As expected, Everton manager Carlo Ancelotti made a lot of changes in the 3-0 win against Salford City in the Carabao Cup, including giving youngsters their debut, so how did they rate?
Michael Keane’s 8th minute goal gave Everton an early lead and they never looked like losing it. On another night, Everton could have easily scored seven or eight as Salford ‘keeper Vaclav Hladky made some good saves and the Toffees hit the bar and the posts three times. Goals from Gylfi Sigurdsson and Moise Kean’s penalty in the last 15 minutes gave the scoreline a better look.
Defence:
Joao Virginia (Goalkeeper) 6.5
Wasn’t tested in his maiden foray with the first team. He caught a shot directly at him and distributed the ball fairly well. It was the sort of match which made a debut easy.
Jonjoe Kenny (Right-back) 7
A solid performance from the academy graduate. Played solid on defence and got forward well, including a decent shot in the second half.
Michael Keane (Centre-back) 8.5
Man-of-match, an assured performance by the only starter left from Sunday’s victory against Spurs. He opened the scoring with a powerful header. The England international looked commanding in the back four.
Jarrad Branthwaite (Centre-back) 7
The teenager was playing well, before going off with an ankle injury in the 25th minute. The Blues can’t seem to keep central defenders fit. A pity as Branthwaite continues to grow and develop as a player.
Niels Nkounkou (Left-back) 8
An impressive debut from another teenager. The 18-year-old relished getting up and down the line and linked up well with Anthony Gordon. He put in some crosses and passes that on another night might have earned him assists. May well be the answer to replace Leighton Baines.