We continue our review of the past Everton season, this time looking at the squad in depth.

We know what you’re probably thinking. All of the gloom and doom following Carlo Ancelotti’s departure has left most Evertonians feeling hopeless and confused. The uninspiring names being linked as the new Everton manager isn’t helping change that.

However, I’m here to brighten your day. Despite the team potentially starting back at square one, I’m going to take a look at the strengths in Everton’s current squad and the future for (hopefully) years to come.

Left-backs

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This might be one of Everton’s biggest strengths for both the present and future. Lucas Digne has been an absolute delight to watch and has fit right in as Leighton Baines’ successor. The Frenchman is turning 28 in July and due to his great success with the Blues so far, we can expect him to continue to prosper in this role for years to come.

Right below Digne on the pecking order is 20-year-old Niels Nkounkou and 16-year-old Thierry Small. Both youngsters have impressed so far during their short time with the team and if the Blues can hold onto both or at least one of them, the left-back position is looking solid for years to come.

Forwards

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I think a lot of people forget that Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Richarlison are both only 24. Sure, they might’ve had their dry spells this past season, but Evertonians have seen their quality and can only expect them to learn and grow.

Not to mention, Ellis Simms has been banging in goals for fun for Blackpool and looks like a promising one for the future. If Moise Kean were to return (which seems doubtful at this point), Everton’s current and future forward depth would be just about set.

Marcel Brands

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Anyone beats Steve Walsh, right? All joking aside, away from the squad, I believe Brands is the right man for the job of Everton’s director of football, and oozes confidence and progression.

He clearly has the same feeling from the board as well, with a recent contract keeping him at the club until 2024 (take that contract length with a grain of salt though, cough Carlo cough). Brands has also reinforced his desire to expand Everton’s Stateside outreach by facilitating an upcoming American pre-season trip for the first time since 2013.

Brands has a full plate this summer as the managerial search rages on, as well as plenty of players who still need to go and many more the club desperately need to bring in; but I have faith that 59-year-old can get the job done.

What are your thoughts? Any other strengths we might’ve missed? Let us know in the comments below!