All 3 summer signings made their debut in Everton’s impressive 1-0 opening victory against Tottenham Hotspur. The Everton midfield looked like they played together for a long time. How did they rate?
Everton opened the season in an impressive fashion, ending their slump against Spurs and so-called “Top-six” teams. The brand new midfield played as if they had been together for years, not for a handful of training sessions. Dominic Calvert-Lewin showed he deserves the legendary No. 9 jersey with a powerful header from a great free kick from Lucas Digne.
To be honest, Everton could have scored more. It’s going to be hard for Toffees’ supporters to temper their enthusiasm after this performance. And it would be hard to blame them.
Defence:
Jordan Pickford (Goalkeeper) 8.5
Made two pretty good saves in the first half from Dele Alli and Matt Doherty. Commanded his area well and went hard after balls he could get to and punched them into safety. Could well have been man of the match. A reassuring outing.
Seamus Coleman (Right back) 7
A typical good Coleman outing, defended well, provided some width on the right. Kept Heung Min-Son silent for the most part of the game. The right back job is still his to lose.
Michael Keane (Centreback) 7
Another solid performance from the England defender. Defended well and was very good in the air. He and Mina looked a decent partnership.
Yerry Mina (Centreback) 7
A good performance from the “other” Colombian in the side. He also was strong in the air. Both he and Keane benefitted from Allen’s screening in front of them.
Lucas Digne (Left back) 8
His great free kick set up Calvert-Lewin’s opening goal. Played well on defence and was his usual marauding self in getting down the wing. Spurs’ debutant Matt Doherty was substituted in the 76th minute.