David Moyes’ name is synonymous with Everton, his initial twelve-year tenure carving a significant legacy at Goodison Park. During this period, which concluded in 2013, Moyes consistently guided the Toffees to European qualification, a feat that, at the time, was often attributed to his discerning eye for talent.
His first spell saw the emergence of several iconic figures who donned the famous Blue shirt. Future England international Wayne Rooney, for instance, received his crucial first-team break under Moyes` guidance. The formidable full-back pairing of Seamus Coleman and Leighton Baines also owe their Premier League breakthroughs to the Scottish tactician.
However, one player who left an indelible mark on the hearts of Toffees fans, and whose influence is still discussed today, is Tim Cahill.
The Enduring Legacy of the Blue Kangaroo
Tim Cahill, often hailed as Australia`s greatest footballer, etched himself into Everton folklore with his tireless performances and knack for crucial goals. Over 278 appearances at Goodison Park, all under Moyes` tutelage, Cahill netted 68 goals and provided 29 assists, predominantly from an attacking midfield role. His arrival in the 2004/05 season immediately showcased his prolific nature, bagging 11 Premier League goals in his debut campaign – a personal best for his time at the club.
Known affectionately as “The Blue Kangaroo” for his remarkable aerial ability, Cahill`s iconic boxing celebration, typically performed after a powerful header, became a trademark of his attacking play. Russell Jackson, writing in The Guardian, aptly described Cahill as a player who “conjured moments of brilliance when they were needed most.” It’s precisely this ability to impact pivotal moments that Moyes would surely covet in his modern Everton squad.
A New Era, A Familiar Promise: Carlos Alcaraz
Fast forward to the present, and Everton’s current squad, still under Moyes` command, features promising talents like Jack Grealish and Iliman Ndiaye. Yet, a striking comparison has been drawn by football analyst Ben Mattinson, suggesting that in Carlos Alcaraz, Moyes may have unearthed his brand new Tim Cahill.
The 22-year-old attacking midfielder initially joined on loan in January before making his move permanent this summer. In his relatively short time at the club, Alcaraz has made a noticeable impact, featuring 23 times, scoring three goals, and assisting three others. This translates to an average of a goal or assist every 178 minutes in the Everton colours.
Alcaraz truly announced his arrival in his first start for Everton against Crystal Palace last season, where he assisted the opening goal and then scored the winner in a crucial 2-1 victory. That winning goal, a clinical smash from 12 yards after following up a loose ball in the penalty box, certainly evoked memories of Cahill`s decisive contributions. Football scout Antonio Mango, in describing Alcaraz as a “sensation,” highlights the immediate impression he has made.
Further examination of Alcaraz`s statistics from last season underscores his potential to replicate Cahill`s impactful presence:
| Carlos Alcaraz – 2024/25 Premier League Stats | ||
|---|---|---|
| Stat (per 90) | Number | Percentile vs. attackers |
| Goals and assists | 0.58 | 82nd |
| Shots on target | 1.4 | 98th |
| Passes into penalty area | 2.21 | 88th |
| Goal-creating actions | 0.7 | Top 7% |
| Carries into final third | 2.56 | 88th |
| Stats from FBref | ||
These figures reveal a player consistently involved in Everton`s attacking machinery, even when not directly on the scoresheet. His 0.7 goal-creating actions per 90 minutes, placing him in the top 7% of Premier League attacking midfielders, speaks volumes about his influence in breaking down opposition defences. Furthermore, the sheer determination and tenacity with which Alcaraz plays are strikingly reminiscent of Cahill`s famed work rate and never-say-die attitude.
As Everton embarks on an exciting new era at Bramley Moore Dock, the prospect of Carlos Alcaraz blossoming into a player who can consistently produce those “magic moments from nowhere,” much like Tim Cahill did, is a tantalizing one for David Moyes and the Toffees faithful. The comparison carries weight, but Alcaraz`s early performances suggest he might just be capable of carrying it with distinction.
