The Everton fans in the Transfer Tavern were hoping for a bit of respite against Sunderland…

It’s been a very tough few weeks for the Toffees, and a win was desperately needed. After losing to Man Utd convincingly last weekend, there was really no other option for Ronald Koeman.

Fortunately, the players turned up when it counted, with a 3-0 win leading to a massive cheer from the Everton fans in the Transfer Tavern upon the final whistle.

Though they’ve struggled for much of the season, Everton looked very good, albeit against a Championship-level opponent, and that has left the fans in the pub feeling somewhat optimistic.

Koeman can’t think that his problems are solved, though, because they certainly aren’t. There are, however, a number of things that he can take away from the game as he looks to improve his side.

With that said, here are 2 things we learned from Everton’s demolition of Sunderland…

 Ashley Williams’ Form

Ashley Williams had a shocker against the Black Cats.

He has been the butt of many jokes in the Transfer Tavern over the last few hours, and it’s easy to see why. He is a top player, of course, but he looked poor – and it might be time for him to have a week or two off.

On this occasion, he didn’t cost Everton any goals or points, but when the Premier League returns it could be a very different story.

Perhaps it’s time for Koeman to look towards another new addition at the back.

 Oumar Niasse

One area that doesn’t need improving, though, is up front – because Oumar Niasse looks like an incredible player.

He looked very good for the Toffees, and whilst he has often been frozen out by Koeman in the past, that is beginning to look like a big mistake by the Dutchman now.

He even bagged a goal, immediately endearing himself to the Everton fans in the Transfer Tavern.

The forward isn’t the complete package, of course, but if Koeman starts to use him, he could be a valued option for the club this season. He’ll be just like a new signing.