Morgan Schneiderlin started for Everton as they drew with Stoke.
Morgan Schneiderlin made his first start for Everton last night in a closely contested game away to Stoke City.
The Toffees managed a 1-1 draw, with Stoke’s Ryan Shawcross scoring an own goal.
Stoke City’s Ryan Shawcross appeals to referee Craig Pawson
Remarkably it was Schneiderlin’s first Premier League start of the season, having been overlooked by Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho and used only as a substitute and in cup competitions.
That is why the French international pushed for a January exit, and it looks already like Everton have bought shrewdly.
He played all 90 minutes last night and was effective in midfield, completed an impressive 96 per cent of his passes. By comparison, no other Everton player managed over 82 per cent.
Stoke City’s Glenn Whelan in action with Everton’s Morgan Schneiderlin
Schneiderlin also made three interceptions, more than any Everton midfielder, and won one tackle.
It was an encouraging start for the 27-year-old, who will have been lacking match sharpness due to his lack of action over the first half of the season.
This also means he is fresh, and can be just what Everton need between now and May to kick on and try and reach the top six, and pick up some momentum to take into next season.
Here is a look at how Everton fans reacted on Twitter to his performance…
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