Dewsbury-Hall and Jack Grealish.
Arriving from Chelsea after a brief stint in London, Dewsbury-Hall wasted no time in establishing himself in Moyes’ midfield. His journey to Merseyside has been marked by adaptability and a relentless work ethic—traits that have made him indispensable in Everton’s new-look 4-3-3 formation. This tactical shift, orchestrated by Moyes, has seen the Toffees move away from the direct, high-speed attacks of previous seasons in favor of a more considered, possession-based approach. Dewsbury-Hall is the linchpin in this system, linking defense and attack with a blend of technical proficiency and vision that few in the squad can match.
"What a goal by Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall!" Everton’s official account exclaimed after his emphatic left-footed strike against Wolverhampton Wanderers, a moment that encapsulated the midfielder’s growing influence. But it’s not just the goals—Dewsbury-Hall’s partnership with Grealish has electrified Everton’s left flank. In three of their four starts together, Dewsbury-Hall has passed more to Grealish than any other teammate, racking up 29 passes. The chemistry is evident: Dewsbury-Hall has created 12 chances for Everton so far this season, three of which were for Grealish alone. Their interplay even led to an early assist in the home clash with Brighton & Hove Albion, with Grealish subsequently setting up Iliman Ndiaye for the opening goal at Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Numbers tell the story of Dewsbury-Hall’s creative force. Ahead of Matchweek 6, he and Grealish ranked second and third in the Premier League for key passes, trailing only Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes. Dewsbury-Hall’s ability to operate in a roving No 10 role, drifting across the pitch and making progressive runs, has given Moyes the tactical flexibility he craves. Whether acting as a pivot in midfield or driving forward to support the attack, Dewsbury-Hall’s presence has lifted Everton’s attacking threat to new heights.
Set-pieces have become a particular weapon in Everton’s arsenal, thanks in large part to Dewsbury-Hall’s pinpoint delivery. He is second only to West Ham’s James Ward-Prowse for chances created from set-plays this season, with six to his name. The numbers are striking: Everton have had the most shots from set-pieces in the Premier League (28) and boast an xG of 3.17 from such situations, a dramatic improvement over last season’s struggles. Moyes has capitalized on Dewsbury-Hall’s ability to whip in dangerous crosses, crowding the six-yard box and targeting defenders like Jake O’Brien and Thierno Barry for near-post runs.
It’s not just about the statistics, though. Dewsbury-Hall’s work rate is off the charts—he averages 11.1 kilometers per 90 minutes, more than any other Everton player with significant minutes this season. He hasn’t missed a single minute of action, becoming a must-pick for Moyes and a model of consistency. The midfielder’s stamina and energy have injected fresh life into Everton’s engine room, allowing the team to press higher and transition more fluidly between defense and attack.
Everton’s style has evolved as a result. With Dewsbury-Hall and Grealish orchestrating play, the team’s xG per 90 minutes has climbed from 1.13 last season (17th in the league) to 1.42 (now 7th). Shots per game have also increased, reflecting a side that is both more creative and more dangerous in the final third. The shift away from direct attacks—Everton’s direct speed has dropped from 1.92 to 1.47 meters per second—has brought greater control and composure to their build-up play.
Yet, for all the positives, challenges remain. The Premier League is an unforgiving arena, and Dewsbury-Hall will need to maintain his fitness and confidence to continue thriving. Moyes, for his part, is acutely aware of the pressures facing young talents. Balancing expectations, managing game time, and nurturing development are all part of the manager’s remit. The risk of injury is ever-present, and with Dewsbury-Hall’s all-action style, careful rotation and support will be vital to keeping him at his best.
The ripple effects of Dewsbury-Hall’s arrival extend beyond the pitch. His ability to draw defenders and create space has benefited teammates like Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Anthony Gordon, who now find more room to operate in the final third. Moyes’ commitment to integrating younger players, with Dewsbury-Hall mentoring those around him, is fostering a collaborative, growth-oriented environment at Finch Farm. The hope is that this strategy will not only yield short-term results but also lay the foundations for sustained success.
Of course, Everton’s resurgence hasn’t gone unnoticed. Transfer rumors have begun to swirl around the club’s brightest prospects. Jarrad Branthwaite, the 23-year-old center back, is reportedly attracting interest from both Liverpool and Manchester United, with the latter said to be considering a £65 million bid in January. The Toffees are keen to retain their defensive stalwart, who is under contract until 2030, but the speculation underscores the importance of securing the futures of their young core—including Dewsbury-Hall, whose performances could soon draw admiring glances from elsewhere.
Meanwhile, the women’s side has made headlines of its own, with goalkeeper Katie Startup joining Everton on an emergency loan. Startup, who began her senior career with Charlton Athletic and later played for Brighton & Hove Albion and Manchester City, brings valuable experience and depth to the squad. Manchester City, her most recent club, wished her well during her spell at Everton, highlighting the collaborative spirit that often defines the women’s game.
As Everton prepare to host West Ham United, all eyes are on Dewsbury-Hall and his dynamic partnership with Grealish. The Hammers, who have struggled mightily to defend set-pieces this season, will be wary every time Dewsbury-Hall stands over a corner. With his energy, vision, and technical quality, the midfielder represents the cutting edge of Moyes’ evolving blueprint.
Can Everton’s youthful revolution carry them back to the upper echelons of English football? The signs are promising. With Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall at the heart of the action, the Toffees look ready to write an exciting new chapter in their storied history.
