BBC pundit Garth Crooks has claimed Rafael Benitez owes Everton ace Richarlison a ‘debt of gratitude’.
What’s the story?
In his very first team of the week selection for the new Premier League campaign, the former Tottenham man included the Brazilian.
The 24-year-old had a brilliant time as the Blues came from behind to beat Southampton 3-1.
Richarlison scored the equalising goal just minutes into the second half, before Abdoulaye Doucoure and Dominic Calvert-Lewin sealed victory.
The £90k-per-week South American enjoyed a rollercoaster summer for his home country.
He was part of the Copa America squad that lost to rivals Argentina in the final. However, the ace then sought permission to take part in the Tokyo Olympics, where he won gold.
When talking about Richarlison and his Everton boss, Crooks said: “I think Rafa Benitez owes this lad a debt of gratitude. If Benitez loses the opening game, the Everton boo-boys – who hate his association with their Liverpool rivals – are suddenly gunning for him. Richarlison has given him a brilliant start and bought him valuable time.”
Crooks is right: Benitez owes Richarlison
It is hard to assess what the impact of a loss would have been on the club.
However, it is easier to assess it from a fan perspective. The Everton supporters have already spent the summer venting their anger at the Spaniard’s appointment.
A loss, especially at home, would have unleashed a torrent of boos and whistles at full-time.
With that in mind, Crooks is right and Benitez owes Richarlison massively after Everton won.
His mentality to return mere days after winning a gold medal is quite sensational.
The winger has barely had any rest this summer, yet wrote off an extended break to help the club.
As a result, he should be rewarded by Everton and Benitez especially.
Meanwhile, how Daniel Levy reacted when informed Everton wanted Hojbjerg.
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