Everton: Player ratings from 2-0 win versus Hajduk Split

We break down every Everton player’s performance, on a night when they took a crucial 2-0 first leg lead over Hajduk Split.

Everton continued their impressive start of the season – at least as impressive as it can be, considering the quality of their opponents. Regardless, they have now registered clean sheets in all four of their competitive games.

After a 2-0 win versus Hajduk Split, the Blues took a major step towards qualifying for the group stage of the Europa League. And the 2-0 victory was well deserved.

Maybe the only quibble on the night, was Everton’s inability to get a third goal and all but seal the tie. There was also the matter of the away fans taking everyone back to the dark days of the 1980s.

All in all though, the Blues continued the momentum of their fine start to the 2017/18 season. Lets take a look at the player ratings:

Jordan Pickford (8/10)

One of the signs of a top-level goalkeeper, is their ability to remain focused when little is happening around them and still be able to make a key save at a moments notice. This is exactly what Pickford did on Thursday night, resulting in three important stops, to deny Hajduk a precious away goal.

Leighton Baines (7)

Got up and down the wing with his usual enthusiasm and effort, while also providing the telling cross for Keane’s goal. Overall, did what Blues’ fans have come to expect over the years.

Ashley Williams (7)

We’ve questioned Williams’ early season form and whether he should be the main partner for Keane in central defence. Regardless, he took advantage of his opportunity versus Hajduk and looked more like the player Evertonians were used to seeing last season.

Michael Keane (8)

If Keane isn’t careful, he will be expected to continue performing at this level for the remainder of the season, with no allowance for any excuses. Of course, we (mostly) don’t really mean this, but he continues to make it look easy at the back, while also providing the bonus of his first goal for the Blues.

Cuco Martina (7)

Martina’s underwhelming preseason performances are now a thing of the past – at least on the evidence of his last two games. Looked good at both ends of the pitch, as he justified Ronald Koeman’s faith in him.

Idrissa Gueye (8)

Versus Stoke on Saturday, we had the lesser spotted Idrissa Gueye attempt at goal – on Thursday night, we had the even rarer sighting of Gueue actually scoring. It all but secured victory for Everton, while putting the cherry on the cake of another impressive performance by the midfielder.

Morgan Schneiderlin (6.5)

Was compromised by a yellow card, which saw him replaced at half time. Regardless, he played very well during his time on the pitch.

Ademola Lookman (7)

Everton are spoilt for choice when it comes to young talent, with Lookman offering a prime example on Thursday night. Had an excellent all around game, especially during the first 45 minutes, doing everything wanted from him and then some.

Davy Klaassen (6.5)

If we’re honest, Klaassen hasn’t quite lived up to the level expected of him yet, in an Everton shirt. Had his moments — including his involvement in both goals — but was again substituted during the second half.

Kevin Mirallas (5.5)

We want to write something positive about Mirallas, we really do……(thinking)……got it! He wasn’t the worst player on the pitch.

Wayne Rooney (7)

Some people will focus on Thursday night showing that Rooney is no longer equipped to play as a lone striker. We prefer to look at the fact he created opportunities for himself and other, including the assist for Gueye’ goal.

Substitutes:

Tom Davies (7)