Sean Dyche accepts Crystal Palace match is must-win as Everton boss under pressure

Sean Dyche knows Everton's home clash with Crystal Palace is a match his side must win (Image: Getty)

Everton boss Sean Dyche has acknowledged the home clash with Crystal Palace is a game they need to win to kick-start their season.

Following four consecutive losses, Everton managed to secure their first point of the season with a draw against Leicester last weekend. However, this marked the third Premier League game in a row where they had lost a lead.

Their opponents on Saturday are also yet to claim a victory, having only managed three draws so far. Dyche is aware that a win for his team would alleviate some of the mounting pressure.

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"The importance of every game is quite obvious but there are some which you look at and think 'That would be considerably favourable to get a win from'," he said.

"We are at that stage, after a tough start, of finding whatever way it is whoever it is against of winning and keep calm about the situation and deliver performances.

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"I think we are still searching for that. I don't think it is helpful when you haven't got that edge of a killer instinct in both boxes.

"We've done that many times before here, coming through tough periods, and we are still coming out of a tough period but I think there are better signs."

Dyche's efforts have been hindered by a series of injuries affecting his squad. However, there is some positive news as first-choice centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite may make his first start of the season following summer groin surgery.

Dyche has also received a boost with Vitalii Mykolenko returning from injury and Idrissa Gueye back from compassionate leave.

Everton's defensive woes have been a concern, with 14 goals conceded in the league already, marking an unstable start to the season.

Dyche commented on the defensive struggles: "Apart from the change in personnel then the format has only changed minorly because we were so strong in that area last season and you don't want to over-change it.

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"It is sticking with the basic principles but in its very simplest form the ball comes into the box someone has to clear it, someone has to head it.

"That attack has been better, certainly in the last two or three games. We're scoring and looking a real threat and then it's also about finding that balance to tighten up at the other end of the pitch, which last season, we did so well with 13 clean sheets.

"I think there are better signs, but those better signs have got to bring wins. I think that's the biggest change, getting that winning edge back."

Sean Dyche accepts Crystal Palace match is must-win as Everton boss under pressure

Sean Dyche accepts Crystal Palace match is must-win as Everton boss under pressure

Sean Dyche accepts Crystal Palace match is must-win as Everton boss under pressure

Sean Dyche accepts Crystal Palace match is must-win as Everton boss under pressure

Sean Dyche accepts Crystal Palace match is must-win as Everton boss under pressure