Three defeats in three games have delivered a harsh reality check to Everton but the clearest lesson has been what many have suspected for months - this side lacks firepower.
In the aftermath of the miserable defeat to Minnesota United, at the height of pre-season, Frank Lampard himself alluded to that being his biggest problem as he highlighted his need for re-enforcements going forward, particularly in the wake of Richarlison's sale. Everton went on to enjoy a positive transfer window but, even with the addition of Neal Maupay and Dwight McNeil, doubts about the strength of Everton's frontline lingered.
The loss of Dominic Calvert-Lewin to a freak knee injury on the eve of the campaign only served to worsen the issue and, for so long, Everton fans have approached every pre-match press conference desperate for news of his return. That came at St James' Park, the 11th game of the Premier League season, and it is a welcome boost for a side in desperate need of a clinical edge. Lampard will hope, with justification, that form will follow fitness and the 25-year-old can fire the Blues to a comfortable season.
