SUCH is the voracious appetite for statistics in modern-day football, it is increasingly rare to surprise the most learned supporter.

But there was one fact to emerge this week that raised the eyebrows of David Moyes and doubtless many followers of his team.

With tough tackling and bad injuries once again high on the Premier League agenda, it was curious to discover that Everton are the most fouled-team in the top flight over the past 12 months.

Indeed, Steven Pienaar and Mikel Arteta are the targets for more than their fair share of attention with both among the five most-fouled Premier League players this season.

Moyes, though, refuses to take it as a back-handed compliment and instead believes it signifies how strong physical contact is seemingly being eradicated from the game.

“In truth the tackling has become less, not more,” says the Goodison manager. “It’s a dying art. Whereas once people practised and prided themselves on being good tacklers maybe it’s going.

“Tony Hibbert had a good slide tackle against Manchester United last week. He got to the ball first but if your weight continues through the free kick is given against you.

“I think it’s very hard. I don’t know how you’re supposed to coach that, because when you go for a slide tackle of course your weight has to come through.”