Aggression. It is one of Ronald Koeman’s buzzwords, a phrase which pops up before games, appears in his programme notes and in his post-match press conferences.
Since he arrived at Goodison Park in June, Everton’s manager has used it liberally but often the tone has been negative.
He has lamented the lack of aggression as his side’s bright start to the campaign has dipped, often wondering aloud why it takes his players so long to get to the tempo he demands.
His impatience to see Everton operating at a high level is mirrored in the stands.