It’s clear Everton need another big summer transfer window to reach Europe, right? There’s been lots of positive talk from the board, but the on-pitch performances haven’t lived up to expectations, and by the sound of the club’s director of football, this summer might not either.

Marcel Brands has seemed to distance himself from the prospect of signing a much-needed forward when the season’s over, telling the Liverpool Echo: “I think we are a very, very lucky club in England that we have three players with great potential who are just 21-years-old,"

On the impact a new signing might have on he said Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Richarlison and Ademola Lookman’s development, he added: “If I bring in a new player, a huge striker or a name, should I destroy one of them? It is also my goal to protect those boys. Everyone agrees with me that they have great potential and a great future."

That doesn’t sound too promising for Evertonians hoping for more attacking muscle next season. It’s true those players are young and can develop into better players for the future, but Everton need results now, too. It’s important a striker in the prime of his career can lead the young players to succeed and take some weight off their shoulders.

The pressure is high now because big wigs at the club have talked up what a great future they envisage for the team. There’s a new stadium being built, money being pumped in during previous summers, and an attacking manager hired to create an identity. To make a team for the future, you must set the benchmark and begin achieving successes along the way.

These young players can’t be expected to be world-beaters already, but, as long as they’re in the starting line-up, they’re held to the same standards of any other aged player that wears the historic blue kit. It’s unfair and frankly irresponsible to not have more experienced players used to the pressure around them.

If Everton are to become an established European side, they must create a balance of youth and experience. At the moment, that simply isn’t present and it’s reflecting in their inconsistency.

Everton fans, how do you think Marco Silva should improve his squad in the summer? Join the discussion by commenting below.