Everton Player ratings for August: Demarai Gray sparkles, DCL unstoppable
Everton have managed to remain unbeaten throughout August
Everton have kick started the 2021-22 season in fine form under the counsel of new manager Rafa Benitez. The managerial appointment was initially met with disdain and unsolicited rejection but the results and performances on the pitch have caused a change of heart for many fans.
There have been cheers of Rafa Benitez’s name which is a direct consequence of the dedication that he’s shown towards his job and the football his side is playing. Everton’s August has can be deemed highly successful as the Toffees managed to remain unbeaten in the league, despite facing two tricky away trips while also ensuring progression into the third round of the Carabao Cup.
The inception of Everton’s Premier League campaign was at home in front of a jam packed, roaring Goodison Park sending jolts to Southampton who were on the receiving end on 14th August. In Benitez’s first official game, Everton managed to come back from 1-0 down to win 3-1, showcasing a fighting spirit that was missing last season at times.
After dismantling the Southampton side, Everton travelled to the Elland road, to the reception of a hostile Leeds United fan crowd. A draw was a satisfactory result, followed by a 2-1 away win against Huddersfield in the Carabao Cup. Rafa Benitez’s men rounded up August with another away win at Brighton.
It’s still early days but the signs from Everton infuse a sense of optimism. Everton has had to also tackle the COVID-19 crisis as several first team stars were unavailable for games as they were isolating after coming in contact with a COVID positive person. Andre Gomes, James Rodriguez, Joao Virginia, Ben Godfrey and Moise Kean were players who were not with the squad.
Everton made one more key addition to the team in Salomon Rondon on transfer deadline day as the Venezuelan signs to provide much needed cover for Dominic Calvert-Lewin meanwhile also easing the goalscoring burden from the Englishman’s shoulders.
The Royal Blues sit sixth in the Premier League table, being one of seven unbeaten sides in the Top Flight so far. Post the international break, Benitez’s men take on the stubborn Burnley at Goodison Park