It was a decent first season at Goodison Park for Marco Silva last year.
Although his side could only repeat the top eight finish that they secured 12 months earlier, there were some standout improvements to their underlying numbers which highlighted their improving potential under the Portuguese coach.
Under Silva last term, Everton scored more goals, averaged more shots, conceded fewer goals and increased their overall average in terms of ball possession. This was as a direct result of Silva’s intention to establish the Toffees as the most dominant and commanding side in as many of their matches as possible.
Another striking factor of Silva’s philosophy last season was illustrated in his sides Passes Per Defensive Action (PPDA) average.
PPDA provides an insight into how frequently a team presses, by measuring how many opposing passes are allowed before a defensive action is made to regain the ball.
The lower the figure, the more aggressive the team are in pressing the ball.
Everton's average of 9.36 last season ranked them as the second most aggressive pressing side in the Premier League behind only Manchester City.
A high and aggressive press is a staple of most top sides. Deploying the same limits the amount of time an opposition player has on the ball whilst simultaneously closing down passing angles, making it difficult for opponents to build passing sequences and even forcing mistakes in their play.
Not just a good defensive tool, it is also a worthwhile offensive one, as it can often force possession turnovers in areas high up the pitch and close to the opposition's goal.
Although the Premier League season is just four games old, it’s encouraging to see Everton have started the season very much in the same fashion as the last.
So far, Everton’s PPDA has dropped to an average of 6.44. This currently ranks as the most aggressive press in the league, bettering the likes of Liverpool and Manchester City.
Although Everton are still yet to face any of the top six, their prowess in this department looks set to another crucial component to their play this season.
