Thierno Barry has been a bright spot in Everton’s promising start to the campaign. The French striker, signed from Villarreal last summer, has shouldered the burden up front with just one senior option in that role. His contribution has helped the side remain competitive despite a threadbare squad.
David Moyes will be anxious about any setback for the 22-year-old. Barry has shown physicality and a clinical edge in his early Premier League outings. Losing him would leave the manager with makeshift solutions that have yet to prove consistent at this level.
The squad’s attacking depth remains a talking point after a turbulent transfer window. Everton brought in players like Ainsley Maitland-Niles and retained the services of Jack Grealish on loan, yet the striking department lacks genuine alternatives. Charly Alcaraz and others have been deployed in advanced roles before, but they are not natural number nines.
This situation stems from the summer sales of Iliman Ndiaye and Beto without adequate replacements secured. The collapse of the Folarin Balogun deal added to the frustration. Fans have voiced concerns about the lack of investment in key areas, even as the team sits seventh in the Premier League.
Moyes has spoken openly about the challenges of managing with limited resources. He has emphasised the need for everyone to contribute, but the reality of a single recognised striker highlights the risks ahead. An injury to Barry could force tactical adjustments that opponents might exploit.
The international break offers a chance for recovery, but it also underscores the importance of squad management. Everton’s positive results so far have masked some of these vulnerabilities. Maintaining momentum will depend on keeping key personnel fit and finding ways to share the goalscoring load.
Supporters know from experience how quickly fortunes can shift when depth is an issue. The current mood is optimistic, yet the forward line remains an area where one setback could change the narrative quickly.