Harry Redknapp has told Sky Sports News that he’s seen Everton new boy Joshua King destroy Liverpool before.
Redknapp has strong links at Bournemouth, where Everton signed King from on deadline day, and he was in contact with Cherries boss Jason Tindall during the transfer window.
Tindall told him that King hasn’t looked himself at Dean Court in recent weeks.
But Redknapp still backs King to be a good signing for Carlo Ancelotti’s side, as if Everton can get him back focusing again, they should have a very effective player on their hands.
“He’s out of contract at the end of the year and I don’t think his heart is with Bournemouth,” Redknapp said.
“I’ve followed his career at Bournemouth and he’s been fantastic, him and Wilson together I’ve seen them murder teams, top teams.
“When they have had Liverpool, Manchester City, Tottenham – those two have been almost unplayable.
“He’s come back this year, but I don’t think he’s been anywhere near the same player, his heart is on a move.
“I spoke to Jason Tindall and as much as he liked Josh King he felt his heart wasn’t where it should be at the moment with Bournemouth.”
King has two goals in his nine games against Liverpool so far, and has only been on the winning team once – so Redknapp’s claim that he destroyed them may be a little over zealous.
However, King certainly does have the capabilities to cause top flight defences problems.
King and Callum Wilson’s partnership at Bournemouth was indeed a fairly effective one, until the Cherries relegation last season.
At Everton King’s role is likely to be slightly different to what he was used to playing under Eddie Howe.
Everton have tended to operate with only one striker, and King is unlikely to be the main man upon his arrival on Merseyside.
The rapid forward should give Ancelotti more cover for Dominic Calvert-Lewin up top though and he can also operate out wide.
That could be crucial for Everton as the season progresses, as the Toffees’ options in the forward areas did look short until King arrived yesterday.
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