Since Dyche took charge in January 2023, the former Burnley boss has opted for a 4-5-1 or 4-2-3-1 formation, leaving Calvert-Lewin the only man up front, and this lack of support is perhaps one reason why, to the detriment of his recent goalscoring record.
And that cry of “Change it, Dyche” appears to have substance.
This season, Everton have made the fewest substitutions per game than any other Premier League side, and statistics show that the first change is usually made after an hour.
The manager's reluctance to adjust his template has meant Calvert-Lewin and fellow striker Beto have started just one game together since the Portuguese forward's arrival on Merseyside at the start of last season.
Against a backdrop of ongoing takeover talks, strict spending restrictions that resulted in a threadbare squad and the loss of points for breaches of financial rules, Dyche has avoided relegation in the last two seasons.
However, it looks like another battle for survival this season with Everton in 15th place, just three points above the relegation zone.
Everton have only lost one of their last eight games, but that was a 1-0 reverse with the fighters Southampton.
Club sources had said in September that Dyche's position was “secure” as he had loans from the bank for work done during his tenure and the takeover uncertainty had left the club in a state of flux, likely meaning he would be in his position by then Holds position The purchase is complete.
But the mood of fans and pundits appears to be shifting in favor of the 53-year-old, whose winning percentage of 32.5% is lower than that of previous coaches Roberto Martinez, Ronald Koeman and Marco Silva, all of whom were sacked.
“He is rightly being praised for the work he has done in his first 18 months at the club and the fanbase feel his run is a success,” Everton fan Mike Richards wrote in his commentary weekly column for BBC Sport.
At full-time on Saturday the mood was clear as loud shouts of jeers were heard around Goodison Park.
Dyche said of the reaction: “They can direct it at anyone they want. They expect us to win. I expect us to win.”
Stubbs added: “We are too one-dimensional and too predictable, teams can easily outsmart us. I see players who are mentally and physically exhausted.”
When asked whether Dyche will remain manager next season, Stubbs replied: “I personally don't think so, the end of the season has to be a clean slate for anyone who comes in.”
With the Friedkin Group's takeover of the club looking set to be completed next month, this treacherous run of games before the end of the year could decide Dyche's tenure at Everton.
