Everton player ratings vs Southampton: Richarlison ruthless, late Pickford save secures win

Michael Keane lead the Everton defence from the front.

Defence:

Lucas Digne – 7.5

Lucas Digne was afforded far too much freedom by Jad Bednarek and Moussa Djenepo as Bednarek often drifted inside, almost playing as a centre back. Digne’s early crosses were dealt well but with constant space being allowed, he was an evergreen threat on the left side. Digne was on point with his crossing and did well to negate Djenepo’s threat. The Frenchman won seven aerial duels, 11 duels and made three recoveries, rounding off a strong performance.

Michael Keane – 8

Keane had a goal ruled out on the offensive front but was fully immersed in keeping the Southampton striker duo away from the Everton goal area. Made important clearances and blocks and was positionally accurate. On the attacking front, Keane was able to get a couple of headers that produced excitement but not produce the required finish. Resilient performances have now become a weekly thing for Keane as he was the best defender in the backline.

Ben Godfrey – 7

Had a nervy movement when he fell over in the Everton box resulting in Che Adams falling with shouts of a penalty by the Southampton players. Apart from that, Godfrey was solid in the first half and partnered Keane well in keeping Che Adams and Danny Ings in check. The former Norwich City man was the most accurate passer of the ball with 91% passing efficiency and made four recoveries.

Mason Holgate – 6.5

Mason Holgate was marginally offside when he laid off the header to Michael Keane who headed home, hence getting the second goal disallowed. Holgate was well in sync and coped well with the threat of Nathan Redmond. Holgate occasionally went forward but didn’t have much to offer. From deadball situations, he performed his task brilliantly of being the man on the far post.