David Moyes has not held back in his latest comments about Tyler Dibling , making it clear where he stands on the youngster's situation.
Dibling's move to Merseyside last summer has not gone as planned. He was hoping for a fresh start and more opportunities, but it has been anything but that so far.
The 19-year-old has found it tough going under Moyes, barely featuring for the first team. And with limited minutes comes limited chances to make an impression.
James Garner has tried to offer some words of encouragement along the way, but Dibling has not managed to grab his moment yet. The opportunities have been scarce, and he has not made the most of them.
Since joining Everton over the summer, Dibling has made just four league starts under Moyes.
Photo by Jess Hornby/Getty Images
Moyes was not impressed by Dibling during his spell in the side while Iliman Ndiaye was away at the Africa Cup of Nations.
And since Ndiaye's return, the Englishman has found himself back on the bench.
Speaking to the Daily Mail, Moyes did not hold back when discussing Dibling's opening months on Merseyside.
"I'd be thinking I better pull my finger out and show the manager what I was really about," the Scotsman said.
"If you want to be at the elite end of football then the competition is stiff and you have to live with that. The one thing Tyler has got on his side is that he is young.
"He is quite a quiet boy who might take more time to settle in, but he needs to show when he gets the opportunities."
"I think there are little glimpses of just beginning to get angry which I am enjoying. What we want from him is being direct, taking people on, committing people.
"He needs to find a way of becoming that player who we thought would be creating. Are you going to get us some assists, are you going to score some goals?"
It is clear that Dibling has not lived up to expectations following his high-profile move to the club.
Finding the right balance will be important, as he is still a young player with time on his side. But questions are being asked given how much he is being paid for what has been a disappointing start.
Moyes has repeatedly opted for Dwight McNeil instead of Dibling, and given recent comments, it would not be surprising if that trend continues.
McNeil may not have moved to Crystal Palace as expected on deadline day, but Moyes clearly trusts him more at this stage.
The challenge is now for Dibling to force his way back into contention and show why Everton were so keen to sign him in the first place.
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