£4.5 million Everton man set for crucial role amid miserable injury and inconsistency crisis

Demarai Gray’s injury came at the worst possible time for Everton

During the spineless performance against Manchester City, Everton lost Demarai Gray to a groin injury early in the first half. Even though there have not been any updates over the Englishman’s injury and how long will he spend time on the treatment table, from the looks of it, Gray could be out for a longer timeframe which further makes the squad vulnerable.

Gray has been one of Everton’s best performers of the season so far, being termed as the bargain of the window at just £1.7 million. His raw pace and ability to take on defenders has been the highlight which has helped the Toffees in launching lightning quick counter attacks.

The recent narrative has also seen Gordon jump Alex Iwobi in the pecking order. Iwobi has simply not worked out. He loses the ball too often, doesn’t carry the ball forward with aplomb and often runs into traffic. His output is poor in front of the goal and crossing skills are lamentable.

Iwobi is one of many examples of failed recruitment under Farhad Moshiri. He was brought to offer directness and pace but after years of abject unproductivity, Iwobi can no longer be counted upon as a viable solution which is why Gray was brought in.