The revamped midfield looked a class apart, especially with the additions of Doucoure and Allan. Allan and Doucoure looked as if they had been playing together for years instead of days. Outplayed the Spurs’ midfield.
Midfield:
Allan (Defensive midfielder) 9
Man-of-match. An impressive debut from the Brazilian. He screened the back four well and continuously won the ball and moved it on to a teammate quickly. Worked hard and never stopped running. Outplayed former Everton target Hojbjerg. by a large margin. Showed he is much more than just a ball-winner. Responded well to the trust Carlo Ancelotti showed in him.
Abdoulaye Doucoure (Central midfielder) 8
Never stopped running. Tackled hard, distributed the ball well. Looked like he and Allen and been playing together for a long time. He didn’t seem to tire and was full of energy from start to finish. Showed his speed and determination, early in the second half as he chased down Lucas Moura and stopped him on the break. Minutes later Calvert-Lewin scored. He and Doucoure should only get better.
Andre Gomes (Central midfielder) 7
Played a solid role in Everton’s new look midfield. Help maintain and rotate possession until substituted in the 68th minute. Playing with Allan and Doucore helped Gomes play better. Seemed far more like the player Everton thought he could be. His best performance in months.