Everton’s riposte will be the strategic review, the board’s answer to the criticism they attracted last season and which has resulted in 26 appointments behind the scenes by Thelwell. It has provided “a structure that has enhanced our approach in areas including coaching, analysis, player welfare, player development, governance and recruitment,” according to the chief executive, Denise Barrett-Baxendale. It is, she said: “An overarching strategy outlining our vision and goals across football, commercial growth and engagement.”
The review was conducted by the very same board who are responsible for Everton’s implosion.
Their problems could have been identified quicker with a mirror.