Sam Allardyce absent as Everton players complete lap of appreciation in front of half empty Goodison

Sam Allardyce was conspicuous by his absence as Everton completed their, er, ‘lap of appreciation’ following Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Southampton.

Tom Davies’ late equaliser did little to quell the boos at full time, with the supporters making their feelings towards the manager clear.

When the players returned to the field after the game to thank the supporters, neither Allardyce or his management team returned with them.

Allardyce later claimed he didn’t turn up because of his media commitments, with the game being broadcast live on BT Sport.

“I didn’t come out because of my media commitments.

“You have a certain time to go onto the TV otherwise you get fined, so I have to commit to that.

“That’s what the rules are. Rules are you’ve got a certain time to get out and get your interviews done.

“I clapped to the fans as I went off.”

The majority of the crowd also failed to turn up, as the fans voted with their feet and chose to enjoy the bank holiday sunshine instead of clapping the players for one of the most trying seasons in recent memory.

Farhad Moshiri and Bill Kenwright were both present at Goodison Park and surely must have got the message loud and clear.

The atmosphere threatened to turn ugly when Southampton went ahead, with the usual anti-Allardyce chants emanating from the Gwladys Street.

Davies’ goal may have tempered the anger, but apathy reigned supreme as the weary supporters streamed towards the exits at full-time.

Big change is needed at Everton this summer. And it’s clear where they need to start.