Jermaine Jenas gave his verdict on Everton midfielder Amadou Onana during BBC commentary of Belgium’s defeat to Morocco on Sunday – stating that the Belgian is still “raw” and there are some flaws in his game that need ironing out.
Bought for £33million from Lille in the summer, 21-year-old Onana has instantly become first choice at Everton. It comes after only playing 42 times for Lille – but he has started 12 consecutive Premier League games for the Toffees.
Onana has been excellent for Everton. He has given the Toffees midfield some legs, a bit of physicality and a threat in both boxes. It saw him win a place in Roberto Martinez’s Belgium squad – coming on as a sub in their win over Canada.
He started against Morocco, a game in which struggling Belgium suffered a 2-0 loss. It has put their place in the last 16 under threat. Jenas gave his verdict during commentary on Onana, suggesting that there is still lots to improve.
“He’s been a decent addition in that midfield for Everton. He’s a handful, there’s no doubt about that. There’s some flaws in his game, he’s still raw and the quality could improve definitely. But they 100% needed him in this midfield.”
Jenas gives verdict on Everton midfielder Onana during Belgium loss
Onana has been a breath of fresh air in Everton’s midfield. But, as Jenas says, there is room for improvement. His decision making will come with experience, and his first touch could be an area in which he would like to improve.
Given his ability in the penalty area from set-pieces, and his height, he may also want to start adding more goals to his game. At Lille, he got three in 42. He is yet to open his account for Frank Lamaprd’s side, despite having chances.
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