Gylfi Sigurdsson and Bernard will be important for Marco Silva if he’s to get the most out of Richarlison at Everton.
Richarlison’s move from Watford to Everton this summer grabbed a lot of attention – or, rather, the potential £50million fee did.
The Brazilian had enjoyed a great first half of last season but had a dramatic drop in form after Marco Silva left Watford, with Richarlison not registering a goal or assist since November.
He put some of the doubts to rest immediately, however, scoring twice on his debut as 10-man Everton drew 2-2 with Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Having made a good start once again, it’s important that Silva finds a way to keep the 21-year-old performing – and the key might be how he utilises Gylfi Sigurdsson and Bernard.
Along with Richarlison, the duo will hopefully represent the creative threat at Goodison Park this season – assuming Sigurdsson settles right back in and Bernard adapts to his new team adequately.
Both players will help take the pressure off of Richarlison – something that will greatly benefit a young player and, importantly, something that he didn’t have at Watford over their sub-par second half of the season.
And on a tactical level, the more threats with the ball that Everton have, the less attention there will be on Richarlison and the more space he’ll be afforded.
The difficult part will be fitting all three into the team; both Bernard and Richarlison favour the left flank, with Bernard also comfortable in the middle – although that’s where you’d imagine Sigurdsson will play.
It’s a tricky one for Silva but it’ll likely be the key to both his and Richarlison’s success this season.
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