Sean Dyche expressed frustration over the missed opportunities of Everton players to prove their worth for increased inclusion after a disappointing friendly loss to Coventry City. The team suffered a 3-0 defeat at the hands of their Championship opponents, showing a lack of tactical sharpness and fighting spirit at the CBS Arena.

While Dyche emphasizes the importance of fitness over results, he demanded a higher standard than what was displayed on Tuesday night. Despite facing challenges like injuries and playing against a team further along in their preseason preparations, the Everton manager expected a better performance against Preston North End in the upcoming match.

Goals from Ellis Simms, Ephron Mason-Clark, and Victor Torp sealed the win for Coventry, with Everton unable to mount a significant response. Dyche acknowledged some positive displays, particularly from Michael Keane and new signing Tim Iroegbunam, but overall felt disappointed with his team’s performance.

He had intentionally scheduled friendlies against Championship sides like Preston to test his players but hoped for a more competitive showing. Dyche emphasized the need for players to step up and showcase their capabilities to secure a place in the team, but felt that this edge was lacking in the match against Coventry.

Looking ahead to the Preston game, Dyche was optimistic about the potential return of key players like James Tarkowski and Idrissa Gueye, as well as the possible debut of Jesper Lindstrom and involvement of new signing Jake O’Brien. However, there were concerns about Youssef Chermiti, who had been a standout performer in preseason but suffered a foot injury whose severity is still under evaluation.

As Everton gears up for the trip to Deepdale, Dyche highlighted the importance of bolstering the squad with depth to meet the club’s standards and ambitions within the constraints of their resources.