Everton manager David Moyes has acknowledged a pause in contract extension talks amid the club’s recent struggles. The 63-year-old, whose current deal expires at the end of the season, indicated that discussions have slowed partly due to uncertainties surrounding the club’s ownership and recent performance.

Moyes’ remarks come ahead of Everton’s Carabao Cup match against Newcastle United, where a loss would mark their third consecutive defeat following a strong seven-game unbeaten run earlier this season. Such a result could intensify pressure on the manager and test the patience of the club’s supporters.

The club’s ownership under The Friedkin Group (TFG) has been a point of contention. The group recently announced plans to sell the club, prompting Moyes to cite the uncertainty surrounding ownership as a factor contributing to the lull in contract negotiations. TFG CEO Angus Kinnear previously characterized last season’s collapse in Europa Conference League qualification hopes as a failure, after Everton secured just two points from their final seven matches.

Squad depth remains a pressing concern for Moyes, who is reportedly working with as few as 15 senior players due to injuries. Ahead of the Newcastle fixture at Hill Dickinson, the fitness of key players such as centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite and winger Jack Grealish remains uncertain. Veteran defender James Tarkowski has urged the team to overcome recent setbacks, emphasizing the need to start securing positive results. He noted that while the current run of defeats does not feel like a slump, the squad must collectively work to reverse the trend.

With high expectations from the club’s ownership and supporters, Everton faces a crucial period in both managerial stability and on-field performance as they aim to progress in the cup competition and improve their league form.