David Moyes acknowledged the need to “add quality and find a way to get results” after his second spell at Everton started with a defeat to Aston Villa.
Ollie Watkins scored the only goal at Goodison Park, where Moyes could not start with a win after replacing Sean Dyche in the dugout earlier this week.
The Toffees remain 16th in the Premier League and just one point clear of the relegation zone after failing to score for the ninth time in their last 11 league games.
Their lack of confidence in front of goal was evident when Dominic Calvert-Lewin fired home a golden opportunity from close range in stoppage time.
Moyes knows he cannot change Everton's fortunes overnight and stressed the need to strengthen during the transfer window.
“You can clearly see over the years that the financial situation has played a role on the pitch and that is the outcome. All supporters are aware of that,” he told BBC Match of the Day.
“There was very little in the game, they had a few chances that we were lucky with. We needed better control of the game, better possession.
“We didn't deliver on set pieces, and we had six or seven corners and a good chance at the end. The game was very tight, just a small mistake allowed them to score.
“It's obviously been a whirlwind. Sean Dyche has left behind a group of players with great character and a great attitude. I'm very happy to take that over.
“What I have to do is add quality and find a way to get results, but you can't change the whole thing straight away.
“I think it is very important if we can add something of that quality and also give the players a push.”
First match: March 16, 2002519th match: January 15, 2025
A second debut in the dugout for the boss.pic.twitter.com/XMWzMWCRa8
— Everton (@Everton) January 15, 2025
Meanwhile, Villa ended a run of five direct defeats in the league as they moved within three points of the Champions League places.
“We were in a bad period and had to break it. Getting three points is very difficult and we are very happy,” said Unai Emery.
“We played 90 minutes and fought very well. In the first half we had some clear chances and in the second we tried to gain even more control. We didn't succeed, but we scored. The win is very important.”
“It's a big win. We knew in advance that we had to win and get through this drought away from home,” Morgan Rogers told Premier League Productions.
“It's such a tough place to get to, and we were breaking down in the second half, but those wins are sweeter than the ones where you win comfortably. We had to be strong and determined, and defensively we were excellent.”
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