Dwight McNeil’s rollercoaster season at Everton has taken another twist, and fans are starting to wonder if the winger is being held to a different standard than his teammates.

The 26-year-old looked destined for a fresh start at Crystal Palace during the January transfer window. A deadline-day move worth up to £20 million was all but finalized—McNeil had even traveled to London and completed his medical. But in a dramatic last-minute reversal, Palace pulled the plug, leaving the player and his family publicly frustrated.

After the deal fell through, manager David Moyes initially left McNeil out of the squad, but by late February, the former Burnley man was back in the starting XI for a tough trip to St. James’ Park. And to his credit, he delivered. Playing on the right wing, McNeil showed discipline off the ball and played a key role in Everton’s second goal, with a brilliant first touch and shot that led to Beto’s tap-in.

He followed that up with a strong performance at home against Burnley, earning a standing ovation when substituted. It seemed like McNeil had turned a corner.

But since the recent three-week break, his form has dipped again. While he initially fit well into Moyes’ system, his recent displays have failed to match those early standards. The question now is whether McNeil will get the same patience and opportunities as others in the squad—or if the double standards are starting to show.

For Everton fans and neutral observers alike, this is a story worth watching as the season enters its crucial final stretch.