Everton player ratings vs Leeds United: Godfrey stars, Robin Olsen unbelievable
By Zac Jones
Ben Godfrey put in an incredible performance.
Defence:
Mason Holgate – 6
Mason Holgate came back into the side after being left out against Newcastle United at the weekend, replacing Seamus Coleman at right-back.
Holgate put in an inconsistent performance, getting forward well at times and pushing Leeds’ left side of Jack Harrison and Ezgjan Alioski backwards. However, overall it was a fairly sloppy performance that saw Holgate give away a few soft free-kicks, particularly towards the end of the game, and look quite uncomfortable at right-back.
He was also culpable for Leeds’ goal early in the second half as he and Yerry Mina made a mess of dealing with the ball into the box.
Yerry Mina – 8
Although Yerry Mina could have done a lot better for the goal, he put in an excellent performance overall and was key in seeing Everton through to victory.
The big Colombian dealt with the threat of Patrick Bamford throughout the game, making some vital blocks and interceptions to prevent Bamford from finding the net. Most notably though, Mina won countless important headers from corners and crosses to clear the danger and contribute to a commanding display for the centre back.
Ben Godfrey – 9
If Ben Godfrey can continue his recent run of performances for the remaining fixtures, he may go down as Everton’s signing of the season. The former Norwich man was excellent once again last night and arguably put in his best performance so far.
Filling in alongside Yerry Mina in the centre of defence, Godfrey barley put a foot wrong. His decision-making in defensive situations were faultless, being aggressive when he needed to, but also knowing when to hold his position and see out the danger.
Godfrey also showed a threat going forward, going on an incredible run during the first half as well as winning the flick on from a corner to set up Calvert-Lewin’s goal.
It was a man of the match display from Godfrey who has shown that his presence in the side is vital, regardless of what position he plays.
Lucas Digne – 7
Lucas Digne looked to be somewhere close to full fitness last night after recently returning to the side following a spell on the sidelines.
The Frenchman was a constant threat going forward down the left side, but also defended well in a solid all-round display from the left-back. He also added another assist to his tally, setting up the first goal with a dangerous cross that has poked home by Gylfi Sigurdsson to give the Blues the lead.