A Promising Preseason and a Season to Forget

The Last Chance at Everton

Julien took full advantage of the summer to spend time with his family, recharging his batteries after a challenging previous year. They traveled to the south coast, explored the countryside, and for a little while football was a distant thought. But returning to Bellefield, he felt sharper, hungrier, and—thanks to consistent work in the gym—at his physical peak.

Preseason under David Moyes was tough but positive. Julien impressed in the early friendlies, fitting seamlessly with the first-team midfield group. Moyes took him aside before the season opener: “You’ve earned your place—if you keep this up, you’ll be part of my plans.”

Despite optimism and a hard-working spirit, Everton’s season quickly soured. The squad underperformed, injuries took their toll, and even the emerging brilliance of Wayne Rooney could not save the team from a disappointing campaign.

This was the worst finish in the Moyes era at Everton and the lowest points tally for the club under his management. After the promise of the previous seasons, supporters and players alike were left searching for answers as the club narrowly avoided relegation and regressed instead of building on earlier momentum.

Julien did everything to seize his opportunity, but the pressure and inconsistency around him made regular breakthroughs difficult. In a campaign full of struggle, he gained experience, resilience, and a clear view of what it takes to survive at the very top level.

He started the season motivated and in top physical condition. Moyes deployed him mainly as a central midfielder, but the team’s frequent tactical changes meant he sometimes played deeper or more advanced roles, depending on injuries and form.

• Early season: Julien appeared in 5 of the first 6 league matches—three times as a starter and twice as a substitute. He showed great energy and work rate, but lacked that final edge near the box to cement his place in the starting eleven.

• Autumn and winter: Julien was regularly named in match squads, but Moyes often brought him on in the second half when fresh legs were needed. Competing with players like Gravesen, Carsley, Li Tie, and later Kilbane, he couldn’t lock down a permanent starting role. 

• Late winter and spring: His game time fluctuated—sometimes left on the bench, sometimes not included in the squad. However, as Everton’s form worsened late in the season, he saw increased minutes, helping the team retain possession with his smart passing, even if it didn’t transform matches.

Julien's stats in 2003/04

Julien was most accurately described as a “reliable squad player”—someone Moyes could trust for graft and tactical discipline during tough spells. His training attitude and commitment were exemplary, but to be a leading man for a European-chasing Premier League side, more spark was needed. Observers noted that, while he was valuable, he still lacked the impact required to be a true difference-maker at the highest level.

See you next time with the summer of 2004!