Whether the existing squad ought to be capable of at least finishing 17th, a grimly limited ambition compared with the club's confident talk of a few years ago, is a fair debate. But with the witness statement of his predecessor as evidence, Pereira should be able to present a strong case for immediate investment.

Godfrey, who was brought to Everton from Norwich City under Carlo Ancelotti, suffered from injuries in his time at Goodison Park, and as a result, slipped down the pecking order which brought his time on Merseyside to an end. However, a move to Atalanta has proved similar, and the duo could be ready to offer him a lifeline again.