Everton manager David Moyes has urged caution after the team's strong start to the 2026-27 Premier League season, avoiding any discussion about European qualification despite their impressive performance. Following a 1-0 home win over Ipswich Town, which brought them to nine points, Moyes stated that the club is not using the word "Europe" this season. The Toffees have two wins and three draws from their first five games, but Moyes wants to ensure the team remains focused and avoids complacency, especially after a challenging end to the previous season when they finished 13th. Moyes acknowledged that Everton had nearly qualified for European competition last season, reaching eighth place in March before a late-season slump left them in 13th place. He explained that he is not publicly setting the goal of European qualification this time around, as the focus remains on performing consistently and achieving the best possible results. The manager believes that by staying grounded and not getting ahead of themselves, the team can build on its current success. Everton's strong start has been largely due to their solid defense, which has recorded five clean sheets in seven matches. Thierno Barry scored the winning goal against Ipswich, his fifth of the season, despite being the team's only recognized striker after the departures of Beto to Fiorentina and Iliman Ndiaye to Manchester City. Moyes expressed concern about the team's goal-scoring efficiency, noting that while they are creating chances, only two of their 21 shots against Ipswich were on target. Moyes returned to Everton in January 2025 when the team was 16th, just one point above the relegation zone. Since then, he has led the club to an unbeaten start, despite challenges such as fan dissatisfaction with the club's transfer policy and financial limitations. Former England midfielder Danny Murphy praised Everton's defensive organization and resilience, saying the team's disciplined approach has allowed them to secure results even when not playing at their peak. Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford described the victory against Ipswich as a positive end to the current phase of the season. The team's next league match is scheduled for 11 October against Hull City. Pickford highlighted Thierno Barry's improved form, noting that the striker's hard work has led to more consistent goal-scoring contributions.