Today Everton beat West Bromwich Albion 2-1, picking up their first Premier League win of the Ronald Koeman era. Gareth McAuley gave West Brom an early lead, but Kevin Mirallas equalized right before the half. Later, Gareth Barry scored in his 100th Everton appearance.
Mason Holgate shows his versatility
Koeman wanted to stretch out West Brom, so he opted not to play three at the back. Also, Seamus Coleman was not fit. Koeman ended up playing Mason Holgate at right-back, rather than his natural position of centre-back, although Holgate broke into the Barnsley side as a right-back. At times Holgate looked troubling, including when he gave up a free kick on the edge of the box right before time expired. However, his assist to Barry certainly made up for any mistakes.
Ross Barkley looks revitalised under Koeman
Ross Barkley was included in the England squad for Euro 2016, but was one of two players who never played. So far this season, Barkley is showing why he should be playing more for England in the future. He and Mirallas linked up well for the Belgian’s equalizer. However, he did miss a fabulous chance, after a great pass from debutant Yannick Bolasie. Overall, Barkley had a very solid game and looks like he will have many more to come.
Yannick Bolasie shows why Koeman paid so much for him
This week, Everton announced the signing of Yannick Bolasie for £30million. When he came on for Gerard Deulofeu he showed some hints of what he can offer. As a pacy, powerful player, he won balls in the air and beat defenders with his speed. He also had a beautiful ball that Barkley should have finished to put the game. Bolasie’s biggest problem has been consistency, and if Koeman can get him to be more consistent, he will be a very dangerous player.
Romelu Lukaku changes Everton completely
When Lukaku came on in the 35th minute, he changed the game. While he himself didn’t have a great game by his standards, when he came on everyone else started playing better. He helped Everton open up a lot when he came on the field and also helped hold up the ball when Everton had some tough defending to do.
And even better for Everton fans, after the game Koeman announced Lukaku will be staying at Everton, quashing recent speculation linking him with a return to Chelsea. After seeing what he can do as a substitute, it is going to be very scary what he can do when fully fit.
What will Everton do when all their defenders return?
For now, Koeman has a very good problem on his hands with regards to his defence. Right now, he has a lot of central defenders and very few full-backs. The key will be to find the best pairings, especially when Ashley Williams returns to full fitness. So far, Williams has only been able to play a little, but he soon will return to fitness. Also, will Everton continue to play four at the back, or stick with three at the back?
