The Everton attack has failed to click at the start of this season. The Toffees have failed to find the back of the net in their first two Premier League games. Last season’s scoring woes look to continue, but new transfer Iliman Ndiaye could be the difference that manager Sean Dyche needs going forward.
Iliman Ndiaye Is the Key to Everton Attack
No One Else Like Iliman Ndiaye at Everton
Ndiaye brings a new and exciting aspect to this Everton squad. The Toffees recruitment has been geared toward more industrious players to go with Dyche’s pragmatic tactics.
This style of player has helped the club maintain its Premier League status over the last couple of seasons. Having faced their toughest survival last year due to multiple points deductions the club is now looking to climb its way back up the table.
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Not since the likes of Gerard Deulofeu or Yannick Bolasie have the Goodison Park faithful seen someone with flair on the pitch. With a nickname like ‘Skili’, Ndiaye could bring a new level of excitement to the blue side of the Mersey.
A Lack of Defensive Work Rate?
Defensive workrate is an essential characteristic of Dyche’s tactics, and the worry was that this may be Ndiaye’s downfall. Perhaps this is due to the cliche that skilful players with flair don’t track back and can often be selfish. However, the former Sheffield United player has bucked that assumption early.
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His work rate during his few appearances have seemed to fit perfectly with the team’s philosophy. During his Premier League minutes, the Senegal international has won four tackles; only three Everton players have more.
The Most Progressive Player at Everton
In the league, Everton have lacked any real threat to the opposition defence, managing just two shots on target over their first two matches. Dyche has stuck with the front four from last season, which managed just 40 goals. Ndiaye could be the difference needed when going forward.
Despite playing just 62 minutes over the first two league games ‘Skili’ has had half (four) of Everton’s carries into the opposition penalty area. This is accompanied by his six progressive carries, while the rest of the squad have a combined 16. Comparatively, Abdoulaye Doucoure, who Iliman is fighting with for the starting spot, has had three with double the game time.
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His skill was on display in Everton’s midweek win against Doncaster Rovers. The attacking midfielder scored as he turned his opponent in midfield before carrying the ball into the box and finishing in the bottom corner.
Dyche stated after the Carabao Cup match that he believes that Ndiaye was especially effective in the wider areas. We could see him rotate through the middle and wing, combining with Jack Harrison and Dwight McNeil to create a more dynamic Everton attack.
If Ndiaye is given the chance, he could unlock a new style of play for a stagnate Everton attack. With no sign of threatening the goal so far this season, a change is needed.
