Out of all the teams in the Premier League this summer, Everton have been one of the least active in the transfer market. At the time of writing they have not brought in any new faces into the squad. In fact there only piece of business has been to make Steven Pienaar’s move from Borussia Dortmund permanent. Perhaps their most important signing has been to extend the contract of manager David Moyes, although the details have yet to be finalised. Moyes has been at Goodison Park for six years and has developed them from perennial relegation strugglers to fighting for the European spots.

Certainly Everton need to strengthen before the transfer window closes at the end of August. For some time they have been linked with a move for Sporting Lisbon midfielder Joao Moutinho and a reported offer of £11.5 Million has been rejected. There have also been suggestions that a move for Newcastle United’s striker Alan Smith could be in the offering.

Leaving Everton this summer are Lee Carsley who has moved to Birmingham City on a free transfer. Stefan Wessels has departed to VfL Osnabruck and Andrew Johnson has moved to Fulham for around £11 Million.

The lack of incoming players is causing some concern for Everton fans. They have seen the likes of Portsmouth and Aston Villa strengthen this summer and cannot see how Everton will be able to match last season’s fifth place finish.

If they are to have another good season, much will be expected of the likes of Joleon Lescott, Tim Cahill and Yakubu. Lescott supplied twelve goals last season, which is a remarkable tally for a player who spent much of last season playing at left back. Cahill is a crucial player as he also provides goals from midfield. Unfortunately he has struggled with injuries at lot in the last twelve months. With the sale of Andrew Johnson confirmed, there will also be an added pressure for Yakubu to score the goals.

Everton will have much of last season’ team in place, but it is hard to judge whether they will be able to repeat the performances of last year. If they are unfortunate with injuries then the season may be a very difficult one for their supporters.