Everton: Abdoulaye Doucoure makes Liverpool derby admission and fans’ demand

Everton midfielder Abdoulaye Doucoure has had a fruitful start under Rafa Benitez. Under the Spaniard, the Frenchman has enjoyed an advanced role with less defensive responsibilities and the freedom to unleash himself in the attacking half.

The positional tweak paid instant dividends as Doucoure has contributed two goals and four assists in nine Premier League outings, matching his last season goal contribution tally in a short span of time. Doucoure at his peak was in a different ballpark but that’s when things went downhill for Everton and the 28 year old who suffered a stress fracture ruling him out for at least four weeks.

With the monumental presence of Doucoure gone, the Toffees crumbled in games against Wolves and Watford, worsening the state of the team. The former Watford man returned to the lineup against Brentford but was not up to pace with the rest of the team which was understandable after he spent 40+ days on the sidelines.

The 1-0 loss was another dagger to Everton’s heart as anger rose among fans. Everton are going through one of the worst periods and the Liverpool derby has come at the worst possible time. The Toffees are desperate to get a result but the clouds of fear hover over their hopes.

Abdoulaye Doucoure will do everything possible in his power to help Everton

Doucoure will be expected to start against Liverpool and the 28 year old will be hoping he can get into his rhythm and carry out his role of box-to-box midfielder. Ahead of the Merseyside derby, the central midfielder spoke to the Everton website and highlighted the importance of doing everything possible to help the side.

"I was in great form [before injury] but I have come back in a difficult moment and have to do everything in my power to help the team. That is what I am working for – we have a big game on Wednesday to get back on track.We need a result in the derby and if we can have it against Liverpool, it will be great for the fans and we can come back and have a strong run. I have never played a derby with the fans and they will very important for us.It is not so easy for us at the moment but we need them and can have a great result on Wednesday. We know the fans are demanding more, that is normal, you play for Everton and have to get results. At the moment that is not the case. Every player has to show more character and aggression and achieve results to make the fans happy. (via club’s official website)"

The Everton fans are starting to turn toxic and are exasperated by the current run of form. Considering the injuries and the current shape, the doors to a victory almost seem shut but if the extra passion can act as a driving force and if Everton can pull off a miracle, fans will get behind the team soon. Doucoure will have a key role to play along with his partner in crime, Allan.

How influential will Abdoulaye Doucoure will be against Liverpool?