Everton are back in the win column thanks to a great group effort from the boys in blue. Although the score was 2-0, Everton had the opportunity to score more, and they were clearly the better side. Here’s three things that have come to light thanks to this result.
Michael Keane is still Everton’s best center back so far this season
Keane has continued his strong performances this season with yet another masterclass, and he added to his defensive display with another goal.
The 32 year old has stepped up in a big way and looks set to continue his hot stretch and compete for a starting role even when Jarrad Branthwaite returns from injury.
Tim Iroegbunam has been sneakily good this year
James Garner and Idrissa Gana Gueye have been an almost unbreakable duo in the midfield, but Iroegbunam has quietly become a good contributor off the bench. His cameo against Brighton was great, and against Fulham, he was given a start.
He played a great game until a yellow card forced him to come off the game. He was smart in his tackles, held his position well, and circulated the ball. Like Charly Alcaraz, Iroegbunam is a guy that should play more consistent minutes.
The James Garner experiment at right back worked this time
Fans were stifled by Moyes and his decision to start Garner at right back and benching Jake O’Brien. Many thought that O’Brien should have slotted in for James Tarkowski, who has been struggling at center back. Nevertheless, Garner put up a respectable performance at his secondary position.
The stats weren’t particularly impressive, but Sofascore gave him a decent 7.2 match rating. This performance just shows how versatile he is in this system.