Everton FA Cup winner Anders Limpar has expressed surprise at David Moyes’ public remarks about Everton striker Beto during the pre-season. Limpar suggested that such feedback should be given privately and believes Moyes’ comments may have been intended as motivation for the player.
During a press conference ahead of Everton’s friendly with Manchester United earlier this month, Moyes discussed his concerns over Beto’s performances. “I’ve been a bit disappointed with Beto and I’ve told him. (…) We’re needing a bit more and he can do more and he has done more. (…) So we’re hoping we can get a bit more from him, but he’s a really honest working lad and I’m sure he’ll try and prove that tonight,” said Moyes.
Beto managed one goal in pre-season, scoring from the penalty spot during a draw with Accrington Stanley. His position could be under pressure following the arrival of Thierno Barry, who was signed from Villarreal in the summer.
Limpar, speaking to Premier League Betting, shared his perspective on Moyes’ approach: “Over the years you would have never ever heard Moyes criticise a player. Suddenly he criticised Beto. (…) I’m not sure why he’d do that. I know Moyes that he will probably sit down with him hours and hours and tell him what to do and not to do so I’m a little bit surprised that he’s telling everybody he hasn’t got a good preseason. (…) You should take that behind closed doors. (…) Moyes is not just verbal. He’s a thinker. He thinks before he speaks. (…) So for some reason it has to come out in his eyes. Probably a kick up the a**, I think that.”
Everton started their Premier League campaign with a defeat at Leeds United, where Beto wore the number nine shirt and played the full match.
