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Everton boss Ronald Koeman shares recent conversation with Mason Holgate

Ronald Koeman, Manager of Everton looks on during the Carabao Cup Third Round match between Everton and Sunderland at Goodison Park on September 20...
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Everton defender Mason Holgate started at centre-back against Bournemouth in Ronald Koeman’s side’s most recent match.

Southampton manager Ronald Koeman gives instructions during the Barclays Premier League match between Hull City and Southampton at the KC Stadium on November 1, 2014 in Hull, England.

Ronald Koeman has told the Liverpool Echo that he has had a conversation with Mason Holgate about changing the defender’s position at Everton.

Holgate has generally been used down the right-hand side this term, but is naturally a centre-back.

The 20-year-old’s only experience of playing in the heart of Everton’s defence this season came in his side’s last match against Bournemouth.

And Koeman has suggested that switching Holgate to centre-back could be a permanent switch.

Mason Holgate of Everton and Joshua King of AFC Bournemouth compete for the ball during the Premier League match between Everton and AFC Bournemouth at Goodison Park on September 23, 2017...

“Both positions, we had a nice conversation one week ago,” Koeman revealed.

“We spoke about his position and the possibility of centre-back. I knew he could be involved but I had other options. Now with some injuries he gets opportunities and all the young players.

“The centre-back position is a really experienced position but Mason I believe and know he can deal with the importance of that position. it is good for the manager that he can play more than one position.”

Holgate helped Everton to a 2-1 win over Bournemouth in their most recent outing, and he has generally impressed when given a chance.

Jermain Defoe of AFC Bournemouth and Mason Holgate of Everton compete for the ball during the Premier League match between Everton and AFC Bournemouth at Goodison Park on September 23,...

The youngster looks to have a very bright future at Goodison Park, and his versatility has crucially helped him gain some important first-team experience.

Everton’s victory over Bournemouth was hugely important, as it lifted them out of the relegation zone and into 14th place in the Premier League table.

Everton’s next contest comes against Apollon Limassol in the Europa League, where Holgate could be handed another chance to impress.